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An Ideological Breakup Due to the Continuous Abusiveness of Government

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In the wilds of North Texas, a K-9 with a keen nose for trouble sniffed out a suspicious pair of travelers, who were hauling a trailer overflowing with illicit substances worth a staggering $1.7 million. The two individuals, who claimed to be en route to a funeral or a furniture-shifting jaunt to Tennessee, were pulled over by a Wise County deputy after their pickup truck was spotted swerving erratically.

 

The driver, who was described as being as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs, attempted to convince the officer that he was simply rushing to mourn the loss of a loved one. Meanwhile, the grandmother in the passenger seat spun a tale about the trailer being full of furniture, hoping to distract the officer from the pungent odors emanating from their stash.

 

But K-9 Benni was not to be fooled. With a flick of his sensitive snout, the canine cop detected the heady aromas and promptly alerted the deputies on scene. Upon opening the trailer, the officers were greeted with a sobering sight. Instead of furniture, they found 31 sealed moving boxes, brimming with 840 pounds of premium grade marijuana, 242 pounds of candy bars infused with psilocybin mushrooms, and 1,100 THC vape cartridges. The estimated value of the cache was a cool $1.7 million.

 

The arrest of the driver and his grandmother was a swift crackdown by the state, under the guise of protecting society from the “evils” of controlled substances. Yet, what the state is really protecting is their monopoly on the definition of consciousness and their right to dictate what we can and cannot ingest.

 

In reality, the seizure of drugs worth $1.7 million is not a victory for the state, but a reminder of the failure of the War on Drugs. Instead of addressing the root cause of drug use, the state’s oppressive stance on individual liberty and the pursuit of happiness only serves to turn them into the enemy of the people.

 

The fact that the market demand for these substances remains high, despite the bust, highlights the absurdity of the state’s approach. By failing to address the market demand, the state not only misses out on potential tax revenue, but they also drive up the value of these substances on the black market.

 

It’s no secret that the War on Drugs is a complete failure. The state is swayed by corporate interests, and politicians are more concerned with lining their pockets than representing the people. The sad truth is that there is a significant profit to be made from the drug trade, and politicians are more than happy to benefit from it.

 

However, the real question is – what can we do about it?

 

A Call for Consciousness Upgrade

 

What can we do about this injustice? The answer lies in a shift in consciousness. While it may sound vague and abstract, a reality shift is just a change in the dominant paradigm. It’s challenging for an individual to bring about significant change when it comes to the state, as history has shown us with the assassinations of leaders like Martin Luther King and Jesus. However, the collective power of a community can make a substantial impact.

 

I believe that the key to real change is a consciousness upgrade. It’s challenging for the average person to influence the state’s machinery, but it’s not impossible. The state recognizes that certain individuals have the power to shift mass consciousness due to their charisma and message, but for most of us, our impact is limited.

 

The answer to beating the seemingly unbeatable state lies in making it irrelevant. This is where the upgrade in consciousness comes into play. While there’s growing support for cannabis legalization, it’s essential to recognize the corruption present in governments around the world and hold these politicians accountable. Unless we do this, we’ll be stuck in this endless cycle of injustice. The time has come for a ruthless awakening and a shift in consciousness.

 

But how does one do this?

 

I’m so glad you asked…here’s my top tips on how you can shift your consciousness and help bring about a better future.

 

Reginald’s top tips for consciousness shifting

 

Here’s 5 things I believe that if we all do them, on an individual plane – we’ll be able to transcend our current system.

 

We can quiet our brains, gain insight into our own ideas and views, and confront any restricting or dogmatic beliefs that hold us back by consistently practicing meditation and self-reflection. As a result, we are able to feel more powerfully connected to our inner selves and our own inner truth.

 

Positive Energy Surroundings: The people, places, and experiences we choose to surround ourselves with have a significant influence on our consciousness. We can build a more upbeat and proactive state of being by avoiding negative influences and seeking out positive, uplifting energies.

