Do you know what the seven magic mountains are? Listening to the name brings excitement, especially for those who love traveling! When traveling interstate across Las Vegas, you catch a magical and interesting sight!
Curiosity gets the better of you when there are colorful boulders kept one above another, thus creating an eye-catching spectacle. Yet humans have marked the place with their secretion of waste and garbage! So, instead of looking magical, it seems like a forceful creation of human afterthought!
Many tours have been organized around it, and people go crazy with their cameras and photographs! Want to know more about this colorful beauty amid the desert? I was hoping you could read the article where I will discuss the artist, his inspiration, and his creation.
You will also learn how to visit the seven magic mountains and the right time to go! There are some other factors necessary to know before you go, which we will discuss here in detail!
The 7 Magic Mountains is a large-scale public artwork by renowned Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. The painting is 30 to 35 feet high and is located in a desert outside of Las Vegas, visible across the desert landscape when traveling on Interstate 15.
The location where you can see the seven magic mountains gives off an otherworldly vibe! It is symbolically and physically representative of beauty and showcases the integrity of Las Vegas as a destination.
When traveling across the highway, you will check out the mountain ranges, Jean Dry Lake in the background, and the desert! Overall, the seven magic mountains’ symbolic representation is both artificial and natural!
The place is swarming with tourists, especially because the highway is constantly ebbing with traffic between Las Vegas and Los Angeles. When you pass the site, you feel like you are crossing over to a portal where you will find the remnants of artificial and natural!
Is It Man-Made Or Natural?
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The public artwork is an artificial large-scale exhibition that features seven towers made of locally sourced boulders, which seem like dayglow totems! It is a creative and unique approach to creating a monument across the desert, which creates beautiful visuals!
The Seven Magic Mountains is more like the representation of a destination like Las Vegas, integrating both the natural and the artificial elements. The art has been produced by the Nevada Museum of Art in Reno and the Art Production Fund in New York!
It was located 10 miles south of the St. Rose Parkway in Henderson and Las Vegas Boulevard! It was in the 1960s when another art was created by Jean Tinquely and Michael Heizer, pretty close to the Jean Dry Lake. Seven magic mountains at night is one of the unique sights to encounter!
Artist!
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The creator of the Seven Magic Mountains is Ugo Rondinone from Switzerland, who lives and currently works in New York! He was born in 1964 and has become popular based on his expansive emotional range, channeling his creativity through art!
By embracing fluid and diverse media and forms, the artist uses his profound insight and psychological expressivement to relay the relationship between nature and human beings! The artist highlights the human conditions through his work.
The artist brings romanticism, the natural world, and existentialism together to encapsulate symbolization and representation. The profound instinct he uses to create the art underpins the purpose of the exhibitions.
Producers!
nevadaart.org
The Nevada Museum of Art has been at the root of art in Nevada, and it is one of the producers of the Seven Magic Mountains. New audiences are efficiently reached through a partnership with the Art Production Fund located in New York.
Contemporary art expands awareness among people! Many ambitious public art projects have inspired people regarding symbolization, understanding of social issues, practicality, and interpretation of human concerns and relationships.
The AAM-accredited art museum in Nevada is the Nevada Museum of Art, where they are integrating grants, gifts, sponsorship, and membership. The Reno-based institution was founded in 1931 as a non-profit organization.
They provide opportunities for artists to engage people on a wider range where their educational experiences and range of art are well recognized. There are Museum schools, original exhibitions and programming, and permanent collections.
The center archives unique materials and has been created by over 1,000 artists who work across seven continents! Spreading awareness across people, the museum has sponsored a range of art and beauty.
This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas!
If you want to visit the Seven Magic Mountains Las Vegas, you must see it as it is open for visitation. There is no need for reservation, nor are people cordoned off at a certain distance from the art!
Even though there has been a proper reason why people were prevented from going closer to the art! People throwing garbage across the art installation place and painting graffiti on the boulders led to serious hampering of the art.
