“Food and Loathing” is a savage journey into the stomach of the Las Vegas restaurant and bar scene – with occasional detours to explore some of the valley’s other decadent offerings (edible and otherwise). Each week, veteran food writer Al Mancini offers the lowdown on what’s new, what’s hot and what’s delicious in America’s most glamorous culinary city. Along with co-host Samantha "Gemini" Stevens and producer Rich Johnson, Al invites you into their conversations with the chefs, bartenders, ...
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The Italian Impact Podcast is a local podcast recorded out of the Pittsburgh area which streams on a regular basis. The host, Steve ’Stefano’ Mancini, has a great variety of guests from all over the world. The show has a lot of impactful stories, with a very uplifting atmosphere which will have you hooked in no time!
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Listen to Liberadio(!) Mondays 7 to 9 am on WRVU 91.1 FM with your hosts Mary Mancini ("a liberal talk radio diva in the making") and Freddie O'Connell (a southern-bred Ivy-league elitist), voted two of Nashville's best radio talk show hosts (2005) and best radio personalities (2006 and 2007).
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In the summer of 1992, Lucy’s Record Shop opened its doors in the sleepy little southern city of Nashville, TN. For the next six years, this fiercely independent store and all-ages punk club was home to a tight-knit community of the rebellious, the rejected, the anxious, and their allies. Join shop owner Mary Mancini as she sits down with the kids who made Lucy’s so special and whose DIY ethic and unfettered creativity left a lasting mark on the Nashville underground music scene.
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Talking with the folks who live, work, agitate and make art in Nashville, TN
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The full team is together again, with Gemini Zooming in to Al and Rich from Oklahoma City. Also on the show: From the Arts District, we have Chef Bruce Kalman at Soulbelly and Gen 3 Hospitality’s Stacia Stephens at Holsteins. Chef Steven Piamchunter tells us about the food at the new Thai spot Blue Orchid. Football legend Emmitt Smith talks butter …
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What a wonderful episode! Glenn and I have a very good conversation about memories and what the difference is between living in the past and remembering the past. Glenn has been slowly gathering memories and writing them down so he can pass them on to his family, what a great idea! Tune in to understand more about why we need to record and pass dow…
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Diane Mina, the founder of Diane’s Bloody Mary, is hosting a Bloody Mary brunch this weekend at her husband Michael Mina’s Aria restaurant, Bardot Brasserie. She talks to Al about convincing Michael to invest in her mix. Also: Chris Clifford talks about his efforts to bring a new, restaurant-heavy development to Henderson, and the challenges he’s f…
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Wanted to get your Italian citizenship but worried about changes in the law? Never fear! This week I was able to interview Marco Permunian. Marco is an attorney and founder of the Italian Citizenship Assistance group. In this interview he provides invaluable assistance and clarity on the new laws. You can also check out his podcast which focuses on…
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Vegas' Italian-Spanish-Asian Mashup
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1:17:19Rang's Concina Moderne is a small place in a strip mall on West Charleston near Jones. And it serves up Italian and Spanish dishes, but with an Asian flare courtesy of its namesake, Chef Rang Tan. Al, Rich and Rob Kachelriess sit down with Rang in the restaurant, enjoy some of her signature dishes, and get the story on the place she and her husband…
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IIW - Episode 105 - Lou Ignarro, Melissa Marinaro, and Mary Ferro
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1:07:03Nobel Prize winner, Louis Ignarro, is my guest this week. Lou and I discuss how a first generation Italian-American can grow up to win a Nobel Prize! What a tremendous story. Learn more about Lou and his research which is literally saving lives here: https://www.drignarro.com/ I am also very blessed to have Melissa Marinaro, Director, Italian Ameri…
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This week’s episode was recorded at The Legends Oyster Bar, which recently celebrated its 5th anniversary. Rich and Al have a nice long chat with founder/chef Jack Jarukasem, and devour several items from the menu. The guys share their recent experiences at William B’s Steakhouse, Coco Donuts, Sorellina, Doberman Drawing Room, La Mona Rosa, Tony Lu…
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IIW - Episode 104 Lou Bruno and Lauren Ronayne
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1:14:27This week's episode has two very special guests. Lou Bruno, author and proud Italian-America. His most recent work, The Love of San Demetrio, is an absolutely wonderful story of his experience in connecting the past to the present. Please check out his book here: https://www.byloubruno.com/ Lauren Ronayne is a driving force behind the San Rocco Fou…
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This week I interview Michael Troiani, owner of PaPa Js Twin Plaza Restaurant in Pittsburgh. Michael is passionate about Italian culture but his dedication to authentic Italian cooking is above reproach. Michael and I talk a lot but you can tell his passion and knowledge about Italian cooking are something he holds very dear. This is a great episod…
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Al and Rich throw out the format for this episode, which they recorded at Vegas Unstripped at The Palms. Basically, they just walk around the big event and talk to the best chefs in Las Vegas. We begin with a bit of news and the latest Happy Hour Report. And then it's walking and talking!By Al Mancini
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This episode focuses on two programs that give back to the community, and check in with a couple of celebrity chefs. The entire episode was recorded at the brand-new Blooming Bistro, where young people in recovery are training for careers in and around the hospitality industry. Later, we speak to Monica Garcia about the Love Yourself Foundation’s u…