 

Participating in Acts of Service: It has been demonstrated that participating in acts of service, such as volunteering, making charitable contributions, or just showing a little compassion to others, increases emotions of satisfaction, meaning, and connection. When we serve others, we not only help to change the collective consciousness in a positive way, but we also undergo a change in consciousness ourselves.

 

Keeping Up-to-Date and Informed: Education and informed participation are effective instruments for affecting consciousness. We can test our own assumptions and viewpoints and develop the ability to view the world from a variety of angles by remaining educated about current events and topics. This enables us to develop a more complex view of the environment and how we fit into it, which can help us make decisions and take proactive activities that are well-informed.

 

Developing Gratitude and Positive Thoughts: Our experience of the world is greatly influenced by the thoughts and words we choose to describe it. We may change our consciousness to a more upbeat and proactive state and, as a result, encourage those around us to do the same by practicing appreciation for the wonderful things in our lives and focusing on positive ideas and experiences. This may contribute to a good transformation that spreads and eventually causes a change in the general consciousness.

 

The collective consciousness is made up of all individual consciousness’s, and when an individual changes anything inside themselves, it may have repercussions on the collective consciousness as a whole and ultimately affect society. We obtain a sense of agency and the ability to make a good contribution to the group consciousness by accepting our personal power. It starts a chain reaction of positivity and progress in the collective consciousness as more people embrace this mindset and consciously choose to change their own views and beliefs. A better world for everyone results from society being more peaceful, sympathetic, and in tune with the larger good.

 

Corruption is challenging to survive in a culture where people value peace, empathy, and the greater good because these values operate as a counterbalance to destructive forces. People are less inclined to act in ways that are detrimental to the community’s wellbeing when they are connected to one another and to a greater goal. Empathy promotes people to think about how their activities affect other people, which can help to prevent harmful behavior and motivate people to act in the group’s best interests. A focus on the larger good also contributes to the development of a common vision and purpose that can act as a compass, directing people and society. When everyone upholds these principles, unscrupulous people find it harder to push their own agendas at the expense of the community because they will encounter resistance from the group. We build a society that is more resilient and less susceptible to corruption by supporting these ideals.

 

Corruption thrives on the principle of compliance. When people comply with unethical or illegal actions, it creates an environment in which corruption can flourish. This is because corruption requires active or passive involvement of individuals in order to succeed. When people comply, it provides support for corrupt individuals or institutions and reinforces their actions.

 

For example, if an individual is offered a bribe, they have a choice to either accept it or refuse it. If they accept the bribe, they become a willing participant in the corrupt act and contribute to its success. On the other hand, if they refuse the bribe, they deny support to the corrupt individuals and break the chain of corruption.

 

Similarly, when people comply with laws, rules, and regulations that enable corruption, they provide a supportive environment for corrupt individuals or institutions to thrive. They may do this out of ignorance, fear, or self-interest, but the result is the same: they help to sustain corruption by reinforcing its power and influence.

 

Therefore the advice from one of the greatest civil rights activists of modern US history is still relevant today;

 

“One has a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws.”

― Martin Luther King Jr.

 

POLITICS AND WEED, READ ON…

SHADOW GOVERNMENT CANNABIS

POLITICS, WEED, AND THE SHADOW GOVERNMENT PLANS!



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The Future King of Cannabis will be THC-Infused Beverages

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As someone who’s been dancing with Mary Jane for over two decades, I’ve watched the cannabis industry evolve from simple flower into an endless array of innovative products. I’ve tried just about every form of cannabis imaginable – from traditional joints to high-tech dabs, from basic brownies to sophisticated gummies, and everything in between.

For most old-school stoners like myself, smoking flower still reigns supreme. Sure, concentrates have carved out their niche, and edibles have certainly found their place in the cannabis kingdom. But there’s one product category that remains tantalizingly out of reach, one holy grail that could revolutionize not just cannabis consumption, but potentially reshape the entire recreational substance industry.

I’m talking about cannabis beverages. Now, before you rush to tell me they already exist – trust me, I know. But what’s currently on the market isn’t even close to what it needs to be. The first company to crack this code – to create the perfect cannabis drink that rivals the ease and social experience of cracking open a beer – stands to make billions.

