Our skating family has spoken! The Last Chance Dance Skaters (LCDS) recently held a community survey to determine how best to use the funds raised from this yearโs Bake Sale and June Show. While only a small number of members participated, their responses were united in purpose โ every single one agreed that the money should be used to formally organize and apply for 501(c)(3) non-profit status.
This important milestone will allow LCDS to serve as a true Booster Club for Artistic Skating, extending our reach beyond the El Centro Rink to support skaters and clubs across the region. As a non-profit, weโll be able to raise funds, offer scholarships, sponsor skaters, and contribute to the continued growth and visibility of Artistic Roller Skating at the local and national levels.
Among our first initiatives will be launching the Teen Skating Scholar Sponsorship program and helping cover entry fees for qualified skaters competing at Nationals. These programs reflect our belief that financial barriers should never stand in the way of dedication, talent, or passion for the sport.
To guide this exciting next chapter, weโre inviting all skaters, families, and supporters to an Organizational Meeting on Thursday, November 20th, at noon (during the Sk8Artistic Social Skate). In this meeting, weโll work together to establish a mission statement, elect officers, and begin the official process of incorporating as a non-profit organization.
The Last Chance Dance Skaters was founded on the belief that itโs never too late to dance, skate, or dream. With the shared commitment of our skating family, weโre ready to roll forward into a bright future โ one where every glide helps lift the next generation of skaters even higher.
As a skating instructor/coach, I see struggling skaters all the time. Itโs part of the job. Even when Iโm clearly wearing a coach’s jacket, ID badge, or that universal symbol of authorityโholding a clipboardโsome folks still wave me off with a polite, โOh, noโฆ Iโm good.โ And you know what? In a public skating setting, I believe them. I smile, introduce myself, and leave them with: โIf I can help, just let me know.โ Then I skate off into the sunset like a respectful roller skating cowboy.
Because hereโs the thing: knowing how to โread the roomโโor more accurately, read the rinkโis an essential coaching skill. Not every skater wants help, even if theyโre clearly locked in a life-or-death battle with their inside edges. Maybe their friends or family are watching and theyโre self-conscious. Maybe theyโre just trying to survive their last lap so they can collapse onto the bench with dignity. Or maybe (and this is real) theyโre not convinced I know more than they do about skating.
The Ego Equation Offering help can unintentionally say: โI skate better than you.โ (And sometimes, thatโs true. But still.) Ego is a fragile, slippery thing on wheels. No one likes feeling correctedโespecially by a strangerโand especially if theyโre already frustrated. So if your well-meaning offer is met with โIโm fine,โ take them at their word. Itโs not personal. Sometimes, the best help you can give is to back off and let them figure it out on their own.
That said, teachers have a sixth sense. We might not say anything, but weโre definitely watching. You can spot us across the rink doing subtle โcoach charadesโโtilting our head, rotating our arms, or silently demonstrating the correct position like some kind of skate whisperer. If you see us gesturing vaguely in your direction, donโt worry, weโre not casting spells. Weโre just hoping youโll notice the better way to do it.
For Instructors: Ask, Donโt Ambush If the skater is a student or someone you recognize from class, itโs totally okay to skate up and casually ask: โWhat are you working on?โ It opens the door to a conversation without barging in with โHereโs what youโre doing wrong.โ (Because, yikes.)
Butโand this is importantโthat question doesnโt entitle anyone to a free 15-minute private lesson in the middle of a busy public session. Teachers are often keeping an eye on everyoneโs safety, multiple studentsโ progress, and their own stamina. So if you want more in-depth feedback, book a private lesson or sign up for a class. Quick advice? Always happy to give it. But please donโt treat skating teachers like a vending machine for free tipsโweโve gotta make a living too!
