Midlothian, VA August 2024

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ARTS + CULTURE PAWS AND POSE ENTERTAINMENT

DANCING TOWARD CONFIDENCE AND GROWTH PROFESSIONAL SERVICES THRIVING TOGETHER

photo by Cottonbro Studio on

August is Here!

As summer comes to a close in Midlothian, many of us are enjoying last-minute vacations and starting back-to-school shopping for our kids. Whether they're heading to grade school or college, change is in the air. Even our furry friends are sensing the adjustments to new schedules and routines. Speaking of furry friends, we’re excited to present the 2024 Kids and Pets issue!

We've had a fantastic time putting together this edition for you! From a skilled local pet photographer to a well-established dance studio and business partnerships, we have so much to appreciate.

On a more personal note, stay tuned on the upcoming pages to meet my new roommate (Hint: he's a fluffy white, super dashing, smart, four-legged dynamo)! He's definitely part of my chosen family, and I am so grateful.

We wish you a smooth transition to new schedules, enjoyable family dinners, lots of hugs, and plenty of encouragement as new opportunities arise to help us learn and grow. You are the reason we are here, and we could not be prouder of our community. Thanks to you, RVA is now nationally recognized as the Best American Town to visit in 2024 by CNN.

Enjoy these last summer days together, and let's look forward to the adventures to come!

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Joanna Tannenbaum

joanna.tannenbaum@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS

Naylor Taliaferro | lcrmediallc@gmail.com

Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amanda Rae Linas

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Beloved Pet & Equine Photography, Melanie Cooper Studios

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster Learn

BY

Boys and their dogs…genetic predisposition? All we know is that they are usually inseparable. Once that bond takes hold, nothing will break it. If you’re looking for a way to strengthen that bond, look no further than the training we can provide. The proper instruction will give your dog the instinct to know when to play and when to protect. You love your child, and you love your dog. So make sure when your favorite boy is out having his adventure, his favorite boy is right there by his side, making sure the good guys win.

PHOTO
JUDY NATHAN HANNA

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: A group of participants proudly display a positive message on their shirts while running the Boxer Brief 5K at City Stadium. 2: Joanna Tannenbaum and Steven Casupanan come to support Aaron Swart at the Boxer Brief 5K at City Stadium in Richmond. 3: Richmond’s Boxer Brief 5K Run unites colorectal cancer survivors, patients, families, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. 4: Jacki Vitiello is honored as the Visionary of the Year for raising the highest amount of funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in Richmond. 5: The Richmond Kickers’ mascot, Kickeroo, is gearing up to participate in the Boxer Brief 5K to support the work of Hitting Cancer Below the Belt. 6: Candidates for the Visionary of the Year celebrate the funds raised towards The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. 7: Participants are preparing to run the Boxer Brief 5K to raise awareness for colorectal cancer prevention.

Photography by Steven Casupanan
is at the of it all.

heart

The heat

is

on

at

the perk!

come see and hear the hottest music and art in the richmond metro area.

artful gatherings: exploring creativity together friday, august 2 & 9

11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Drop in and get creative with us at the Perkinson Center. Try your hand at creating art in an informal relaxed environment. Each session will feature a different art activity suitable for all ages. Spend some time with the kids or take a break from the daily grind. You’re sure to get those creative juices going!

summer nights at the perk: john fetherston Band wednesday, august 14

6:00-8:00 p.m.

The JFBand formed in 1998. Playing a mix of classic 70’s, rock, and country music, they are sure to get you off your feet! No outside food or drink permitted. Events will be held rain or shine!

summer nights at the perk: Garden variety string band wednesday, august 21 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Garden Variety String Band is an award-winning bluegrass band inspired by old time, folk, and bluegrass music. GVSB performances are a nod to the past with a modern twist. The band is also the winner of RVA Magazine’s Richmond Music of Right Now 2024 Bluegrass, Ol’ Timey, and Folk Band readers’ poll. No outside food or drink permitted. Events will be held rain or shine!

lenses of life: unveiling the urban, rural, and suburban realities on display aug. 16-0ct. 12 gallery opening: august 16 6:00-8:00 p.m.