This isn’t just speculation. Recent market research suggests we’re on the cusp of a beverage revolution, and cannabis is perfectly positioned to lead the charge. Let’s explore why the future king of cannabis isn’t a product that you smoke, dab, or eat – it’s one you’ll drink.

The numbers don’t lie, and they’re telling us something extraordinary. According to a recent study published in the British Food Journal, roughly 53-56% of beer drinkers are open to trying cannabis-infused beverages. Let that sink in for a moment. We’re not talking about a small niche market here – we’re talking about potentially converting half of the beer-drinking population into cannabis beverage consumers.

To put this in perspective, the U.S. beer market generates approximately $100 billion annually. If even a quarter of those open to trying cannabis beverages became regular consumers, we’re looking at a potential market worth tens of billions of dollars. This isn’t just a business opportunity; it’s an industry-defining moment waiting to happen.

But here’s the catch – and it’s a big one. When someone cracks open a beer, they generally know what to expect. Whether it’s a light beer at 4% alcohol or a craft brew at 7%, drinkers understand their limits. Through years of social drinking, people have learned their “sweet spot” – maybe it’s two beers for a pleasant buzz, or three for a livelier evening. The standardization of alcohol content has created a predictable, manageable drinking experience.

Cannabis beverages, however, are still stuck in the Wild West phase. Sure, you might see “10mg THC” printed on the can, but that same dose can floor one person while barely affecting another. The inconsistency isn’t just about individual tolerance – it’s about the fundamental challenge of creating a standardized cannabis drinking experience. Absorption rates vary wildly, onset times are unpredictable, and the overall effects can be all over the map.

This inconsistency is the Achilles’ heel of the current cannabis beverage market. Until someone figures out how to create a product that delivers a consistent, predictable experience – something as reliable as cracking open a Bud Light or a Corona – cannabis beverages will remain a novelty rather than the industry titan they could become.

Major players have already dipped their toes into the cannabis beverage pool. Companies like Pabst Blue Ribbon have launched cannabis-infused seltzers, while Lagunitas offers their Hi-Fi Hops drinks. Even beverage giant Constellation Brands (the folks behind Corona) invested billions in Canopy Growth, signaling big alcohol’s serious interest in the space. Yet, despite these heavy hitters throwing their hats in the ring, we still haven’t seen the breakthrough product that could truly revolutionize the market.

The fundamental challenge lies in creating a standardized drinking experience. Currently, most cannabis beverages rely on traditional THC infusion methods, which leads to unpredictable absorption rates and that dreaded “wait and see” game that’s familiar to anyone who’s eaten an edible. Some companies are experimenting with nano-emulsification technology to make THC molecules more water-soluble, potentially leading to faster onset times and more consistent effects. But we’re not quite there yet.

Here’s where things get really tricky: when cannabis is processed through the liver (as it is with traditional edibles and current beverages), it gets converted into 11-Hydroxy-THC, which packs roughly four times the punch of regular THC. This is why you might feel fine after one cannabis beverage, then suddenly find yourself on Mars after the second one kicks in. Unlike alcohol, where you can generally gauge your level of intoxication as you drink, cannabis beverages can stack up in unexpected ways, leading to the dreaded “green out.”

What the industry needs is some sort of revolutionary chemistry – perhaps a form of THC that bypasses liver processing, or a formulation that caps the conversion to 11-Hydroxy-THC. Maybe it’s about developing a cannabis beverage that provides a short-lived buzz, similar to alcohol’s relatively predictable duration. Or perhaps it’s about creating a self-limiting effect that prevents overconsumption.

The solutions might seem elusive, but the potential reward is staggering. The first company to crack this code – to create a cannabis beverage that allows people to drink socially without fear of unexpected intensity or duration – will essentially be sitting on a gold mine. We’re talking about potentially billions in revenue, not to mention the distinction of creating an entirely new category of social consumption.

The challenge is complex, but the market is ready. With over half of beer drinkers expressing interest in cannabis beverages, the demand is clearly there. Now it’s just a matter of who will solve the chemistry puzzle first. As someone who’s watched this industry evolve for decades, I can tell you – that breakthrough is coming. And when it does, it will fundamentally change not just how we consume cannabis, but potentially how we socialize altogether.

