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Maine Souvenirs: Autumn Edition

Traveling to Maine this fall season? These are some of our customer – and personal – favorites that we’ve deemed “Maine Autumn Souvenirs,” perfect for commemorating a wonderful trip to our hoME state during a beautiful season of change.

Love the colors of fall?

Look no further than Amy’s Autumn Collection when it comes to wearing them as an accessory. Made with REAL foliage leaves, Amy presses nature’s beautiful reds, oranges, greens and yellows under glass to create gorgeous sets of earrings, pendants, and bracelets.

We’ve got you covered…

Cozy Hoodies for those colder nights.

On your marks, get set…BAKE!

The days are getting shorter, and what better way to begin (or end – breakfast for dinner?) them with an episode of the British Baking Show while following these easy recipes to make some delicious baked goodies.

Bored of the SAME ole’ thing?

Try a Royal Rose Syrup to upgrade your cocktails, mocktails, seltzers, or in my friend Amelia’s case: homemade kombucha! Add some sweetness to your morning oatmeal or your evening dessert with a little drizzle of Maine Blueberry Syrup. Call our shops in Bath (207-443-2225) or Portland (207-828-1515) to see what flavors and sizes we have available!

Maine Maple-y Goodness

Switch up your coffee routine this fall by adding a classic, all natural sweetener: Pure Maine Maple Syrup. You won’t regret it.

We’re Blown Away by this Beautiful Glasswork!

Autumn marks the appearance of “Pumpkin Season.” So as you fill up on pumpkin lattes and pick out your pumpkins at a local patch, take a peek at our Maine made pumpkin decor – and these seasonal, limited, one of a kind blown glass pumpkins.

Call our Bath shop (207-443-2225) for more information!

Black birds stand out against the bright Maine foliage this season. But how do you tell the difference between a blackbird, a crow and a raven? Here are some bird-identifying tips:

  • Crows and ravens are notably large for songbirds, larger than pigeons, while blackbirds are smaller.
  • Blackbirds have moderate-sized beaks and tails, and different species have distinguishing marks in the plumage (yellow heads, red wings, glossy sheen…)
  • Crows tend to be noisy, suspicious, and hop along the ground when they forage.
  • Ravens have a very distinctive “croak” vs. “caw” call, and are often observed in pairs instead of groups.
Autumn Harvest Candle by Primitive Keeper

Take a deep breath of fresh air in September and October…that’s autumn.

Autumn scents seem to be the most popular alongside the classic “Maine Balsam” when it comes to our candle selection. The Primitive Keeper makes it hard to choose just one; from Autumn Harvest to White Pumpkin, Sweater Weather to Cozy Flannel, you are guaranteed to be stuck in this section for longer than you think.

Stop by our shops to smell for yourself!

7 Fun Fall Activities To Do in Maine

Featuring MAINE-LY fun things to do this fall season, right here in Maine. ๐Ÿ˜‰


1. Visit the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray,

“where you’re guaranteed to see moose, and more animals during the day then you could ever spot in the wild!” It’s home to over 30 species of Maine wildlife that cannot be returned to their natural habitat.

2. Discover new walking trails and enjoy some “leaf peeping.”

Try this trail guide where you can search based off of activity, location and skill-level!


3. Plan ahead to attend the Fall in Love with Maple event, taking place from October 9-11 at Hilltop Boilers’ farm.

“Road trip anyone? Enjoy the fall foliage ๐Ÿwith a ride to the farm at Hilltop Boilers Maple Syrup.  Located halfway between the Atlantic Ocean and the White Mountains is Newfield, a small idyllic little town in western Maine and home of Hilltop Boilers Maple Syrup. Just an hour from Portland, Portsmouth, and North Conway, Hilltop Boilers is a small, working farm with cattle grazing in the pasture and a beautiful new sugarhouse.”


4. Hike ME!

Get outside and enjoy the refreshing autumn air, feel the crisp leaves crunch and crackle under your feet as you gain altitude amongst any of Maine’s beautiful peaks.

New to the hiking scene? Not to worry! There are plenty of trails in our magnificent hoME state that are beginner and kid-friendly.

