routines for English learners
Activity 1: Prepare Home for Season Changes
Dialogue 1: Getting Ready for Winter
Maria: Hi Josh! I noticed you’re working in your garage. What are you doing?
Josh: Hey Maria! I’m preparing my home for winter. The weather forecast says we’ll have our first freeze next week, so I need to get everything ready.
Maria: Oh, I see. What exactly do you need to do? This is my first winter in the United States.
Josh: Well, first, I’m draining the water from my outdoor faucets. If water freezes in the pipes, they can burst and cause expensive damage.
Maria: That sounds serious! What else should I do?
Josh: You should reverse your ceiling fans to run clockwise. This pushes warm air down from the ceiling. Also, I recommend covering your outdoor AC unit with a special cover to protect it from snow and ice.
Maria: I never thought about the ceiling fans! Is there anything else?
Josh: Yes, bring any potted plants inside, and put away your garden hose. You might also want to check your gutters—leaves can clog them and cause ice dams on your roof.
Maria: Thank you so much! I’ll make a list of everything you mentioned.
Cultural Notes:
- Americans typically prepare for winter in October or early November
- Many hardware stores sell winterization supplies during fall
- Burst pipes are a common and costly problem in cold climates
- Homeowners insurance often covers freeze damage, but prevention is better
Dialogue 2: Transitioning to Summer
Rebecca: Good morning, Mr. Chen! I see you’re opening all your windows today.
Mr. Chen: Yes, Rebecca! Spring is here, so I’m preparing my home for warmer weather. The temperature will reach 75°F this week.
Rebecca: That’s wonderful! What kind of preparations do you do for summer?
Mr. Chen: First, I’m airing out the house to get rid of the stale winter air. Then I’ll switch my heavy curtains to light ones. Light curtains let in more breeze but block the hot afternoon sun.
Rebecca: That makes sense. Anything else?
Mr. Chen: Definitely! I need to check all my window screens for holes. Screens keep bugs out while letting fresh air in. I also clean my air conditioning filters so the AC works efficiently.
Rebecca: What about outside the house?
Mr. Chen: I’ll uncover my outdoor furniture, clean my grill, and turn the water back on to my outdoor faucets. Oh, and I always schedule an AC tune-up before the really hot weather starts. It’s cheaper to fix problems now than during a heat wave when everyone needs repairs!
Rebecca: That’s smart planning! I should do the same.
Cultural Notes:
- Summer in the USA often means high electricity bills from AC use
- Many Americans do “spring cleaning” in March or April
- Bug screens are standard on American windows
- HVAC maintenance is important before peak seasons
Activity 2: Store or Take Out Seasonal Clothing
Dialogue 1: Putting Away Winter Clothes
Kenji: Hey Lisa, why are you carrying all those bags to the attic?
Lisa: Hi Kenji! I’m storing my winter clothes now that it’s almost May. I don’t have enough closet space for everything.
Kenji: That’s a good idea. How do you store them properly? I don’t want my clothes to get damaged or smell bad.
Lisa: Great question! First, I wash or dry-clean everything. Storing dirty clothes attracts moths and other insects. Then I use plastic storage bins—not cardboard boxes because they can get moisture.
Kenji: What about sweaters? Should I hang them?
Lisa: No, never hang heavy sweaters! They’ll stretch out of shape. Fold them instead. I also put cedar blocks in my storage bins. Cedar naturally repels moths without using chemicals.
Kenji: Where do you keep everything?
Lisa: I keep my bins in the attic or under my bed. Make sure the area is dry, not humid. Also, I vacuum-seal my bulkiest coats and jackets to save space. You can buy vacuum storage bags at Target or Walmart for about $10.
Kenji: Should I store my rain jacket too?
Lisa: No, keep your rain jacket out! You might need it in spring and summer. Same with a light jacket—evening temperatures can still be cool.
Cultural Notes:
- Most American homes don’t have large closets for all-season clothes
- Storage solutions (bins, bags, attic space) are common
- Retail stores have “seasonal” sections that change throughout the year
- Cedar is a traditional, natural moth repellent in the USA
Dialogue 2: Getting Out Fall Clothes
Omar: Sarah, you’re looking through boxes. Are you moving?
