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"Biggest snow event since 2015” on its way

<p><span>A polar blast set to hit the NSW Northern Tablelands and possibly parts of Queensland is coming sooner than expected.</span><br /><br /><span>South-east Australia had their own freezing weather, and it looks like QLD may experience their biggest dumping of snow in years.</span><br /><br /><span>Forecasters have predicted the Australian Alps could bask in a metre of snow or more over the coming days.</span><br /><br /><span>Canberra may also get a slight dusting.</span><br /><br /><span>Queensland-based Bureau of Meteorology lead meteorologist Matthew Bass said the Sunshine State could receive snowfall as early as Wednesday afternoon.</span><br /><br /><span>The coldest burst of air may arrive on Thursday however, with snow down to 900 metres on the Granite Belt.</span></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">Snow started falling in the Aussie Alps on Tuesday and plenty more is on the way in the coming days! Some areas are likely to see more than one metre of fresh snow this week. <a href="https://t.co/0Ncg3gdY3G">pic.twitter.com/0Ncg3gdY3G</a></p> — Weatherzone (@weatherzone) <a href="https://twitter.com/weatherzone/status/1402201968806826011?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2021</a></blockquote> <p><br /><span>This means Wallangara, Giraween National Park and Eukey could see a flurry of snow.</span><br /><br /><span>"I think it probably is shaping up to be the biggest snow event since 2015 based on our records here," he said.</span><br /><br /><span>Stephen Stefanac, meteorologist with the Bureau of Meteorology in Sydney, believes 20 centimetres of snow in the Northern Tablelands could be seen by the end of the week.</span><br /><br /><span>He estimates a further 50cm to a metre in the Snowy Mountains by the end of the week.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7841723/weather.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/3916cfd2fb0c42fb892ce4bfdf5f4d46" /><br /><br /><span>"I can't remember recent times where we'd expect that much snow up there (Northern Tablelands)," he said.</span><br /><br /><span>"It doesn't happen every year that far north."</span><br /><br /><span>Mr Stefanac said there was a chance of snow in the hills around Canberra but nothing is guaranteed.</span><br /><br /><span>"There's a slight risk. I wouldn't rule it out completely," he said.</span></p> <p><em>Image: Nine News</em></p>

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Teen who plotted ANZAC Day terrorist attack may walk free

<div> <div class="reply-list-component"> <div class="reply-component"> <div class="reply-body-component"> <div class="reply_body body linkify"> <div class="reply-body-wrapper"> <div class="reply-body-inner"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>Britain’s youngest convicted terrorist may walk free from prison after he plotted the murder of Australian police officers during ANZAC Day proceedings.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p><span>The 20-year-old man is from Blackburn, Lancashire and is identified only as RXG. He was convicted of sending and Australian jihadist to launch attacks against police during Melbourne’s Anzac Day commemorations in 2015.</span><br /><br /><span>He was 14 at the time of the offence and was handed a life sentence in October 2015 after he admitted to inciting another person to commit an act of terrorism overseas.</span><br /><br /><span>On Monday, the Parole Board for England and Wales ruled that RXG was suitable for release after a hearing in September and another this month.</span><br /><br /><span>“After considering the circumstances of his offending, the progress made while in detention and the evidence presented at the hearings, the panel was satisfied that RXG was suitable for release,” the document detailing the Parole Board’s decision read.</span><br /><br /><span>The panel said it would only permit his release “if it was satisfied that it was no longer necessary for the protection of the public that RXG remained confined in prison”.</span><br /><br /><span>His Australian accomplice, Sevdet Besim, 19, was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2016.</span><br /><br /><span>He was also given a non-parole period of seven years and six months.</span><br /><br /><span>He pleaded guilty to one count of planning for a terrorist act in the Victorian Supreme Court.</span></p>

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Macquarie Dictionary’s 2015 word of the year revealed

<p>Macquarie Dictionary has announced “captain’s call” to be their 2015 Word of the Year.</p> <p>The phrase was popularised by former Prime Minister Tony Abbott during his prime ministership, most infamously when he awarded Prince Philip a knighthood of Australia. </p> <p>The committee, including journalists, academics and Macquarie Dictionary editor Susan Butler, said, “Captain’s call” perfectly encapsulates what happened in Australia over the past year.”</p> <p>“There has been an interesting change in usage; an infrequent item of the jargon of cricket makes the leap into politics and is now being used generally with an ironic tinge to it that is very Australian," the committee said.</p> <p>Macquarie defined the term “as a decision made by a political or business leader without consultation with colleagues”.</p> <p>The runner-up words included "lumbersexual" and "deso" (for "designated driver").</p> <p>For those people ruffled by the fact “captain’s call” is two words rather than one, Ms Butler explains that a phrase is considered a word in dictionary speak.</p> <p>"When we say a word, in dictionary speak we mean the bit in bold at the start of an entry, so this is the unit of meaning that we have to provide a definition for," she said.</p> <p>"English has this way of creating new words by putting a couple of words together."</p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/entertainment/books/2015/12/great-opening-lines-in-literature/">15 great opening lines in literature</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/entertainment/books/2015/12/best-coffee-table-books/">Gift idea: 6 Coffee table books for every personality</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/news/news/2015/12/favourite-quotes-from-childrens-book/">20 quotes from children’s books you’ll love</a></em></strong></span></p> <p> </p>

