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Yearly Archives: 2018

ODEON and Pigsback.com have partnered up yet again to bring another classic film to the big screen.

On Thursday, December 20 at 6.30pm, ODEON Cinemas Nationwide will screen the iconic Christmas classic, Love Actually.  

With a star-studded ensemble cast of Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Bill Nighy, Martin Freeman and the late Alan Rickman – this is a Christmas favourite for all the family and one you do not want to miss!

For only €15, this package deal includes a cinema ticket, popcorn combo (medium combo with a dispensed soft drink or bottle of water) and one small tub of ice cream. A saving of €9.25! – Tickets are limited so get booking at Pigsback.com

Love Actually hit the silver screen in November 2003, and gained immediate critical acclaim and huge box office success. This unique romantic comedy has become a festive favourite with many turning to it every Christmas to mark the season.

Paul Wren, Commercial Manager for ODEON cinemas said, “After screening previous cult classics in partnership with Pigsback.com, Love Actually was the natural choice to mark the festive season. With so many memorable scenes and quotes – this film deserves another Christmas run. We are delighted to give guests the opportunity to share the magic of this festive favourite on the big screen at ODEON.”

What better way to get into the festive spirit than seeing Hugh Grant shimmy around No.10 Downing Street.

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Dr. Rhona Mahony has pledged that women whose unborn babies have fatal foetal abnormalities will be offered terminations from January at the National Maternity Hospital.

As the hospital's master, Mahony made the claim after it came to light that some maternity hospitals and GPs won't be ready to begin extended abortion services from January.

A spokesman has said that staff are "working to ensure we have a full, safe and compassionate service in place as quickly as possible".

Dr. Mahony's spokesman continued;

"Notwithstanding the outstanding logistical issues, we expect to provide termination of pregnancy in situations of fatal foetal anomaly from January 1."

Minister for Health Simon Harris rejected implications that the January target for abortion services was aligned with politics, and has commented that this claim was 'offensive'.

He added that the services will not be available everywhere straight away, and that it needed time to embed and evolve with the help of clinicians. 

Yesterday, the Seanad continued with their debate on the Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy Bill.

Dr Sharon Sheehan, master of the Coombe hospital, has commented that her new system of service won't be ready by January.

She said; "To ensure the provision of "safe, high-quality, sensitive and compassionate care for women", it is essential to have the finalised legislation in place, an agreed model of care nationally and national clinical guidelines.

She continued;

"There has been extensive work, and that is continuing to proceed at a pace, but they are not ready and we now have only 20 days before this service is to be introduced.

"In my opinion, the country is not ready, and therefore the Coombe is not in a position to deliver these services from the January 1."

The Rotunda maternity hospitals spokeswoman commented that;

"Rotunda Hospital will be complying with enacted legislation providing the appropriate model of care, resources and funding is in place to enable a safe service provision to women".

The Irish Family Planning Association has also said that an exact date of availability for abortion services cannot yet be offered;

"We are still working on a number of outstanding issues. We're working to resolve them as quickly as possible and we're making good progress. We won't delay in providing abortion care once that's done".

The Irish College of General Practitioners and the Institute of Obstetricians are set to meet today for the discussion of clinical guidelines which are seen as essential for doctors.

A 24/7 helpline will hopefully be advertised by the HSE once the legislation is passed for guiding women, GPs and hospitals.

Feature image: BusinessPost.ie

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Victoria Beckham looked stunning as usual at the Fashion Awards this year.

The leading designer was nominated for British Womenswear Designer of the Year for her fashion line.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham) on

The brand is in its tenth year, so the nomination was a fitting celebratory honour for the business woman.

The mum arrived on the red carpet with her boys – David and Brooklyn.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham) on

And as she showed off her sleek and gorgeous black dress, fans noticed something was missing from her usual look.

The open back revealed that Victoria’s tattoo tribute to her husband has been removed.

According to the Daily Mail, her neck tattoo featured a Hebrew quote that translated to: “I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine”.

Reportedly, the former Spice Girls star started her tattoo removal process in 2015, and now it is barely visible.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by MAMEY el nuevo Negro (@mameyelnuevonegro) on

This comes after summer rumours of Victoria and David having a rocky relationship, but the footballer quickly shut down these speculations.

He ensured fans that their 19-year marriage is stronger than ever.

Victoria also had two other tattoos removed from her wrist – one with the date that she and David renewed their wedding vows and the other a quote to commemorate their family's move to the United States.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by yu (@chibi26yu) on

However, the happy couple was spotted cosying up to one another and holding hands at the awards.

And when Victoria did not win the award, David was quick to console her.