Sarah: No, Omar! I’m taking out my fall and winter clothes. Can you believe it’s already September? The mornings are getting chilly.
Omar: Yes, I noticed! What’s the process for getting clothes out of storage?
Sarah: First, I check everything for any damage or stains that might have appeared during storage. Then I shake everything out and air them outside for a few hours. This gets rid of any storage smell.
Omar: Do you need to wash everything again?
Sarah: Not if they were clean when I stored them. But I do throw them in the dryer for 10 minutes with a dryer sheet. This freshens them up and removes wrinkles. For delicate items, I steam them instead.
Omar: What if something doesn’t fit anymore?
Sarah: That happens! I try everything on and make a donation pile right away. There’s no point storing clothes I won’t wear. Goodwill and Salvation Army accept clothing donations year-round.
Omar: When’s the right time to make the switch?
Sarah: I usually do it in mid-September, but I don’t put away all my summer clothes yet. The weather can be unpredictable. I keep some shorts and t-shirts available until October, just in case we have another warm spell.
Cultural Notes:
- American seasons vary by region; timing differs across the country
- Goodwill and Salvation Army are major donation organizations
- “Indian summer” means unexpected warm weather in fall
- Many Americans buy new clothes each season during sales
Activity 3: Service Heating or Air Conditioning
Dialogue 1: Scheduling AC Service
Mike: Hello, is this Johnson’s HVAC? I’d like to schedule an air conditioning service appointment.
Service Rep: Yes, you’ve reached the right place! When would you like to schedule the service?
Mike: As soon as possible. The weather forecast shows temperatures reaching 85°F next week, and my AC hasn’t been serviced since last year.
Service Rep: You’re smart to call early! May and June are our busiest months. We have an opening this Thursday at 2 PM or Friday morning at 9 AM.
Mike: Thursday at 2 works for me. What will the technician do during the service?
Service Rep: It’s a standard tune-up. The technician will check your refrigerant levels, clean the coils, replace the filter, test the thermostat, and inspect all electrical connections. The whole process takes about an hour.
Mike: How much does it cost?
Service Rep: Our spring tune-up special is $89, regular price is $125. If we find any problems that need repair, we’ll give you a quote before doing additional work.
Mike: That’s reasonable. Should I do anything before the appointment?
Service Rep: Just make sure the technician can access your outdoor unit and your indoor air handler. Clear away any plants or storage items blocking them. Also, someone over 18 needs to be home during the visit.
Mike: Perfect. I’ll be there. See you Thursday!
Cultural Notes:
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) is the standard term in the USA
- Regular maintenance prevents expensive emergency repairs
- Many companies offer seasonal discounts in spring and fall
- Homeowners typically service HVAC twice yearly
Dialogue 2: Emergency Furnace Repair
Elena: Hi Dad, my furnace stopped working! The house temperature dropped to 58°F overnight, and the thermostat won’t turn the heat on.
Elena’s Father: Don’t panic. First, check a few simple things. Is the thermostat set to “Heat” mode and set above the current temperature?
Elena: Yes, it’s set to “Heat” and 70°F, but nothing’s happening.
Elena’s Father: Okay, go to your electrical panel. Look for a switch or breaker labeled “furnace” or “HVAC.” Sometimes it gets flipped accidentally.
Elena: I found it! The switch is in the “on” position.
Elena’s Father: Next, check your furnace filter. If it’s too dirty, the furnace shuts off for safety. Where’s your furnace located?
Elena: In the basement. Oh wow, this filter is completely gray and clogged! I’ve never changed it.
Elena’s Father: That’s your problem! Filters should be changed every 1-3 months. Turn off the furnace, replace the filter, then turn it back on. You can buy filters at any hardware store—bring your old one to get the right size.
Elena: What if that doesn’t fix it?
Elena’s Father: Then you’ll need to call an emergency HVAC service. They’re available 24/7, but emergency calls are expensive—usually $200-300 just to come out. That’s why regular maintenance is so important!
Elena: I learned my lesson! I’ll set a reminder to change the filter monthly.