For Skaters: Beware of Rink-Side Advice Givers Hereโs a truth bomb: not everyone who gives skating advice should be giving skating advice. Youโll run into self-declared experts who mightโve seen a triple toe loop on TikTok and suddenly think theyโre Olympic coaches. Then there are the well-meaning helpers who are actually skilled, but are using a completely different technique than what youโre learning in your lessons. It can be confusing at best, counterproductive at worst.
So what should you do? Try it. Seriously. If the advice seems safe and doesnโt go against the basic laws of physics or your better judgmentโgive it a spin. Worst case? It doesnโt work. Best case? It might just click. Sometimes itโs not what someone says, but how they say it that finally makes your brain and body sync up. One personโs โpush through the inside edgeโ might be another personโs โdig into the floor with your big toe wheel,โ and suddenly youโre flying across the floor like a pro.
Being open to feedbackโeven from unexpected sourcesโbuilds more than just your skills. It builds your community. Skating is better when weโre supporting each other, cheering each other on, and occasionally laughing together when we all wipe out trying that new footwork. (Hey, it happens.)
Final Thought: Mutual Respect Rolls a Long Way Whether youโre a coach, a student, or a self-taught roller artist carving your way through the rinkโmutual respect is the smoothest path forward. Teachers, donโt assume. Skaters, donโt dismiss. Stay curious, stay kind, and above allโฆ stay upright (as much as possible). And remember: the best help is offered with humility, received with openness, and occasionally punctuated by a dramatic fall and an even more dramatic comeback.
Introducing Family Fridays! ๐
We're excited to dedicate our Fridays to family-focused skating opportunities! At ArtisticSkating.com, we believe that skating brings families together, creates lasting memories, and provides joyful ways to stay active. We've designed two special programs held at El Centro Skate Rink to serve families with children of all ages.
Skater-Tots & Stroller Skating 10:00 - 11:00 AM
๐ถ๐ฝ A unique opportunity for parents with little one! Bring your baby in their stroller onto the rink while you skate - guided by Coach Linda and our team through interactive songs, games, and family activities. This special hour of enrichment creates precious bonding moments on wheels.
Home Schooler's Recess (NEW!โจ) 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
๐คธ๐ฝ A two-hour social skating session perfect for physical education and making friends! Bring the whole family for active fun in a welcoming environment.
๐ Important Facility Information: ArtisticSkating.com operates as a specialized skating program within El Centro Skate Rink. Important notes for all participants:
๐๏ธ All registrations and payments are through ArtisticSkating.com only (online or in-person, card preferred)
๐พ The rink's snack bar and arcade are CLOSED during our events, as we operate with specialized coaching staff only
๐ Skate Mate trainers are NOT available during our sessions, but our friendly staff can provide basic assistance to help new skaters get started
๐ฅค A soda machine is available (accepts cards/cash)
๐ While Google/Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our hours (as we operate outside regular rink times), we are open and ready for all scheduled programs!
