Scarlet and Gold

November 2016 Royal Canadian Mounted Police Veterans Association, Vancouver

Levee - a Reception of Visitors or Guests Any of us who were fortunate enough to have had Northern Service will always have stories galore to recite to interested gatherings. It is good that E Div. are hosting a traditional Leveè, one of those special social gatherings that Force members have celebrated for years. Special social times were important to us in the north as we dealt with long dark and cold winter nights. I can recall being called to Snowdrift, our patrol site out of Reliance Detachment at Christmas time in 1960. The local teacher was concerned about possible out of control enthusiasm over the festive season with people coming in from their trap lines and the bush. I decided to hook up our ten dogs and along with Alex Desjarlais, my special Constable we headed out in the dark of early morning for the 18 hour sled trip to Snowdrift (now Lutselkè.) It was below zero but with a couple of stops for tea and a rest for the dogs we managed the 85 kms without incident and were warmly welcomed at the school where the children were involved in some sort of dance competition. I busily organized things for people to get involved in and my little log cabin that had been chinked with mud only two months before now was a very busy place. I wanted to create something special to welcome in the new year so, along with the Hudson Bay manager and the teacher I organized a sled dog race that would be fun for everyone, young and old alike. It was planned for noon hour on Jan. 1st, 1961 and would have nine entries of teams from the settlement and from the communities of Rocher River and Fort Resolution. It was interesting to see how quickly word got round that the RCMP had something special planned for the first day of the new year. I had offered my prize 5 lb. canned ham to go along with other donations put up by others and I thought for sure that my very capable dogs along with the expertise of my special Cst. would easily win the race and my canned ham would return to me. The idea was to have the teams race to the large island west of the settlement, a distance of 13 kms and return. Now there is only one way to start a race and that is to have

someone shoot a gun off. Well, I bit the bullet, to coin a phrase, and used my revolver to fire the shot that got everyone going madly towards the island. As one knows, the dogs head out like a shot but gradually go into a routine canter with much persuasion from handlers. Everyone had a favorite and there was lots of shouting and yelling. As they approached the finish line I could see that my ham was going to be owned by someone else. Our winner was a Cree friend from Rocher River and you would have thought he had won the lottery when we presented him with the goodies. It was the talk of the settlement for the balance of the time we spent in Snowdrift before heading back to Reliance. It was interesting to note that when my son Brad and I returned to Reliance for the Sacred Ceremony in 2012, some 51 years later we met up with a great many people I had known in Snowdrift and they recalled the great race we had run all those years before. Oh yes, I should mention that with only one sled and with the equipment and supplies we carried, only one person was able to rest in the cariole. Alex and I alternated running beside the team. Have a great Leveè Garth Hampson, RCMP Vets, Ottawa

Jimmy Gibbons, Inuit deputy RCMP Constable at home with his family at Eskimo Point, N.W.T. Source: Library and Archives Canada, e005477068

From the Pen of the President Drive a half hour north from Kamloops along the North Thompson River on the Yellowhead Highway (Highway #3) near Heffley Creek and you will come to a place of pristine beauty on the banks of the river, called “Hacienda Caballo". Owned by Rick and Donna Wanless, this 25 acre ranch was, on October 22nd, officially turned over to Honour House Society by the Wanless couple. To be known as “Honour Ranch”, this quiet pastoral site will be dedicated to the healing of first responders and military personnel suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and other workplace-related psychological disorders. By early next year it is hoped to have treatment offered on site to first responders and military members, who will all be accommodated at Honour Ranch without cost to the individual. With a back-drop of tranquil rural surroundings and ranch buildings, treatment will be supplemented by “equine therapy” where patients will experience the healing that comes from caring for, and riding, the horses that populate the ranch.

Gen. Dave Corbould, Commander of the Joint Personnel Unit in DND HQ in Ottawa; Col. David Awalt, Commander of 39 Canadian Brigade Group; and, Honorary Lt. Col. Allan De Genova, President of Honour House Society and the driving force behind Honour House and Honour Ranch. But by far the most poignant words came from the retiring and self effacing Rick Wanless, with his wife Donna at his side. Having benefited from the skills of paramedics on more than one occasion, and aware of the ravages of PTSD on first responders and military personnel, Rick, supported by Donna, decided that, having no family of their own, and finding age making it difficult to care for their ranch, they would offer it as a retreat and treatment centre.