Cultural Notes:
- Most American homes have forced-air furnaces or heat pumps
- Emergency HVAC services are expensive but necessary
- Furnace filters are inexpensive ($5-20) and easy to replace
- Many thermostats are now “smart” and programmable
Activity 4: Clean and Prepare Outdoor Spaces
Dialogue 1: Spring Deck Cleaning
Tom: Hey Angela! Your deck looks amazing. Did you just power wash it?
Angela: Yes! I spent all Saturday cleaning and preparing the deck for summer. It was really dirty after winter.
Tom: I need to do mine too. What’s involved?
Angela: First, I removed all the furniture and swept away dirt and leaves. Then I used a power washer—I rented one from Home Depot for $50 per day. You can also buy a pressure washer for around $150 if you’ll use it regularly.
Tom: What about the wood? Does it need any treatment?
Angela: Definitely! After power washing, I let it dry for three days. Then I applied a deck stain and sealer. This protects the wood from sun, rain, and mold. The stain cost about $40 per gallon, and I needed two gallons for my 12×16 deck.
Tom: That sounds like a lot of work!
Angela: It takes a weekend, but it’s worth it. Now I need to clean my patio furniture with soap and water, and wash the cushions. I also replanted my flower pots and hung new string lights.
Tom: When should this be done?
Angela: April or May is perfect. The weather is mild, and you’ll have your outdoor space ready for Memorial Day barbecues!
Cultural Notes:
- Outdoor living spaces are popular in American homes
- Memorial Day (late May) unofficially starts the outdoor entertaining season
- Many people rent equipment from hardware stores for occasional use
- Wood decks require annual or bi-annual maintenance
Dialogue 2: Fall Patio Winterization
Marcus: Hi Jennifer! I see you’re covering your patio furniture. Is summer already over?
Jennifer: Hi Marcus! Yes, I’m preparing my outdoor space for winter. The first frost could happen any night now.
Marcus: What do you do to prepare?
Jennifer: First, I’m cleaning all my furniture thoroughly. Then I’ll either move it into my garage or cover it with weatherproof furniture covers. Covers cost $20-60 each, but they protect against snow and ice damage.
Marcus: What about your plants?
Jennifer: The annuals are done—they die after the first frost. I’ll pull them out and compost them. My perennials will come back next spring, but I’m adding mulch around them for winter protection. I’m also bringing my herbs indoors to grow on my kitchen windowsill.
Marcus: Do you do anything with your grill?
Jennifer: Good question! I clean it thoroughly, cover it, and disconnect the propane tank. Some people store their grills in the garage, but I leave mine on the patio under a cover.
Marcus: What about the bird feeder I see?
Jennifer: That stays up year-round! Winter birds need food too. I’ll switch from regular birdseed to a high-fat blend that helps birds survive cold weather.
Cultural Notes:
- Many Americans feed birds year-round
- Gardening terms: annuals (one season) vs. perennials (return yearly)
- First frost date varies by region (September in north, November in south)
- Outdoor grilling is popular even in winter in some regions
Activity 5: Check Insulation and Weatherstripping
Dialogue 1: Energy Audit Preparation
Amy: Hello, I’m calling to schedule a home energy audit. My heating bills were really high last winter.
Energy Auditor: Great! We can help you identify where you’re losing heat. Our basic audit costs $200, but many utility companies offer rebates that cover most or all of the cost. Have you checked with your electric company?
Amy: No, I didn’t know that was possible!
Energy Auditor: Definitely call them first. Now, what concerns do you have?
Amy: Some rooms are much colder than others, and I feel cold air around my windows and doors. Also, my second floor is always hot in summer.
Energy Auditor: Those are classic signs of insulation and air-sealing problems. During the audit, we’ll use thermal cameras to find heat loss, check your attic and wall insulation levels, and inspect all your weatherstripping.
Amy: What’s weatherstripping?
Energy Auditor: It’s the rubber or foam seal around doors and windows that prevents drafts. Over time, it wears out and needs replacement. You can buy it at hardware stores for just a few dollars per door or window.
Amy: Will you tell me how to fix the problems?
Energy Auditor: Absolutely! We’ll give you a detailed report with recommendations prioritized by cost and energy savings. Simple fixes like weatherstripping you can do yourself. Bigger jobs like adding attic insulation might need a contractor.