#FamilyFridays #SkaterTots #StrollerSkating #HomeSchoolPE #FamilySkating #KidsActivities #RollerSkating #ArtisticSkating #FamilyFun #ToddlerActivities #HomeschoolingIdeas #ActiveLearning #PhysicalEducation #SkateLife #FamilyBonding
Feed Posts Schedule (Posting “Announcement” 2 Days Before Event – ONCE)
Posts scheduled in reverse chronological order for Instagram wall layout
Wednesday: Home Schooler’s Recess
Time: 10:00 AM
For Friday’s session
Monday: Artistic Skills Class
Time: 3:30 PM
For Thursday’s class
Tuesday Morning: Artistic Expressions I
Time: 9:00 AM
For Thursday’s class
Tuesday Afternoon: Artistic Dance Social Skate
Time: 2:00 PM
For Thursday’s session
Sunday Morning: GrooveSk8 I
Time: 9:00 AM
For Tuesday’s class
Sunday Afternoon: Groove Sk8 Social Skate
Time: 2:00 PM
For Tuesday’s session
Stories Schedule (Day-of Posts – Can be repeated)
Posted in backwards chronological order by event time (so that they appear in order to viewers), spaced 3 minutes apart
Tuesday Stories
6:00 AM – GrooveSk8 I
6:03 AM – Groove Sk8 Social Skate
Thursday Stories
6:00 AM – Artistic Skills Class
6:03 AM – Artistic Expressions I
6:06 AM – Artistic Dance Social Skate
Friday Stories
6:00 AM – Home Schooler’s Recess
6:03 AM – Skater-Tots & Stroller Skating
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๐ต SOCIAL SKATE ALERT: Join our 2-hour Groove Sk8 Social Skate for great music, good vibes, and endless fun on wheels! This is not a class - it's a social skating session where you can practice moves or just roll with the rhythm. There's a space for everyone on our floor! ๐ผโจ
โญ๏ธ What to Expect:
โจ Curated playlist of groovy music
โจ Welcoming, supportive atmosphere
โจ Space to practice your moves
โจ Social skating opportunities
โจ Open floor format
๐ Important Facility Information:
ArtisticSkating.com operates as a specialized skating program within El Centro Skate Rink. Important notes for all participants:
๐๏ธ All registrations and payments are through ArtisticSkating.com only (online or in-person, card preferred)
๐พ The rink's snack bar and arcade are CLOSED during our events, as we operate with specialized coaching staff only
๐ฅค A soda machine is available (accepts cards/cash)
๐ While Google/Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our hours (as we operate outside regular rink times), we are open and ready for all scheduled programs!
๐ฒ For questions about our programs, visit ArtisticSkating.com or message us directly.
**Instagram Tags:**
#RollerSkating #SocialSkate #SkateLife #GrooveSk8 #SkatingCommunity #RollerSkatingLife #SkatingFun #SkateVibes #RollerRink #SkatingJoy #GroovySkating #SkateDate #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
**Facebook Tags:**
#SocialSkate #GrooveSk8 #RollerSkating #SkatingCommunity #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
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๐ SKATING CLASS SPOTLIGHT: Ready to add artistry to your skating? This 60-minute class introduces you to contemporary roller dance - but don't let "intro" fool you!
๐ฏ Skill Requirements:
โจ Forward and backward skating
โจ Basic turns
โจ One-foot balance moves
โญ๏ธ Class Features:
โจ Foundation skills for rhythm skating
โจ Style development
โจ Basic dance combinations
โจ Confidence building exercises
๐ Important Facility Information:
ArtisticSkating.com operates as a specialized skating program within El Centro Skate Rink. Important notes for all participants:
๐๏ธ All registrations and payments are through ArtisticSkating.com only (online or in-person, card preferred)
๐พ The rink's snack bar and arcade are CLOSED during our events, as we operate with specialized coaching staff only
๐ฅค A soda machine is available (accepts cards/cash)
๐ While Google/Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our hours (as we operate outside regular rink times), we are open and ready for all scheduled programs!
๐ฒ For questions about our programs, visit ArtisticSkating.com or message us directly.
**Instagram Tags:**
#LearnToSkate #RollerDance #BeginnerSkating #GrooveSk8 #SkatingClass #SkatingProgress #DanceSkating #SkatingJourney #SkateLife #RollerSkatingCommunity #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
**Facebook Tags:**
#LearnToSkate #GrooveSk8 #RollerDance #SkatingCommunity #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
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๐ SOCIAL SKATE ALERT: Join our 2-hour Artistic Dance Social Skate session! Not a class - just pure skating joy.
โญ๏ธ Session Details:
โจ Ages 13+
โจ Classical to contemporary music
โจ Practice your dance moves
โจ Try tangos, waltzes, and marches
โจ Supportive community atmosphere
๐ Important Facility Information:
ArtisticSkating.com operates as a specialized skating program within El Centro Skate Rink. Important notes for all participants:
๐๏ธ All registrations and payments are through ArtisticSkating.com only (online or in-person, card preferred)
๐พ The rink's snack bar and arcade are CLOSED during our events, as we operate with specialized coaching staff only
๐ฅค A soda machine is available (accepts cards/cash)
๐ While Google/Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our hours (as we operate outside regular rink times), we are open and ready for all scheduled programs!
