Community Announcements
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Recent Community News
Engaging Events Planned at Doddridge County Library
Visit the Doddridge County Library for a variety of engaging events for all ages. Activities include children's story hours, book club meetings, and special guest presentations. Check the library's event calendar for the latest schedule.
Surrendering an Animal in Monongalia County: What You Need to Know
Surrender
Find Your New Best Friend: Adopt from Monongalia County Animal Services
Adoption, "Every pet deserves a loving home."
Make a Difference: Volunteer with Monongalia County Animal Services
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Lost Pet? Found Animal? Monongalia County Animal Services Can Help
Lost & Found
Support Monongalia County Animal Services Through Donations
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Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $4 Million in Rural Health Transformation Awards to Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center
Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $4 Million in Rural Health Transformation Awards to Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center September 30, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced more than $4 million in West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program (WV RHTP) awards to Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center, supporting a new mobile healthcare effort and additional provider productivity investments designed to expand access to care and strengthen healthcare delivery across central West Virginia. “The future of rural healthcare isn't just building healthcare around facilities. It's building healthcare around people,” Governor Morrisey said. “This investment will help bring care closer to patients, expand access across rural communities, and create new opportunities for residents to receive quality healthcare without having to travel long distances from home.” One of the awards, totaling to $1.7 million through the State’s Connected Care Grid initiative, will support deployment of a mobile medical clinic designed to bring healthcare services directly into rural communities across the region. The mobile unit will provide primary care, chronic disease management, behavioral health services, wound care, diagnostic services, telehealth specialty consultations, and care coordination closer to where patients live. The mobile healthcare project will focus on helping residents access preventive care earlier, better manage chronic health conditions, and stay connected to follow-up services and ongoing care. By strengthening care coordination and expanding access to primary, behavioral health, and specialty services, the initiative is designed to improve health outcomes and support healthier communities across the region. “This project is exactly the type of innovation rural communities need,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Arvin Singh. “The mobile unit will bring healthcare directly to patients, helping remove barriers to care while connecting residents to preventive services, chronic disease management, specialty consultations, and follow-up support. It is a practical investment that can make a meaningful difference in people's lives.” In addition to the mobile health unit investment, Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center will launch an innovative bi-regional shared-service collaborative to modernize rural emergency medical response by deploying autonomous drone delivery for time-critical supplies, blood products, and lab specimens across West Virginia. This will compress emergency response times and streamline provider operations across four rural counties, replacing fragmented couriers with a single reimbursable service line to improve health outcomes and support long-term healthcare sustainability. A third project will implement artificial intelligence-supported clinical documentation technology. Per the hospital, the technology can reduce provider documentation time by up to 70 percent and potentially allow clinicians to see one to two additional patients per day while improving documentation quality and care coordination. “The Trump Administration’s Rural Health Transformation Program is equipping states like West Virginia with the resources they need to deliver lasting improvements for rural communities,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “From bringing care directly to patients to using new technologies that strengthen emergency response and expand provider capacity, these investments will help rural families get high-quality care when and where they need it.” Together, these investments reflect Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center's commitment to expanding healthcare access, embracing innovation, and strengthening rural healthcare delivery throughout central West Virginia. From bringing care directly into communities to supporting providers with new technologies, these projects will help more West Virginians access high-quality care closer to home. This press release is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the financial assistance award totaling $199,476,098.72 with 100% funded by CMS HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $3.2 Million in Rural Health Transformation Investments
Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $3.2 Million in Rural Health Transformation Investments | WV Department of Health An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory Search Text Box Governor Morrisey Announces More Than $3.2 Million in Rural Health Transformation Investments September 30, 2026 New awards will reduce paperwork, strengthen the healthcare workforce, and expand access to care across West Virginia CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced more than $3.2 million in West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program (WV RHTP) investments during a visit to Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, supporting healthcare innovation, provider productivity, workforce development, and care coordination initiatives that will benefit communities across West Virginia. “These investments are about delivering results for patients and communities across West Virginia,” Governor Morrisey said. “When healthcare providers have the tools, workforce, and support they need to succeed, patients receive better care, access improves, and communities become stronger. Today's awards are another step toward building a healthier West Virginia and creating more opportunities for our people to thrive.” Award highlights include: Five rural hospitals (Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, Mon Health Marion Neighborhood Hospital, Preston Memorial Hospital, Plateau Medical Center, and Webster Memorial Hospital) received funding to deploy artificial intelligence (AI)-powered ambient clinical listening technology that can reduce documentation burden and allow providers to spend more time with patients. Broaddus Hospital received funding to establish the Mansfield Place TeleHub Pilot, expanding access to specialty care, behavioral health services, and urgent clinical consultation for rural skilled nursing residents through telemedicine technology. Vandalia Health received an additional award to help rural hospitals and clinics fill critical staffing shortages, support more than 100 healthcare staffing placements, and strengthen long-term recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals across West Virginia. Collectively, today's investments address several of the most significant challenges facing rural healthcare providers, including workforce shortages, provider burnout, administrative burden, limited access to specialty care, fragmented care coordination, and barriers to healthcare access in rural communities. “These projects demonstrate how innovation, workforce development, and strategic partnerships can work together to improve healthcare delivery across West Virginia,” said Secretary of Health Arvin Singh. “From reducing paperwork for providers to strengthening care coordination and expanding workforce capacity, these investments are designed to improve outcomes for patients and communities throughout our state.” “The Trump Administration’s Rural Health Transformation Program is based on one simple idea: your access to quality health care shouldn’t depend on your ZIP code,” said Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Funding new approaches to improve care coordination and strengthen the healthcare workforce is an important step toward achieving that vision for rural West Virginians, and I look forward to seeing equally transformative innovations in rural communities nationwide.” The awards were made through the SmartCare Catalyst Provider Productivity Support Fund and Mountain State Care Force initiatives of the West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program. Additional awards will be announced as implementation continues across the state. This press release is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the financial assistance award totaling $199,476,098.72 with 100% funded by CMS HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government. Contact Email [email protected] One Davis Square Suite 100, East Charleston, WV 25301 United States Boards and Commissions Developmental Disabilities Council WV Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing WV Governor's Early Intervention Interagency Coordinating Council Nondiscrimination Policies and Plans Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia
Governor Morrisey Announces More than $1.1 Million in Rural Health Transformation Awards to Community Care of West Virginia
Governor Morrisey Announces More than $1.1 Million in Rural Health Transformation Awards to Community Care of West Virginia September 30, 2026 SUTTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced more than $1.1 million in West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program (WV RHTP) awards to Community Care of West Virginia (CCWV) to expand access to healthcare in rural communities and build a stronger healthcare workforce across the state. “Better healthcare outcomes and a stronger workforce go hand in hand,” Governor Morrisey said. “These investments will bring care closer to people who need it while creating new pathways for West Virginians to build careers in healthcare. By improving access to care and strengthening our healthcare workforce, we can help more West Virginians get healthy, return to work, and contribute to stronger communities across our state.” The four awards span the Connected Care Grid (CCG) and Mountain State Care Force (MSCF) initiatives and will expand telehealth and mobile healthcare services while creating new career advancement and apprenticeship opportunities for healthcare workers: $92,736 to expand virtual access to care by upgrading telehealth technology and infrastructure supporting behavioral health, addiction medicine, maternal health, school-based health, and medical weight management services. $574,082 to deploy a mobile healthcare unit serving Braxton, Clay, and Pocahontas counties. The unit will provide primary care, preventive services, behavioral health, addiction medicine, and care coordination. CCWV projects approximately 560 patient encounters during its first year. $82,432 to help current healthcare employees advance their careers through certifications, licensure programs, specialized training, and educational opportunities. Approximately 26 employees are expected to participate during the first year. $354,364 to establish a statewide rural healthcare apprenticeship program combining paid employment with classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Approximately 20 apprentices are expected to participate during the first year in career pathways including medical assistants, community health workers, pharmacy technicians, case managers, and certified nursing assistants. Community Care of West Virginia is a West Virginia-based Federally Qualified Health Center operating more than 60 service delivery sites and 10 pharmacies, serving approximately 54,500 patients annually and employing more than 600 healthcare professionals and support