Here are a few to try:

  • Cascade Stream Gorge Trail, Sandy River Plantation: This relatively easy 1-mile loop follows the path of the Cascade Stream gorge. The hike offers picnic opportunities, and the stream is great for swimming on a hot day.ย 
  • Wolfeโ€™s Neck State Park, Freeport: You’d have to work hard to find a boring trail in this park. Walking through the network of Casco Bay Trails will take you from forest to rocky coastline. Distance/Duration: 5 miles if you do every trail, 1-5 hours depending on how leisurely you’d like to be.
  • Ocean Path, Acadia National Park: If you think Acadia National Park is only for the serious hiker, think again. It’s absolutely possible to explore the classic Maine forest and coastline using your own two feet – even if you are not a seasoned hiker. Hiking Ocean Path will give you views of what many believe to be “classic Maine” – from coast to forest.

5. Go to a County Fair!

Enjoy Maine agriculture, live music, and delicious food. Fun for the whole family! Check out the list of fairs here and make your plan today!


6. Pick Your Pumpkins!

You’ll have your pick of local farms that will be set up for weekly (and even daily) pumpkin-picking this fall.

Check out Dole’s Orchard in Limington and Orchard Ridge Farm in Gorham for some pumpkin and/or apple picking, delicious hot apple “cidah,” not to mention, delicious fresh pies and warm apple cider donuts! ๐Ÿคค


7. Cozy up with some cards and cribbage.

Some days it’ll be nice to step inside from the chilly, fall nights, light a fire (or, if you’re like me–put Netflix’s “cozy, cracklin’ fireplace” on the TV), grab a warm mug of tea and take a seat across from your cribbage opponent.

Never played? Read up on the rules here, and check out one of our other blogs, Fifteen, Two, Fifteen, Four, If You Know Cribbage, There Could Be More.


Maine’s First Annual Wild Blueberry Weekend

โ€œI am proud to declare the first annual Wild Blueberry Weekend in Maine to honor the importance of Maineโ€™s wild blueberries and the hardworking Maine people who grow and bring them to market,โ€ said Governor Janet Mills. โ€œI encourage everyone to visit one of the participating wild blueberry farms or to sample Maine-grown wild blueberry products at the many restaurants, inns, breweries, wineries, ice cream shops, and distilleries selling them during Wild Blueberry Weekend.โ€

July 23, 2021 – State of Maine: The Office of Governor Janet T. Mills

Wild blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium) emerged on the rocky, acidic soils of the Barrens of Maine following the retreat of the glaciers more than 10,000 years ago. These wild blueberries, which are not planted but grow naturally, were first managed and harvested by the Wabanaki and are now grown by 485 Maine farms on 38,660 acres, primarily within Washington, Hancock, Knox, and Waldo counties

“These wild blueberries…are now grown by 485 Maine farms on 38,660 acres.”

Gov. Janet Mills

Maine produces nearly 100% of all wild blueberries in the United States, and they are one of the top three specialty crops produced in the state! Maineโ€™s wild blueberry growers and businesses are significant contributors to Maineโ€™s economy and are vital assets to Maineโ€™s rural communities. These tiny sweet berries can be enjoyed fresh during the height of summer in Maine, while Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) technology allows consumers to buy berries frozen at the peak of freshness all year round, all over the world.

Wild blueberries are recognized as Maine’s official state berry, and blueberry pie is recognized as the official state dessert. And what goes better with dessert than a warm, cozy mug of Bar Harbor’s Blueberry Tea or Carrabassett’s Blueberry Cobbler coffee?

Maine wild blueberries are one of the worldโ€™s top 10 superfoods – a deep purple fruit that is rich in antioxidants and health benefits.

This year, the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine is launching Maineโ€™s first annual Wild Blueberry Weekend to encourage residents and visitors to explore blueberry farms and participating establishments and eat, drink, and experience the sea of blue in August before the barrens turn a deep red in the fall.

Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim the weekend of August 7th and 8th, 2021 as Wild Blueberry Weekend in Maine, and I encourage all people to recognize the vital contributions made by the Stateโ€™s wild blueberry growers and businesses to our economy, and to participate in activities that celebrate and honor the wild Maine blueberry.