๐ฒ For questions about our programs, visit ArtisticSkating.com or message us directly.
**Instagram Tags:**
#ArtisticSkating #DanceSkating #RollerWaltz #SocialSkate #RollerDance #SkatingCommunity #ClassicalSkating #RollerSkating #SkateLife #DanceOnWheels #ElCentroSkateRink #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
**Facebook Tags:**
#ArtisticSkating #DanceSkating #SocialSkate #SkatingCommunity #ElCentroSkateRink #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
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๐ฆ SKATING CLASS SPOTLIGHT: Traditional artistic skating meets modern excellence in this 60-minute class!
๐ฏ Skill Requirements:
โจ Forward and backward skating
โจ Basic turns
โจ One-foot balance moves
โญ๏ธ Class Features:
โจ Classic roller dance steps
โจ Proper form foundations
โจ Musicality development
โจ Partner and solo elements
โจ Traditional dance style training
๐ Important Facility Information:
ArtisticSkating.com operates as a specialized skating program within El Centro Skate Rink. Important notes for all participants:
๐๏ธ All registrations and payments are through ArtisticSkating.com only (online or in-person, card preferred)
๐พ The rink's snack bar and arcade are CLOSED during our events, as we operate with specialized coaching staff only
๐ฅค A soda machine is available (accepts cards/cash)
๐ While Google/Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our hours (as we operate outside regular rink times), we are open and ready for all scheduled programs!
๐ฒ For questions about our programs, visit ArtisticSkating.com or message us directly.
Instagram Tags:
#LearnToSkate #RollerDance #SkatingClass #BeginnerSkating #SkatingProgress #ClassicalSkating #SkatingJourney #SkateLife #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
Facebook Tags:
#LearnToSkate #ArtisticSkating #RollerDance #SkatingCommunity #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
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โจ SKATING CLASS SPOTLIGHT: Build your artistic skating foundation in this 60-minute class!
๐ฏ Pre-requisite: Skaters must either:
โจ Have completed El Centro Skate Rink's Saturday Beginner Class (1:00 - 1:30 PM)
โจ Or demonstrate skills beyond beginner level
Note: The Saturday class mentioned is run by El Centro Skate Rink, not ArtisticSkating.com
โญ๏ธ Class Features:
โจ Figure skating techniques
โจ Edge control training
โจ Jump and spin basics
โจ RSA Achievement prep
โจ Multi-discipline development
๐ Important Facility Information:
ArtisticSkating.com operates as a specialized skating program within El Centro Skate Rink. Important notes for all participants:
๐๏ธ All registrations and payments are through ArtisticSkating.com only (online or in-person, card preferred)
๐พ The rink's snack bar and arcade are CLOSED during our events, as we operate with specialized coaching staff only
๐ฅค A soda machine is available (accepts cards/cash)
๐ While Google/Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our hours (as we operate outside regular rink times), we are open and ready for all scheduled programs!
๐ฒ For questions about our programs, visit ArtisticSkating.com or message us directly.
Instagram Tags:
#SkatingSkills #ArtisticSkating #LearnToSkate #RollerSkating #SkatingClass #SkatingTechnique #SkatingProgress #RollerSkatingLife #SkateLife #SkatingFoundation #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
Facebook Tags:
#SkatingSkills #ArtisticSkating #LearnToSkate #SkatingCommunity #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
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๐ถ FAMILY SKATING SPOTLIGHT: Start their skating journey in this fun 60-minute parent-child skating opportunity!