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It's the premier of a new feature on the podcast: the Food and Loathing Happy Hour report, thanks to our new collaboration with the site Happy Hour Vegas run by Andrew Morgan. Each week, Andrew and Al take a few minutes to run down a few of the valley's best happy hours. Like Neon Feast, they're organized by category. To kick off the new feature: S…
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In this week's episode, I interview the great voice man and vice-president of the United Lodges of Pittsburgh, Tony Colega. Tony and I talk about his work with the United Lodges, everything from bocce in the mountains to the Italian restaurant tour. If you are looking for some ideas to revitalize your group, this is a great episode to tune into.…
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This week I interview Mary Menniti. Mary enjoyed a close relationship with both her maternal and paternal immigrant grandparents. As a result, she learned to cherish the memories of gardening! This week's interview is very powerful as we discuss this dying experience of simple gardening but also how the advent of large corporations has changed ever…
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Rivea, Prime Steakhouse and Much More
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1:12:53Al and Gemini take the podcast sky-high this week, recording at the Chef’s Table in Rivea by Alain Ducasse, which is located at the top of the W hotel. They’re there to speak to MGM resorts International’s Chef Justin Fredericksen about the entire MGM culinary team being honored at the upcoming Chefs For Kids gala. But while they were in the restau…
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Rich is in Europe. Gemini is in Oklahoma. Al is in Vegas. And they have a BIG show that’s jam packed with interviews. Don’t believe us? How about these names: DW Bistro’s Bryce Krausman; Elizabeth Blau, Nina Manchev and Lorena Garcia at the Women’s Hospitality Institute’s Leadership conference at Wynn Las Vegas; Alessandro Capuano and Morgan Basile…
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The big 100 and what a guest to have for it! This week, I interview author, businessman, philanthropist, and basically all around great guy, Nick Vizzoca. Nick is a Pittsburgh native, first-generation son of Italian immigrants, and survivor of childhood cancer but more importantly, he is a leader and someone who understands people. Nick and I talk …
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Al and Gemini recorded this week’s show at P.O.P.S. Philly Steak, and talked with second-generation owner Christina Walton. But she’s not the only guest. You’ll also hear from Stubborn Seed’s Jeremy Ford, pizza makers Sam Faccini and Tony Gemignani, Slice Out Hunger’s Scott Wiener, Prime Steak’s Sean Griffin and a Clark County rep telling us about …
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This week I interview the co-host of the "Italian American Stories Podcast", Stephanie Detton. Stephanie and I have an absolute wonderful time talking about a myriad of things. When she is not researching stories, she is busy teaching and spending time with friends and family but she absolutely entertains us with some incredible stories from histor…
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Al and Rich steer the ship this week, for an episode that revolves around an interview with Chef Noe Alcala of the brand new Lucia Mexican Grill in Virgin Las Vegas. We also have interviews with Circa’s Valari Esposito, Josh Dunson of Ocean Prime, Forte’s Nina Manchev and Brandon Clark of Stew’s Sticks. There’s also lots of news, and dining reports…
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IIW - Episode 98 - Stephen 'Stefano' Pishner
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1:02:26This week, I interview the great musician Stephen 'Stefano' Pishner of the band AMICI. Stephen has been doing this for a long time, beginning his exciting musical voyage of artistic discovery at the early age of 9 years old. Having played to a million listeners, you will definitely appreciate the passion and talent he brings to his work. To follow …
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Bourbon Steak, Vegas Unstripped and More
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1:06:44
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1:06:44On this week's episode, Al pays a visit to Bourbon Steak's new executive chef, Josh Smith, to find out what he has in mind for the Michael Mina steakhouse at the Four Seasons Hotel. We also chat with Clique's Mustafa Abdi about the beginning of pool season at the Durango resort, catch up with All'Antico Vinaio founder Tommas Mazzante to discuss the…
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Tamba, Home of Cutting-Edge Indian Cuisine
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57:25Al and Rich are again on location -- this time at the luxurious private dining room at Tamba, the new upscale Indian/Asian restaurant at Town Square. General Manager Oliver Morowati shares some cutting-edge appetizers and how the place, under the care of Michelin-recognized Chef Anand Singh, focuses on live-fire cooking four ways: the Josper charco…
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This week I have the great pleasure of interviewing Bill Sunseri, owner of the Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. here in the Strip District of Pittsburgh. Penn Mac, as it is known, has a nearly 120 year history here. In this episode we talk about how losing traditional Italian businesses takes away from the community. Definitely worth a listen and if you a…
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This week I interview Domenico Mariani. This is exactly why I do the show!!! Domenico's story about his family from the war is incredible. Never mind the fact that Domenico spent 30 years in law enforcement and has his own incredible memories. There are just some incredible, incredible stories from his history in this episode...please tune in and u…