 

THC-INFUSED BEVERAGES ARE HERE, READ ON…

THC BEVERAGES AT BARS

SORRY, NO BOOZE SERVED – MIAMI FESTIVAL ONLY SERVES THC DRINKS!



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What You Need to Know about the Viral Medical Study Claiming Cannabis Causes Memory Loss

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What You Should Really Know About The Viral Study Claiming Cannabis Causes Memory Loss

 

Over the past week, we’ve been seeing the same viral news appear on almost every internet news or media outlet.


It’s news surrounding the results of a controversial study, claiming that cannabis use can cause memory loss, especially when consumption patterns are on the heavy side. Researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus conducted what is considered to be the biggest study of its kind, specifically analyzing the impact of both lifetime and recent cannabis use on the cognitive function of over 1,000 individuals whose ages ranged from 22 to 36.

 

For the purposes of the study, heavy users were defined as the young adults who consumed weed over a thousand times in their lifetime. On the other hand, moderate users were defined as those who used 10 to 999 times, whole nonusers were those who consumed nonusers. They used MRI tests to assess neural activity among participants, and they were all given a variety of cognitive tasks to complete; the tasks tested different functions in the brain including memory, motor skills, language, emotion, and reward.

Additionally, the investigators used brain imaging technology to measure working memory, which refers to the brain’s short-term storage of information. Humans use working memory in everyday problem solving, reasoning, and other activities.

 

They found that there was a statistically significant impact on the working memory tasks given to participants, which meant that it was not likely due to coincidence. The dramatic impact was observed among the lifetime and recent cannabis consumers, though it was less significant when compared to other tasks.

 

“We applied the highest standards to our research, setting rigorous thresholds for statistical significance across all seven cognitive function tests. To minimize the risk of false positives, we employed false discovery rate (FDR) correction. While some of the other tasks indicated potential cognitive impairment, only the working memory task showed a statistically significant impact,” explains Joshua Gowin, PhD, the paper’s first author and an assistant professor of radiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.  Specifically, the researchers discovered that the parts of the brain that are responsible for decision making, emotional processing, attention, and memory showed reduced activity among heavy cannabis users.


The Role of Abstaining

 

While this might come as a shock, it’s important to note that Gowin explains their findings suggest users can abstain from smoking cannabis before engaging in cognitive tasks, since this can help performance.


“People need to be aware of their relationship with cannabis since abstaining cold turkey could disrupt their cognition as well. For example, heavy users may need to be more cautious,” Gowin explains.

 

The effects of abstaining can depend on several factors, such as an individual’s history of cannabis use, the task at hand, and various biochemical individual differences. Adding to what Gowin said, there are certainly several potential benefits that users can expect when abstaining from weed, especially when they expect to do a mentally-burdensome task. These include an improvement in cognitive function, better concentration and focus, and sharper clarity as well as alertness.

 

But Can Cannabis Actually Improve Cognitive Function?

 

Studies have proven time and again that cannabis affects everyone differently. So while weed use can make some people sharper and more focused with cognitive tasks, it may not have the same effect for others – or even the majority of a population, as seen in this study.

 

There are also other studies proving that cannabis actually improves cognitive function in others, or doesn’t affect it at all. For example, Dr Staci Gruber’s Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) program of the McLean Hospital discovered through longitudinal observational studies that medical marijuana patients showed improved performances in cognitive tasks that required them to use executive functioning.

“Rather than getting worse, they’re actually getting better,” explained Gruber. Gruber and her team are focused on analyzing the impact of cannabis and its impact on cognition, function, quality of life, and brain structure. According to her, this can be attributed to patients who can think more clearly since since their symptoms have been alleviated due to medical marijuana use. However, earlier cannabis use, or regular consumption before the age of 16, is still never recommended because this has been found to severely affect cognitive development and performance later on.