โญ๏ธ Session Features:
โจ Interactive songs and games
โจ Age-appropriate exercises
โจ Free skate rentals in all sizes
โจ Safe learning environment
โจ Parent-child activities
๐ Important Facility Information:
ArtisticSkating.com operates as a specialized skating program within El Centro Skate Rink. Important notes for all participants:
๐๏ธ All registrations and payments are through ArtisticSkating.com only (online or in-person, card preferred)
๐พ The rink's snack bar and arcade are CLOSED during our events, as we operate with specialized coaching staff only
๐ฅค A soda machine is available (accepts cards/cash)
๐ While Google/Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our hours (as we operate outside regular rink times), we are open and ready for all scheduled programs!
๐ฒ For questions about our programs, visit ArtisticSkating.com or message us directly.
Instagram Tags:
#SkaterTots #KidsSkating #FamilySkating #LearnToSkate #ToddlerLife #SkatingFun #RollerSkating #FamilyFun #KidsActivities #SkatingClass #ParentAndChild #ActiveKids #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
Facebook Tags:
#SkaterTots #FamilySkating #LearnToSkate #FamilyFun #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
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๐ SOCIAL SKATE ALERT: Join us for a 2-hour social skating session perfect for home schooling families!
โญ๏ธ Session Features:
โจ Open skating with family & friends
โจ Classic skating rink tunes
โจ Free skate rentals for everyone
โจ Welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere
โจ Great opportunity for physical activity
Note: This is a social skating session where families create their own fun together - not a structured class. Occasional group activities like the Hokey Pokey may pop up! ๐ผ
๐ Important Facility Information:
ArtisticSkating.com operates as a specialized skating program within El Centro Skate Rink. Important notes for all participants:
๐๏ธ All registrations and payments are through ArtisticSkating.com only (online or in-person, card preferred)
๐พ The rink's snack bar and arcade are CLOSED during our events, as we operate with specialized coaching staff only
๐ฅค A soda machine is available (accepts cards/cash)
๐ While Google/Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our hours (as we operate outside regular rink times), we are open and ready for all scheduled programs!
๐ฒ For questions about our programs, visit ArtisticSkating.com or message us directly.
Instagram Tags:
#HomeSchool #PhysicalEducation #HomeschoolPE #KidsSkating #RollerSkating #HomeschoolActivities #ActiveLearning #HomeschoolLife #KidsFitness #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
Facebook Tags:
#HomeSchool #PhysicalEducation #KidsSkating #HomeschoolActivities #ArtisticSkating #ElCentroSkateRink #RollerSkating #SkateLife #LocalSkating #SkatingSchedule
Time to lace up those skates - our winter hibernation is over! ๐ป๐ผ
Starting this Thursday, January 2nd, we're rolling back into action with our Winter 2025 schedule. Two weeks of cozy holiday rest means we're refreshed, renewed, and ready to glide into the new year with style!
Like our bear friend here, we've had our holiday snooze, and now we're ready to hit the rink with fresh energy and new dreams. Whether you're working on your first crossover or perfecting that jump, there's no better time for a fresh start on eight wheels! โจ
New year, new goals, same amazing skating family. See you on the rink! ๐ฏ
#ArtisticSkating #NewYearNewSkates #BackToSkating #RinkLife #RollerSkating #WinterSkate2025
๐Important Note: Our programs are hosted at El Centro Skate Rink through our ongoing partnership. All registrations and payments are handled through ArtisticSkating.com only (either online site or in person - card payment preferred). Please note that the rink's office and snack bar are not open during our program times.
๐While Google/Apple Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our events (as they're outside regular rink hours), the facility is open and ready for our scheduled programs!
๐ซ Pro Tip: Always check our calendar at ArtisticSkating.com for the most current schedule and event updates!
โจ Roll Into 2025 Feeling Amazing!
New to our Winter Schedule: SKATERCISE! Starting January 3rd at El Centro Skate Rink, this ArtisticSkating.com program brings you a fresh way to feel great while having fun.