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This week's episode was recorded at Winnie & Ethel's Downtown Diner, and includes a nice long interview with the proprietors, Mallory Gott and Aaron Lee. Other interviews this week include Keri Kelli and Chef Krystal Meza of Evolve Brewing by Aces and Ales, Ken Heck sharing details of Hot Noods in The El Cortez, Aroma Latin American Cocina's Steve …
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IIW - Episode 95 - Sam Bozzolla and the team from The Lion's Den @ 213
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1:01:16
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1:01:16This week I have 2 segments with 2 very different, but fantastic, guests. How lucky can I get! First, I interview the great Sam Bozzolla. Sam is the grandson of the famous Italian actor Ezio Pinza. In this segment we talk Sam's famous roots to the proper way to begin enjoying opera! This was such a great interview, I will have Sam back soon. Also, …
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Meet Ellie Parker, the new executive chef at Main St. Provisions in The Arts District. Al paid her a visit this week, and you’ll hear that extended interview at the center of this week’s episode. You’ll also hear from Mimmo Ferraro about the new Happy Hour and pre-theater menu at Ferraro’s, and learn about the next Ferraro's wine dinner. And we hav…
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This week, I interview the great Robert Campana! Robert is the founder of Stop Italian Sounding ® (SIS). He tells the story of Italian food and beverage products on social media platforms by creating awareness on the differences between real and Italian sounding food & beverage products. We talk everything from how to pronounce food names to the im…
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Al’s back, but it’s James Beard semi-finalist DJ Flores who’s front and center this week, along with his Director of Bar Lou Lopez. They tell Gemini all about their plans for a pair of projects in The Arts District. Other interviews this week include Bryce Krausman, who shares details about the final party at DW Bistro, as well as Steve Jerome and …
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Erica D’Arcangelo is a storyteller, author, and content creator with a passion for weaving narratives that reflect her Italian heritage and cultural roots. In August 2024, Erica published her debut book, A Story About Pizza, a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of her grandfather, an Italian immigrant and coal miner with dreams of o…
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Joey Chestnut, The Composer's Room and bye-bye TGI Fridays
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1:00:43It's just Gemini and Rich this week, as Al got sick, got better, then lost his voice just in time for the show. But he did have a nice conversation with Sylvia Welsh of The Composer's Room on E. Sahara. That includes a detailed explantion of just what The Composer's room is. Also: the man synonamous with competitive eating, Joey Chestnut, came to L…
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Al talks to Gio Mauro, the chef/owner of Old School Pizzeria and Monzu Italian Oven & Bar, about being named Nevada Chef of the Year. Al also shares his conversation with Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. The owners of Border Grill have been very busy, with the staff of their Southern California restaurants, feeding firefighters and others since…
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Warhola...Warhola...why does that ring a bell? Well, tune in to find out as I interview the great Jay Warhola who founded Warhola Video Productions, Inc. in 2001. Spoiler alert: Jay is also a cousin of Andy Warhol and we have some great conversation about a lot of topics! This is a don't miss episode. For more information on Jay Warhola, check out …
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This week’s episode was recorded on location at the 2025 Winter Fancy Food Show, with Rich and Al reporting on the big trade show, while Gemini was under the weather. They speak to dozens of exhibitors at the show, get serenaded by a candy maker, and share Chef Scott Conant’s big announcement from his keynote address. We share restaurant reports on…
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IIW - Episode 91 - Cittadinanza! Francesco and Chrissy
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42:04Francesco and Chrissy Pircio are a husband-and-wife duo that are passionate about their Italian culture and heritages, striving to create ways to help others who share the same passion. In this interview we talk Italian citizenship, Italian language, and their thoughts on what it means to be Italian. They have two projects to help others who are in…
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It’s a very happy episode, despite the absence of Samantha Gemini Stevens, because our main focus is happy hours in Las Vegas Joining us is the founder of HappyHourVegas.com, Andrew Morgan. Other interviews include Sammy Hagar, Clique Hospitality’s Corey Nigrelli, Station Casinos’ Casandra Northwick, Sam Facchini of Metro Pizza and Vincent Rotolo o…
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This week I interview the great actor/filmmaker Joe Puglisi. His interest in acting began in earnest in 2012 and he has since appeared in both commercials and films. In 2017 he formed Little Italy Productions, LLC with his business partner and they wrote, acted in and produced their first film entitled "That's Amore" which was released in 2020. You…
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Mark Steele, founder of the Restaurant Hospitality Institute, sits down for a long talk with Al about how his organization helps front of the house staff and managers maximize their potential. Steele also shares news of the newest course RHI is offering on allergens and food sensitities. Rich reports from the Consumer Electronics Show and leads a d…
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Happy New Year! And what a great way to start with an incredible guest, Margaret Fontana! Margaret is a first generation Italian and a highly accomplished media executive renowned for her extensive expertise spanning various industries, including nonprofit, healthcare, film, media, television, technology, and digital-driven broadcast. She is also t…
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Petite Boheme, Chicken Zamboni and Much More!