Cultural Notes:
- Home energy audits help reduce utility bills
- Many US utility companies offer energy efficiency rebates and programs
- Insulation is measured in “R-value” (higher is better)
- DIY weatherstripping is a common weekend project
Dialogue 2: DIY Weatherstripping Project
Carlos: Hey Sam, what are you doing crawling around your door frames?
Sam: I’m replacing the weatherstripping! I can feel cold air coming in around all my doors, and I’m tired of high heating bills.
Carlos: Is it difficult to do?
Sam: Not at all! First, I removed the old, worn weatherstripping. See how cracked and compressed it is? Then I cleaned the surface with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and old adhesive.
Carlos: What kind did you buy?
Sam: I got foam tape weatherstripping for $5 per roll at Lowe’s. It has adhesive backing, so you just peel and stick. For doors, I’m using a door sweep at the bottom—that’s the brush or rubber strip that seals the gap between the door and threshold.
Carlos: How do you know what size to get?
Sam: I measured the gaps with a ruler. Most gaps are 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch wide. The packaging tells you what size gaps each product works for. When you close the door, you should feel resistance, but it shouldn’t be too hard to close.
Carlos: What about windows?
Sam: Same process! The key is to apply weatherstripping on the side that doesn’t move. For sliding windows, put it on the frame where the window rests when closed.
Carlos: How much money will this save?
Sam: According to Energy.gov, weatherstripping can save 10-20% on heating and cooling costs. With my $150 monthly winter bills, that’s $15-30 per month!
Cultural Notes:
- DIY home improvement is popular American culture
- Government website Energy.gov provides free resources
- Hardware stores (Lowe’s, Home Depot) offer free workshops
- Many Americans track home efficiency to reduce costs
Activity 6: Prepare for Holidays and Special Occasions
Dialogue 1: Thanksgiving Preparation Planning
Diana: Julia, can you believe Thanksgiving is only three weeks away? I need to start planning!
Julia: I know! Time flies. Is your family coming to your house this year?
Diana: Yes, we’re hosting 12 people. I’m excited but nervous—this is my first time hosting a major American holiday.
Julia: Don’t worry, I can help! First, let’s talk about the turkey. You’ll need about 1-1.5 pounds per person, so buy at least a 15-pound turkey. Order it now because supermarkets run out.
Diana: Should I buy it fresh or frozen?
Julia: Either works. Frozen is cheaper, but you need 3-4 days to thaw it in the refrigerator. Fresh turkeys must be purchased just 1-2 days before. Also decide if you’ll brine it—that’s soaking it in salt water overnight to make it juicier.
Diana: What about side dishes?
Julia: Traditional sides include mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and rolls. Many families have their own special recipes. Ask your guests if they have dietary restrictions or if they’d like to bring a dish. Potluck-style Thanksgivings are very common!
Diana: What do I need to buy for the house?
Julia: Get a nice tablecloth, extra chairs if needed, and serving dishes. Paper plates are okay for casual gatherings. Don’t forget to stock up on aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and storage containers for leftovers. Oh, and wine or sparkling cider for toasts!
Cultural Notes:
- Thanksgiving (4th Thursday in November) is America’s biggest family holiday
- Traditional meal includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce
- Potluck meals mean guests bring dishes to share
- “Leftovers” are expected and often make meals for days afterward
Dialogue 2: December Holiday Preparations
Robert: Hi Mei! I saw you looking at calendars in your apartment. Planning something?
Mei: Yes! December has so many holidays and events. I’m trying to organize everything. Back home, we didn’t celebrate Christmas, so this is all new to me.
Robert: It can be overwhelming! What do you need help with?
Mei: Well, my coworkers are doing a Secret Santa gift exchange. What’s that exactly?
Robert: Secret Santa is when everyone draws a name randomly and buys a gift for that person anonymously. Usually, there’s a price limit—like $20-25. You give the gift at an office party, and people guess who their Secret Santa was. It’s fun and less expensive than buying gifts for everyone.
Mei: That makes sense! What about sending holiday cards? Do people still do that?
Robert: Yes! Many Americans send photo cards with family pictures and a short note. You should send them by mid-December so they arrive before Christmas. You can order cards online from Shutterfly or Snapfish, or buy boxed cards at Target for $10-15.
Mei: My neighbors invited me to a “cookie exchange.” What should I bring?