Join Coach Linda for an uplifting hour of:
* Feel-good movement
* Energizing music
* Mood-boosting skating flows
* Community vibes
Winter Schedule Details: Start Date: Friday, January 3rd, 2025 Weekly: Every Friday through Winter Season
โฐ Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
๐ Location: El Centro Skate Rink
๐ซ Cost: $20
๐ Book at: ArtisticSkating.com/events/category/all-events/
Important Note: This is an ArtisticSkating.com program hosted at El Centro Skate Rink. All registrations and payments are handled through ArtisticSkating.com, separate from regular rink operations.
Make this winter season your time to smile, skate, and feel fantastic! โจ
#SkateLife #FeelGoodVibes #RollerSkating #PNWSkating #WinterSkating
๐Important Note: This is an ArtisticSkating.com program hosted at our facility. All registrations and payments are handled through ArtisticSkating.com (either on their site or in person), separate from regular rink operations. The rink's office and snack bar are not open during these specialized class times.
๐While Google and Apple Maps may show El Centro Skate Rink as 'CLOSED' during these event times (as they occur outside regular rink hours), the facility is open for ArtisticSkating.com programs! For the most up-to-date schedule and event status, always check ArtisticSkating.com
FOR ARTISTICSKATING.COM’S SOCIAL MEDIA:
๐Important Note: Our programs are hosted at El Centro Skate Rink through our ongoing partnership. All registrations and payments are handled through ArtisticSkating.com only (either online site or in person - card payment preferred). Please note that the rink's office and snack bar are not open during our program times.
๐While Google/Apple Maps may show the rink as 'CLOSED' during our events (as they're outside regular rink hours), the facility is open and ready for our scheduled programs!
๐ซ Pro Tip: Always check our calendar at ArtisticSkating.com for the most current schedule and event updates!
๐ SPECIAL BOXING DAY POP-UP EVENT AT EL CENTRO! ๐ผ
We're excited to host ArtisticSkating.com's (@artisticskaterlife) Boxing Day Family Skate at our facility!
๐ LOCATION: El Centro Skate Rink ๐ December 26th โฐ 2:00 - 4:00 PM
๐๏ธ IMPORTANT TICKET INFO:
* Purchase ONLY at ArtisticSkating.com
* NOT available through El Centro box office
* Limited door sales available (card preferred)
* Exact cash recommended - limited change available
๐ซ EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:
* Pro skate adjustments for your new skates
* Skating demonstrations
* Learn-to-skate guidance
* Limited refreshments available (card preferred) โข Regular rink snack bar closed
๐ PRICING (PLUS TAX):
* Individual: $15
* Family Package: $10/person (up to 4)
Don't miss this special holiday pop-up! While this event is at our beloved El Centro rink, please note all event operations are managed by @ArtisticSkating.com.
๐ฏ GET YOUR TICKETS NOW: ArtisticSkating.com
#ElCentroRink #PopUpSkating #BoxingDay #ArtisticSkating #HolidaySkate #FamilyFun
๐ Ready to take your skating further?
You might know Coach Linda from her popular mini-lessons during Saturday family skates here at El Centro Skate Rink - but did you know she's the host of several artistic skating classes and social skates throughout the week? Now you can also book private lessons with her to dive deeper into your skating journey!
Coach Linda specializes in helping skaters of all levels discover the joy of artistic roller skating, combining technical skill with creative expression.
๐ฏ Tuesdays & Thursdays 2-4:30pm - 30 minute lesson slots
๐ El Centro Skate Rink
๐ Book online at ArtisticSkating.com/private-lessons
Want to experience artistic skating? Visit ArtisticSkating.com/events/category/all-events/ to explore the full schedule of Coach Linda's group classes and social skates. From beginners to advanced skaters, the artistic skating community welcomes everyone!
#ElCentroSkateRink #ArtisticSkating #SkatingLessons #PNWSkating
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