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25 worst online passwords used in 2015

<p>Every year, SplashData releases a list of the most popular passwords discovered in data breaches released online over the past 12 months.</p> <p>And this year, "123456" and "password" topped this list.</p> <p>Just like last year. And the year before that.</p> <p>Other popular choices this year were sports, like "football" and "baseball".</p> <p>And "starwars," a newcomer to the list, ranked as the 25th most popular breached password, probably thanks to excitement over the release of the newest movie in the franchise.</p> <p>Passwords are the banes of our increasingly online lives: Nearly everything we sign up for needs a password, and creating a secure one can be a pain.</p> <p>Even when we come up with a good one, we always need more because reusing passwords can leave us exposed if a service we use gets breached.</p> <p>To try to stay secure we are left relying on password management tools that sometimes get breached themselves, or juggling an almost ridiculous rotation of hard-to-remember passwords, or using a random string of characters we expect to reset the next time we log in.</p> <p>Unless, that is, they just give up and use comically easy-to-guess passwords.</p> <p>This password paradox is why tech companies like Google, Apple and Yahoo are trying to find ways to replace passwords.</p> <p>Apple, for instance, includes fingerprint scanners in its new iPhones. And Google and Yahoo have been experimenting with ways that let people use their mobile phone to prove their identity without a password.</p> <p>Unfortunately, these alternatives can come with their own drawbacks: You leave your fingerprints on pretty much everything you touch, and some researchers have even found way to fake fingerprints from high definition photos. And using just your mobile phone may leave you at risk if you lose it.</p> <p>For now, at least, consumers are probably best off trying trying to remember strong, unique passwords for important services and turning on two-factor authentication, a system where they have to go through another step to confirm their identity when they log in - usually entering a code that's texted to their phone.</p> <p><strong>The full list of the 25 worst (and most common) passwords of 2015:</strong></p> <p>1. 123456</p> <p>2. password</p> <p>3. 12345678</p> <p>4. qwerty</p> <p>5. 12345</p> <p>6. 123456789</p> <p>7. football</p> <p>8. 1234</p> <p>9. 1234567</p> <p>10. baseball</p> <p>11. welcome</p> <p>12. 1234567890</p> <p>13. abc123</p> <p>14. 111111</p> <p>15. 1qaz2wsx</p> <p>16. dragon</p> <p>17. master</p> <p>18. monkey</p> <p>19. letmein</p> <p>20. login</p> <p>21. princess</p> <p>22. qwertyuiop</p> <p>23. solo</p> <p>24. passw0rd</p> <p>25. starwars</p> <p>First appeared on <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a></strong></span>.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/news/news/2016/01/the-panda-hidden-in-this-picture/"><strong>Can you find the panda hidden in this picture?</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/news/news/2016/01/mummified-baby-orangutan-on-road-to-recovery/"><strong>“Mummified" abandoned baby orangutan rescued and on the road to recovery</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2016/01/5-planets-to-align-in-rare-celestial-display/">5 planets set to align in rare celestial display</a></strong></em></span></p>

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Report confirms 2015 was warmest year on record

<p>The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has issued its 2016 forecast and annual climate statement for 2015, a year where records tumbled at home and abroad.</p> <p>2015 is ranked as Australia’s fifth-warmest year on record, with conditions compounded by below-average rainfall (not that you’d know it living in Sydney for the last week) as well as a record-breaking heatwave where the state of Victoria ran six degrees hotter across October.</p> <p>And it’s expected to stay warm for a few months at least.</p> <p>In a video forecast for 2016 (available above) Bureau of Meteorology Climate Monitoring Manager Karl Braganza said, "Based on the historical relationship between El Niño and global surface temperatures, it’s likely that the record heat will extend into at least the first half of 2016.”</p> <p>Globally, 2015 was the hottest year on record, with conditions partly caused by the El Niño effect.</p> <p><em>Video credit: Youtube / Bureau of Meteorology </em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2016/01/koala-cries-after-brawl-over-tree/">Koala throws tantrum and cries after friend kicks it out of tree</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2016/01/garfi-the-worlds-angriest-cat/">Meet Garfi, the world’s angriest cat</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2016/01/one-eyed-puppy-finds-one-eyed-owner/">One-eyed puppy finds perfect owner in someone just like him</a></strong></em></span></p>

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20 signs 2015 was a good year (even if it doesn’t feel like it)