staff. “These awards demonstrate how investments in healthcare access and workforce development can work together to strengthen rural communities,” Secretary of Health Dr. Arvin Singh said. “By combining telehealth expansion, mobile healthcare services, workforce advancement, and apprenticeship opportunities, these projects create a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare access, strengthening workforce pipelines, and supporting healthier communities across West Virginia.” “The Trump Administration’s Rural Health Transformation Program is equipping states with the resources they need to deliver lasting improvements for rural communities,” said Alina Czekai, Director of CMS' Office of Rural Health Transformation. “We’re proud to partner with states on practical, community-driven solutions that expand access to care and build stronger, more sustainable rural health systems.” Additional awards will be announced as West Virginia continues implementing its Rural Health Transformation Program to improve healthcare outcomes, expand access to care, strengthen the healthcare workforce, and help more West Virginians get healthy and return to work. This press release is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the financial assistance award totaling $199,476,098.72 with 100% funded by CMS HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government. Office of the Governor State Capitol 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E Charleston, WV 25305 United States Ph 304.558.2000 or 1.888.438.2731 Fx 304.558.3588 Write Us a Message Schedule a Meeting or Event Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia
Governor Morrisey Announces $19.725 Million in Major Upgrades Across West Virginia State Parks and Forests
Governor Morrisey Announces $19.725 Million in Major Upgrades Across West Virginia State Parks and Forests September 30, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced approximately $19.725 million in investments to modernize, repair, and expand facilities across West Virginia’s state parks, forests, and outdoor recreation areas. Watch the Governor’s announcement here. “West Virginia’s tourism industry is reaching new heights, and our state parks and forests are a big part of that success,” said Governor Morrisey. “We’re going to keep investing in the places that bring people here, support our local businesses, and show the rest of the country what makes West Virginia so special.” The announcement comes as West Virginia’s tourism economy reaches record heights, generating $9.4 billion in economic impact last year. West Virginia welcomed 78.4 million visitors, who generated $6.8 billion in visitor spending and supported 61,728 jobs across the Mountain State. The new investments, which include $9.725 million from the FY27 budget surplus and a proposed $10 million in projects through the West Virginia State Parks Endowment Fund Board, come as West Virginia continues to build economic momentum across the state. In less than a year, West Virginia has announced more than $96 billion in private-sector investment and more than 19,000 projected jobs. FY27 Budget Surplus Investments ($9.725 Million) Thanks to responsible fiscal management, $9.725 million from the FY27 budget surplus will support improvements across the State Park system: ● Little Beaver State Park will receive $3 million for construction of a new 34-site campground and electrical improvements to nearby existing campsites. ● Pipestem Resort State Park and Cass Scenic Railroad State Park will receive $150,000 for roof replacements on aging cabins and historic company houses. ● Statewide paving and repairs will receive $4 million for campsites, driveways, parking lots, and walkways throughout the State Park system. ● Blennerhassett Island State Park will receive $300,000 to replace its service barge and tugboat, the GiGi, which provide the only reliable way to deliver supplies, equipment, and other goods to the island. ● Twin Falls State Park will receive $2.275 million for comprehensive cabin renovations, lodge HVAC upgrades, and upgraded cabin interiors and mattresses. State Parks Endowment Fund Board Proposed Projects ($10 Million) An additional $10 million in projects is proposed through the West Virginia State Parks Endowment Fund Board: ● Chief Logan State Park will receive $3 million to replace a deteriorating 20,000-gallon-per-day wastewater treatment plant serving the lodge, cabins, recreation center, and future facilities. ● Canaan Valley will receive $1 million for snowmaking equipment enhancements, allowing for a higher volume of snowmaking throughout the skiable area. ● Statewide wastewater repairs will receive $2 million to replace aging sand filtration components and enhance wastewater treatment plants throughout the State Park system. ● Cacapon Resort State Park will receive $3 million for wastewater collection system repairs and necessary plant upgrades serving the lodge, cabins, golf course, and other recreational facilities. ● Hawks Nest State Park will receive $1 million to rehabilitate the lower tram building, including renovations to the gift shop, restrooms, and boat rental concession area. “These investments are about building on our momentum,” said Governor Morrisey. “When people visit West Virginia, they spend money in our communities, support our small businesses, and experience firsthand why this is such a great place to live, work, raise a family, and visit. We want to give them even more reasons to come back.”
Find Your Furry Companion: Adoptable Pets at Monongalia County Animal Shelter
Meet Your New Best Friend! Our shelter is currently housing wonderful dogs, cats, and other small animals eagerly awaiting their forever homes. Browse through their profiles to find a companion that perfectly suits your lifestyle. Each profile includes: * High-quality photos * Breed and age (if known) * Personality traits and temperament * Any special needs or requirements Adoption Process Learn about our simple adoption process and what you need to bring your new pet home. We are committed to making sure every adoption is a great match for both the animal and the family.