Robert: Bake 3-4 dozen cookies of one type. Everyone brings their cookies, and you take home a variety from everyone else. It’s a fun way to get lots of different cookies without baking them all yourself! Pinterest has thousands of cookie recipes.
Mei: This is so helpful! What about decorations?
Robert: That’s personal preference. Some people decorate a lot, some keep it simple. After-Christmas sales are great for buying decorations for next year at 50-75% off!
Cultural Notes:
- December includes Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s
- Secret Santa and gift exchanges help manage holiday expenses
- Holiday cards often include family photos and newsletter updates
- Cookie exchanges are popular social events
- After-holiday sales (December 26+) offer deep discounts
Activity 7: Plan Seasonal Decorations
Dialogue 1: Fall Decorating Decisions
Nina: Wow, Jessica! Your front porch looks beautiful. I love all the pumpkins and mums!
Jessica: Thanks! I spent yesterday doing my fall decorating. It’s one of my favorite times of year.
Nina: Where do you buy all these decorations? It must be expensive.
Jessica: Not really! The real pumpkins cost $3-8 each at the grocery store or pumpkin patches. The mums—those are chrysanthemum flowers—are $10-15 per pot at garden centers. They last until the first hard freeze.
Nina: What about all those other decorations?
Jessica: The cornstalks were $5 for a bundle at a farm stand. The hay bales were $6 each. I use them every year and store them in my garage. The wreaths and fake pumpkins are from Michaels craft store—I bought them half-price after Halloween last year.
Nina: Is there a rule about when to put up fall decorations?
Jessica: Not officially, but most people decorate in early September. Some wait until after Labor Day. Then you can keep decorations up through Thanksgiving. After Thanksgiving, everyone switches to Christmas decorations.
Nina: Do you decorate inside too?
Jessica: Yes! I have decorative pillows with fall colors, scented candles that smell like cinnamon and apple, and a table centerpiece with mini pumpkins and pine cones. You don’t need to spend a lot—even a bowl of colorful leaves makes a nice decoration.
Cultural Notes:
- Fall decorating (September-November) is popular in the USA
- Pumpkins, mums (flowers), cornstalks, and hay bales are traditional
- Many Americans visit pumpkin patches and apple orchards in fall
- Craft stores (Michaels, Hobby Lobby) sell seasonal decor with frequent sales
Dialogue 2: Holiday Lighting Installation
Kevin: Hey Paul! I see you’re on a ladder with string lights. Need any help?
Paul: Sure, thanks! I’m putting up Christmas lights. Can you hand me those clips?
Kevin: No problem. This is my first winter here. What kind of lights are those?
Paul: These are LED icicle lights for the roof edge. LEDs use 75% less energy than old-style bulbs and last for years. They cost more initially—about $25 for a 150-light strand—but they save money long-term.
Kevin: How do you attach them?
Paul: I use plastic clips that hook onto the gutter. Never use staples or nails—they can damage the lights and create safety hazards. These clips cost $5-10 for a package and are reusable every year.
Kevin: What about all those lawn decorations I see in neighborhoods?
Paul: You mean inflatables and light-up figures? Those are fun but optional! Some people go all out with elaborate displays, others just do simple lights. It’s personal choice. Our homeowners association requires lights to be white or multicolor, no flashing lights, and everything must be removed by January 15th.
Kevin: Is there a right time to turn them on?
Paul: Most people start right after Thanksgiving. I use a timer so the lights turn on at sunset and off at midnight automatically. This saves electricity and is more convenient than manually switching them daily.
Kevin: What if something breaks?
Paul: Test everything before hanging! I plug in each strand and replace any broken bulbs. Most hardware stores sell replacement bulbs and fuses. Always check lights for frayed wires—that’s a fire hazard.
Cultural Notes:
- Christmas lights are common November-December decorations
- Homeowners associations (HOAs) may have decoration rules
- Some neighborhoods have “lights tours” where people drive to see displays
- Timers and LED lights help manage electricity costs
- Safety is important—outdoor lights must be rated for outdoor use
Activity 8: Attend Seasonal Festivals and Markets
Dialogue 1: First Visit to a Farmers Market
Tanya: Hi Ahmed! Want to come with me to the farmers market this Saturday morning?