This exhibition, curated by Helene Ruiz, founder of The Urban Individualists, features works by artists like Ruiz, Fred, Cordova, Rice, Medina, and Olmomidun, showcasing the diverse realities of urban, rural, and suburban environments. Its interactive component allows visitors to engage in storytelling exercises and a live poetry session.

business monthly

Safe Surf RVA

Childhood friends David Klotz and Jacob Hollomon have recently launched Safe Surf RVA, a wake surfing school. The school offers lessons and outings for catching waves behind a motorboat's wake. Boats launch from Osborne Boat Landing, but lessons are conducted a considerable distance from the marina and other boats to ensure safety. Lessons are open to all ages, and waivers are required from parents for kids’ groups.  safesurfrva.com

Self Made Training Facility Opens in Bon Air

Self Made Training Facility had its grand opening at 1331 Carmia Way at the end of June. The event was open to the public and included food trucks, a live DJ, trainers, vendors, fitness competitions, free vitamin B12 injections, and discounted wellness shots provided by InnoVitamin Solutions, which has a suite within the facility. richmond.selfmadetrainingfacility.com

King's Korner Reopens at Chesterfield County Airport

Logan and Candace Vaden, the new owners of King's Korner at Chesterfield County Airport, recently reopened the restaurant after a six-month closure. The Vadens officially purchased the buffet-style restaurant and catering service business from Dickie King in March after a year of discussions. King's Korner offers special discounts for seniors on "Senior Saturday" lunches and for first responders on the first Friday of each month. kingskornercatering.com Scan

WHO’S THIS KID?

Introducing Midlothian’s Newest Four-Legged Phenomenon

Hi! My name is Jocko Paden Swart, and I’m new to the neighborhood! I’m a 10-week-old West Highland White Terrier, but you can call me a Westie for short. I was born in Pendleton, South Carolina, and I’m now settled in at my new home in Midlothian. You might recognize my last name— that’s because my new dad is the publisher of this magazine! My dad and I share an extraordinary bond because we both understand the warmth and love of being embraced by chosen families.

My breed is from Scotland, and all of us Westies have beautiful snowy white coats.

My dad says I’m a quick learner and that I’m adventurous. We both love to run and exercise, and we cannot wait until I’m old enough to hit the trails together. I enjoy making new human friends and spending time with their furry companions. I’m so happy to be here and looking forward to exploring together. My dad says RVA is brimming with culture, cuisine, and creativity. I’m excited to meet some of you very soon!

To learn more about my Westie heritage, visit:  akc.org/dog-breeds/west-highland-white-terrier

Photo

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

and Pose Paws

CAPTURING YOUR PET’S PERSONALITY WITH RICHMOND’S BELOVED PET & EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Amanda, with her husband Jason and their beloved dogs Hannah and Lady. Photographed by Kristen Murray Photography

Amanda Rae Linas discovered her love for art and animals at a young age. While studying art in college, she worked as a dog groomer and pet care technician, gaining invaluable experience interacting with animals. After graduating, she pursued teaching and further developed her interest in photography. Amanda’s ambition led her to become a high school photography teacher at Douglas Freeman High School in the West End of Henrico. As she refined her photography skills over the next eight years, she also began volunteering at a horse training center, where she learned more about working with horses. It was during this time that she decided to turn her passion for photography and animals into a full-time career.

“After considering what type of photography I wanted to pursue, pet and equine photography made sense,” Amanda explains. “I always found myself drawn to taking pictures of animals. I love traveling and realized that even while in a beautiful place halfway across the world, I would find myself taking pictures mostly of cats and dogs. So, I prayed about it, and Beloved Pet and Equine Photography was born. I get to photograph pets and horses, along with their people and the beautiful landscapes around them. To me, that’s perfect.”

When Amanda started her photography business, she didn’t realize the significant impact it would have on the families she worked with. Over the last three years, she has come to understand just how much of a blessing it is to capture the bond between pets and their families. Amanda has listened to heartwarming stories from her clients about the support and companionship their pets provide. Additionally, she has been there to help them preserve memories, offering gallery-quality artwork, memory books, photo displays, as well as digital images and video capture. In more difficult times, Amanda has been able to provide comfort by offering legacy sessions with special touches like paw prints and photo frames. Her clients are grateful for the lasting memories she captures for them.