Lupine Love

A Lil’ History on Lupines: 



In years past, there was a species of Lupine that was native to Maine, Lupinus perennis, but it is now so scarce that it’s nearly diminished from the state. As you are driving the highways and byways in Maine in the spring, you will almost always see a beautiful carpet of pink and purple picturesque flowers. This is Bigleaf lupine, Lupinus polyphyllus, which actually originated in the western United States.



Lupine Wine Glass $18.99

Lupine Stemless Wine Glass $18.99


The Adventurous Miss Rumphius


When Alice Rumphius was a little girl, she vowed that when she grew up
she would travel the world and live in a house by the sea. 
โ€œThere is a third thing you must do,โ€ her grandfather told her.
โ€œYou must do something to make the world more beautiful.โ€

Miss Rumphius fulfilled her dreams. She saw the world and returned home to live by the sea in Maine. But she wondered what she could do that would make the world more beautiful…and she discovered it was spreading the beauty of lupines.


“You must do something to make the world more beautiful.”

Barbara Cooney, Miss Rumphius

We’ve got a few BEAUTIFUL photographs of secret spots here in Maine where the wild lupines thrive. Which one’s your favorite, Lori’s Lupine & Bumble Bee or Ben’s Field of Dreams?


Maine Cards & Magnets


Lori Davis takes these stunning photos of famous landmarks and hidden gems throughout Maine. Come shop our selection of her photography – available in cards, refrigerator magnets, and matted prints!


Beth’s Originals


Hand-painted in her studio on the coast of Maine, Beth’s originals feature a range of painted images reflecting our rugged and varied Maine landscapes. Her collection features delicate lupines (seen on right), colorful buoys, and proud puffins.


Happy National Wine Day! ๐Ÿท

๐Ÿ‡ITโ€™S NATIONAL WINE DAY ๐Ÿท

Weโ€™ve got everything for you to sip back and relax.

Lisa-Marie's Original Hand Painted First Maine Flag Glassware

Lobstah Claw Bottle Stoppahs


Lobsters certainly donโ€™t have wings, but these Lobster Claw Bottle Stoppers keep FLYING out of here! Perfect for the wine connoisseur in your life, give them a gift thatโ€™s both useful and a conversation piece.

These bottle stoppers are cast from REAL lobster claws which produces the intricate detail from the โ€œpincherโ€ claw; the artist then glazes each one in stormy blues, rusty reds and an assortment of other color combinations, giving each one a striking, unique appearance.

HAND-PAINTED BLUEBERRY WINE GLASSES


Featuring one of Lisa-Marieโ€™s most popular designs, she paints delicate, little Maine blueberries and their green leaves to swirl elegantly around each glass.

Available in 3 Styles:

Lisa-Marie's Original Hand Painted Blueberry Glassware
Lisa-Marie's Original Hand Painted Blueberry Mini Stemless Wine Glasses
Blueberry, Wine Glasses.

ETCHED MAINE GLASSWARE


Clean. Simple. Sophisticated.

These Etched Stemless Wine Glasses are available with a few Maine-themed design options. From lighthouses to moose, you can mix and match to create your own glassware collection.

Lighthouse Etched Stemless Wine Glass
In-Store Only

Resourceful Maine accessories for all your summer gatherings and special occasions.

Wooden
Wine Caddies,


Whimsical
Wine Totes,


& Wicked Cool Wine Glass Charms

Call our shops in Bath and Portland for availability and pricing!

Wine Bag Holders featuring lobsters
Wine Glass charms
Wooden Wine Caddy

Sip, Sip, Hooray!


Pop by and visit our locations in Bath and Portland โ€“ weโ€™ve been stocking up with all your favorite Maine makersโ€™ hand-crafted products.

We canโ€™t wait to see you, and
thanks for shopping small!
#lovelisamaries

Celebrating National BBQ Day, The Maine Way

IT’S NATIONAL BBQ DAY!ย 

Featuring some delicious & useful Maine products that’ll help you celebrate!