Ahmed: Sure! I’ve never been to one. What is it exactly?
Tanya: It’s an outdoor market where local farmers sell fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, eggs, honey, and sometimes baked goods or crafts. It’s usually held once or twice a week during growing season.
Ahmed: How is it different from the supermarket?
Tanya: The produce is super fresh—often picked that morning! You can talk directly to farmers, ask how things were grown, and get recipe suggestions. Plus, you’re supporting local agriculture. It’s also a nice community gathering place.
Ahmed: What should I bring?
Tanya: Bring reusable shopping bags and cash! Some vendors accept credit cards, but cash is easier. Also bring small bills—a $20 or $10 is perfect. Some vendors can’t break large bills like $50 or $100.
Ahmed: Is it expensive?
Tanya: Not necessarily. Prices are often similar to supermarkets, sometimes cheaper, especially at the end of the day. Pro tip: arrive early for the best selection, or come an hour before closing for potential discounts on remaining items.
Ahmed: What’s in season right now in October?
Tanya: Fall is amazing! We’ll find apples, pears, pumpkins, winter squash, late tomatoes, potatoes, and fresh cider. Some vendors sell apple cider donuts—they’re incredible!
Ahmed: Can you negotiate prices?
Tanya: Not usually, but if you buy in bulk—like a whole bag of apples instead of individual ones—farmers might offer a discount. Just ask politely!
Cultural Notes:
- Farmers markets operate spring through fall in most areas
- Markets support local economy and sustainable agriculture
- “Farm to table” and buying local is popular in American culture
- Markets are social events; people chat with vendors and neighbors
- Each region has seasonal produce (apples in fall, berries in summer, etc.)
Dialogue 2: Experience at a Fall Festival
Lucy: Hey David! My neighbor told me about a fall festival this weekend. Have you ever been?
David: Oh yes! Fall festivals are really fun. Which one are you thinking about?
Lucy: It’s at Johnson’s Farm. The website says there’s apple picking, hayrides, corn maze, and pumpkin patch. What should I expect?
David: It’s a whole day activity! Usually, you pay admission—maybe $15-25 per person, but sometimes apple picking is included, or you pay separately. Dress in layers because October weather can change. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking in fields.
Lucy: What’s a corn maze?
David: It’s a maze cut into a cornfield! The paths wind through tall corn stalks, and you have to find your way to the exit. Some are simple and take 15 minutes, others are elaborate and take an hour. It’s fun but can be challenging!
Lucy: What about hayrides?
David: A hayride is when you sit on hay bales in a wagon pulled by a tractor through the farm. It’s relaxing and scenic—you see fall colors, fields, and maybe farm animals. Some places do “haunted” hayrides in late October for Halloween.
Lucy: Should I bring anything?
David: Bring a bag or basket for apples, sunscreen, and maybe snacks for kids. Most festivals have food vendors selling apple cider, cider donuts, caramel apples, hot chocolate, and kettle corn. There’s usually a gift shop selling jams, honey, and souvenirs.
Lucy: Is it crowded?
David: Weekends, especially in October, can be very busy. If you go on a weekday or early in the morning, it’s much more peaceful. Also, check if you need to book a time slot online—some farms now require advance reservations.
Cultural Notes:
- Fall festivals celebrate the harvest season (September-October)
- Common activities: apple/pumpkin picking, corn mazes, hayrides
- Farms supplement income with “agritainment” (agricultural entertainment)
- October is peak season; crowds are largest on weekends
- Many festivals include Halloween-themed activities late in October
- “U-pick” means visitors pick their own fruit
Vocabulary Reference for All Activities
HVAC – Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Weatherstripping – Material that seals gaps around doors and windows Tune-up – Regular maintenance service for equipment Potluck – Meal where each guest brings a dish to share Mums – Short for chrysanthemums, a fall flower LED – Light Emitting Diode, energy-efficient lighting HOA – Homeowners Association, organization that makes neighborhood rules Agritainment – Combining agriculture and entertainment
Discussion Questions for Learners
- What seasonal preparations are different in the USA compared to your home country?
- Which of these activities would be most important in your local climate?
- Are there similar festivals or markets in your culture?
- What surprised you most about American seasonal traditions?
- Which activity would you like to try first?
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