 

Another study, whose findings were presented at the 2018 annual Society for Neuroscience Meeting, found that animal subjects with Alzheimer’s disease, who were treated with THC, showed significant improvemnets in memory and even lost less brain cells compared to those that weren’t. This could be revolutionary if a breakthrough memory or Alzheimer’s medicine could be developed, which included THC.

 

 

Conclusion


In short, the viral study claiming that marijuana can affect your memory should be taken with a grain of salt. It’s just one of many studies backing up the fact that weed will always affect people differently, given that there are already several other studies backing up the use of cannabis to improve cognition – even among medical marijuana users who suffer from physical ailments.

 

Cannabis certainly does offer neuroprotective benefits for the brain, and it can aid with other cognitive functions including creativity, sleep, reduction in anxiety, and much more. We must still remember that even with studies proving this, cannabis use during adolescence should be prohibited and keep in mind that individual variability will always play a role in the outcome. 

 

MARIJUANA USE AND MEMORY FUNCTION, READ ON…

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WHY ARE BABY BOOMERS RUSHING TO CANNABIS TO IMPROVE THEIR MEMORY?



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Chairman of High Times Pleads Guilty to $20 Million in Securities Fraud, Then Decides to Change His Guilty Plea?

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In a significant development within the cannabis industry, Adam Levin, the chairman of Hightimes Holding Corp., has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy charges related to a scheme involving undisclosed payments made to an investment analyst. Or is he? Adam plans to change his guilty plea in a new court proceeding that is coming up. So what gives?

Th original scheme aimed to promote Hightimes’ securities offering, raising serious questions about transparency and ethical practices in the burgeoning cannabis market. As the industry continues to navigate regulatory challenges and public scrutiny, this case highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls that companies face as they seek to capitalize on the growing acceptance of cannabis.

 

Background on Hightimes Holding Corp.

 

Hightimes Holding Corp., the parent company of the iconic cannabis culture brand High Times, has been a prominent player in the cannabis industry since its inception. Founded in 1974, High Times has long been associated with cannabis advocacy, culture, and education. Over the years, it has evolved into a multimedia company encompassing print publications, events, and digital platforms focused on cannabis.

 

In recent years, as legalization efforts gained momentum across various states in the U.S., Hightimes sought to capitalize on this trend by transitioning into a publicly traded entity. In 2020, the company announced its intention to go public through a reverse merger with a publicly traded shell company. This move was seen as a way for Hightimes to access capital markets and fund its expansion initiatives.

 

However, the journey has not been without its challenges. The company has faced various legal and financial hurdles, including allegations of fraud and operational mismanagement that ultimately led to its receivership in 2024. These issues have raised concerns among investors regarding the company’s governance and financial practices.

 

The Scheme Uncovered

 

The recent developments surrounding Adam Levin center on allegations that he participated in a scheme to make undisclosed payments to an investment analyst who promoted Hightimes’ securities offering. According to court documents filed on December 20, 2024, Levin agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy charges related to this arrangement.

 

The scheme reportedly involved over $150,000 in payments made to the analyst as part of an effort to artificially inflate investor interest in Hightimes’ stock. By compensating the analyst for favorable coverage without disclosing these payments, Levin and others involved sought to create a misleading impression of demand for the company’s securities. This lack of transparency is particularly concerning given the regulatory environment surrounding securities offerings, which mandates full disclosure of any compensation arrangements that could influence an analyst’s recommendations.

 

The Investigation into this scheme was initiated by both the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), highlighting a broader scrutiny of practices within the cannabis industry. As more companies enter this rapidly evolving market, regulators are increasingly vigilant about ensuring compliance with securities laws and protecting investors from potential fraud.

 

## Legal Consequences

 

As part of his plea agreement, Adam Levin is set to appear in court on January 17, 2025. He faces a potential maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for his role in the conspiracy. The plea agreement indicates that Levin is cooperating with authorities as they continue their investigation into Hightimes and its business practices.

 

The legal ramifications extend beyond Levin himself; they also raise questions about corporate governance within Hightimes Holding Corp. The company’s board of directors will likely face increased scrutiny regarding their oversight responsibilities and whether they adequately monitored Levin’s actions.

