Crystal Craze - An Interactive Game in SL- GiaBlossom Reporting...

A one-of-a-kind game, Crystal Craze brings traffic, fun, interaction, crafting, and creativity for both landowners and hunters. While I was trying out the system, I found it beneficial to boost traffic in a small-owned parcel with my limited funds. While hunting, I made friends and discovered that some people are playing the game to raise money for Relay for Life of Second Life, which benefits the American Cancer Society as well. It's their way of volunteering for a cause. 

As a land owner if you would like to build up traffic at your venue, the simplest way is to buy the Land Owner Crystal Spawner or the Land Owner Clusters Spawner for just 1L$. Place these spawners on your land and pay them the amount you would like to distribute. Alternatively, you can also pay the kiosk at the HQ Landmark. You can deposit or  withdraw funds including changing password from this kiosk. The crystal hunters would land at your venue and boost the traffic. These are unlike afk camping chairs, the hunters need to be active. The best thing about it is one cannot use alternative accounts. So, you know you get unique traffic visitors everytime. To be a Crystal Craze affiliate and supporter, one has to talk to the support team. 

While I was visiting HQ, I met Nikina Kodawari (kodawari), who explained to be the difference between crystals and clusters. “Crystals are the most common game form, crystal craze uses. You can rez the crystal spawner and then pay it and it will use the funds to periodically spawn crystals that people will come to your sim and pick them up. When the spawner runs out of funds the spawner will deactivate itself. While, Clusters on the other hand offer a different kind of collection where the people will click it to activate a timer before they can claim their reward. After a few minutes, the cluster will be able to be claimed and they will need to return to the cluster to pick it up. It's kind of like those old traffic games like Coin Hunt.”

Gia (giablossom): How much traffic is expected? Can the sim crash, has it ever happened?

Nikina Kodawari (kodawari): I'm sure it probably happened before but I've never seen it. Normally traffic isn't quite that crazy unless you spawn a huge amount of rezzers in the same area and then prompt some x10 events and everyone tries to come in at the same time. But even then I doubt the sim would outright crash, instead some people just can't come in.

Sometimes, as a hunter one can witness few people running at abormal speeds. Moving faster than normal speed is against the rules of the game. In case of an issues, its best to record and CC the support team to investigate. Nikina Kodawari (kodawari) also adds, “But most of the time people aren't moving too fast, they just have an AO that animates differently, like people using roller skates It doesn't give them an advantage, it just looks like they move faster when they don't. The crystal craze basket has a system that can usually detect when people have a faster sustained movement than normal and it will lock itself. But it isn't perfect and sometimes people find ways to get around it.”

Gia (giablossom): Could you explain  the hunter side of this game?

Nikina Kodawari (kodawari): Sure! The idea of a hunter is to pick up a crystal craze basket and explore hosted sims to collect crystals, and clusters. Each crystal provides a small bit of XP that over time will allow the hunter to level up and increases the capacity of the basket. The crystals have to be brought back here to HQ and turned in for $L rewards So it creates a constant cycle of people going into sponsored sims and collecting crystals, then returing to turn in at HQ and empty the basket, then returning to different sims to continue hunting more crystals and clusters.

Gia (giablossom): What does the levels do? Why will someone want to level up?

Nikina Kodawari (kodawari): When you start, the Crystal basket can only hold a few hundred crystals. At level 100 the crystal craze basket can hold 1 million crystals. The more crystals you can collect at a time means you can hold more capacity to make more L$ quicker without returning to HQ. Also there are other rewards for leveling up like different textures for the Crystal Craze Basket, as well as various group titles like Crystal Craze Hunter, Adept, Master & Legend.

Gia (giablossom): What is the crafting station about?

Nikina Kodawari (kodawari): Different things can be created by crafting such as limit break potions and skins for the crystal craze basket. There is a limit of how many crystals can be collected at one sim without a hunter needing to find another place to hunt. The limit break potion will increase that limit and allow people to stay in one place longer. You gain crafting ingredients by simply collecting crystals and also interacting with the Vote beacon. There are other potions like Purple Love Juice Potion that makes purple hearts come out every time you collect a purple crystal. But the limit break potion is the one thing that most people craft and want to resell. You can check the prices by clicking on the media board right next to the crafting station. The potions generally range between 15L to 20L per potion. 