<p>Blink and before you know it, it’s the start of a brand new year! The beginning of the year often brings with it moments of reflection and contemplation and if, like many of us, you don’t feel like you’re where you should be – whether it’s because you didn’t accomplish what you wanted to or it was a particularly challenging year because of life’s circumstances – don’t despair. Instead, take a second look at the events of the past year and you’ll most likely realise that even though much of what happened didn’t go as planned, you’re more on track that you thought you were. Here are 20 signs you actually had a great year, even if it doesn’t feel like it.</p> <ol> <li>You fell short of some goals, but you’re ok with that because you know success isn’t only measured in goals. The process of trying has already changed you.</li> <li>You can see and celebrate how far you’ve come in a year.</li> <li>You appreciate the little things in life much more than you once did.</li> <li>You did more of what you wanted to do rather than what you didn’t want to do.</li> <li>You took risks, small and big, even in the face of fear.</li> <li>You don’t worry about things you can’t change anymore.</li> <li>You take yourself less seriously than you used to. You can see the humour in most situations.</li> <li>You have let go of unnecessary anger.</li> <li>You smile more.</li> <li>You’ve surrounded yourself with loves one and spent more time with the people who are most important to you.</li> <li>You enjoy spending time with yourself and becoming your own best friend.</li> <li>You’ve made peace with your past.</li> <li>You’ve learnt to stop comparing yourself to others.</li> <li>You don’t get so bogged down in frustrating little details anymore. You can see the bigger picture.</li> <li>You don’t let other people’s negativity and judgment impact you anymore.</li> <li>You feel grateful for how far you’ve come over the years.</li> <li>You trust your instincts and go with your gut. You believe in yourself.</li> <li>You helped others.</li> <li>You’ve stopped defining yourself by external influences. You know what makes a good person is what’s on the inside.</li> <li>You feel positive about the future and the direction you’re heading. You still believe in the possibilities that lie ahead.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/mind/2015/11/kindness-leads-to-happiness-research/">People are happier when they do good</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/mind/2015/12/some-material-things-proven-to-make-you-happy/">The material things proven to make you happy</a></strong></em></span><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em> </em></span><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/mind/2015/12/exercises-to-strengthen-your-willpower/">Simple exercises to strengthen your willpower</a></strong></em></span></p> <p> </p>

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8 stories that made us smile in 2015

<p>As we say goodbye to 2015, we’ve taken a look at the stories that made us smile. At this time of year it’s nice to remind ourselves the world’s a pretty good place.</p> <p><strong>1. Orphan kangaroo and his teddy bear</strong></p> <p><strong><img width="500" height="314" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13196/kangaroo-teddy-bear_500x314.jpg" alt="Kangaroo Teddy Bear" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></strong></p> <p>Doodlebug, an orphaned kangaroo from New South Wales, captured our hearts this year when a picture of him clutching his stuffed teddy bear appeared online.<span style="text-decoration: underline;"> <strong><a href="/news/news/2015/08/kangaroo-hugging-teddy-bear/">Read about it here</a></strong></span>.</p> <p><strong>2. Man and his rescue dog train</strong></p> <p><strong><img width="500" height="314" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13197/dog-train_500x314.jpg" alt="Dog Train" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></strong></p> <p>We just loved the <strong><a href="/news/news/2015/09/80-year-old-man-builds-dog-train/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">story of Eugene Bostick</span></a></strong>, an 80-year-old retiree, who rescues abandoned dogs, giving them food and water, and taking them on rides around the farm with his neat dog train. </p> <p><strong>3. Lonely man invited to radio station</strong></p> <p><strong><img width="500" height="314" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13198/lonely-old-man_500x314.jpg" alt="Lonely Old Man" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></strong></p> <p>And this one was just too sweet! 95-year-old Bill Palmer called a BBC radio show saying he was lonely and missed his wife, so they <a href="/news/news/2015/10/95-year-old-speaks-about-wife-on-radio/"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">invited him in to the studio</span></strong></a> for a cup of coffee!</p> <p><strong>4. Dog riding a bus in the US</strong></p> <p><strong><img width="500" height="314" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13199/dog-riding-bus_500x314.jpg" alt="Dog Riding Bus" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></strong></p> <p>Over 120 million riders used Seattle’s public transport system last year, including a Black Labrador called Eclipse who decided to take a ride on a bus. <strong><a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2015/03/secret-life-of-pets/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Read about Eclipse’s ride here</span></a></strong>.</p> <p><strong>5. The Lion King and Aladdin Broadway cast’s musical layover</strong></p> <p><strong><img width="500" height="314" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13204/lion-king-cast_500x314.jpg" alt="Lion King Cast (1)" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></strong></p> <p>A six hour weather delay at New York’s LaGuardia airport sounds like a chore, but when you’re part of the cast of The Lion King or Aladdin it turns into a musical! <a href="/video/?bctid=4680398558001"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Click here to watch</span></strong></a>.</p> <p><strong>6. Teenager sends Valentine’s to 1,076 girls</strong></p> <p><strong><img width="500" height="314" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13200/valentines_500x314.jpg" alt="Valentines" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></strong></p> <p>It sounds a little sleazy, but it’s actually quite sweet! One kind, hearted teen from Oklahoma sent Valentine’s Day cards to every girl in his grade, working all summer to raise money for the gifts.</p> <p><strong>7. Weatherman perfectly pronounces village with 58-letter name</strong></p> <p><strong><img width="500" height="314" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13202/weather-man_500x314.jpg" alt="Weather Man" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></strong></p> <p>Liam Dutton, a weatherman for British TV station Channel 4 News, certainly earned his money when he casually pronounced Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch in a report. Oh, and that’s not a typo – that’s the name of an actual Welsh Village. <a href="/video/?bctid=4680408842001"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Watch it here</span></strong></a>!</p> <p><strong>8. Little boy meets his garbage men heroes</strong></p> <p><strong><img width="500" height="314" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13201/cute-kid-garbage_500x314.jpg" alt="Cute Kid Garbage" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></strong></p> <p>Heroes aren’t always the ones who wear capes, especially for Ollie Kroner, a toddler from Cincinnati who’s admired his neighbourhood garbage men from the moment he could walk. Far too adorable! </p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/12/abandoned-puppy-rescued-on-christmas-eve/">Abandoned puppy rescued on Christmas Eve doesn’t look like this anymore</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/12/new-twisting-plane-seat-design/">New twisting plane seat design could banish discomfort</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/12/6-clever-uses-for-silica-gel-bags/">6 clever uses for silica gel bags</a></strong></em></span></p>