AVAILABLE IN-STORE ONLY:

Named after the island in Casco Bay, West Brown Cow is a spicy dry rub used as a prelude to grilling. Originally created for beef, it’s delicious flavor and versatility pair wonderfully with seafood.ย 

 

  • 3.5 oz.
  • All Natural | Gluten Free | Non GMO
  • Ingredients:ย  Paprika, Black Pepper, Sugar, Sea Salt, Lemon, Lime, Orange Rind, Ancho Chiles, Maine Seaweed & Spices.
  • Try me on:ย ย Steaks, ribs, pork, chicken, swordfish, tuna steaks.
  • Heat Level:ย ย 4/10

Great Salt Bay Seasoning Co. Smoked Maple Salts

Captain Mowatt’s West Brown Cow Rub

Want to add a whole lotta flavor and a little bit of a kick? Try one of Rossam’s BBQ sauces: Original, Habanero, Blueberry, and Mustard, all four flavors available in our Bath and Portland shops! If you’re looking to add a boost of heat, Tallywaggers BBQ sauce is made with a combination of NINE different peppers, a perfect mix of flavor without burning your lips off. You can also add a dash of the infamous Lost Woods Hot Sauce to your grilled meats or veggies to turn up the spice level.

And don’t forget to clean up!

If you use a bristled grill scraper, did you know that those wiry bristles can come loose and fall into your grill…or worse, your delicious food? Try one of these new woodenย grill scrapers instead, made from reclaimed hardwood flooring. It even features a nifty bottle opener, for efficient multitasking!ย ????

New Items Spring 2021 Part 1

We caught our breath after a successful holiday season and have spent the past few months restocking and adding new items to our online offerings.

And we’ve added a LOT recently…
We’ve got goodies for your children, delectable foods to make your taste buds happy, and some great items to make that drink at the end of the day well-worth the wait.

Here are a few of the newest Maine made items available now….

FOR THE KIDDOS

BOARD BOOKS

Reading is VERY important (and enjoyable) for infantsโ€“the younger, the better! We carry a variety of Maine-based board books that will help their young minds grow!

Good Night Maine

Count to Sleep Maine

One Green Tree, Ten Chickadees

CLASSIC BOOKS

A collection of childhood classics,ย Make Way for McCloskey, features 8 childrenโ€™s stories written by Robert McCloskey, all in one hard cover book:

  1. Make Way for Ducklings
  2. Blueberries for Sal
  3. Lentil
  4. Time of Wonder
  5. One Morning in Maine
  6. Burt Dow, Deep-Water Man
  7. Homer Price
  8. Centerburg Tales

These classic Maine stories by Robert McCloskey and Barbara Cooney are available in paperback and hard cover.

They are available in Bath, Portland and now also available online!

NIKLIN DESIGN ONESIES

These 100% cotton onesies range from Newborn to 24 months and feature the State of Maine stitched in the middle using unique patterns and designs.

They are safe for machine washing and drying and make a great gift whether youโ€™re shopping for a boy, girl, or gender neutral gift.

LOBSTER BABY BOOTIES

Cut and stitched by Holly in her home studio. The outside shells are made from various fabrics, which are natural fibers like cotton, linen or wool. The lining material is always organic cotton fleece so that the layer cuddling your babyโ€™s sweet feet is soft, cushiony, and free from the harsh pesticides used in cotton farming. There’s a layer of natural cotton batting layered into the sole of the bootie for extra stability and comfort. They have grippy bottoms to help babies and toddlers move with security and ease and are machine washable and dry-able (in cold water and low tumble dry settings). Hand wash and air dry for longest life. All materials are pre-washed and dried.

FLEECE STUFFED ANIMALS

These sweet stuffies will put a smile on anyoneโ€™s faceโ€“young or old! Beautiful, vibrant, and easy to care for items, each piece is made with tender loving care, super soft comfort, right from the heart of Maine. Using super soft fleece in a variety of fun and colorful patters, Jean creates a variety of animals such as monkeys, bunnies, llamas, dogs, dinosaurs, fish, lions and has even dabbled in mythical creatures such as mermaids!

CALLING ALL CATS

Not all of our kids are of the human variety. Some of ours have 4 legs and emit purring sounds. Want to make their day? Treat your kitty with some of this catnip!