It is informed that people have been requested to maintain social distancing and caution! People are asked to maintain healthy habits when visiting the art, considering it is a public place!
When visiting the Seven Magic Mountains, there is no price for Seven Magic Mountains tickets as they are free for the public to see.
The installation has been highlighted as interpretive signage has been used to prompt people to learn more about the art, the artist, the artwork, and the land on which the art has been installed!
What We Need To Know?
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The best time to visit is any time of the year as long as there are flash flood events! It is well-known that there might be flash floods in the desert! To protect yourself from these sudden extreme weather conditions, you must check the weather forecast before visiting.
A Guide-By-Cell is offered in Spanish and English so that the visitors can have a better and deeper engagement. They have also given a number, 702.381.5182, on which you can call and learn more about the art and the artists in South Nevada!
You will not be getting any amenities at the artwork site, nor will you be able to access any restroom facilities. You need to know this because you cannot beat nature’s call. Hence, it is important to consider that the nearest restroom you can access is five miles from the Jean site.
From the artwork’s location, the nearest businesses you will find are at the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and St. Rose Parkway! This location is almost 10 miles away from the area, so it may be difficult for you to access any public restrooms in the middle of the desert.
You must carry water, especially because it is in the desert, so you cannot access it publicly. Nourishment necessary in the desert must be taken while you visit the seven magic mountains!
How To Go There?
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If you are going from Las Vegas, you must follow the I-15 S to Sloan Road and exit 25. You then have to turn left or east to Las Vegas Boulevard.
After turning, keep driving for 7 miles south on Las Vegas Boulevard! You can check out the artwork, which will be on your left!
If you are traveling from Los Angeles, you will be driving north on I-15 Jean and take an exit on NV 12! Turning east or right on NV-161 to Las Vegas Boulevard would be best. You must then keep driving on Las Vegas Boulevard for approximately 5 miles!
You can see the artwork on your right or the east when you are coming from Los Angeles. Also, You can park in an onsite parking lot, considering street parking is discouraged! There is no public transportation at the installation site, so you have to walk up there!
Tours!
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The producers have been involved with the tours they create around the seven magical mountains. There are no tours separately, nor is there a guided tour! They have not encouraged any transportation from the ATV operators.
Several organizations have tried to offer options to visit the Seven Magic Mountains, but I need to find out how authentic they are! Do not go for it if they are trying to collect entrance or parking fees!
Accommodations!
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There is no accommodation available, nor is there overnight camping available! It is strictly prohibited, and the visitation hours are quite clear, extending from sunrise to sunset.
The artist and the producers have also informed us that they do not take any extra responsibility for injuries or harm to the visitors while visiting the art!
Other Things To Do Near The Seven Magic Mountains!
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Apart from the art, you can check out other places near the Seven Magic Mountains! If you have planned a trip around the whole site, it is quite fun because you will acquire the beautiful experiences of a lifetime!
Please read the article to know more about the places you can visit and what they are about! This will help you create an amazing itinerary and enjoy your heart out!
Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
venetianlasvegas.com
You have to visit Madame Tussauds, considering it is one of a kind! The institution performs a survey to learn about the latest attractions or celebrities, thus selecting them based on their popularity.
A wax figure takes around 6 to 8 months to be constructed; hence, after the survey, they finalize the theme or the individual and create the wax statue accordingly! Everything from clothing preference to facial expressions and hairstyle is researched!
Sometimes, celebrities are requested to visit Tussaud’s stylists for the correct measurements! Almost 200 photos and 150 measurements are taken to create the perfect look! They use an oil-based paint, which helps in giving a realistic skin complexion to the statue.
For the statues, steel, and clay are also used apart from wax! There are celebrities across the world who have been directly involved in the statue-making process. So what can be more fun than checking out these life-sized dolls of your favorite celebrity and clicking some pictures?
Shark Reef Aquarium At Mandalay Bay
thrillophilia.com
Take a taxi, shuttle, or car to visit the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay! You can also opt for the free Excalibur-Luxor-Mandalay Bay Tram and reach the aquarium while wandering around the tunnel, considered one of the largest exhibits!