Governor Morrisey Announces $258,788 to Strengthen West Virginia State Police Forensic Lab
Governor Morrisey Announces $258,788 to Strengthen West Virginia State Police Forensic Lab September 29, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced $258,788 in funding to the West Virginia State Police to strengthen forensic science services and support the continued training of forensic analysts. “West Virginia law enforcement needs the training and tools to do its job effectively and keep our communities safe,” said Governor Morrisey. “This investment will strengthen the State Police Forensic Lab and help ensure our forensic analysts have the resources they need to support investigations across the state.” The funding, awarded through the Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Program, will support specialized training and certification for forensic analysts as well as the purchase of laboratory equipment. The grant is administered by the Justice and Community Services Section of the West Virginia Division of Administrative Services. Office of the Governor State Capitol 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E Charleston, WV 25305 United States Ph 304.558.2000 or 1.888.438.2731 Fx 304.558.3588 Write Us a Message Schedule a Meeting or Event Get in Touch Privacy, Security and Accessibility | WV.gov | USA.gov | © 2026 State of West Virginia
Doddridge County Farmers Market Opens Weekly on Saturdays
Support your local farmers and artisans at the Doddridge County Farmers Market! Open every Saturday, rain or shine. Find the freshest seasonal produce, delicious baked goods, handmade crafts, and more. A wonderful way to connect with your community and enjoy local flavor.
Doddridge County Library Announces Upcoming Events
Visit the Doddridge County Public Library for exciting programs and events! We offer engaging story times for children, thought-provoking book clubs for adults, and various workshops throughout the year. Our goal is to foster a love of reading and provide valuable community resources. See our calendar for the latest schedule.
Doddridge County Commissioners to Hold Regular Meeting
The Doddridge County Board of County Commissioners meets regularly to conduct county business. All meetings are open to the public. Please refer to the official county calendar for specific dates, times, and locations. Agendas will be posted in advance.
Doddridge County 4-H Invites Youth to Join Programs
Doddridge County 4-H offers a wide range of opportunities for youth to learn, grow, and have fun! From livestock projects to public speaking and community service, there's something for everyone. Check our calendar for upcoming meetings, workshops, and events. Join us to build skills and make lifelong friends!
Governor Morrisey Celebrates 84th Preston County Buckwheat Festival
KINGWOOD, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today joined residents and visitors in Kingwood for the 84th Preston County Buckwheat Festival, where he celebrated nearly nine decades of agriculture, community and tradition in Preston County. Watch Governor Morrisey’s remarks here. “The Buckwheat Festival is a great West Virginia tradition because it brings generations of families together and reminds us where we came from,” said Governor Morrisey. “What started as a homecoming organized by volunteer firefighters nearly 90 years ago now brings tens of thousands of people to Kingwood every year. That says a lot about Preston County and the people who have worked generation after generation to keep this tradition going.” The Preston County Buckwheat Festival was first held in 1938 after members of the Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department proposed a homecoming celebration marking the autumn buckwheat harvest. Firefighters and civic organizations from across the county organized the first festival in just six weeks. The following year, Preston County buckwheat cake experts were invited to the New York World’s Fair to prepare the county specialty as part of West Virginia Day. The festival was suspended for four years during World War II before returning and growing into the five-day celebration held today. The annual event now attracts tens of thousands of visitors for parades, livestock shows, live music, carnival rides, arts and crafts and traditional buckwheat cakes and sausage. “This festival shows what happens when West Virginians step up and work together,” Governor Morrisey said. “The Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department and hundreds of volunteers put in the work year after year, and the result is an event that strengthens this community, supports local businesses and gives people another reason to come experience West Virginia.” The Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department organizes and operates the festival with support from community volunteers. Festival proceeds help support the department’s equipment, training and emergency services. This year’s festival theme is “Back to Our Roots.” The festival comes as West Virginia continues to experience significant private-sector growth. Since October 2025, approximately $96 billion in private-sector investment and more than 19,000 projected jobs have been announced across the state.
Summer Jobs: Calhoun County Parks & Rec Hiring Seasonal Staff
Make a difference in your community this summer! Calhoun County Parks and Recreation is looking for enthusiastic individuals to fill seasonal roles. We offer flexible schedules and a fun working environment. Ideal for students or those seeking temporary employment. Apply now to be part of our vibrant summer offerings.