Speaking fondly about her profession, Amanda believes photography is the art of telling a story with an image. “I love that nothing will ever be the same twice,” Amanda says. “There is always something new to photograph, learn, see, and experience. It’s about telling a story and capturing a moment in time. That moment I captured will never happen exactly like that again.” The art of seeing, as described by Amanda, is photography, which allows you to witness something unfolding in front of you, capturing it at just the right moment. As an adventurer, photography gives Amanda the privilege of exploring the world around her and meeting new animals and people.

“I get to photograph pets and horses, along with their people and the beautiful landscapes around them. To me, that’s perfect.”
- Amanda Rae Linas

Although fun, snapping photos of adorable and cuddly animals does not come without its hurdles. “Working with animals is all about patience and being able to adapt,” Amanda says. To appropriately prepare, she always meets with clients before the photo session to learn more about them and their pets. She tailors her plan and adjusts her approach based on each pet’s needs. Amanda offers a complete experience through Beloved Pet & Equine Photography, guiding clients from start to finish to ensure a seamless process. She helps with attire, preparing pets or horses, and selecting the best images to alleviate potential stress for her clients. Amanda focuses on allowing clients to enjoy celebrating their beloved animals while she handles everything else. She provides studio and on-location sessions, which are ideal for smaller pets such as cats. Her attention to detail and commitment to offering high-quality products make her services truly stand out. Whether you have a cherished pet or a majestic horse, Amanda is there to capture their beauty and create lasting memories for you to treasure.

To find out more about Amanda and Beloved Pet & Equine Photography, please visit: belovedpetphoto.com

Amanda Rae Linas Beloved Pet & Equine Photography

This year, Amanda is hosting the Third Annual Beloved Pet of RVA Contest from August 12th to 23rd. She teamed up with some fantastic local pet and pet-friendly businesses to spoil one fortunate pup with prizes from the community as The Beloved Pet of RVA! It’s sure to be an amazing event with lots of fun and surprises in store for all the participants. To enter your furry friend, please visit: contest.belovedpetphoto. com/belovedpet2024

In addition to the competition, Amanda also offers fall and holiday photo sessions, and the results are guaranteed to be incredible! These sessions get booked up quickly, so if you’re interested in a fall session from September to October, make sure to schedule a call with Amanda at: belovedpetphoto.com/contact

The holiday sessions will be available until November 3rd, giving you ample time to order holiday cards and gifts. You can find more details about the holiday sessions at: belovedpetphoto. com/holiday2024

Make sure to capture beautiful memories with your beloved pets!

“There is always something new to photograph, learn, see, and experience. It’s about telling a story and capturing a moment in time.” - Amanda Rae Linas

DANCING TOWARD CONFIDENCE AND GROWTH

THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF LEGACY SCHOOL OF DANCE, SHARED BY A DEVOTED DANCE MOM

Legacy School of Dance is alive with the rhythm and energy of passionate dancers. Nestled in the heart of Midlothian, the dance school embodies the spirit of togetherness and artistry in every twirl and every beat. With its roots deeply intertwined with the community, Legacy School of Dance is more than just a place to learn the art of movement – it’s a home where kids come together to express themselves and build lasting connections through the universal language of dance. Midlothian Lifestyle interviewed dance mom Tarsha Adkins to hear about her experience with the studio. Here’s what she had to say!

YOUR DECISION TO CHOOSE LEGACY FOR YOUR CHILDREN’S DANCE EDUCATION IS A TESTAMENT TO YOUR COMMITMENT TO THEIR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT. WHAT FACTORS LED YOU TO MAKE THIS CHOICE OVER OTHER STUDIOS?

First, Legacy has highly experienced and skilled instructors who are dedicated to teaching various dance styles. The studio also has a great reputation for excellence in dance education and offers a diverse range of classes, from classical ballet to contemporary jazz. Legacy focuses on personal growth and self-confidence through dance and provides a supportive and inclusive environment for all dancers. Additionally, the studio’s convenient location fits well with our family’s schedule, and their values and teaching philosophy align with our family’s beliefs and goals for our children’s dance education and character development.

WHAT ARE THE VALUES AND COMMUNITY CREATED BY THE OWNERS OF THE DANCE STUDIO?

The owners, Kimberly Ligatti and Mary Farr-Maynard, share a passion for dance and align with our family values, fostering a positive and inclusive environment. They have created a community of supportive and diverse dancers where they motivate, support, and inspire all.

WHAT MAKES LEGACY DIFFERENT FROM SIMILAR BUSINESSES?