The shark exhibit is one of the largest, with a shipwreck surrounded by 4.9 million liters of water, thus creating a unique ecosystem for the sharks! There are also freshwater fish, saltwater fish, golden crocodiles, giant rays, and sea turtles.
Some younger visitors love the touch pool, where they can have their collection of animals to touch! They will have certified divers who help them with the touching and create an opportunity to dive in the tanks, i.e., scuba diving!
There are many passes in Las Vegas for multi-attraction sightseeing; the aquarium is included in the passes. Closer to Mandalay Bay Resort, the Shark Reef Aquarium is located near the South Convention Center’s end of Las Vegas Boulevard.
High Roller
nbcnews.com
Visiting Las Vegas and not going to the High Roller is a spoilsport! It is one of a one-of-a-kind experience with Happy Half Hour cabins at the High Roller Observation Wheel. You will have a bartender, an open bar, along with a 30-minute rotation of the wheel!
There is a self-guided curriculum sheet along with a 30 to 40-minute lesson plan. You can discuss technology, science, math, geography, and architectural design.
Keep The Travel Shoes On…
The Seven Magic Mountains is an artificial art that bridges the gap between the synthetic and the natural! With the mountains and a lake as a backdrop, the art acts like a portal, making visitors realize the significance of the relationship between nature and human beings.
In my opinion, the artist also tries to highlight how people can connect to nature; it is a sacred place! Hence, the boulders are an inspiration and a place to pay homage to the beauty of the desert and its significance in our lives.
Comment below regarding your perspective on the art and how you interpret it!
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
Pigeon Forge may be a modest town with a population of 6,500, but that doesn’t mean it lacks in any way. When it comes to shopping in particular, there are more than 300 stores spread across the town that offer gifts, handmade items, souvenirs, and a wide variety of other items. You come to Pigeon Forge, and there is no chance that you will go back empty-handed.
Here are some of the best shopping tips when you are out on a spree in Pigeon Forge:
Here Are Some Famous Gift Shops In Pigeon Forge
While out on vacation, most people either buy gifts to take back for their loved ones or get souvenirs that can serve as a reminder of their trip. If you are looking for either of these purchases, Pigeon Forge has a plethora of gift shops that you can hit up and find the ideal items to give to almost any person, regardless of their age or gender.
Here are some of the most famous local gift shops for you to explore:
a. Three Bears General Store
Three Bears General Store in Pigeon Forge is the ideal place to go if you want to buy something that keeps reminding you of your travels. This enormous store, which is just off the Parkway, contains whatever you can think of. Numerous products with a Smoky Mountain motif are available, including clothes, blankets, and figurines. Additionally, this business offers jewelry, snacks, accessories, and a lot more. It is by far one of the most famous Pigeon Forge gift shops to explore.
b. Mountain Mile General Store
Another prominent and often-visited local gift shop is the Mountain Mile General Store. Located on Teaster Lane, this shop is one that offers almost everything that you could possibly imagine as a gift. There are home décor items, magnets, buttons, Smokies-themed apparel, and a lot more besides. Whether you are looking for a birthday gift or just something to carry as memorabilia, this store has it all, making it a must-visit spot in Pigeon Forge.
The Best Local Stores
It’s not just Pigeon Forge, but anywhere you visit, it is important that you take a trip to some of the famous local stores. It gives you an idea of what the area is known for, what residents make and sell that is not available anywhere else in the country, as well as to get a glimpse of cultures and traditions that are upheld in the city.
When talking about Pigeon Forge, some of the renowned local stores include:
a. Goats On The Roof
Yes, that is the actual name of a general store in Pigeon Forge, and it is exactly what the name indicates. In fact, the store is part of a larger attraction with the same name where real goats are kept on the top of the building. The location also has a mountain coaster for families to enjoy. The store has a lot of items that are related to goats, but there are local clothing, home décor, and edible items available, too.
b. The Old Mill General Store
The Old Mill is one of the most iconic locations in Pigeon Forge, and this store is a famous attraction within it. The 200-year-old Mill is still operational as it grinds fresh wheat and corn. You can buy a wide variety of freshly ground flours at the store. And that’s not all. You can pick up homemade pickles, jellies, and jams, all freshly produced. Then there is also the available range of toys, souvenirs, candies, and a lot more besides.