At the HQ, one can see different contest boards. The Weekly XP Contest is who gained the most XP this week by collecting crystals and clusters. The winner be rewarded with the L bonus on the kiosk. The Top Donations isn't actually a contest, it just shows the names of people who have donated in Crystal Craze's lifecycle. Nikina Kodawari (kodawari) further adds, “The weekly social contest is an experimental contest that is just here for now. It's still being worked on but at the moment it just keeps track of group chat and gives people points for saying thank you to event coordinators and sponsors.” All visiting individuals can increase the prize money on these boards by donating in the prize pool. 

When asked, how long she has been playing this game and what keeps her going, Nikina Kodawari (kodawari) answers, “I enjoy Crystal Craze as a concept. What I mean is that it provides a unique thing in SL that makes it feel more alive. Most traffic games involved people just afking (like a camping chair).  Crystal Craze is an incentive for people to get out and explore new places, meet new people, and seeing people moving around and doing stuff makes SL feel more dynamic and involved. It helps SL as a whole feel healthy in my eyes. When new people can join the game and be lead to Crystal Craze as a way to generate their first Ls they can come here and make friends and see more of the SL world rather then just stumbling around by themselves and thinking they can never have anything without paying RL money. So for that reason I feel like Crystal Craze is a great thing for SL as a whole and I enjoy volunteering some time and energy to the team here. The more people are enjoying Crystal Craze, the more they are playing SL and in the long term that keeps SL going which is the ultimate goal. At least that is what I feel like is most important. The more people being here and enjoying their time in this world the better off we all are.”

Gia (giablossom) - Did you meet people while hunting too, and did you make friends?

Nikina Kodawari (kodawari): Absolutely. I learned about Crystal Craze by accident because I was on a nearby parcel visiting a friend on the mainland and suddenly one of the neighbors' parcels exploded in traffic. And I had to know what was going on and why there was suddenly so many people over there. Turns out it was a crystal craze event. So I followed it back here to the HQ and found out that I can use CC to find new places to explore so I would occasionally come here and click on their board just to find cool new lands to look at and see what other people are building. Eventually, after about a few months I decided to join CC because I was coming here so much.  I had started to see the same people over and over again and naturally you eventually just start to make friends and chat and get to know people. And that's how it all started for me.

Gia (giablossom): Would you like to share a ballpark figure on how many Lindens you made since you joined?

Nikina Kodawari (kodawari): Me? Honestly, I have never withdrawn funds from CC and never used it to gain L$. Hahaha, I'm an exceptional case that I've never needed this for the L$ benefits.  I'm mostly here enjoying my time as a sponsor and mentor.

When one is up for exploring, or just bored to the bones lazing around, I would definitely recommend this game. It is fun, active and above all we get to meet many others. A good way to make friends. 

Visit Crystal Craze HQ: https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Eduisland%202/64/7/1000

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In loving memory of Reno Jones AKA Stephen Jonas - He brought a sense of community, kindness, and generosity to Second Life. He will be missed.- Lanai Jarrico Reporting...

“Every Linden I make from performing fees and tips goes directly to the American Cancer Society's Relay-For-Life. Thank you in advance! My shows are all posted in Events and my regular venues are listed in my Picks. IM me directly to book a show. Kindness is the only sane choice”.- Reno Jones (Taken from his profile)

 It doesn’t matter if we are in the virtual world and never met our Second Life friends in the real world.  A virtual bond can be made that could be just as strong as a physical friendship. Grief and loss is also a part of this global diverse community. Our connections reach beyond physical limits to people from around the globe. What better place than Second Life can we form a universal connection, unless you are an avid world traveler making friends everywhere you go?

In this unique environment we form long-lasting friendships and even fall in love.  Sometimes it leads to real-life relationships and friendships that travel to see each other.