Legacy has a solid commitment to excellence, innovative programs, and community engagement, as well as a strong dance curriculum. By integrating these components, Legacy creates a distinctive and rewarding environment.

FROM YOUR TIME AND OBSERVATION AT LEGACY, WHAT AGE DO YOU THINK IS BEST FOR KIDS TO START DANCE CLASSES?

Even though both of my girls started at two years old, there is no ideal age to start dancing. The best age depends on the individual’s interests, physical development, and goals. Ultimately, starting dance at any age can be beneficial and rewarding, with each stage offering unique opportunities.

WHAT QUALITIES CAN BE OBSERVED IN THE INSTRUCTORS AT LEGACY?

They are passionate, enthusiastic, motivated, flexible, creative, and positive.

HOW DOES LEGACY GO ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR ITS DANCERS AND DANCE FAMILIES?

The studio fosters a strong sense of community, from fun events like an annual pool party and trunk-or-treat to special holiday celebrations. The seasonal decorations and themed gala events add a festive touch, while parent meetings inform families about studio news. Communication is key, with open lines through emails and social media updates. The studio also provides volunteer opportunities and celebrates dancers’ achievements with awards and certificates. Legacy prioritizes creating a welcoming environment where dancers and their families feel valued and supported.

IS THERE ANYTHING THAT SURPRISES YOU ABOUT LEGACY’S APPROACH TO DANCE INSTRUCTION?

How they manage to maintain their creativity is truly mind-blowing!

WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE STAFF AT LEGACY?

My experience with the staff has been filled with deep gratitude for the profound impact they have had on my daughters, especially Kim Ligatti and Taylor Dundlow. Their influence has gone far beyond dance instruction. Their support is always unwavering, and their ability to connect with my daughters, provide mentorship, and offer encouragement has profoundly benefited their growth and development. The relationships developed with Kim and Taylor will last forever, as their positive impact on my daughters’ confidence and overall development is truly remarkable. I cannot thank them enough for their dedication and the difference they have made in their lives.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO THEM IF SOMEONE ASKED YOU ABOUT ENROLLING THEIR CHILDREN AT LEGACY?

Legacy is an exceptional place where my girls have thrived. The studio fosters a supportive and inclusive community, and the personalized attention each dancer receives has been incredibly beneficial for my daughters. They’ve grown not only as dancers but also as confident individuals. The communication with parents is excellent, and the dance instruction and curriculum are topnotch. I’ve seen tremendous positive changes in my girls, and I’m confident any child would have a similarly wonderful experience.

Registration is now open for the 2024-2025 dance season. Visit legacyschoolofdance.com to join the Legacy family.

“THE PERSONALIZED ATTENTION EACH DANCER RECEIVES HAS BEEN INCREDIBLY BENEFICIAL FOR MY DAUGHTERS.” - TARSHA ADKINS

THRIVING

Together

CITY LIFESTYLE PARTNERS EMBARK ON THEIR JOURNEY INTO PARTNERSHIP

In today’s competitive business environment, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of collaboration and referrals. Paul Hearn from Dog Training Elite and Morgan Parker from Zoomin Groomin, both prominent businesses in the pet industry, have recently partnered to form an alliance, illustrating the significant advantages of working together. They are confident their union will lead to growth and valuable insights, inspiring others in the industry to follow suit.

BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELANIE COOPER STUDIOS

For Paul, working together is not just a strategy; it’s a key to his business’s success. He has built a network of trusted partners by aligning with businesses that share his values and customer-centric approach. One of his most successful collaborations is with Linda Tew at the Midlothian pet store Bark and Sparkle. This partnership has not only enhanced the services he offers to his clients but has also opened doors to new clientele. The power of referrals from other businesses has been instrumental in building trust in his brand and driving its growth.

Morgan’s approach to teamwork is a testament to the power of social media in the modern business landscape. She leverages her clients and friends as brand advocates, considering factors such as reviews and social media presence in her collaboration decisions. One of her most fruitful partnerships is with Dr. Erin Dexter Buikema at Capital Home Veterinary Care, a mobile veterinary service. Morgan believes Dr. Dexter’s endorsement has been a game-changer for Zoomin Groomin, and the synergy between the two businesses is unparalleled.

“Paul and Morgan are excited about their new partnership as they explore collaborative business strategies.”

