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| | UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS | | |
THIS WEEK:
- Monday, 12/8, 6:30–8:30 PM • ISPTSA Winter Market (IS Commons)*
- Tuesday, 12/9, 7 PM • MS Choir Concert (PAC)
- Wednesday, 12/10 • ISPTSA 10th Grade Staff Luncheon*
- Wednesday, 12/10, 7 PM • HS Choir Concert (PAC)
- Thursday, 12/11, 7 PM • MS Band Concert (PAC)
- Saturday, 12/13, 8–10 PM • HS Winter Formal/Homecoming Dance
NEXT WEEK:
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Monday, 12/15 • IS Enrollment Application Window Opens*
- Thursday, 12/18, After School • Drama Musical Auditions
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Thursday, 12/18, 3:15–4:15 PM • ISPTSA Finance Club Textbook Resale Event*
LOOKING AHEAD:
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Monday, 12/22–Friday, 1/2 • No School (Winter Break)
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Wednesday, 1/7, 7–9 PM • School Funding Regional Town Hall*
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Friday, 1/9 • ISPTSA S2 Grant Application Deadline
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Tuesday, 1/13, 6:30 PM • 5th Grade Information Night (IS Gym)*
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Friday, 1/16, 4:30 PM • IS Enrollment Application Window Closes*
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Monday, 1/19 • Focus Day 2026 (Olympia)*
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Monday, 1/19 • Ice Skating Fundraiser Ends*
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Wednesday, 1/21, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Thursday, 1/22 • AMC 8 Registration Deadline
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Friday, 1/23 • Semester 1 Ends
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Monday, 1/26 • No School (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
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Wednesday, 1/28 • AMC 8
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Wednesday, 1/28 • ISPTSA General Membership Meeting
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Tuesday, 2/3, 6:30–7:30 PM • MS Parent Info Night
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Wednesday, 2/11 • Bite of IS
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Monday, 2/16–Friday, 2/20 • No School (Mid-Winter Break)
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Tuesday, 2/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Tuesday, 3/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Wednesday, 4/22, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Tuesday, 5/12, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
Click here to view the ISPTSA Calendar, which can be added to your personal Google or Outlook Calendar.
Click here to view the IS Even/Odd Days Calendar for the Year--Subject to change if the schedule does.
Click here to view the District 2025–2026 calendar for families.
*More information in the message below
Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries.
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The following are shout-outs and thank-yous to and from various members of our community.
Have a shout-out or thank-you to share? Anyone in our community can submit one by emailing news@isptsa.org.
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A huge thank you to all the amazing volunteers who helped make our poinsettia delivery day a success! With your time, energy, and teamwork, we were able to deliver 510 plants to our school community. We are so grateful for each one of you.
Our wonderful volunteers: Li Zhang, Swati Parekh, Renuka Getchell, Thuy Shimizu, Sneha Jain, Honglian Gao, Sunny Cheon, Anindita Banerjee, Ivory Su, Natalia Prutean, Silvia Hui, Maggie Lo, Sophia Cheng Ulrich, Angelika Koch-Leibmann, and Qiong Chen.
We also want to extend a special shout-out to Russell and Gamage for their incredible help early in the morning. Our community is stronger because of you!
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA NEWS | | |
ISPTSA ANNUAL WINTER MARKET
The ISPTSA would like to invite you to join us for the Annual ISPTSA Winter Market!
When: TODAY, Monday, December 8, 6:30–8:30 PM
Where: IS Commons
Cost: Entry is free, vendors sell goods
Let's celebrate winter, winter holidays, and our international community with a European-style Winter Market. Come to sell or shop - or both!
Guests
Admission is free. All students, staff, families, and community members are welcome. Please share with your friends, family, and community groups.
Email procurement@isptsa.org for more info or if you have any questions about hosting a table.
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CALLING ALL 10TH GRADE PARENTS!
It’s that special time of year to spread joy and gratitude! Each month, parents from a different grade host a Staff Appreciation Luncheon, and December 10 is our turn to make the season bright for our amazing IS teachers and staff.
Date: THIS Wednesday, December 10
Time: 11:40–12:40 PM
Location: IS Staff Lunch Room
Let’s make this luncheon extra cheerful and cozy! Here’s how you can help:
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Bring a Dish: Please prepare a serving for about 6 people. Homemade holiday favorites are especially welcome!