So, maybe she has just changed her mind about having tattoos in general?

The designer has yet to comment on her removal decision.

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Colleen Ballinger aka Miranda Sings has given birth to a baby boy, after going into labour on Monday night.

Just weeks before welcoming her new human, the duo was in the iconic Ariana Grande's Thank U, Next video

Taking to Instagram, the 32-year-old posted a black and white photo.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Colleen Ballinger (@colleen) on

The adorbs picture was captioned: "I love him so much."

And Ariana has been sending the little fella and his momma some love – could you imagine having Ariana as an "aunt".

On Twitter, the singer tweeted the Youtuber, "omg" and "I love you so much." 

Supposedly the little man looks just like his daddy, Erik Stocklin.

Replying to a fan, Colleen said it was "spooky how much they look alike."

Erik also marked the birth of their first child with a daddy-son pic and we just can't,  it's just too cute.

Holding the baby human, he wrote:" IS THIS REAL LIFE!? I love you so much baby Stocklin! Mama Ballinger and Papa Stocklin are champs! This family is freaking amazing!"

The pair are yet to release the name of their son to the public, but we are in for a treat as Colleen is making a birthing video.

On Twitter, she told fans: "I have a long video coming soon of the birth of my perfect little angel. it’s going to take me a while to get up so please be patient."

"I need to take a few days to stare at my adorable son."

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kory DeSoto (@thekorsoto) on

Congratulations to the little family.

We can't wait to see how they deal with a whole new chapter of their life. 

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Ok, some of this is old news – most of us will know that Leo was given the Best Actor Oscar that Marlon Brando won for his role in 1954’s On the Waterfront.

In 2017, Leo gave it back – but we're only finding out why now.

The story resurfaced in the New York Times about financier Jho Low, who is tangled in a criminal investigation – and the same guy  who originally gave Leo the Oscar a a pressie.

According to the Times, Low along with people like Malaysia’s ex-prime minister Najib Razak, allegedly used billions of dollars from a Malaysian government-run an investment fund.

Hmmm, sounds dodgy. 

Leo isn't the only one who has to give back – other celebs like Miranda Kerr had to give up a grand piano, and a Pablo Picasso painting.

The statement in 2017 said, ''This effort was to determine if there were any gifts or charitable donations originating from the parties named in the civil complaint, and to offer the return of any such gifts or donations with the aid and instruction of the government.''

The returned Oscar is now in a federal warehouse in Texas and we're a bit gutted for Leo tbh – he hasn't got much luck with Oscars, has he? 

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Security forces in Strasbourg have been deployed in the search for the gunman who killed three people and wounded 13 others at a Christmas market last night.

The man has now been identified as 29-year-old local Cherif Chekatt, and there are concerns that the suspect has escaped into Germany.

The French government has since raised the security alert level to emergency and border controls have been highly reinforced.

The attacker was on a known list of extremists who are consistently watched by police, and local officials have confirmed that he is being actively hunted by security forces.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Scott Ryan Presler (@scottpresler) on

Among the 13 wounded, eight are seriously injured and three of the killed civilians include three Thai tourists.

One of the tourist has been named as 45-year-old Anupong Suebsamarn by the Thai embassy in Paris.

Gunshots were heard just after 8pm in Place Kleber, the market which attracts millions of tourists every year. Crowds of people were forced to flee for their safety.

Interior Minister Christophe Castaner early today claimed France had raised its security alert level, and President Emmanuel Macron has tweeted his sympathies for the victims of the terrorist attack.

Cherif Chekatt was being investigated over an attempted murder, according to Sky News sources.

Areas situated near the Christmas market were sealed off last night and residents were being told to stay indoors.

The European Parliament, based in Strasbourg, was also on lockdown.

France’s security forces are already on high alert since 2015 after a series of terror attacks, and are especially stretched due to anti-government protests sweeping the country.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Gaspard GLANZ  TARANIS.NEWS (@taranisnews) on

British Prime Minister Theresa May has also tweeted her sincerest sympathies; 

“Shocked and saddened by the terrible attack in Strasbourg. My thoughts are with all of those affected and with the French people."

Soldiers who were patrolling the area as part of regular anti-terror operations apparently wounded the suspect after opening fire, but police sources have confirmed his escape.

At least 350 policeman and gendarmes are now deployed on the ground to aid in the manhunt.

An investigation has been opened by specialist anti-terror prosecutors into the Strasbourg incident, with updates still to come on the progess.

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Christmas can be one of the greatest times of the year, but it is important for us to remember that it isn’t easy for everyone.

There are times when we fail to realise that some people may struggle with the constant cheer and merriment.

It can be one of the loneliest times of year, especially for people who have recently suffered a heartbreak.