Lesley and I were able to attend the dedication ceremony that took place outdoors on the grounds of Honor Ranch. It was our pleasure to run into Okanagan Division Veterans Bob Clarke and Neal Collette (President of Okanagan Div.), who were also present at the ceremony. At-

Lesley and I had a chance to speak briefly with Craig Longstaff, Honour House General Manager, after the ceremonies. He voiced high praise for the RCMP Veterans’ Association, and the RCMP Veterans Ladies Auxiliary, for their support to Honour House. He also went on to point out that the RCMP has been a significant beneficiary of the services offered by Honour House.

City of New Westminster Fire Chief, Tim Armstrong, threw out the challenge to other first responders, and military personnel, to fund the construction of mini cottages (approx. 300 sq. ft.) that will eventually form the core of Honour “Village” to house those seeking treatment. More details on this are expected in the near future.

On another note, a reminder of our November 17, 2016 general membership luncheon meeting, 11:30 am @ Newlands Golf & Country Club in Langley. Please notify our Secretary, Mert Rowden, of your intention to attend. I need to add that this is one of our most

tended by area residents, families and friends of first responders and military, as well as local RCMP, reserve and active Canadian Forces personnel, and many B.C. Ambulance Service personnel, the ceremonies took place under sunny, warm interior skies with a backdrop of golden fall foliage and the sparkling of the sun on the river. Speakers consisted of the Honourable Linda Reid, Speaker of the B.C. Legislator; the Honourable Terry Lake, B.C. Minster of Health; Brig. Page 2

important meetings of the year, at which we carry out our Annual Vancouver Division Executive Elections. We have over the last few months been asking at our meetings, and through our Division communications, for members to step forward to fill upcoming Executive vacancies. The response has been disappointing! While I won’t elaborate on what vacancies need filling, I will stress that Vancouver Division needs new blood to serve on its Executive if we are to continue to progress and attract new and younger members. After all, it is YOUR association, and it will only continue to thrive and progress if you as members are committed to that happening. So, think seriously about approaching Tom Quilley, our Division Nominations Coordinator (email: [email protected] Phone: 604-855-0147), or any Executive member, before our November meeting to indicate your interest in serving.

Since this is the final edition of the Scarlet & Gold for 2016, I would like to thank Peter Bond, the Editor, and all those who support him, for putting together such interesting and eyecatching newsletters each month. Secondly, since my term as President concludes at the end of December, I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all the members of the Executive with whom I have had the pleasure of working over the last two and a half years. They have been keen, dedicated and have displayed a level of tolerance of my idiosyncrasies that far exceeds even that of my wife. And, for that I am truly grateful. Finally, Lesley and I would like to extend our sincere wishes for a Merry Christmas, filled with the joy and warmth of family and friends.

Keith Leishman, President

VANCOUVER DIVISION R.C.M.P. VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION LEVEE 2016 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9TH “HONOURING R.C.M.P. NORTHERN SERVICE” $35.00 per person Bar opens 3:30, Buffet Dinner 5:30 “Rancho Caterers” 35110 Delair Road, Abbotsford, B.C.

BY RESERVATION ONLY Contact Directors, Dorothy Martinson or Sheldon Boles [email protected] (604) 261-4630 [email protected] to reserve. Please notify us if bringing any RCMP-related photos & memorabilia re “Northern Service” to show on the Memory Wall/Tables.