 Behind every avatar is a human being with feelings and emotions. When a loss happens in Second Life, our hearts mourn deeply with the RL loved ones of our friend that have passed. It can be difficult to process a sudden loss, and the ability to go to where the family is to offer comfort and support. Many times, the passing of a Second Life friend’s impact is unknown by their real life family and friends and they don’t realize the true scope their passed loved one made on other people across the country and around the world.  

There are Facebook Groups that link Second Life residents to real-world events and activities where people have the opportunity to meet and enjoy similar interests like SL Live Music Jams. This group is about connections all for the love of Music and gathering together.

 Reno Jones was a beloved Musician in Second Life who graced many stages across the grid sharing his love for music with his fans.  Those who got the chance to know him are grieving alongside his family. 

On February 26th at 7 pm SLT, Owl Sweetwater along with some friends organized a gathering at Mother Road- Mirage Motel 66 with over 100 members of Second Life coming together at Reno Jones’ SL home to pay their respect and share their experiences and memories of Reno.  Several fellow Musicians also performed in his honor through tears and fond memories. These performers were Mimi Carpenter, Gyspy, Justine, Rosedrop

DJs: Jay Pockets, Owl Sweetwater and Chi. 

I stood in the crowd and could feel the love and admiration for a true gem lost in Second Life. He left his mark in the virtual world that will carry on through his friends and fans.  To commemorate Reno Jones, a statue was created and will be placed around various venues he frequented in his honor.

Here are some memories and words about Reno Jones from his friends and fans

“Reno, he was unique in so many ways. His generosity knew few bounds, he would give and give and give.  He gave his time for many of the American Cancer Society fund raisers that I worked on, he never wanted to say no to the opportunity of working to defeat cancer.  He was so so giving, so full of life, so full of positivity.  He was a JOY to know and will be remembered always, absolutely always, that's the man that Reno was and the impact he left upon me”.-  Adrianna Biziou

 "Reno spent his working life with real rock stars and writers and artists and musicians- and yet he spent his time in here with us, heart as big as whale, singing like gravel rolling in a barrel, giggling like a toy steam engine, giving his hundreds of friends fearless empathy, and with skill and knowledge treating his performing friends like capable professionals.  Everything around him grew like it was planted in rich soil with clean water and plentiful sunshine. He knew what mattered - humanity, love, silliness, working tenderly and powerfully and cooperatively, pulling something beautiful from what can seem like nothing at all.  He recognized us. He sang with tender power.  It was so authentic, so joyful, and will be so very missed. " There were a lot of tears.  Whatever else SL is, the relationships, the humanity, the creativity is real.  There's an old song called Paper Moon, that he said described it all well”. - Owl Sweetwater

—---

“I stumbled across Reno singing one time and his avatar fascinated me -- so much so that I saw him many more times and then lassoed him into performing at my venue - Fins at Miktopia. He became part of a monthly Saturday show that featured him, Stratus McTavish, and FrankLee Anatra. And they were all amazing together. He learned our "theme" song, Fins, by Jimmy Buffet, and that was always entertaining. But he wasn't just a singer at a venue. He had an infectious personality. The three of those singers would try and stick around and support one another for that set. It felt more than just a few singers performing. I look back at those shows fondly. From that, Reno and I developed a friendship that I will cherish for eternity. We would talk about many things -- music, life, politics, and his time as an adjunct professor in New York, being the college he was at was close to where I live. I think sometimes we forget that despite this being a virtual world, we're all real behind the avatars. And we lose touch sometimes, and take advantage that people will be there. After we stopped live music for the most part at Miktopia ... I kind of stepped away from some things. And then I'd see notices here and there for a show and I would say "Oh, we need to go see Reno" and then it would be .. next time. We had talked here and there of getting him back, but our times never matched up. It's a lesson to keep in touch with one another, be kind, and hug one another. My partner Jess used to record some of the shows at Miktopia and we have four shows of Reno's. I'm thankful for that as I'll be able to hear his voice, his laugh, and his personality and be able to picture him on stage and living life to its fullest. I'll miss Reno the singer for sure, but I'll miss Reno the person the most. There aren't many kinder people in SL and he will be missed by all who he touched -- and he touched many people's lives. I hope he knew how many people were better for knowing him. Rest in peace my friend”. - mikhayla (mikhaylameow)