Popstar Cheryl is believed to be dreading the holiday season this year following her split from One Direction beau Liam Payne.

The Fight For This Love songstress will be celebrating the holidays with her son Bear, whom she shares with the Familiar singer, and her mum.

According to Heat magazine, Cheryl is feeling rather nervous about her first Christmas as a single mum.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Cheryl (@cherylofficial) on

“Cheryl is trying to put on a brave face, but she’s really dreading being lonely this year. She’s really struggling at the moment, being on her own,” a source claimed.

The Love Made Me Do It singer prefers to be in a relationship and is really feeling that loneliness as Christmas approaches.

There’s no doubt Liam will be there on Christmas morning as the parents vowed to take their parenting responsibilities extremely seriously, no matter what.

The former X Factor judge and Liam Payne went their separate ways in July 2018, but they have both agreed that their son’s happiness will always be their number one priority, regardless of their relationship status.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Cheryl (@cherylofficial) on

“They’re really serious about co-parenting and have always said they’d try to be there together for all the big events like Christmas and birthdays,” the source explained.

We’re sure Bear will help wash his mum’s worries away this Christmas.

Feature Image: BBC

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Cyber-bullying can have a devastating impact on mental health, especially when it comes to young people.

Nowadays, children are exposed to the internet at a much younger age, making technology an integral part of their life.

Tabú, an Irish documentary series, aims to explore the negative effects of the online world in their latest episode.

In its episode this week, the TG4 series will discuss ‘online shaming’ and how it has changed people’s lives across the country.

Náire online influencer, blogger and presenter Ciara Ní É explores the sensitive and traumatic stories of those who have been victims of online abuse and extortion and how it has affected them.

Broadcaster Stefanie Preissner and presenter Ciara Ní É

She will interview several victims of cyber-bulling including:

  • Mary O’Donnell, a beautician from Tralee that appeared on The Today Show. A video of the clip went viral and received over a million views online after she had a mishap on live television while applying eyeliner to a model.

  • Peter Hynes, a dairy farmer from Aherla in Cork that won Farmer of the Year. He and his wife Paula joined Twitter and soon afterwards they started to receive a torrent of abuse from online vegan shamers.

  • Dubliner Jackie Fox shares her heart-breaking story of her daughter, Nicole, who was the victim of online bullying. In January of this year, Nicole took her own life. Now Jackie is campaigning to bring in “Coco’s Law” and make harassment online an offense.

  • A range of male and female victims who have suffered from sextortion, online bullying and shaming.

Mental health expert Carl O'Reilly with presenter Ciara Ní É

Viewers will also hear expert opinions from writer and broadcaster Stefanie Preissner, Detective Superintendent of Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau Michael Gubbins, and cyber-psychologists.

The episode airs on Wednesday, December 12 at 9.30pm on TG4, so make sure to tune in!

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If your Spotify playlist Wrap Up of 2018 didn't include Why Can't We Be Friends, Bear Claws, or Permanent Vacation – you are seriously missing out. 

Mullingar foursome The Academic have taken 2018 as their year, and this weekend will embark on two epic sold-out gig in Dublin's Vicar Street. 

However, if you're heartbroken over not getting a ticket, never fear. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by The Academic (@theacademic) on

The lads are returning this summer with a massive gig in Dublin's Iveagh Gardens.

The new gig is scheduled for July 19th, 2019.

Craig, Dean, Matt and Stephen have an insane talent for songwriting, so to see them performing their indie hits in person is an unmissable experience. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by The Academic (@theacademic) on

Tickets for next summer's date go on sale tomorrow morning – and with the speed at which tickets for their previous gig have gone, you'd want to be quick. 

Tickets are available for €40,00 from Ticketmaster at 9am. 

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Disney’s remake revival has caused quite the excitement for Disney fans, which let’s face it is almost everyone.

The Jungle Book, The Lion King, and Aladdin are just a few of our childhood favourites being made into live action films.

It’s hard not to synonymize Disney nostalgia with Christmas, so we’ve gathered up the perfect gifts to give Disney lovers this Christmas.

And don’t worry, we’ve left out all the stereotypical gifts so that you can give a unique and special present this Christmas.