Some General Shopping Tips While Traveling
Shopping is naturally an essential part of every vacation. However, all that stuff you buy definitely increases your luggage, which may not be a problem if you travel to Pigeon Forge in an RV or your own car, but if you took a flight and intend to take one back, weight is something you will need to take into account. And that’s just one thing to take care of.
Here are a few tips that make travel shopping significantly easier:
a. Pack light
There is a good probability that you will go shopping everywhere you go, whether you are traveling domestically or internationally. Since you are aware of this, it is best to bring minimal luggage. This is an important consideration if you are flying, but if you drive across the country and have room in your vehicle, you might not need to consider it.
b. Browse Before You Pick
There are a lot of different shops selling a wide variety of items across Pigeon Forge. At times, you may feel like buying almost everything in a store, but that’s not always practical. A great thing is that despite there being more than 300 stores, they are all located in relatively close vicinity. So, it is better to browse different places before buying anything. You can always come back to a store if you find something you like and can’t find it anywhere else.
c. Be Careful With Edible Items
In Pigeon Forge, the Old Mill store is not the only place where you’ll find edible items to buy. Almost every famous general store in the town offers some local delicacy that you would want to take back home. However, carrying edible items is tricky, irrespective of whether you are traveling by road or by car. Freshly ground flour, in particular, can be difficult to transport. Make sure that you get a plastic container for it, or else you run the risk of getting that white powder in various places that you’d have to clean up later on.
Conclusion
Pigeon Forge is a comprehensive travel destination that offers a lot in terms of entertainment and considerable shopping choices. From memorabilia to apparel, from edibles to décor products, you can find almost everything down here, but it is important not to go crazy and shop wisely.
Read Also:
Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers
8 Reasons To Spend Your Spring Vacation In Pigeon Forge
Top Tips For A Terrific Vacation
Planning to visit a new country from the USA and don’t have a passport? Don’t worry, as the places to travel without a passport from the USA await you with natural wonders, hiking expeditions, and more!
You can have Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and many other destinations in American Overseas Territories on your wishlist. You just need to check on the documents and ID proof you need to fly to these wonderful travel sites.
Here is a list I have curated, and you can always add your favorite countries or places to travel to without a passport from the USA.
These Are The Best Places To Travel Without A Passport From The USA
Last-minute trips are great, especially when you don’t need to worry about getting or renewing a passport.
Further, with passport worries gone, you can focus more on getting your itinerary right and budgeting.
So, pack your bags and fly to any of the following destinations.
1. Puerto Rico
Best Time to Visit: December to April
This Caribbean island is one of the best places to travel without a passport from the USA. It exudes the quintessential vibe of the Latin American culture, and it is the largest US territory.
Traveling to Puerto Rico is easy as you will get a daily flight to San Juan from almost all major airports in the USA.
With easy access from the USA, Puerto Rico also offers many natural wonders and activities to do. Culebra and Vieques are the best islands to explore. Further, for some adrenaline rush, you can participate in surfing in Rincon.
However, the most fascinating water activity here is paddling atop bioluminescent bays. Laguna Grande, Mosquito Bay, and La Parguera are the spots where you can try this activity.
The other attractions in Puerto Rico are the El Yunque tropical rainforest and the Spanish fortification of El Morro. You must not also miss the scenic waterfalls in Puerto Rico.
2. Northern Mariana Islands
Best Time to Visit: January to December
One of the most exotic places to travel around the world, the Northern Mariana Islands is a tropical paradise where the sea and the mountains meet.
The Northern Mariana Islands look like a small string in the Pacific Ocean, and it is the best for watersports activities like kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
Furthermore, the Northern Mariana Islands are a hub of the Polynesian culture. This location once witnessed the brutal activities of World War II. So, you will come across many war memorials here.