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50:14Chicken Zamboni? Yes, it's a thing at Vegas Golden Knights games, and Al has the full description (Spoiler: it's chicken fingers!). But this first-of-the-year episode is anchored by Al's conversation with Keith Bracewell and Jonah Gibbs, the guys on the front line of Petite Boheme, the soon-to-be French place from James Trees. Al also talks to vete…
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Michael Mina's Sixth Las Vegas Restaurant
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46:28Happy holidays. With Gemini celebrating in the Southern Hemisphere, and Las Vegas in holiday mode, Al and Rich avoided the temptation to take a week off, and put in just enough effort to create an abbreviated episode. But it’s still packed with good stuff – especially if you’re a fan of Michael Mina. Al talked to Mina just hours before the new Bour…
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Who said Italian American youths weren't interested in social organizations? In fact, this week I am joined by Andrew Speicher who helped start a new Italian-American organization called La Prossima. This is a group dedicated to rejuvenating the Italian culture here in American, specifically in Columbus Ohio, among younger folks. This is a great ep…
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Jive Turkey Dives Into the Las Vegas Dive Bar Scene
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1:10:46
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1:10:46On this week’s episode, Vegas CityCast’s Rob Kachelriess sits in for the traveling Gemini, and joins Al and producer Rich Johnson at Dom DeMarco's Pizzeria and Wine Bar. Rob tells us about his recent experiences Craftsteak (with Tom Colicchio in the house) and Dominique Ansel Marche (with Dominique Ansel in the house). Rich will share culinary high…
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This week's guest is the very talented Vinny Fasline. Vinny is a quasi-Pittsburgh guy. He has been seen touring with comedians Dane Cook, Nick Swardson, Michael Rappaport, Drew Lynch and Jamie Kennedy. He Has performed at the New York Comedy Festival, Cabo Comedy Festival, Just For Laughs tour, and seen on ABC Fablife and CBS. He is has recently ac…
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Al and Gemini were invited to spend two days at the judging sessions for the 2024 Proof Awards spirits, wine and beverage competition -- where local and national booze buyers sampled hundreds of products to grade, and perhaps purchase for their companies. And, much to Rich’s chagrin, they had so much fun they decided to create a gigantic episode fe…
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This week I interview the online sensation Elijah Santoro. Elijah is a very popular social media personality who is also moving up fast in the entertainment industry. Elijah and I talk the importance of following your dreams, staying faithful to your beliefs, and just being a good person because it will come back to you. You're definitely going to …
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National Finals Rodeo & Holiday Pop-Ups
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1:01:10
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1:01:10December is here, which means the arrival of National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, as well as the launch of several holiday pop-up bars/menus. And we take a deep dive into both in this week’s episode, alongside a few restaurant reports and some news. You'll get the lowdown on the NFR festivities at Easy’s in Aria’s Proper Eats, Gilley’s in TI and Emm…
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This week's guest is the great Toni Colella! Toni is the author of "Now We’re Talking … The Story of Theodore W. Case and Sound-on-Film”. A wonderful and fascinating story about Ted Case and his impact on the movie industry as we know it today. Of course, Toni and I also talk a few things about Italian tradition. To get your copy of this fascinatin…
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The never dull Jimmy Denova is my guest this week and him and I have an absolute great time talking everything from Italian families to parking tickets! Jimmy is a very interesting personality from Pittsburgh who worked for years managing various foundations. This is an absolutely entertaining episode with some incredibly entertaining and enlighten…
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