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Drop-Off: Dishes should arrive before 11 AM on Wednesday, December 10 in the Staff Lunch Room. Students can bring the food in the morning to the office and we will bring it to the lunch room.
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Labeling: Kindly label your container with your name and list of ingredients, if possible. Please label the items that need to be kept in the fridge and call out it is for the staff luncheon.
Your generosity and holiday spirit will make this event truly magical for our teachers.
Sign-Up Here!
Thank you for helping us celebrate and share the warmth of the season! Questions? Email parent-rep2028@isptsa.org.
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SPECIAL DISCOUNT DAY AT BELLEVUE ICE RINK: THIS WEDNESDAY
International School families have an opportunity to enjoy discounted skating while supporting our PTSA school funds!
THIS Wednesday, December 10, the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink is offering a special promotion during extended hours (12:30 PM – 10:00 PM). This is a great chance to save on admission for your family while generating donations for the ISPTSA.
How it Works (Save $3 & Raise $3):
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SAVE $3: Use the discount code "school" when purchasing tickets online in advance to reduce the price from $16 to $13.
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RAISE $3: Upon arrival, check in at the admissions counter and mention "International School". This ensures the rink donates an additional $3 to our school PTSA.
Please Note: The discount code is valid for advance online ticket purchases only. Rink staff cannot apply the discount at the counter.
Instructions:
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Step 1: Visit the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink ticketing page.
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Step 2: Select Wednesday, December 10
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Step 3: Click "Apply Coupon."
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Step 4: Enter the code "school".
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Step 5: Complete your registration.
Skating on a different day? Please see the article below for details on how to ensure the rink donates to International School PTSA every time you skate this winter.
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BRING THE AUCTION TO LIFE - WE NEED YOU
The Auction is our biggest fundraiser of the year, and we need your help to make it happen. We are looking for volunteers to lead the charge as Auction Chair or Co-Chairs.
It is a big job, but you won't be doing it alone. You will be supported by past VPs and a committee dedicated to your success. Help us secure the funding that makes our school special.
Ready to make a difference? Contact president@isptsa.org today.
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2026 LEGISLATIVE SESSION PREVIEW
LEGISLATOR PANEL | DECEMBER 10 FROM 7:00 – 8:30 PM
Join WSPTA Legislative Consultant, Marie Sullivan, and leaders of the Washington state legislature for a discussion about priorities during the 2026 legislative session. List of confirmed speakers coming soon! Sign up to attend the session
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE 2026 LEGISLATIVE SESSION | JANUARY 8 FROM 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Join WSPTA Legislative Consultant, Marie Sullivan, for an overview of what to expect in the 2026 legislative session, including post-election changes in the legislature, known session protocols, and how to best engage with the 2026 legislature during this short session. Sign up to attend the session
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FOCUS DAY: “GO TO BAT FOR KIDS”
Join us Monday, January 19 in Olympia! Everyone is invited, adults and kids, to advocate for vital student issues. WSPTA is hosting a march to raise our collective voice for K-12 funding. Meet at the Flag Circle at 1:30 PM. Handheld signs are encouraged (no sticks). A sign-making station will be available in the Columbia room.
Activities include lunchtime speakers, Capitol tours, and networking. The event is free. Shirts are available for purchase during registration.
Register for Focus Day today!
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWS | | |
5TH GRADE INFORMATION NIGHT AND ENROLLMENT APPLICATION INFORMATION
Families who have a 5th grader who would like to attend International School next year need to know that the application window opens Monday, December 15 and will close on Friday, January 16 at 4:30 PM.
For more information about the process and for the application, please visit: https://www.bsd405.org/enroll/student-placement/apply-to-choice-schools-and-programs
Our 5th Grade Information Night will be Tuesday, January 13 at 6:30 PM in the IS Gym.
Important Note: Current IS families who have a younger sibling MUST submit the application by January 16 in order to be considered for next year.
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NURSE'S CORNER: NAVIGATING DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS FOR YOUR CHILDREN
Today, let's discuss dietary supplements—what they are, why people use them, and whether children truly need them. You may have heard about common supplements like vitamin D, magnesium, and fish oil, and you might wonder if these are necessary for your child's health.
As a clinician, I often prescribe these vitamins, but it is important to consider what leading experts, such as those from the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend. I encourage you to review their current guidelines before planning a supplement regimen for your kids.