The Saipan Memorial in the American Memorial Park is the most prominent war memorial in the Northern Mariana Islands. Further, the American Memorial Park commemorates “the American and Marianas dead in the Marianas Campaign of World War II.”
3. St. Croix Island
Best Time to Visit: December to May
St. Croix Island, a US territory, exudes the true Caribbean spirit. A part of the British Virgin Islands, St. Croix has a dash of history due to the presence of the sundial monument. However, tourists find its beaches and lush forests more intriguing.
It also has some cool golf courses and resorts. Moreover, St. Croix Island offers the best food tourism experience with fine dining restaurants like Ama Cane Bay, Hamilton’s, Duggan’s Reef, etc.
4. St. Thomas Island
Best Time to Visit: December to February
St. Thomas Island has some of the coolest beaches in the British Virgin Islands. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular water activities here. You can also enjoy the vibrant nightlife here.
ARC Boutique Restaurant & Gallery, Taphus Beer House, Starz Nightclub, and Dog House Pub are some of the coolest destinations on St. Thomas Island, where you can enjoy the most happening nightlife.
5. The Bahamas
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, this large archipelago nation bustles with its ship cruise ports. However, its beaches are pristine, allowing you to spend the most tranquil holiday here.
You reach the Bahamas, one of the best places to travel without a passport from the USA, through a cruise from Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
The long coastline of the Bahamas will allow you to have the best interactions with coral reefs, mangroves, and sandy beaches.
6. The Dominican Republic
Best Time to Visit: December to April
The Dominican Republic is an amazing place to explore the best Spanish architecture, and its white sandy beaches make it one of the most exotic destinations in the world.
If you take cruises from the USA, they will stop at Punta Cana or Santo Domingo. Santo Domingo has Alcazar de Colon and other impressive sites that speak of Spanish colonial history.
Punta Cana, on the other hand, will charm you with turquoise water and its serene beaches.
7. The Cayman Islands
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Cayman Island is one of the best places to travel without a passport from the USA when one is on a closed-loop cruise. The cruise stops at George Town, the cruise port of this island nation.
With pristine waters, George Town is the hub of many water activities, and you will also find many endangered animals, including the Georgetown Salamander.
The ocean activities include snorkeling, paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, and fishing.
8. Honduras
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Diving in Roatan will be the biggest highlight of your trip to Honduras from the USA. You can take a closed-loop cruise from South Florida to reach Honduras.
Honduras is also home to the Mesoamerican Reef. It is the second-longest reef barrier system in the world.
9. Turks and Caicos
Best Time to Visit: February to April
On the south of the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos will win your heart with its wonderful beaches. The clear water of this British Territory is one of the best in the world, and you can participate in the most thrilling snorkeling and diving activities here.
Furthermore, exploring the secluded shores of the Grand Turk is an experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.
10. Hawaii
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October
You just need a government-issued ID for the beautiful island of Hawaii, the 50th state in the USA. You will get a vibe of the Polynesian culture in Hawaii, and the volcanoes on the Big Island are great sites for geological wonders.
Moreover, you can surf in Maui to make your vacation in Hawaii more exciting.
Also read
Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary.
Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures.
From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.
Traveling long-term or moving abroad is an exciting adventure. But if your journey involves applying for visas, immigration permits, or residency, you’ll quickly discover that documentation is one of the biggest hurdles. Among the most common requirements are visa translation services and certified translations of official documents.
Whether you are applying for a student visa, a work permit, or reuniting with family overseas, presenting correctly translated documents can make or break your application. Authorities want clear, accurate, and verifiable translations, and failure to meet those standards often leads to delays or even rejections.
This guide explains everything you need to know about visa and immigration translations, including why certified translations are required, what documents usually need them, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Why Visa Translations Are Crucial
When immigration officers review applications, they must be able to fully understand the documents submitted. If your birth certificate, marriage certificate, or bank statement is in another language, it must be translated into the official language of the country you are applying to.