Governor Morrisey Launches Statewide Home Energy Rebate Programs to Lower Utility Costs for West Virginia Families
Governor Morrisey Launches Statewide Home Energy Rebate Programs to Lower Utility Costs for West Virginia Families | WV Office of the Governor Patrick Morrisey Skip to main content An Official West Virginia Government Website State Agency Directory | Online Services | Phone Directory Governor Morrisey Launches Statewide Home Energy Rebate Programs to Lower Utility Costs for West Virginia Families September 28, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today announced the statewide launch of West Virginia’s Home Energy Rebate programs, expanding access to home efficiency upgrades designed to lower utility costs and help West Virginia families keep more of their hard-earned money. West Virginia has been allocated $88 million through the federal programs. “Affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing West Virginia families, and lowering monthly energy bills is one way we can help families keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Governor Morrisey. “We want to hold down energy costs, create good-paying jobs, and make sure West Virginians have every opportunity to get ahead.” West Virginia was the first state to launch under new federal guidance and received more than 300 applications from homeowners during the pilot phase. Qualifying low-income households can receive eligible improvements with no out-of-pocket cost within program limits, while options are available for moderate-income households as well. The impact is already being seen by participating homeowners. Judy Fry, the first West Virginia homeowner to receive upgrades through the program, attended the ceremony and saw her first electric bill following the improvements drop by 33.5 percent, saving her $102 in one month. “That’s real money that stays in a family’s pocket and can go toward groceries, gas, prescriptions, or whatever else that family needs,” Governor Morrisey said. “As we take these programs statewide, we expect thousands of West Virginia households to benefit from lower energy costs.” The programs are expected to serve approximately 10,000 West Virginia homes and generate between $3 million and $4.5 million in annual savings for participating households. Eligibility is based primarily on household income, with rebate amounts varying by income level and the type of home energy improvements being completed. Low-income households Higher levels of assistance, including eligible improvements with no out-of-pocket cost within program limits. Moderate-income households Rebates may cover a portion of eligible project costs. Households above moderate income Some rebates may still be available depending on the project and projected energy savings. West Virginians can use the Office of Energy’s online eligibility information and tools to determine their income category and learn what assistance may be available. Check your eligibility and view full program details The statewide launch will also create demand for skilled workers, with approximately 350 contractors expected to be needed to carry out rebate-related work. Nearly $1.9 million in program funding is dedicated to workforce development, including $1.6 million for training residential energy contractors. More than 100 participants are currently enrolled in the West Virginia Energy Efficiency Contractor program, and the Office of Energy has a $1.2 million application pending to establish an energy internship program with major employers across the state. The workforce effort comes as West Virginia continues to see significant economic growth. Since October 2025, the state has announced approximately $96 billion in private-sector investment representing more than 19,000 projected jobs.
Governor Morrisey Announces Hunters Helping the Hungry Grand Prize Giveaway as Bow Season Kicks Off on Saturday
Governor Morrisey Announces Hunters Helping the Hungry Grand Prize Giveaway as Bow Season Kicks Off on Saturday September 25, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Governor Morrisey officially announced the opening of West Virginia’s bow season this Saturday, September 26, running through December 31, 2026. At the same time, the Governor announced the launch of a new Hunters Helping the Hungry (HHH) contest sponsored by Whitetail Frenzy, rewarding hunters who donate harvested deer to local families in need. Watch announcement here. "There is a specific kind of magic in the West Virginia woods this time of year," Governor Morrisey said. "Our hunters are some of our best conservationists, and by turning our world-class outdoor recreation into economic opportunity and community support, we are building a stronger future for every Mountain State family." Any hunter who harvests a deer and donates it to the HHH program through a participating meat processor at zero cost is automatically entered into the drawing for a grand prize package. The winner will be selected and announced at the 2027 West Virginia Hunting and Fishing Show in Charleston. Donations through Hunters Helping the Hungry provide locally sourced venison to food banks and other charitable organizations serving West Virginians in need. “This hunting season, you can make a difference,” said Mountaineer Food Bank Executive Director Chad Morrison. “By participating in Hunters Helping the Hungry, you can turn your harvest into nourishing meals for some of the more than 300,000 families, children, seniors, and veterans across West Virginia who experience the challenge of hunger.” The grand prize package includes a Spartan Cellular Trail Camera, a Martin Compound Bow valued at $1,300, Vortex 10x42 Diamondback Binoculars, a $500 gift card from Leonard Truck Accessories, a $500 Blocker Outdoors/Scent Blocker Gift Card, a Trophy Treestands Hunting Blind, Whitetail Trail Mix and Lethally Addicting Minerals, and a Tudor’s Biscuit World Gift Basket along with a $100 Gift Card. According to data from the Sportsmen’s Alliance, more than 256,000 hunters in West Virginia spent $867 million on hunting-related purchases in 2024, supporting 7,420 jobs statewide. Data from the Archery Trade Association shows that nearly 100,000 hunters participate in bow and crossbow hunting, accounting for 32% of the total whitetail harvest in 2025. Because these extended seasons run for months, they provide continuous support for local outfitters, lodges, gas stations, and small businesses.
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Devil’s Backbone Adventure National Trail Fest
National TrailFest
Devil’s Backbone Adventure National Trail Fest
Homecoming Fall Festival
Matewan Massacre Drama
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