Vitamin D for Babies, Children & Adolescents
Where We Stand: Vitamin Supplements for Children
Questions? Email Prabina Dahal, ARNP, DNP, CPNP-PC, School Nurse, International School.
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL CLUBS NEWS | | |
ISPTSA FINANCE CLUB: TEXTBOOK RESALE EVENT
Want to improve your AP and SAT scores or sell your old textbooks to younger students?
The ISPTSA Finance Club is hosting a textbook resale event on Thursday, December 18, from 3:15–4:15 PM in the Commons! During this event, students can sell old (or new) AP and standardized test prep books, notes, flashcards, and other academic materials, or purchase them at a discounted price. You can also donate materials. This reduces waste and offers a cost-effective solution to help students flourish academically.
PLEASE BRING CASH AND SMALL CHANGE!
Please fill out this form if you or your child will be attending: Textbook Resale Participation Confirmation.
If you have any questions, please email Geneva Kim.
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EVENTS CALENDAR:
CULTURAL CALENDAR:
All Month:
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January • Americans of Chinese Descent History Month
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January • School Board Recognition Month
Specific Days:
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Monday, 12/8–Sunday, 12/14 • Computer Science Education Week
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Sunday, 12/14–Monday, 12/22 • Hanukkah
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Tuesday, 12/16–Wednesday, 12/24 • Las Posadas
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Thursday, 12/25 • Christmas Day
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Friday, 12/26–Thursday, 1/1 • Kwanzaa
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Thursday, 1/1 • Shogatsu
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Tuesday, 1/6 • Dia de los Reyes (Epiphany, Three Kings Day)
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Wednesday, 1/7 • Orthodox Christmas
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Monday, 1/19 • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
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Tuesday, 1/27 • International Holocaust Remembrance Day
Click here to view all District calendars.
*More information in the message below
Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries
| | BELLEVUE SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS | | |
HEALTHY HABITS DURING HOLIDAY BREAKS
BSD shares helpful tips to support students as they transition back to school after the holidays. Families are encouraged to maintain steady sleep routines, allow extra time when returning from travel, and reassure children who may feel anxious about the change.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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UPCOMING LEVY RENEWALS ON FEBRUARY 10, 2026 BALLOT
With two existing levies expiring, BSD is asking voters to approve two replacement levies on the February 10, 2026 ballot. These are not new taxes.
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Proposition 1: Educational Programs & Operations (EP&O) Levy: Supports core school operations, including classroom staffing, mental-health supports, special education, transportation, world languages, arts, and athletics.
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Proposition 2: Technology & Capital Projects Levy: Funds technology (student devices, classroom tech, teacher training), building maintenance, safety upgrades, and facility improvements.
Combined, these levies account for roughly 24% of BSD’s general fund budget.
The district emphasizes that approving the levies will help ensure continuity of critical services and a safe, well-equipped learning environment for all students.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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BSD NEWS AND EVENTS – NOVEMBER 26, 2025 E-NEWSLETTER
BSD released its latest e-newsletter on November 26 highlighting the Board’s recognition, the end-of-year financial update, and details about the upcoming levy renewals. It also includes links to resources for families to stay engaged, sign up for district news, and learn more about upcoming events.
This newsletter offers a convenient way for families and community members to stay connected to what’s happening in BSD. Families are encouraged to subscribe, update email preferences, or listen via the “Voices of Bellevue” podcast.
Read the entire newsletter here. Don't receive the district newsletter? Sign up here! You can see all newsletters here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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BELLEVUE MONOPOLY IS HERE: SUPPORT THE BELLEVUE SCHOOLS FOUNDATION & INVEST IN EVERY STUDENT
Bellevue MONOPOLY has officially arrived! This isn't just a game, it is a dedicated fundraiser for the Bellevue Schools Foundation, directly funding critical programs that support all Bellevue School District schools and
students.
In this special edition, Bellevue Schools Foundation is featured as the Community Chest, symbolizing the community's investment in our children's future.
Games are available for pre-order now for $40.00 each. 100% of the proceeds go to the Bellevue Schools Foundation to help bridge the gap in state funding and provide transformational opportunities for every student in every classroom.
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How to Order: Visit the Bellevue Schools Foundation website to pre-order your copy.