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10 of the most hilarious kid videos of 2015

<p>These are the hilarious kid videos of 2015 that made you laugh out loud at the antics that only children get up too. Relive these precious moments with our list of the most unforgettable and funny clips of 2015.</p> <p>1. The dancing machine who stole the show at this wedding.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677952557001" target="_blank"><img width="499" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13043/1_499x280.jpg" alt="1 (119)"/></a></p> <p>2. This baby pranking her dad while he cuts her nails.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677959104001" target="_blank"><img width="500" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13044/2_500x280.jpg" alt="2 (124)"/></a></p> <p>3. The showman in the shower.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677952254001" target="_blank"><img width="500" height="285" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13045/3_500x285.jpg" alt="3 (119)"/></a></p> <p>4. The littlest, saddest bookworm that was ever born.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677952255001" target="_blank"><img width="499" height="285" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13046/4_499x285.jpg" alt="4 (112)"/></a></p> <p>5. Grumpy baby is giving Grumpy cat a run for his money.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677952251001" target="_blank"><img width="498" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13047/5_498x280.jpg" alt="5 (104)"/></a></p> <p>6. The toddler who gets a fright of his life, courtesy of Grandpa.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677959105001" target="_blank"><img width="499" height="279" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13048/6_499x279.jpg" alt="6 (102)"/></a></p> <p>7. The kid determined to finish his hot dog, no matter what.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677959103001" target="_blank"><img width="499" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13049/7_499x280.jpg" alt="7 (95)"/></a></p> <p>8. The boy who has absolutely no idea who ate the cupcake.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677952561001" target="_blank"><img width="499" height="283" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13050/8_499x283.jpg" alt="8 (88)"/></a></p> <p>9. The little girl who cannot believe her favourite popstar is married.</p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677952256001" target="_blank"><img width="496" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13051/9_496x280.jpg" alt="9 (73)"/></a></p> <p>10. This five-year-old’s priceless reaction to becoming a big brother. </p> <p><a href="/video/?bctid=4677952258001" target="_blank"><img width="500" height="284" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13052/10_500x284.jpg" alt="10 (58)"/></a></p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2015/11/funny-things-grandkids-say-part-4/"><em>The funniest things grandkids kids say</em></a></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2015/11/sacrifices-grandparents-make-study/"><em>The many things grandparents sacrifice for their family</em></a></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2015/11/interspecies-animal-friendships/"><em>15 unlikely friendships that will melt your heart</em></a></strong></span></p>

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Our favourite stories from 2015