A single ~2โ€ณ x 2โ€ณ catnip sack filled with locally sourced cat nip. Customers come back year after year to purchase another one because these sacks are their catโ€™s โ€œfavorite toy.โ€

FOR YOUR TASTE BUDS

NEW ENGLAND CUPBOARD

These awesome mixes are now available online in addition to Bath and Portland! New England Cupboard creates these easy-to-make mixes for super yummy Pancake & Waffle mixes featuring flavors of Maine such as blueberries and Maine Maple Syrup. We also carry their Blueberry Gingerbread Mix and the very popular Popover Mix.

OUT ON A LIMB

A home-based company owned by Lori and Tim Jordan offers 42 fruit-based products created by Tim that are either low sugar or have no sugar added. The original idea came about because of diabetics in the family who were unable to eat the mass-produced versions of jams / jellies / syrups on the market. Voilรก, Out On A Limb was born. We have been carrying their products for well over a decade and are proud to now be offering their Wild Maine Blueberry Spread, Fruits and Maine Spread, Taste of Maine Spread and Jars of Just Blueberries online as well.

MAINE SEA SALT

Enjoy the natural saline taste of the ocean that is Natural Maine Sea Salt. Solar-evaporated and Hand-harvested on the Coast of Maine. Not dried in a oven or kiln. No additives, whitening agents, or drying chemicals. This sea salt is offered in it’s natural unaltered state in a jar or a grinder. We are also excited to offer the savory Garlic Sea Salt and flavorful Lemon Pepper Sea Salt!

COASTAL CLAM DIP

All you need is a can of clams and your mixture of choice – mayonnaise or sour cream. Mix it all together with this dip mix and you’ve got a tasty treat to serve your dinner guests while you prep the main course.

FOR YOUR BEVERAGE

LISA-MARIE’S GLASSWARE

Yes, that’s right! Lisa-Marie herself hand paints this glassware. She specializes in iconic Maine imagery such as red lobsters, purple and pink lupines and beach scenes with gulls in the air. She’s been painting blueberries on her glassware for a while, and by popular demand the stemless wine glass is now available online!

After painting for more than two decades Lisa-Marie has started fulfilling some fan favorite requests. Introducing, the First Maine Flag Glassware.

The design modeled after the First Maine Flag features a bright blue star and a vivid green pine tree. Lots of creators have been replicating this design in honor of Maine’s Bicentennial and we are LOVING all the pride for our Vacationland.

FIRST MAINE FLAG COOZIE

Made and produced by Maine Stitching Specialties, you can keep your can or bottle cold on a warm summer day with one of these coozies. Drink Maine craft beer, cider or soda and keep it cold in style!

And that’s not all, we also added dozens of new pieces of Maine made jewelry and lots of options of Maine made items for your home.

Stay tuned for the next blog post with more Spring 2021 new additions!

Last Minute Mother’s Day Gift Ideas โฒ๏ธ

C’mon down to our shops in Bath & Portland, ME,
we’ve got what you’re looking for!

Peruse Portland’sย Mother’s Day Window Display below ????

????ย  Make Mom a Delicious Maine Breakfastย ย ????

โญย CUSTOMER FAVORITEย โญ

True Blueberry Pancake & Waffle Mix

This Pancake & Waffle mix is always the first to sell out, and we can understand why! Super easy to make, this mix is made up of simple, natural ingredients…including delicious dehydrated blueberries that burst with flavor on the frying pan and waffle iron!

ย ????ย ย FLOWERS THAT WILL LAST FOREVERย ย ????ย 

Maine Wildflowers Pen Collection

David Tabbutt is at it again!

Introducing his newest creation:
Maine Wildflower Pens, an amazing way to preserve the beauty and color of the nature around us.

????ย ย Maine Flower Petal Jewelryย ย ????

Does your mom have a green thumb? Celebrate her many skills and talents with a gorgeous pendant, bracelet, or a pair of earrings (or, maybe the whole set!) that feature naturally vibrant Maine flower petals. From lilies and roses, to hydrangeas and peonies, you’ve got a wholeย gardenย of options to choose from.

ย ONLY 2 LEFT IN STOCK!