“ I am incredibly unfortunate that I did not get to know Reno as much as I wanted to, my schedule didn't align so often, but I loved his music, and who he was was a warm, witty, laid-back individual who inspired affection and acceptance wherever he went. He was like his voice- well-worn like a pair of old boots, and just as comfortable and welcoming. The grid is dimmer now than it was with Reno's passing”.  Merryjest Starchild

“ Reno was one of the sweetest, kindest people you would meet. He was always there to help if you needed him and he had some of the best stories that would just captivate you, make you smile, and make you laugh”. -  MєƖє ѕησω คηgєℓ-Bαsєvi  (melenda.yarrowroot)

“ We had trailers next to each other in Desert Ruins for a time. He was one of the first to greet me in Mother Road and was always friendly to me”.- Drifter (wastelanddrifter)

“The thing I remember most about Reno was his rumbling laugh. I used to like making him laugh on mic and it was always joyful to hear” -Shae Bloodrose (shae70)

“ I met Reno early in 2019 and asked him if he would be interested in playing my bar in my 1930's Louisiana sim (Bayou Chat Noir)  well, I originally offered him work as a short order cook but he liked the place and wanted to play there,  life happened and it just didnt pan out for us, but I truly think he found his rightful home in Owl and Mother Road”- Mr Kitty (vinje)

“Reno shared my beliefs. He has been to Tibet and we talked about his time there. I loved his rough and gruff voice. He could play so many songs and nail them. He played at my club Villa Lobos every third Tuesday until his neuropathy got too bad and he couldn't play any more. He was a good man. He was always laughing and fun” -  Cellandra Zon

“Reno was like a father figure to me. I always had a spot for him at my stage because he was so kind, so generous and his energy was infectious. It doesn't make sense to me why he was called home so soon, I will miss him so much. I wish more people were like him” - Taj Angel (taj.nishi)

“I didnt know Reno well but like many was thankful for him sharing his talent with us all”. -Ray (ray.dash)

“I met Reno because he came to visit relatives here in Portland. I picked him up and we came to my house and jammed. We got pretty high too”.-  RoseDrop Rust

“It's great that you wrote about Reno, he was a remarkable character from SL. I knew him a little. What I remember about him is his kindness, his inimitable voice, his unique avatar, his humor. I am a friend of Owl, Chi, Rance, Peux... who perform every Wednesday at the Shack, here at Mother Road. I loved it when he said my name to welcome me during his sets when he spoke to us between two songs. Like a ritual, he lingered on my name each time, repeating it several times with amusement, but always with a great kindness that made me feel important. He really liked one of my photos, this one from his billboard. I heard tonight from people who knew him much better than I did, some even in real life”.- ZaZu (zazu.susa)

“ It shows how Reno was generous. I have a friend, I won't name names.. but they were struggling in real life financially. Reno knew them too, not as much as I did, but I let him know how I was worried about that person (Reno always gave me an ear and advice). Anyhow, Reno.. without prompting, sent my friend some money to help them out. It was a nice thing to do. He was a caring person”. - Bubbles Osterham (bubbles.roxan)

“I saw Reno for the first time when I went to "Nude on the Moon" at Mother Road. This gravely voice, stories, and infectious laugh had me hooked from the start and wanted to be a part of it, and I was lucky enough to get that opportunity and become friends with Reno... By far, one of the most genuine, amazing people I have met here”. -Jay Pockets

We'd been coming over to the Hootenanny Shack and I started to IMing him. I found the guy funny, knowledgeable, really good as a player/singer, but I could tell he was curious. I think he honestly loved people. We talked music. Always interesting. I'll miss him--Speelo Snook