 

In addition to potential criminal charges for individuals involved in such schemes, companies can also face civil penalties from regulatory agencies like the SEC. These penalties can include fines, disgorgement of profits obtained through fraudulent activities, and restrictions on future business operations.

 

 Implications for Hightimes Holding Corp.

 

The fallout from Levin’s plea agreement is likely to have significant implications for Hightimes Holding Corp. The company has already been grappling with various challenges related to its financial stability and reputation within the industry. The revelation of this scheme adds another layer of complexity to an already precarious situation.

 

 1. Investor Confidence

 

One immediate concern is how this development will affect investor confidence in Hightimes Holding Corp. Investors are increasingly cautious about putting their money into companies embroiled in legal controversies or allegations of fraud. Given that Hightimes has already faced scrutiny over its business practices, this latest revelation could deter potential investors from participating in future funding rounds or purchasing shares.

 

 2. Regulatory Scrutiny

 

The ongoing investigation by federal authorities is likely to result in heightened regulatory scrutiny for Hightimes Holding Corp. Companies operating within the cannabis space must navigate a complex web of federal and state regulations; any indication of wrongdoing can lead regulators to take a closer look at a company’s operations. This increased scrutiny may result in further investigations or audits that could disrupt business operations and hinder growth prospects.

 

3. Reputation Damage

 

Hightimes has built its brand around cannabis culture and advocacy; however, allegations of unethical practices can tarnish its reputation among consumers and advocates alike. As public perception plays a crucial role in the success of cannabis companies, any damage done to Hightimes’ reputation could have long-lasting effects on its market position and ability to attract customers.

 

 4. Operational Challenges

 

With Levin’s impending court appearance and potential sentencing looming over the company, operational challenges may arise as key leadership figures are embroiled in legal battles. Uncertainty regarding leadership stability can create internal disruptions that hinder decision-making processes essential for navigating an evolving market landscape.

 

Cannabis Industry Challenges

 

Levin’s case is not an isolated incident but rather part of broader challenges facing the cannabis industry as it matures. As more states legalize cannabis for medical or recreational use—leading some companies toward lucrative opportunities—regulatory compliance becomes increasingly critical.

 

 1. Regulatory Landscape

 

The regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis remains complex due largely to its classification as a Schedule I substance under federal law despite legalization efforts at state levels. Companies must navigate differing regulations across jurisdictions while ensuring compliance with federal securities laws when seeking investments or going public.

 

 2. Market Competition

 

As competition intensifies within the cannabis sector—both from established players like Hightimes and new entrants—companies face pressure not only regarding compliance but also profitability metrics that appeal directly toward investors seeking returns on their investments.

 

 3. Public Perception

 

Public perception plays an essential role in shaping consumer behavior within emerging markets like cannabis; negative headlines can quickly sway opinions against brands perceived as engaging in unethical practices or lacking transparency—further complicating efforts toward building trust among consumers who prioritize ethical sourcing methods when choosing products they consume.

 

Conclusion

 

The case involving Adam Levin, chairman of Hightimes Holding Corp., underscores critical issues of transparency and ethical conduct within the cannabis industry, highlighting the potential legal and reputational repercussions that can arise from undisclosed financial arrangements. As Levin prepares to plead guilty to conspiracy charges related to undisclosed payments aimed at promoting the company’s securities offering, this incident serves as a cautionary tale for cannabis companies navigating the complexities of regulatory compliance and investor relations. The fallout from this case not only threatens Hightimes’ financial stability and investor confidence but also reflects broader challenges facing the industry as it matures, emphasizing the need for robust corporate governance and ethical practices to foster trust among consumers and investors alike. Ultimately, the developments surrounding Hightimes and Levin illustrate the delicate balance that cannabis companies must maintain between pursuing growth opportunities and adhering to legal and ethical standards in an increasingly scrutinized market.

 

HIGH TIMES DRAMA GALORE, READ ON…

HIGH TIMES STORMY SIMON

WAS STORMY SIMON SET UP TO TALK THE FALL AT HIGH TIMES?



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