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Pick Up: You will be notified by email once the stock arrives to pick up your game at the BSF Office.
Buy a game today to own a piece of Bellevue and make a lasting impact on our students' education!
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NEWPORT HIGH SCHOOL DECA HOLIDAY DRIVE (HOSTED BY OUR KITES)
Students from Newport High School are collecting clothing, household textiles, small household goods, and books to support children and families in need this holiday season. Donations can be dropped off at Newport High School throughout the drive period. All contributions are greatly appreciated and will go directly toward helping local communities.
This event is a joint project between Newport High School and Our Kites, a DECA project focused on supporting children in need.
For more information or to coordinate drop-off, please contact:
Akshita Tripathy or Audrey Kil
Phone: (425)615-5548
Email: akshitatripathy23@gmail.com
Instagram: @ourkites
Give back this season and help make a difference!
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WHY JOIN PTSA?
Joining International School PTSA means having a voice in how fundraising dollars are spent and supporting programs like staff appreciation, student clubs, Reflections arts, and community events.
We advocate for families at the school, state, and national levels.
Members also get Washington State and National PTA benefits, including discounts and resources.
Both students and adults can join as full voting members. Join us to stay connected and make a difference in the IS community!
Questions? Contact membership@isptsa.org.
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SKATE FOR ISPTSA: A FUN FUNDRAISER AT THE BELLEVUE ICE RINK
The Bellevue Downtown Association is offering a fantastic and easy fundraising opportunity for International School at the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink.
From November 21, to January 19, our PTSA will receive $3 for every student, parent, or staff member who visits the rink and mentions our school.
This is a simple way to raise funds for our programs just by having fun!
How It Works
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Go Skating: Visit the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink at Bellevue Downtown Park (south of Bellevue Square) anytime between November 21 and January 19.
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Mention Our School: When you arrive and check in, you must notify the rink staff that you are with International School.
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That's It! Our PTSA will automatically get credit for your visit.
Important Note: The $3 donation can only be tracked when you notify the staff in person upon arrival. It is not tracked through the online e-ticketing platform, so please don't forget this simple but critical step!
You can buy tickets online to secure your spot at the region's largest covered, open-air ice skating experience. See the flyer here.
We hope all our Titan families can enjoy the ice this season and support our school at the same time!
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SMITH BROTHERS FARMS MILK FUND PROGRAMS
Sign up for Smith Brothers Farms Home Grocery Delivery and when you do, you'll receive $15 off your 1st delivery & ISPTSA receives a $50 gift donation from SBF! It's a win-win! You get the iconic Porch Box with your 1st order & it can be filled each week with milk that is 2-days-fresh from the farm, eggs that are 3-days-fresh, fresh produce, almond & oat milk, and hundreds of grocery items that are primarily from local PNW companies!
Delivery is free with just a $10 order & there are no monthly fees, no contract. Give it a try - we get the donation if you get one delivery or remain a customer for years. Questions? Contact Smith Brothers Farms.
| | MASTHEAD / DIRECTORY / LINKS | | Serving International School in the Bellevue School District | |
SUPPORT YOUR PTSA
Donate Anytime!
| | | | Please note that PayPal has transaction fees. | |
Or write your check to the International School PTSA and send it to:
ISPTSA
PO Box 221
Bellevue, WA 98009
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MONDAY MESSENGER
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
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Please submit articles by THURSDAY at 5:00 PM to news@isptsa.org.
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Please limit articles to 600 characters including spaces. If your article is longer than 600 characters, we will edit for length and then attach a document that contains the entire article.
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Please include contact information for questions from readers. If no contact is included, the email used to send the submission will be used.
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We encourage submissions that align with our mission.
- Submissions are subject to review by the ISPTSA and may be accepted, rejected, or edited.
- Please use a separate email for each article submitted.
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Documents in plain text are preferred, however, you are welcome to include an image or icon as a separate attachment—please do not include them in the body of your email or document.
- If you need to link to a registration form or document, send us either the address of the link or a pdf copy of the document.
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If you would like your article to repeat in successive Monday Messenger editions, please resubmit it for each edition in which you would like it to appear. If you do not resubmit it, it will not be republished.
- Note: you will receive an automatic confirmation email response once you submit material to the Monday Messenger.
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International School PTSA
P.O. Box 221
Bellevue, WA 98009-0221
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