<p>2015 has been a weird and wonderful year and we want to remember all of your favourite stories that made the year extra special. </p> <p><strong>January </strong></p> <p>Over60 article “What makes grandchildren happy” dominated the website in January, with the key message being: Grandparents love. </p> <p><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13008/happygrandkids_498x245.jpg" alt="HAPPYGRANDKIDS"/></p> <p><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2015/01/what-makes-grandchildren-happy/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Click here</span> </a></strong></em>to read the full article</p> <p><strong>February </strong></p> <p>Over60 very own recipe on how to do crispy potato roast right certainly clocked up the clicks, as you all wanted to cook quite the feast!</p> <p><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13009/crispypotato_498x245.jpg" alt="CRISPYPOTATO"/></p> <p><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2015/02/crispy-potato-roast/">Click here</a> </em></strong>to read the full article</p> <p><strong>March </strong></p> <p>March was the month of good looking hair, as Over60 "best hairstyles to make you look younger" article was most popular. Our personal fav was the classic bob! What’s yours?</p> <p><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13023/hairstyles_498x245.jpg" alt="HAIRSTYLES (1)"/></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/lifestyle/beauty-style/2015/03/hairstyles-to-look-younger/">Click here</a> </em></span></strong>to read the article</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>April </strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">The king of Rock and Roll still lives on with his legendary music hits and even his "good genes," as Over60 saw people take a liking to see the King’s grandson, who looked just like him.</p> <p><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13007/elvispresley_498x245.jpg" alt="ELVISPRESLEY"/></p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2015/12/elvis-presleys-grandson-ben/"><em>Click</em><em> here</em></a></strong> to read the article</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>May </strong></p> <p>They’re everybody’s favourite Royal family: William, Kate and baby George… And in the month of May, this Royal fam got even better with the birth of their first daughter, princess Charlotte.</p> <p><img width="496" height="310" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13013/princesscharlotte_496x310.jpg" alt="PRINCESSCHARLOTTE"/></p> <p><strong>June<br /><br /></strong>Times are certainly changing and we saw a pivotal move in June - as the US Supreme Court legalised same-sex marriage in all states. With President Barack Obama tweeting his support of marriage equality #LoveWins</p> <p> <img width="500" height="244" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13017/gaymarriage_500x244.jpg" alt="Gaymarriage"/></p> <p><strong>July </strong></p> <p>For the first time in history, a spacecraft saw Pluto up close, revealing a new world to humans on Earth in a 3-billion-mile journey.</p> <p><img width="500" height="214" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13016/pluto_500x214.jpg" alt="Pluto"/></p> <p><strong>August </strong></p> <p>August was apparently a great month to connect - as over one billion people used Facebook on a single day for the first time since its creation.<br />Did you know: One in seven people use Facebook to connect with family and friends</p> <p><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13020/facebook_498x245.jpg" alt="Facebook"/></p> <p><strong>September </strong></p> <p>Word on the street throughout September was that a fury little rodent bite off more than he could chew – you guessed it! The NY Pizza rat video went viral making it everyone’s top pick!</p> <p><strong><img width="499" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13014/pizzarat_499x280.jpg" alt="Pizzarat"/></strong></p> <p><strong>October </strong></p> <p>The story that inspired us all to learn a little something from someone senior, who surely knows how it’s done. The 81-year-old rocker who stunned us with his guitar was by far our fav in October!</p> <p><img width="500" height="273" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13012/guitarplayer_500x273.jpg" alt="Guitarplayer"/></p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2015/12/81-year-old-stuns-with-guitar-solo/"><em>Click here </em></a></strong>to read the full article</p> <p><strong>November</strong> </p> <p>We know what Tabitha Stephens of "Bewitched" looked like before, but people really wanted to know what she looked like in the month of November, making this story most popular!</p> <p><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13011/bewitched_498x245.jpg" alt="BEWITCHED"/></p> <p><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/entertainment/tv/2015/10/tabitha-stephens-bewitched-now/">Click here </a></em></strong>to read the full article</p> <p><strong>December </strong></p> <p>There’s no better way to end the festive season than something to celebrate with– and what better than Over60 very own special Flowerless orange cake recipe, which was the most special article of the holiday month!</p> <p><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/13010/orangecake_498x245.jpg" alt="ORANGECAKE"/></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2014/12/flourless-orange-cake/%20%20%20"><strong><em>Click here </em></strong></a>to read the full article</p>

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Funniest fitness fads of 2015