1. Disney Designer Collection

€111.16 on Colourpop

2. Disney Guess The Film Game

€19.30 on Amazon

3. Beauty and the Beast Coffee Cups

€21.01 on Amazon

4. Minnie Mouse Necklace

€10.89 on Etsy

5. Be Our Guest Door Mat

€11.05 on Amazon

6. The Disney Book: A Celebration of the World of Disney

€12.44 on Amazon

7. Winnie the Pooh Glasses

€19.29 on Amazon

8. Disney Bed Set

€31.53 on Amazon

9. Never Too Old for Disney Mug

€11.50 on Etsy

10. Mickey Christmas Hoodie

€22.40 on Boohoo

11. BB8 Sphero Robot

€143.81 on Argos

12. Disney Hi Top Vans

€30.96 on Amazon

13. Velvet Mickey Mouse Cap

€11.06 on Asos

14. Mickey T-Shirt

€14.37 on Pull and Bear

15. Complete Disney Classics Movie Collection

€221.26 on Shop Disney

 

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We all have that friend that seems to have her head permanently in the gutter, and if you can't pinpoint which pal it is… then it's you, hun.

Every woman deserves to feel sexy and powerful, and some of your friends understand that notion more than others.

You know the one, the gal-pal that's always giving insanely detailed in and out's (pardon the pun) of her sex life, her favourite sex positions and toys, even her tips that you never really asked to hear. 

i wanna talk about sex GIF by VH1 Hip Hop Honors

If she's the mate you've been given for the Kris Kringle, never fear.

We have the ULTIMATE red hot, X-rated spice guide for buying the best gifts.

Strap yourselves in, fam. No, that wasn't an intentional BDSM reference, honestly….

1. Girl Boner: The Good Girl's Guide to Sexual Empowerment by August McLaughlin

August McLaughlin wrote a powerful book about how she overcame her eating disorder after embracing her sexuality.

The result is an incredible collection of her thoughts on what it means to be a 'good girl', slut shaming, prude-shaming, bondage, BDMS, body image, girl boners and orgasms, among other saucy things.

We advise you to grab it ASAP for your sexually empowered pals, or anyone who needs it for that matter. We've already ordered it from Amazon…*winks*

Buy: Amazon
Price: €14.52

2. Fuschia EROTIC eyshadow palette

Fuschia make-up has decided to gift us with a frisky palette full of delicious berries, bold blues and tantalising purples.

Endlessly daring looks for naughty nights can be created with this gorgeous eyeshadow extravaganza. These shimmers will ensure that you can dance the night away or get your freak on, either way you'll be looking STUH-NING.

Buy: Fuschia
Price: €27.50

3. Savage x Fenty lacy teddy

We honestly don't know a sexier feeling than putting on lingerie that BAD GAL RIRI both designed and wore herself.

She is the badass queen of sexual empowerment, and you can be too. While Savage x Fenty is on the pricier side, it's ideal for a Christmas treat=.

The gorgeous range of body types and diversity which the brand represents is worth the money, imagine how extra you'd feel wearing this beautiful lace body.

Buy: Savage x Fenty
Price: €98.28

4. Love Honey's weekend away sex kit

This sex kit features 11 specially selected toys for endless fun.

Included in this spicy set is the all-time favourite rabbit vibrator, butt plug, G-spot vibe, rabbit ears, beads, rabbit rings among other products, it's pretty decent value.

Welcome to the weekend, ladies. Treat yourself, or a sexually empowered mate of yours, if they're brave enough to unwrap the gift.

Buy: Love Honey
Price: 79.95

5. Glyde organic, natural condoms

Glyde condoms are vegan and made with sustainably harvested natural latex, so they're perfect for that environmentally friendly sexually empowered pal. I mean, they're even certified by PETA.

These condoms come in a variety of textures, flavours and sizes so they're just as good, if not better, than store-brand condoms like Durex, but suitable for everyone.

Sir Richard's Pleasure Dot condoms are also an unreal vegan choice, not to mention PETA certified.

Buy: Babeland/Amazon
Price: €13.22 for 12

7. YES organic lubricants

YES WB lubricants are some of the best in the business. 

Made from organic aloe vera, it's arguably the top water-based lube on the market right now. Perfect for moisturising and nourishing skin, as well as for solo or shared pleasure experiences.

It's called YES for a reason, don't you think? *wink* (Did you really think we'd write a sex-themed article without numerous cheeky winks?)

Buy: Love Honey
Price: €8.95 (50ml)

8. Bijoux Indiscrets Blind Passion mask

This soft plush mask is a fun way to change up the bedroom repertoire.

Coming in gorgeous black and white gold packaging, it's a great gift idea for anyone looking to eliminate their sense of sight to boost their sense of pleasure.

Buy: Bijoux Indiscrets
Price: €8.95

9. Rianne S Classic vibrator in deep purple

The RIANNE S Classique is the essential vibrator for any woman, sexually empowered or not.

The toy is 100 percent medical grade silicon and is available in three different colours with golden details, as well as a cosmetic bag for other saucy essentials.