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Minutes of October 20th Meeting by Secretary Mert Rowden Newlands, Langley, BC, The meeting was called to order at 1216 hours by the President, Keith Leishman with 51 members attending. Keith extended a welcome to the members and visitors. Following the National Anthem, Keith read the roll of those who had recently passed and called for a moment of silence. Governor Dave Turnbull gave the Grace for the pending meal. Keith called for the Guest Speaker, Ray Michalko and Life Members to lead the members to Newland’s buffet lunch. Following the Dinner President Keith called the meeting back to order and led the members in a thank you to the staff of Newlands for the service and meal. Keith then introduced the Guest speaker giving a background of his service in the Force and his follow up occupation as a private investigator and author. Ray Michelko spoke on his background and in particular his investigation into the complaints of missing women along Highway 16 between Prince Rupert and Prince George that became the subject of his book, Obstruction of Justice. Ray responded to a number of questions from members. President Keith gave a quick overview of his attendance at the 2016 AGM. His report has been circulated in the Communiqué and Scarlet and Gold. Keith also spoke on the opportunity for members to apply to sit on the Veteran`s Appeal Board as published on the National Web Site. Member Peter Bond, Editor of Scarlet and Gold was in attendance with his wife Norma and was congratulated on his 80th Birthday. Keith spoke on the Annual Charity Donation to the PRDA to support one horse for this cause, in the amount of $3,000.00. A motion was made by Dave Turnbull and seconded by Dick Hawkshaw to make this donation of $3,000.00. Motion was carried. Nominations: Past President Tom Quilley as Chair of the Nominating committee reported on the vacancies that would have to be filled in the November election. Tom spoke on the difficulty in filling these positions that are a vital part of the organization. He asked members to come forward to volunteer or assist in the search to fill the vacancies. Change of Venue: Vice President Donna Morse reviewed some of the concerns and complaints regarding the venue of our current meetings. She spoke of her review of suitable places and costs available for meetings. Donna also advised of a review of the places of residences of members and distance of travel and that this was considered for an area favourable to the majority. The matter had been discussed at the Executive level and it was recommending a change of meeting venue to the Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club in South Surrey (18150 – 8th Avenue). The meal price will be $25.00. The motion was made by Tom Quilley and seconded by Jim Druchet that the General Meetings and activities be at Hazelmere Golf and Tennis Club commencing in the February 2017 General Meeting. Following discussion the Motion was carried. Ladies Auxillary Christmas Lunch: Life Member Dave Turnbull reminded the membership of the Auxiliary Annual Christmas Lunch on December 1st. Change of Communique format: President Keith spoke on behalf of Director Sheldon Boles who looks after Communication including the Web Page and the Communique. Sheldon is looking for assistance of about 6 members to work with him in continuing to produce these widely circulated newsletters. Please contact Sheldon. Levee: Director Dorothy Martinson spoke on the theme of Northern Service for the year. She advised that the levee would again be at the Rancho on Friday December 9th, but a more centralized site might be considered in another year. The committee is looking for memorabilia of northern service. Contact Dorothy if you can assist with memorabilia and pictures. Ceremonies: Director Bob Underhill reminded the members of the Salute to Veterans on the November 5th Lions game. It will be a similar format as other years when the Vets are marched out to take places on each 5 yard line during the half time. Bob is looking for about 6 members to attend to match the contingent of serving members. Contact Bob. There will be no bus this year. Bob also reminded members to attend a Remembrance Day service in their area, but asked for support for the Cloverdale Remembrance Parade and Service on November the 11th. As Surrey Detachment would like to have a number, contact Donna Morse if you plan to attend. 50/50: The Draw was looked after by Laurier Cadieux and Bob Underhill. The 50/50 in the amount of $110.00 was won by Life Member Bill Schindeler holding ticket No. 3455572, with the balance to the PRDA charity. A further draw was conducted for a signed copy of Obstruction of Justice and that was won by Life Member Jim Druchet. Adjourned: As there was no more business a Motion to adjourn was made at 1440 hrs.

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Guard Report Bob Underhill On the 17th of October 2016, a service was held for Bruce Giesbrecht, at the Langley Golf Centre. Many retired members attended to pay their last respects. At the request of the family Bruce’s cremains were carried in to the hall by a three person RCMP Veterans Bearing Party. A twelve member Honor Guard followed by the family then entered the room. It was a fitting tribute to Bruce’s service to the Force and his community. There were also a number of serving members of the Force present. A reception followed with many stories about Bruce’s service being shared with those in attendance. The family was very appreciative for the overwhelming support provided by our members. They wished me to thank all those who took time to attend. A Special thanks to those that took part in the Honour Guard and Bearing Party. REMEMBRANCE DAY: All members of the RCMP Veterans association are encouraged to participate in their local community this November 11. A number of Members will be taking part in the Cloverdale Remembrance Day ceremony. Please take time and come out to show your support for those who serve and died for Canada. NEW MEMBERS: We are always looking for new people to help out with the Honour Guards. If you are available and would like to get involved please forward and E Mail, with your contact information to Bob Underhill at [email protected] . I will put you in touch with the Honour Guard closest to your residence.