Paul and Morgan are excited about their new partnership as they explore collaborative business strategies and uncover the potential for tremendous growth through their alliance. To discover more about well-trained dogs and professional grooming, visit dogtrainingelite.com/ richmond and zoomingroomin.com

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

DOG

SOCIALIZING

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

HOW TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:

Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.

• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.

• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.

• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.

• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.

Buon Appetito!

Palermo Trattoria values its customers and considers them a part of the family! Our kitchen offers your family a taste of old Sicily. Explore our fine menu of soups, salads, pasta, and seafood, or simply enjoy one of our traditional pizzas. We can also CATER your next event!

@melaniecooperstudios melaniecooperstudios.com

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

AUGUST 1ST-4TH

Samurai Armor from the Ann and Gabriel BarbierMueller Collection

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts | 10:00 AM

Explore Japan’s exquisitely crafted samurai armor at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The exhibition showcases over 140 objects, including full suits of armor, weapons, helmets, masks, horse accessories, woodblock prints, and textiles from the Edo period. $15 for adults; $12 for seniors 65+; $10 for youth (age 7–17) and students with ID; Free for VMFA members and children 6 & under. Purchase tickets online at: vmfa.museum

AUGUST 3RD

Back to School Artisan Market

Triple Crossing Beer - Midlothian 12:00 PM

Be sure to visit the Back to School Artisan Market at Triple Crossing in Midlothian! This family-friendly event will feature games, music, and local makers. You can explore and shop for handmade home decor, art, jewelry, apparel, and more, all while enjoying the outdoor atmosphere. Don't miss out! The market will be open until 5:00 p.m. allevents.in

AUGUST 7TH, 14TH, 21ST & 28TH

Chesterfield County Farmers Market

Chesterfield County Government Center Complex | 11:00 AM

Come and support local farmers and artisans at the Chesterfield County Farmers Market! Enjoy the freshest, most flavorful produce while helping local businesses thrive. Located in the Chesterfield County Government Center Complex on Mimms Loop, between Krause and Lori roads. Until 2:00 p.m. chesterfield.gov

AUGUST 8TH

Westchester Concert Series –The English Channel

Westchester Commons - Main Street 5:30 PM

The Westchester Concert Series is back for its ninth year featuring The English Channel on August 8th. The concert is free to attend, and there will be food and drinks available for purchase through NAPA Kitchen & Wine and Sedona Taphouse. Bring chairs, blankets, and dancing shoes! Until 8:30 p.m. shopwestchestercommons.com

AUGUST 10TH

The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA

Chesterfield After Hours at the River City Sportsplex | 7:00 PM

Step into a world of timeless hits as The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA transports you back to the heyday of the Swedish pop sensation. Get ready to sing along and dance to all your favorite classics. Don't miss this opportunity to relive the magic of ABBA's music! Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at: etix.com

AUGUST 15TH

Colorado Fund for Muscular Dystrophy Fundraiser

Latitude Seafood Co. - Stony Point | 11:00 AM

Join the Colorado Fund for Muscular Dystrophy in celebrating their 10-year anniversary and help them reach their goal of raising $10,000. On Thursday, August 15th, all day, they'll be gathering at Latitude Seafood Co. An incredible 10% of all purchases made throughout the day will go directly towards CFMD. coloradofmd.org

CONTINUED

AUGUST 17TH

11th Annual FAACV Charity Golf Tournament

The Club at Viniterra | 10:00 AM

Join the Filipino American Association of Central VA for their 11th annual charity golf tournament supporting the FAACV Scholarship Fund for Outstanding High School Seniors and the Colorado Fund for Muscular Dystrophy (CFMD). You can participate as an individual or as part of a group of any size.  The cost is $125 per player. Register online at: linktr.ee/cfmd

AUGUST 17TH

Richmond R&B Festival

Kanawha Plaza - East Canal Street 3:00 PM

Save the date for the Richmond R&B Festival - a celebration of rhythm and blues! Enjoy live performances and delicious food, and connect with fellow music enthusiasts. Until 10:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at: eventbrite.com

AUGUST 29TH

Mike Bottoms at Wong's Tacos

Wong's Tacos - Midlothian | 6:00 PM

Come out and give Mike Bottoms a warm round of applause and show him our appreciation as he debuts his music at Wong's Tacos in Midlothian. It's going to be a fantastic night filled with great music, delicious food, and good company. Until 9:00 p.m. allevents.in events

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