Buy: Rianne S
Price: €29.95

10. ASOS DESIGN Emma velvet & lace padded plunge underwire bra set

Anyone can feel sexy in red, but a red velvet bra, thong and suspender set? You're on fire, gal.

We are GAGGIN' for this entire ensemble, can someone post this straight to our doors ASAP, please?

Buy: ASOS
Price: bra (€30.42), thong (€13.83), suspender (€19.36)

11. ASOS DESIGN button through maxi tea dress in jacquard

You don't need to be showing some skin to feel sexually empowered, are we right?

This beautiful, satin red dress is ideal for feeling sexy and free (like glitter's raining on me, @Jessie J).

Buy: ASOS
Price: €55.30

12. Long distance lamps…to give them a sign *winks*

Uncommon Goods are now stocking this majestic product, which is essentially the 2018 way of issuing a booty call from afar.

These hilarious and absolutely genius lamps allow you to let your lover know that you're thinking of them from afar with just one simple touch. 

The lamps are connected by WiFi, so each time either you or your partner touches a magical lamp, the other will light up with a sensual glow. It's fun, it's modern, it's damn sexy.

Buy: Uncommon Goods
Price: €74.60 (excluding shipping)

13. Naughty Truth or Dare by Running Press

If you're looking to sprinkle a little spice for a date night-in, or a get together between your gal pals, then this is the game for you.

Naughty Truth or Dare features 104 gas prompts and one instruction card for some VERY non-PG fun. 

Buy: Book Depository
Price: €6.58

14. Sex Stack (Basically spicy Jenga…)

This game is possibly the greatest creative experience of foreplay invented. Sexy Jenga? It sounds absurd, but trust us, you'll have more than a few laughs playing it.

Each block has a number that coincides with a task or position, so it's pretty darn great for trying out some new experiences with a lover.

Buy: Amazon
Price: €22.09

15. Lovehoney Oh! XOXO Sex Cheques (26 Pack)

This flirty chequebook from Love Honey ain't about finances, in case you hadn't guessed.

26 cheques to choose from and two blank ones for your own filthy minds to fill in, these are a gas gift for a sexually empowered friend who needs a little creativity.

Buy: Love Honey
Price; €6.95

We hope these gift goodies will give you all the inspiration necessary this Christmas.

For your sexually empowered pals… and for treating yo'self too…*winks one final time*

james franco wink GIF

Every woman needs her pleasure, eh? Enjoy the presents, you saucy mixes.

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If you're actively looking for a place to rent, the housing crisis isn't your only concern – get ready to add this to your list of worries.

It has come to the attention of Gardaí that prospective tenants have been receiving unsolicited emails from an individual impersonating an officer.

The individual claims to be "Inspector Andrew Cullen" of the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau.

However, the Gardaí have warned that no such member exists on their force.

The emails are not official and appear to be a part of a rental scam to deceive people into handing over deposits on properties.

If you have any concerns about the unsolicited emails or correspondence received from Garda Síochána – do not sit in silence.

Contact your local Garda station to verify the authenticity of any interactions.

Additionally, An Garda Síochána will NEVER ask you for any personal or banking information through email or over the phone.

So if you are being asked for this info, alarm bells should be ringing.

The Garda have issued guidelines that common rental scams fall into:

1. The scammer claims to be out of the country and can’t show you the property and requests a deposit.

2.  The scammer is living at the property and shows a number of people around, gets a deposit from several people and disappears with the money. 

3.  The transaction appears normal until the renter finds that the keys don’t work and the landlord has disappeared.

Therefore people need to establish that the house exists and that is available for rent and the identity of landlord /agent & is he/she authorised to rent the property.

To ensure that you are not being fleeced for a non-existent property, the Gardaí recommend doing business with established bon-fide rental agencies.

They always advise to meet a prospective landlord in the accommodation to be rented, ask for identification, a driver’s licence or photo identification of landlord or letting agent, etc – (Take a photo of the document on your phone).

When it comes to coughing up the deposit, make sure it's paid to the landlord and nobody else, unless they can prove their authority to be able to take the payment on behalf of the landlord.

Now instead of splashing out the cash for that deposit, use cheques or bank drafts to pay it and keep copies of receipts of payments and any correspondence.

And finally, ensure keys fit, open door lock and sign a rental contract, prior to payment of deposit.

They've also cautioned that if the rent sounds too good to be true – it probably is.

If you believe you've been a victim of such fraud, the Gardaí ask that you report the incident to your local station.

If you live outside of Ireland, report it to your local police station.

It's sad that people prey on vulnerable people given our housing crisis, but it's vital that you educate yourself, so that you don't get caught out.

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