The 2021 Mother’s Day Gift Basketย includes 5 itemsย 

Made in Maine for Mom:

1) Ring Holderย from Becky Pottery
2) Sea Salt Foot Soakย from Body Frost
3) Body Butterย from Five Islands Body Company
4) Soy Candleย by Salty Beach Studio
5) Chocolatesย by Havenโ€™s Candies

Sea Glass Jewelry

A one-of-a-kind gift for your one-in-a-million mom!

May the 4th Be With You

An avid Star Wars fan, Portland store manager, Barb, creates these plates by hand featuring the Millennium Falcon and one of Han Solo’s infamous lines, “Punch it Chewie.” Last year, these sold out–almost as fast as the speed of lightย ????–and she’s been working on another batch this year featuring a new, blue glaze!

Perfect for the friend who’s the “Chewbacca to your Han Solo,” make sure you grab one while they last (or email to get on her order list)!
Available IN-STORE ONLY!


 

Benjamin Williamson lives in Bath, Maine with his wife, their three young children, two dogs and a cat. He beganย taking photos in 2012 and has barely put the camera down since. A lifelong love of history and following the weather have combined in photographs that feature classic Maine and New England scenery in beautiful light and unusual conditions.


Today, we feature a few nighttime shots that are OUT OF THIS WORLD!

Peter’sย Stamp Collection

Framed and ready to display, these stamps spanย decades of pop culture, famousย artwork, andย Maine landmarks.


With the arrival of May, we are beginning to see longer, brighter days. We’re pretty sure everyone’s happy about that…except, maybe, Darth Vader.

*Ch-shhhhhhhhh, ch-shhhhhuuuu* (inhale, exhale)
“You underestimate the power of the Dark Side.” – Darth Vader


As always, thank you for your continued support of our small business. You not only put a smile on our faces, but also the faces of the 400+ Maine makers we work with. That’s a lot of joy right there, and we hope you feel it too!
???? Enjoy your day, and May the 4th be with you! ????
#lovelisamaries

A Special Maine Recipe for National Blueberry Pie Day

Two Fat Cats Bakery, with locations in Portland and South Portland, is nationally recognized for their SCRUMPTIOUS pies, cakes, and pastries. Co-owner Stacy Begin recommends baking this pie with unthawed frozen berries for two reasons: freezing sets the berriesโ€™ pigment, which makes for a prettier filling, and the cold fruit keeps the fat in the crust from melting before it hits the oven.

Ingredients: For the Crust
(Yields 6-8 Servings)


  • 2ย ยฝ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling
  • ยพ teaspoon table salt
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 5 tablespoons vegetable shortening, cut into small pieces
  • 6โ€“8 tablespoons ice water
  • 2 tablespoons milk, for brushing

Instructions:


First, make the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Sprinkle the butter and shortening over the dry ingredients and use your fingertips to gently rub them into the mixture so that they form flakes and small lumps. The dough will begin to take on a pale yellow color and look a bit like lumpy cornmeal. Add the ice water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the dough holds together but isnโ€™t sticky or wet. Divide into two equal parts. Wrap each in plastic wrap, press into disks, and chill for at least one hour.

Ingredients: For the Filling


  • 4ย ยฝ cups wild Maine blueberries, frozen (do not thaw)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons tapioca starch
  • 2โ„3 cup granulated sugar
  • ยฝ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ยผ teaspoon grated nutmeg

Instructions:


Now, make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the berries and lemon juice. In a small bowl, whisk together the tapioca, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle the dry ingredients over the fruit and mix thoroughly. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then mix again.

Baking Instructions:


Preheat the oven to 375ยฐ and set a rack to the lowest position. Remove the first disk of dough from the refrigerator. On a clean, floured surface, roll it out to a 10-inch circle. Transfer this to a 9-inch pie pan, letting the excess hang over the sides. Pour the filling into the pan.

Remove the second disk from the refrigerator and roll it out to a 10-inch circle. Lay it over the filling. Pinch the bottom and top dough edges together and crimp firmly. Make three 1-inch steam cuts in the crust, then brush with milk and sprinkle liberally with sugar.

Bake on the bottom rack until the top is browned and the juices are bubbling through the vents, 50 to 60 minutes. Let cool completely before serving.

Bon appรฉtit!

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