<p>2015 was the year of fitness fads! Well, it seems like that anyway. Every year more and more crazy fitness trends are born, but we have to say, this year it went to wackier heights than ever before. From prancercising to zombie runs, without further ado here are the fitness fads that took 2015 by storm.</p> <p><strong>1. Prancercise</strong> <em>(video above)</em></p> <p>Prancercise is defined as: A springy, rhythmic way of moving forward, similar to a horse's gait and ideally induced by elation. Actually, it's about strapping on ankle weights, turning up the music and prancing around like a horse. No really, it is, watch the video above.</p> <p><strong>2. Cats on Mats</strong></p> <p>Yep, a yoga class with kittens in the room. Bizarrely enough, there seems to be a real demand for this. Cats roam freely while you attempt to downward dog only to find the little critters climbing on you for fun. Cuteness factor? 10. Workout factor? We're not so sure.</p> <p><strong>3. Hybrid sports</strong></p> <p>Kayak-netball (playing netball whilst on a kayak), SUP-football (trying to bash a football with your paddle while stand up paddleboarding), SUP-yoga (doing yoga on your paddleboard and trying not to fall into the water), and other such genius hybrids were big this year.</p> <p><strong>4. Zombie runs</strong></p> <p>Dressing up as zombies and freaking out all the humans by running during the day. Not even at night. Scary.</p> <p><strong>5. Retrosweat</strong></p> <p>Now this is a fun one, because we should all be allowed to do aerobics like we're Jane Fonda from the 80's while jumping up and down to Michael Jackson and Prince.</p> <p><strong>6. Trampolining fitness</strong></p> <p>Trampoline parks are opening up all over the place. Where you can see nothing but trampolines in sight and you can bounce to your heart's content. They also run fitness classes which are fun, but do be warned: if you hurt yourself, you will really hurt yourself.</p> <p><strong>7. Rollerskating</strong></p> <p>Remember rollerskating? The joy of four wheels over two? Yes, it's back and it's beautiful. Rollerskating for fitness is a very freeing exercise and even you weren't an expert as a teenager, you can still give it a go.</p> <p><strong>8. WAFF</strong></p> <p>Huge in France, a WAFF is basically a giant whoopee cushion, and all the pilates/ yoga/ strength/ cardio exercises are done on the WAFF. It's great for core stability and gentle on your joints. It really is an awesome creation.</p> <p><strong>9. Fitness trackers</strong></p> <p>2015 could be renamed as the year of the fitness tracker. If you worked out and didn't track it, it was like you didn't work out at all!</p> <p><strong>10. Yoga mark II</strong></p> <p>How can you make an age-old tradition that has been practiced for centuries more cool? Paddle board yoga, acro yoga, aerial yoga, partner yoga, hip hop yoga, yoga groove, candle lit yoga, vin yoga (that's not a typo for yin yoga. That is "vin" the French word for wine), humming yoga, laughing yoga and so many more.</p> <p><em>Written by Carla McMillan. Appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz. </span></a></em></p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/health/mind/2015/11/how-to-banish-negative-thoughts/"></a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/wellbeing/2015/08/cures-from-the-kitchen-cupboard/">8 kitchen cupboard cures for common ailments</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/health/mind/2015/11/how-to-banish-negative-thoughts/"></a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/wellbeing/2015/09/old-wives-tale-medical-advice/">Odd medical advice your mother probably told you</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/health/mind/2015/11/how-to-banish-negative-thoughts/"></a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/wellbeing/2015/09/monday-music-playlist/">Catchy songs to beat the Monday blues</a></em></strong></span></p>

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Money lessons learned in 2015

<p>This year's financial journey has had plenty of highs, but also a few bumps and dips along the road.</p> <p>The good thing about hitting a pothole is it often gives my brain a good jolt.</p> <p>Sometimes it's a new thought, but more often it's a reminder to stay on the right path.</p> <p>Here are the six biggest money lessons I learned (or re-learned) in 2015.</p> <p><strong>1. Fight lifestyle inflation</strong></p> <p>This year I lived in a house with real wooden floors, two bathrooms between three people, and a kitchen built this century.</p> <p>For a young person living in Auckland, this is the definition of opulence.</p> <p>Returning to a bigger flatting situation this month felt like a step backwards.</p> <p>Of course, it's ended up being the opposite of that.</p> <p>My rent payments have been cut in half, my money goals are back on track, and the new flatties -all seven of them- are fantastic.</p> <p><strong>2. Set specific goals</strong></p> <p>It's easy to convince yourself you've earned all the little luxuries that creep into your spending, and hard to give them up.</p> <p>Without clear goals, I'd struggle to fight against this lifestyle inflation.</p> <p>This year I made my ambitions a bit more concrete, which has helped heaps. I've now got an exact savings figure in mind, and know the date I want to hit it.</p> <p>Every time I go to spend money, I visualise the number.</p> <p>Other strategies include writing your goal down every day, setting it as your phone or computer background, or making it your password.</p> <p><strong>3. Set and forget</strong></p> <p>I used to think people who struggled with over-spending needed to harden up.</p> <p>It's true that willpower can be strengthened with practice, like a muscle.</p> <p>But lately I've realised that it's also a good idea to take it out of the picture where possible, by removing the temptation.</p> <p>Examples would be setting up a transfer to your savings account right after your pay goes in, upping your KiwiSaver contribution, or automatically drip-feeding money into an investment fund.</p> <p><strong>4. Push your limits</strong></p> <p>Lucius Seneca was one of the richest men in Rome, but he sometimes travelled with just a cloak to sleep on, fasted for the day, or wore rags.</p> <p>The point was to remind himself that all his wealth could be stripped away, and not to grow too attached.</p> <p>This year's 'Austere August', in which I tried not to buy anything for a month, went a lot better than 2014's effort. </p> <p>But some readers who joined the journey put me to shame, and I'm looking forward to stepping it up again next year.</p> <p><strong>5. Less is more</strong></p> <p>I like to pretend I'm a minimalist. Moving house was a stark reminder of the embarrassing amount of junk I drag around with me.</p> <p>It took three back-breaking trips in my hatchback, compared to a single carload when I flew the nest at the start of adult life.</p> <p>Trade Me auctions and op shop donations continue. I'm slowly downsizing and winning the war on stuff, but there's plenty more work to be done.</p> <p>6. Don't buy a boat</p> <p>They say the two happiest moments in any man's life are the day he buys his boat, and the day he sells it.</p> <p>Having recently completed this bittersweet process, I can confirm: Never a truer word was spoken.</p> <p>Written by Richard Meadows. First appeared on Stuff.co.nz. </p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/finance/money-banking/2015/12/peggy-runting-tips-to-save-money/"><strong>Simple tips to help control your money</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/finance/money-banking/2015/12/older-people-better-in-business/"><strong>The older you are, the better it is for going into business</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/finance/money-banking/2015/12/petrol-falls-to-lowest-in-almost-10-months/"><strong>Petrol falls to lowest in almost 10 months, ahead of Christmas driving season</strong></a></em></span></p>