Here’s why translations are necessary:
Legal clarity: Immigration authorities cannot legally assess documents they don’t understand.
Consistency: Translations ensure names, dates, and details match across multiple documents.
Compliance: Many countries require certified translations to confirm that translations are accurate and complete.
What Are Certified Translations?
Not all translations are equal. For immigration, you need certified translations.
A certified translation includes:
A complete and accurate translation of the original document.
A signed statement (certificate of accuracy) by the translator or translation company confirming the translation’s authenticity.
Contact details of the translation provider for verification if needed.
This certificate is essential because it gives immigration officers confidence that the document is trustworthy and complies with their standards.
Common Documents That Require Certified Translations
When applying for visas or residency, the following documents are often requested in translated form:
Birth certificates
Marriage or divorce certificates
Death certificates (in cases of dependent claims)
Passports and ID cards
Academic transcripts and diplomas
Criminal record checks
Medical records or vaccination certificates
Bank statements and tax returns
Employment contracts or pay slips
Before submitting your application, carefully check the requirements of the immigration authority you are applying to, as these can vary from country to country.
How to Handle Certified Translations for Visa Applications
If you are preparing for long-term travel or immigration, here’s how to approach the translation process:
Identify which documents need translationReview the checklist from the immigration authority. Don’t assume that only personal records need translation—financial and academic documents are often required too.
Choose a reliable certified translation providerLook for services that are recognized by immigration authorities. For example, Certling offers certified translations accepted by USCIS in the U.S., UKVI in the U.K., and IRCC in Canada.
Submit clear scans or photos of your documentsHigh-quality images prevent errors and ensure no details are missed in the translation.
Check turnaround timesVisa applications often have strict deadlines. Many providers offer standard and express delivery options—use express services if you’re short on time.
Verify acceptance guaranteesEnsure the translation provider guarantees compliance with immigration authorities. This gives peace of mind if your documents are ever questioned.
Innovation in Visa Translations
The translation industry has modernized significantly. Companies like Certling use AI and machine vision to analyze documents, count words instantly, and provide transparent per-word pricing. This innovation eliminates overcharging based on per-page pricing models and saves applicants money.
Other key advancements include:
Selective translation tools: Applicants can exclude unnecessary sections of documents, such as logos or stamps, lowering costs.
Secure file handling: Professional providers use encrypted systems and delete documents after delivery to protect your data.
Instant online quotes: You can now upload documents and get pricing within seconds, reducing guesswork.
FAQs on Visa & Certified Translations
Do I always need certified translations for visa applications? Yes, in most cases. Immigration authorities typically require certified translations of any foreign-language documents. Can I translate the documents myself? No. Self-translations are not accepted. Certified translations must come from a qualified translator or company. How long does the process take? This depends on the provider. Standard services may take a few days, while express options can deliver certified translations within 24 hours. What happens if immigration rejects my translation? Reputable companies often provide corrections or revisions free of charge if authorities raise issues. Certling, for example, includes this as part of their service. Are digital copies of certified translations acceptable? Yes, many immigration authorities now accept certified translations in PDF form. However, some may request physical copies, so confirm with your local authority.
The Role of Certified Translation Services in Your Journey
Securing a visa or residency isn’t just about submitting the right forms. It’s about presenting complete, clear, and compliant documentation. Certified translation is a critical part of this process.
Providers like Certling specialize in certified translations for immigration and visa applications. They offer word-based pricing, fast turnaround, and acceptance guarantees for major authorities across the U.S., U.K., Ireland, and Canada. While your focus may be on the exciting parts of long-term travel, taking care of certified translations early ensures your journey won’t be delayed by paperwork.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the visa application process can be overwhelming, especially when traveling long-term or moving abroad. Certified translations are not just a formality—they are a legal requirement that can significantly affect your success. By understanding what certified translations are, why they matter, and how to get them done correctly, you’ll be better prepared to handle the complexities of immigration paperwork..
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