“I have had the great pleasure of knowing Reno  Jones not only as an sl friend but as a real life friend. He will forever be in my heart and will forever impact my life for the better.  About 5 years ago, I was wandering the Mother Road Sim and saw a Billboard with Reno Jones on it and thought this was the most amazingly detailed billboard I have ever seen in Sl and the character on it, you could write stories about. Later on that day, I had gone to hear some Music that was being played on Sim, and while I was standing there Reno shows up. I got so excited! I immediately  messaged  him and I said, " Wow, you're real." not thinking that he would have no idea what I was even  talking about, He laughed and said, " I think I am?." I then told him of the billboard and said how happy I was that he was real and from that one silly conversation would be the start of many conversations on various topics about Life,  Travel,  and his love for Music,  This is just a small glimpse into how  I came to know such a person, There could be many, many more things said but I will leave it here with the other memories I have left inside my mind. May he go down in Infamy in all realms.  I say to him, Fly high, dear one. You are loved by all who knew you”. - WilamenaFrandcineSchittChastity (wilazarco83)

“I have so many beautiful memories of sitting by a campfire with Reno and sharing life stories.I loved him dearly, and still do, always will. Lots of tears right now”. - Indigo Solo

The SL Enquirer covers a lot of stories in SL, this type of event is sad, but also beautiful at the same time to see so much comfort and support for each other during this difficult time. There were over a hundred friends and fans in attendance, each with their own story to tell about Reno.  SL truly lost a kind talented soul. He will be missed by many.  

Rest in peace Reno. Thank you for sharing your gifts of music and your positive spirit with everyone who had the pleasure of meeting you. 

If you weren’t at Reno’s memorial gathering in Second Life and would like to share a few words, please share your memories and thoughts in the comment box below. We are all in this healing process together. *hugs*

- Lanai Jarrico

You tube video in memory of Reno Jones made by Gypsy Dhrua;  Member of SL Live Music Jams 

https://youtu.be/5EtKLBnEoFU?si=YFB_RnIBR_zBbLV7

Obituary: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/mission-viejo-ca/stephan-jonas-12254634

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A Look At The Fuzzy Side- Zantic Fenrir Reporting on GYC and Inclusion

                Ahh, furries… We are the crazy adorable animal people you hear all about roaming the grid. Strange, weird, and colorful, we’re well known for keeping to ourselves, rarely being seen outside of ‘our spaces’, places created for furries. However, especially in recent months, several of these spaces have begun to cater to human and other non-furry users, prompting a major shift in many long-standing SL codes of etiquette. To better examine this dynamic shift, I want to bring your attention to one of the largest furry clubs on the grid, GYC.

                Founded in 2001, GYC is a massively successful, long-running club that has historically catered nearly exclusively to furries and furry-adjacent users. Billed as a premier LGBTQ+ Club, many of the users who congregate here fall into the community, including users who are gay, lesbian, transgender, and all shades in between. Whereas many other clubs in this community can come off as very cliquish, and not welcoming to new patrons, GYC has always tried to welcome any who walk into its doors, with many users reaching out to welcome and assist others. Patrons here feel like one big mosh pit of friends and family, instead of small groups keeping to themselves. However, until recently, this hospitality did not apply to non-furry users.

                Historically, furries have often been seen as a ‘taboo’ in many of SL’s major populated areas. We are ignored in public, if not outright harassed by other users. As SL’s code of conduct has grown over the years, we have seen a shift away from this form of exclusion and harassment, but ask yourself: The last time a furry walked into your club, did you or others go out of your way to make them feel welcome? Like they were included? This practice isn’t just exclusive to human and popular clubs, as many furry spaces, GYC included, have had a history of similar exclusion. It’s always easier to ignore the oddballs, those who don’t fit in, rather than extend a hand and make them feel welcome. However, many spaces are going out of their way now to prevent this.

                While many of the patrons at GYC would argue otherwise, the management has declared that anyone and everyone is welcome within the club, regardless of how you identify or present, human, furry, gay, straight, etc. Staff, including hosts and DJs will happily welcome and shout out any who shows up, no more so that GYC’s popular and interactive mixed set DJ, Surfurry, who always manages to draw a massive crowd from all kinds of users when he plays. The dance floor explodes into a massive throng of avatars of all kinds dancing together and for a few hours, it feels like borders and boundaries no longer exist.