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President

Keith Leishman 604-531-0702 Vice President

Donna Morse

604-541-7354

Past President

Tom Quilley

604-855-0147

Secretary

Mert Rowden

604-434-0424

or Toll Free 1-888-726-7838 Fax 604-436-3393 Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Treasurer

Ben Gwaltney

604-271-3051

Directors Ceremonies, Memorabilia

Bob Underhill

604-988-4844

Social Activities, & Events

Dorothy Martinson 604-261-4630 Membership

Koozma Gorkoff

604-590-1874

Liaison to RCMP & Governments

Ric Hall

604-853-5500

Health & Welfare

Art Blakley

604-594-3996

RCMP Veterans’ Women's Council

Jane Hall

604-534-3456

Communications & O utreach

Sheldon Boles

604-825-7084

Division Revitalization

Donna Morse [email protected]

Presidential Appointees Provincial Advocate for BC.

Bob McKee

604-885-6372

Division Padre

Frank McLeod

604-542-0897

Honor Guard Coordinator

Bob Underhill

604-988-4844

Newsletter Editor

Peter Bond

604-740-9962

Golf Tournament Coordinator

Bill Duckworth

604-948-9928

RCMP Officers’ Mess Coordinator

Maria Nickel

604-948-9344

Sick Parade Visitations Coordinator

Ray Kielan

604-936-6062

Transportation Coordinator

“Andy” Anderson

604-943-3456

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Vancouver Division – Treasurer’s Report - Ben Gwaltney

“Wetober” has splashed by ending with a bank balance of $3,293.52 which is a reduction of $902.48 from our September month-end balance. The primary contributors to this reduction relate to the cost of purchasing service bars and lapel pins for long-time Division Members and the cost associated with underwriting the Division Representative participating in the 2016 AGM. Our number of Members who have paid 2016 dues remains at 372. The Division GIC with a balance of $27,048.63 will mature on November 21st with an expected value of $27,560.25. The Executive, in consideration of the year over year trend in the Division cash account has directed that, upon maturity, $10,000.00 of the GIC be transferred to our checking account and the remainder be reinvested in a GIC for a term of one year. This action was taken in order to prevent getting into a position where the investment will have to be prematurely terminated. This is the last edition of the Scarlet & Gold for 2016 and normally we would urge Members to submit their 2017 dues payment. Normally, we would be happy to receive your dues BUT word has just now been received that National is reviewing the possibility of increasing the National Dues. At time of publication we simply do not know what, if any, increase will be imposed upon us. We therefore are not in a position to judge what, if any increase will be necessary for our Division 2017 dues. Once National identifies the increase, if any, then the Division Executive will review the impact upon our level of dues and come to a decision. With that in mind we must ask that you do not submit your 2017 dues until the rate for 2017 is established. That decision will be conveyed to you, the Members, as soon as possible. That same decision will determine how we will deal with those Members who have already submitted 2017 dues. Ben Gwaltney, Treasurer

R.C.M.P. VETERANS’ LADIES AUXILIARY ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON Held at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 1st, 2016 AT THE “NEWLAND’S GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB” 21025 – 48TH Avenue & 208th Street Langley, B .C. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. No Host Bar at 11:00 a.m. CHRISTMAS BUFFET LUNCHEON $35.00 PER PERSON, GRATUITIES INCLUDED. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED Phone Past-President, Kath Turnbull 778-292-1864

Dates for the meetings in 2017 will be posted in the January 2017 issue of this newsletter. There is no meeting in January. Don’t forget to inform Secretary Mert of your attndance to ensure Newland’s staff will have adequate table settings set up and the meeting can start on time.