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13 winners of the 2015 Comedy Wildlife Photography awards

<p>Presenting you the winners of the 2015 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards, a competition celebrating the silliest photos in the wildlife photography field.</p> <p>“The number and quality of the entries was fantastic,” judge and British comedian Hugh Dennis told Peta Pixel. “The finalists should be very proud of themselves, as should the animals they photographed, simply for looking so funny. Sadly there is no way of telling them.”</p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/09/dogs-make-the-best-companions/"></a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2015/11/clever-cop-saves-dog/">Clever cop saves dog with a moment of inspiration</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/09/dogs-make-the-best-companions/"></a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2015/12/happiest-dogs-in-the-world/">The happiest dogs in the world</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/09/dogs-make-the-best-companions/"></a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/2015/11/interspecies-animal-friendships/">15 unlikely friendships that will melt your heart</a></em></strong></span></p>

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10 spectacular drone photos taken in 2015

<p>We don’t ever remember getting shots like this with disposable cameras.</p> <p>Dronestragram, a social network set up specifically for sharing drone photography, has released a selection of the 10 most popular photographs taken by drones in 2015.</p> <p>And the range is absolutely stunning. From an awe-inspiring image that captures Christ the Redeemer (from a bird’s eye view perspective) to a stunning shot of Mont Saint Michel in Normandy, these are photos that are only made possible through the use of drones.</p> <p>“Drones are becoming an increasingly accessible way to get a new perspective on the world,” Eric Dupin, CEO of Dronestagram, said in a statement. “There literally are no physical limits as to where a shot can take place anymore.”</p> <p>Say what you like about drones, but there’s no denying they can take some spectacular images. Scroll through the gallery above to see them all.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/travel/travel-tips/2015/12/funny-way-to-avoid-losing-luggage/"><strong>One man’s genius way to avoid losing your luggage</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/travel/travel-tips/2015/12/random-act-of-airport-kindness/"><strong>Stranger buys stranded traveller a flight to see her dying mother</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/travel/travel-tips/2015/12/6-details-fine-print-plane-tickets/"><strong>6 hidden details in the fine print of plane tickets</strong></a></em></span></p>

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Google releases list of top searched-for questions for 2015

<p>Google boasts 1.17 billion users worldwide, so it’s no surprise that when the search engine giant released the figures for their top search terms, the internet took note. With changes to their site layout, Google now offers short-form accessible answers to thousands of questions at the click of a button. So, what did people ask Google in 2015?</p> <p>The question “What is Netflix” beat out “What is love?” for the top spot, perhaps giving insight into our how our social priorities are shifting!</p> <p>Funnily enough, “Who is the Australian Prime Minister?” was the seventh most asked question, followed by “Who is Banksy?” and “Who is the richest person in the world?”</p> <p>In Australia, Malcom Turnbull beat out Ivan Milat and Peter Allen for the most searched people. Meanwhile, when recipes at the top of our cooking list included pancakes, slow cooker means and Thermomix ideas.</p> <p>The royals also featured on the list, with Elizabeth II ranking in the top five. The birth of Duchess Catherine’s baby Princess Charlotte also made the top 10 cut.</p> <p>When it came to how-tos, the most asked question was “How to tie a tie?” followed by cooking questions. Perhaps our domestic skills are taking a dive.</p> <p><a href="https://www.google.com/trends/topcharts#date=2015&amp;geo=AU" target="_blank">Take a look at Google’s top search terms of 2015 here.</a>  </p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/entertainment/technology/2015/12/instagram-adds-new-feature/">The new Instagram feature you’ll love</a></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/entertainment/technology/2015/11/types-of-people-on-facebook/">The 10 types of people you always find on Facebook</a></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/entertainment/technology/2015/11/android-phones-security-phone/">Android phones at risk of hacking</a></em></strong></p> <p> </p>

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Australia’s favourite pet names in 2015