                Behind our screens, each one of us is a human being wishing to be seen and accepted. Many of us came to SL for that exact reason, and the freedom to create an avatar of what we want has been a liberating experience for us. When we started dividing and labeling ourselves due to aesthetic differences and lifestyles, we put ourselves back into the same boxes of isolation we were trying to avoid. However, when we look beyond the avatar at the person behind the pixels, whether human, furry, neko, angel, demon, or whatever, we find the same thing: another human being to connect with and forge friendships with. While it’s been such a long period of time for the furry community to be divided from the main user base, changes are slowly happening and acceptance, both towards and from the community, is slowly happening. So before you judge and ignore that rabbit person in the corner, take a night and walk in our shoes (or lack thereof), take a moment and get to know them, you might be surprised. In addition, if you ever want to take a walk on the fuzzy side, places like GYC have you covered with open and welcoming arms!

 

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Rinji/180/12/23

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SL Living Expo 2025 opens February 5th!

 

SL Living Expo 2025: A Journey Through Time to Support Relay For Life of Second Life

Second Life — The highly anticipated SL Living Expo returns for its third year, running from February 5th to February 14th, 2025! This immersive, multi-day event is the first of four mega events for the 2025 Relay For Life of Second Life season, kicking off the Relay season with unparalleled excitement and purpose.

This year’s theme, "Traveling Through Time," will transport visitors across eras, with each region of the Expo uniquely themed to represent different points in history and beyond. From past to future, attendees can explore and experience the evolution of culture, style, and innovation.

Highlights of the SL Living Expo 2025:

Nonstop Entertainment: Enjoy hours of live performances featuring some of the most talented musicians and entertainers Second Life has to offer.

Decorating Contest: Marvel at the creativity of participants as they showcase their decorating skills, competing to create stunning time-themed displays.

Street Market: Stroll through a bustling street market offering unique items, artisanal goods, and delightful surprises.

Four Shopping Regions: Shop until you drop in expansive shopping regions featuring exclusive designs and offerings from some of Second Life’s top creators.

Activities Galore: Engage in a variety of fun and interactive activities designed to bring the community together while supporting a great cause.

Supporting a Vital Cause

The SL Living Expo is more than an extraordinary event—it’s a mission-driven initiative to support the Relay For Life of Second Life, which raises funds for the American Cancer Society. Every Linden spent, every event attended, and every moment enjoyed contributes to the fight against cancer and brings us closer to a cure.

Join Us!

Whether you’re a time-traveling explorer, a shopping enthusiast, or a live music aficionado, there’s something for everyone at the SL Living Expo 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to come together as a community, have fun, and make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.

For more information and updates, visit [Insert Website or Social Media Links].

Let’s kick off the Relay season in style—see you at the Expo!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/SL%20Living%20Expo/128/128/23

Sincerely,

Cody & Roxy Chronotis - SL Living Expo Leads

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Finding Your Perfect Property: Dream Seeker Estates Makes It Easy

Are you looking for the perfect piece of land at an affordable price in Second Life? Whether you’re interested in parcels for residential, commercial, farmland, or even full regions, Dream Seeker Estates has you covered. As the second largest private estate in Second Life, we’ve been a trusted leader in virtual real estate since 2007.

At Dream Seeker Estates, we offer a wide variety of land options to suit every need. We rent directly from Linden Lab at grandfathered rates, providing stability and reliability that sets us apart in the virtual real estate market. Our expert team, with over a decade of experience is dedicated to helping you find your ideal property and bringing your vision to life with a variety of parcels, customizable single-tenant regions and themed neighborhoods.

With a commitment to exceptional customer service, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From initial inquiries to handling any issues directly with Linden Lab, our team is always ready to ensure your experience is seamless.

Dream Seeker Estates is your trusted partner in making your virtual real estate dreams a reality.

Explore our options today and find the perfect space to build your virtual world!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Dream%20Seeker/65/64/23

https://www.facebook.com/DreamSeekerEstates 

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Christmas In The Sun! - Magnolia City Christmas Market

 

Tired of going to Christmas Market's and having to wrap up warm? Pop on over to the Christmas market at Magnolia City in the sunshine state of Florida! Free Christmas rides and entertainment for you and the whole family! Open now, through to the end of December, the Magnolia City Christmas market has all the things you would expect to see at a market, minus one thing, the freezing cold temps and the annoying snow! No need to wrap up warm to visit us!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Mandarin%20Marina/157/100/26

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