Luncheon open to all Aux. Members/ husbands/partners/guests and all R.C.M.P. Veterans/wives/ husbands/partners/widows, guests

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R.C.M.P. Veterans’ Ladies Auxiliary November 3, 2016 Auxiliary Luncheon/ Meeting: This was the last regular meeting for 2016 and included our Executive Elections for the coming 2-Year term, 2017-2019. Dorothy Martinson, as Vice-President since 2015, and Interim President since February 2016, moves into the Presidency for her 2year term as President. Lillian Keen, current Treasurer, and Bea Scott, current Secretary, agreed to stay on for another 2-year term. Denise Martinson agreed to stand for the position of Vice President for the upcoming 2year term. Kathy Turnbull will remain in the position of Past-President. This slate of officers was voted in for the 2-year term of 2017-2019. A Possible Move of Venue: It was agreed by vote by the attending membership at this meeting that the Auxiliary Executive precedes with a possible move to another venue in February 2017 (in Surrey) for our luncheon/meetings. No official announcement of a move will be made until the Auxiliary signs a contract, but Auxiliary members will be notified in early January 2017, or sooner. The Auxiliary will still meet on the first Thursday of each meeting month. The Veterans’ VicePresident, Donna Morse, as our Guest Speaker, gave an overview of the probability of a venue move for the Veterans’ Association to the same location in Surrey in February 2017, detailing the benefits to both Associations by considering such a move to a new location. Annual Auxiliary Christmas Luncheon, December 1, 2016: Auxiliary members, and those of the Vancouver Veterans’ Association, are requested to make reservations with Auxiliary Past-President, Kathy Turnbull (778) 292

-1864 for attendance at our Christmas Luncheon, which is by Reservation Only. It will be a Christmas buffet noon luncheon, held at “Newland’s Golf & Country Club” in Langley, B.C. The cost is $35.00 per person, and particulars are contained in a block ad in this Newsletter. Auxiliary Outreach for 2016: It has been decided by the Auxiliary’s Executive that we will not be announcing a list of benefactors for the Auxiliary’s 2016 Outreach Program. Due to a significant depletion in funds since last year’s unexpected large donation, we cannot afford to donate from our Treasury until funds can be built up for future donations. Auxiliary Membership Lists: We are in the process of up-dating the membership / telephone lists and hope to have them ready for 2017. This has not been done for the past few years and many members have since changed addresses, telephone numbers, etc. If any Auxiliary members feel that they have not notified the Executive or Membership Convener, Barbara Scobie (604) 854-6084 of such a change, they are asked to do so as soon as possible in order to keep the lists up-to-date. An Early Season’s Greeting: Since this will be the last “Scarlet & Gold” Newsletter for 2016, we wish all of our Auxiliary Members, and families, a happy and healthy Christmas Season and New Year! We look forward to seeing many of you at our Annual Christmas Luncheon on December 1st. Dorothy Martinson, Auxiliary President (604) 261-4630

R.C.M.P. VETS’ LADIES AUXILIARY COFFEE KLATCHES CHILLIWACK/ABBOTSFORD: Last Wed. every month, 10 am Chilliwack at “I-HOP” Cottonwood Corners/Freeway, and alternating monthly in Abbotsford at “Ricky’s Restaurant” (Best Western) off Clearbrook Road & Freeway. Myrna Meyer (604) 847-8977. WHITE ROCK/SURREY/RICHMOND: Third Wed. every month, 10 AM at “The Pantry” 152nd Ave. & 18th St. White Rock, B.C. Kathy Turnbull, 778-292-1864. VANCOUVER: First Thurs. Summer months & January only, 9:30 AM, “Bean Bros., W. 41st. Ave. in Kerrisdale. Dorothy Martinson (604) 261-4630. NORTH & WEST VANCOUVER: Summer months only. TBA COQUITLAM/PT. MOODY/NORTH FRASER: Third Thurs. every month, 10:30 a.m., “Coquitlam Grill,” 2635 Barnet Hwy. Helen Kielan (604) 936-6062 DELTA/TSAWWASSEN: Locations vary each month., Last Thurs. each month, 10:30 a.m. Sheila Zerr, 604-943-3012 Email: Sheila Zerr ([email protected]) Page 7

White Rock Koffee Klatch

Dinners and Lunches

Call Secretary Mert Rowden at 604-434-0424 prior to meeting to ensure a meal will be available for you. Bars open 11:30AM/5:00PM, meals served 12 NN/5:30PM Are you shut in? Would you like a visit from a fellow vet? Call Jim Druchet at (604)-536-1925. Dues The dues for the Veterans Association at $60.00 per year and are due on January 1 of each year. Funds should be forwarded to the Veterans Association office using our mailing address.