<p>Medibank Pet Insurance has revealed the most popular names for cats and dogs in 2015.</p> <p><strong>The top 10 dog names</strong></p> <p>1. Bella</p> <p>2. Charlie</p> <p>3. Max</p> <p>4. Molly</p> <p>5. Ruby</p> <p>6. Coco</p> <p>7. Buddy</p> <p>8. Oscar</p> <p>9. Lucy</p> <p>10. Toby</p> <p><strong>The top 10 cat names</strong></p> <p>1. Bella</p> <p>2. Charlie</p> <p>3. Oscar</p> <p>4. Max</p> <p>5. Molly</p> <p>6. Coco</p> <p>7. Missy</p> <p>8. Mia</p> <p>9. Tiger</p> <p>10. Jasper</p> <p><strong>The most popular dog breeds in Australia</strong></p> <p>1. Maltese Cross</p> <p>2. Labrador</p> <p>3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier</p> <p>4. Golden Retriever</p> <p>5. Cavoodle</p> <p>6. German Shepherd</p> <p>7. Border Collie</p> <p>8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Cross</p> <p>9. Jack Russell Terrier Cross</p> <p>10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel</p> <p><strong>The most popular cat breeds in 2015</strong></p> <p>1. Domestic Short Hair</p> <p>2. Domestic House Cat</p> <p>3. Domestic Medium Hair</p> <p>4. Ragdoll</p> <p>5. Tabby</p> <p>6. Burmese</p> <p>7. Domestic Long Hair</p> <p>8. Unknown Cat Breed</p> <p>9. Moggie</p> <p>10. British Short Hair</p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/10/why-dogs-so-happy-to-see-you/">The science behind dogs being so happy to see you</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/10/food-to-not-feed-dog/">13 foods never to feed your dog</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/10/life-advice-from-cats/">8 life lessons from cats you’ll love</a></em></strong></span></p>

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Top 15 topics from Facebook in 2015

<p>Facebook has released a lists of the topics that had Australian’s talking in 2015, based on the social network’s monthly analysis of its 14 million Australian members.</p> <p>The five most talked about topics for Australia in 2015 were Tony Abbott, the leadership spill, the Anzac Day centenary, the Bali Nine executions and the Syrian civil war and refugee crisis.</p> <p>Director of policy for Facebook Australia Mia Garlick noted the serious nature of the issues Australian’s focussed on in 2015, adding, “This is the most prevalent politics has been in a non-election year. We’ve also seen global crises capture Australian’s attention.”</p> <p>Facebook also released a list detailing the top 10 destinations for Australians to “check-in” to. Melbourne’s Crown Casino was number one, followed by the MCG and Darling Harbour.</p> <p>For the full lists, scroll down:</p> <p><strong>Most talked about topics in Australia for 2015</strong></p> <p>1. Tony Abbott</p> <p>2. Malcolm Turnbull and leadership spill</p> <p>3. ANZAC DAY 100th Anniversary</p> <p>4. Bali Nine executions</p> <p>5. Syrian Civil War &amp; Refugee Crisis</p> <p>6. Nepal Earthquakes</p> <p>7. November 13 Attacks in Paris</p> <p>8. Floyd Mayweather</p> <p>9. Fight Against ISIS</p> <p>10. Adam Goodes</p> <p>11. Same-sex marriage debate</p> <p>12. Mars fly-by</p> <p>13. Bronwyn Bishop expenses scandal</p> <p>14. Ed Sheeran</p> <p>15. Taylor Swift</p> <p><strong>Top 10 Australian check in locations for 2015</strong></p> <p>1. Crown Melbourne</p> <p>2. Melbourne Cricket Ground</p> <p>3. Darling Harbour</p> <p>4. Sydney Opera House</p> <p>5. Taronga Zoo</p> <p>6. Warner Bros. Movie World</p> <p>7. Sea World</p> <p>8. Australia Zoo</p> <p>9. Melbourne Zoo</p> <p>10. Dreamworld Australia</p> <p><em>Hero image credit: <span>JuliusKielaitis</span> / Shutterstock</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/entertainment/technology/2014/11/how-private-is-your-facebook-account/"><strong>How private is your Facebook account?</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/lifestyle/technology/2015/11/types-of-people-on-facebook/"><strong>The 10 types of people you always find on Facebook</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/entertainment/technology/2014/12/guide-to-twitter/"><strong>A beginner’s guide to Twitter</strong></a></em></span></p>

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Australian National Dictionary Centre 2015 word of the year revealed

<p>It’s two words not one, but the term “sharing economy” has still be named Australia’s 2015 word of the year.</p> <p>The Australian National Dictionary Centre, which is based at the Australian National University, chooses it’s annual word of the year based on the on the prominence and frequency of use in Australia in 2015.</p> <p>In case you’re not sure what the term sharing economy even means, it is defined as an “economic system based on sharing of access to goods, resources, and services, typically by means of the internet.”</p> <p>Centre director Amanda Laugesen told Canberra Times that sharing economy had become a popular phrase this year due to debates around ridesharing service Uber as well as increasing popularity of crowdfunding and accommodation sharing apps.</p> <p>She said the term had "feel-good connotations in emphasising sharing".</p> <p>"Some regard it as a positive good for society, but others have pointed to its corporate dimensions and its potential to displace industries and businesses," Dr Laugesen said.</p> <p>Last year’s word of the year was “shirtfront”, which gained currency in 2014 after then Prime Minister Tony Abbott threatened to shirtfront Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/family/2015/09/read-fairy-tales-to-grandchildren/">Why you should always read fairy tales to grandkids</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/family/2015/08/new-favourite-childhood-book-covers/">Your favourite childhood books now look different</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/lifestyle/family/2015/05/favourite-childrens-book-characters/">5 of the most-loved heroes from old-school children’s books</a></em></strong></span></p>

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