ABC Restaurant on King George Hwy. 10:00 AM, Second Tuesday of Every Month

Abbotsford Koffee Klatch Roseland Family Restaurant, 5 Corners 33550 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford 10:00 AM, last Wednesday

Richmond Koffee Klatch Minoru Seniors Centre, Minoru Blvd and Granville Ave., 9:45 AM, 4th Thursday of every month

Friday Lunch Crew

RCMP Vets’ Association Vancouver Division Mailstop 1004 14200 Green Timbers Way Surrey, B.C. V3T 6P3 Our Website:

Every Friday at 11:00 AM at the Legion in Ladner. Chilliwack Vets & Ladies Coffee Klatch Homer’s Restaurant 46090 Yale Road, Chilliwack 2nd Monday each month, 10 AM

North Shore Koffee Klatch

www.rcmpveteransvancouver.com Newsletter Editor

The 2 Lions Pub, Westview Mall, 11:00 AM , 1st Tuesday of every month

Peter Bond, 6394 Gale Avenue North, Sechelt V0N 3A5 Tel: (604) 740-9962 Email: [email protected] Rides to Vet’s Meetings Don’t drive at night? Don’t drive in the rain. Don’t drive at all but want to go to a meeting? Ray Kielan will arrange transportation for you. If you’re willing to provide a ride for a fellow vet to a meeting please call Ray at 604-936-6062.

Vancouver Koffee Klatch White Spot Restaurant in Oakridge Mall Second Thursday each Month, 10 AM Call Herb Martinson, 604-261-4630

Coquitlam Koffee Klatch Coquitlam Grill on the Barnet Hwy. 3rd Tuesday of each month at 10:30 AM

Maple Ridge Coffee Crew ABC Restaurant on Lougheed Hwy. at Dewdney Trunk Road. Every Sunday morning at 9:30 AM

Langley Koffee Klatch Langley Golf Centre, 21550—44th Avenue, Corner of 216th Street and 44th Avenue, Langley 9 AM, first Tuesday of the month.

The RCMP Vets Vancouver Division newsletter is produced monthly, July, August and December excepted.

If you know of someone who is ailing please advise Ray Kielan at 604936-6062 or [email protected] by email.

Vancouver Division Governors J.S. (Jim) Warren W.F. (Bill) McCheyne D.C. (David) Turnbull G.J. (Jim) Druchet W.L. (Les) Holmes W.H. (Bill) Schindeler A.J. (Alf) Erickson R.C. (Bob) McKee E.R. (Ed) Wilson R.A.P. (Dick) Hawkshaw

None reported

(780)464-1138 (604)535-9670 (778)292-1864 (604)536-1925 (604)298-7517 (604)590-3975 (604)594-5463 1(866)970-7267 (604)864-0443 (604-824-8464

Cpl. Paul Homes, 14010 S/Sgt. Laurie S. Dewitt, 22688 S/Sgt. Hemmie Ruitenback, 25726

NCOs’ Mess Meetings

CM Nancy So 778-290-5179, [email protected] Mess: [email protected]

Important Phone Numbers and Website Links

     

Morneau Shepell - for RCMP Insurance only - 1-800-661-7595 Public Works & Government Services Canada - PWGSC - For all aspects of Pension Administration - 1-855-502-7090 Veteran Affairs (DVA) for Hearing Pensions 1-866-522-2122 B.C. Health Care Plan (MSPBC) Vancouver 604-736-2033 Old Age Security (OAS) & Canada Pension Plan (CPP) 1-800-277-9914 RCMP Veterans’ National Association:

www.rcmpvetsnational.ca.

http://www.rcmpveteransvancouver.com/

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