Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Thursday April 27th 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 Cracked : AJAR
The clue “cracked” implies that something is not completely closed or open. The answer “ajar” means partially open or slightly open, which fits the definition.
5 Actor Omar : EPPS
The clue “Actor Omar” is asking for the name of an actor named Omar. The answer “Epps” refers to Omar Epps, an American actor best known for his roles in the TV show “House” and the movie “Love and Basketball.”
9 Dull sound : THUMP
The clue “dull sound” is referring to a sound that is low in pitch and lacking in resonance or musical quality. The answer “thump” is a perfect fit, as it is a dull, heavy sound that is often associated with things like fists hitting a surface, or heavy objects falling to the ground.
14 Easy going? : LOPE
The clue “easy going?” is a play on words, using the phrase “easy going” to suggest a leisurely, relaxed pace. The answer “lope” refers to a type of movement that is characterized by long, easy strides, which fits the clue’s suggestion of a relaxed pace.
15 Pharmacist’s container : VIAL
The clue “pharmacist’s container” is asking for a word that describes a small container used by pharmacists to store medications or other substances. The answer “vial” is a small glass or plastic container with a narrow neck and a cap that is used for this purpose.
16 Ancient region of modern Turkey : IONIA
The clue “ancient region of modern Turkey” is asking for the name of a historical region located in modern-day Turkey. The answer “Ionia” refers to an ancient Greek civilization that was located along the western coast of Asia Minor, in what is now modern-day Turkey.
17 Range for Zermatt and the Matter Valley : ALPS
The clue “range for Zermatt and the Matter Valley” is asking for the name of a mountain range that includes the area around Zermatt and the Matter Valley. The answer “Alps” refers to the vast mountain range that stretches across several European countries, including Switzerland, where Zermatt and the Matter Valley are located.
18 Honors course for an aspiring aircraft marshaller? : AP POINTING
The clue “Honors course for an aspiring aircraft marshaller?” is a clever play on words, using “pointing” to refer both to the act of directing an aircraft to its parking spot, as well as the academic concept of taking an advanced course. “AP” is a common abbreviation for Advanced Placement, a type of honors course in high schools in the United States. Therefore, “AP POINTING” can be read as an advanced course for someone who wants to become an aircraft marshaller.
20 Get down to basics : STRIP
The clue “Get down to basics” is a bit of a double entendre. “Strip” can refer to removing one’s clothing, which is certainly a basic state of undress. However, in this context, “strip” is being used in the sense of removing layers or components to reveal the core or essential elements. For example, you might “strip down” a machine to its most basic components to better understand how it works.
22 Consumes : EATS
The clue “Consumes” is a simple one, and the answer is equally straightforward. “Eats” is a common synonym for the act of consuming food or drink.
23 Red carpet stance : POSE
The clue “Red carpet stance” is referring to the way celebrities often stand and pose for photographs on the red carpet at events such as movie premieres or awards shows. “Pose” in this context refers to striking a particular stance or position that shows off one’s outfit or appearance.
24 Irish actor Chris of TV’s “Get Shorty” : O’DOWD
The clue “Irish actor Chris of TV’s ‘Get Shorty'” is a straightforward one for anyone who is familiar with the show. “O’DOWD” refers to the Irish actor Chris O’Dowd, who played the character of Miles Daly in the television adaptation of the Elmore Leonard novel “Get Shorty”.
26 Shenanigans : HIJINKS
The clue “Shenanigans” is a playful term that can refer to a variety of mischievous or playful activities. “Hijinks” is a synonym for shenanigans that specifically suggests a sense of lighthearted or boisterous fun. It’s a word that is often used to describe the antics of children or young adults, but can apply to anyone engaging in playful or mischievous behavior.
28 Dust jacket design : COVER ART
The clue “Dust jacket design” is referring to the artwork that appears on the cover of a book’s dust jacket. This can include illustrations, photographs, or other visual elements that are designed to catch the reader’s eye and give them an idea of what the book is about. “Cover art” is a common term used to refer to this type of design work.
31 Bowling pin count: TEN
This crossword clue refers to the number of pins used in a game of bowling. There are ten bowling pins in a standard game, so the answer is simply “TEN”.
32 Bird mascot for the Miami Hurricanes: IBIS
Many sports teams have mascots to represent them, and the Miami Hurricanes are no exception. Their mascot is an ibis, a long-legged wading bird that is commonly found in the wetlands of Florida. The ibis is often associated with the university’s athletic programs and is a familiar sight at many Miami Hurricanes events.
33 New Zealand parrots: KEAS
The Kea is a species of parrot that is native to the alpine regions of New Zealand’s South Island. These birds are known for their intelligence and curiosity, and they have a reputation for being mischievous and playful. Keas are a popular attraction for tourists visiting New Zealand, and they are also studied by scientists for their unique social behaviors.
35 Ray’s relative: SKATE
This crossword clue refers to a type of fish that is related to the stingray. Skates are flat-bodied fish that are found in the oceans and seas around the world. They have large, wing-like pectoral fins that allow them to glide through the water, much like a stingray. Some species of skates are commercially fished for their meat and are considered a delicacy in some parts of the world.
39 Tanqueray liquor: GIN
Gin is a type of liquor that is flavored with juniper berries and other botanicals. It is often used as a base for cocktails and mixed drinks, and is a popular choice for people who enjoy a strong, aromatic beverage. Tanqueray is a brand of gin that is known for its high quality and distinctive taste.
40 Georgia fruit: PEACHES
Georgia is known for its peaches, which are a popular fruit that is grown throughout the state. Peaches are known for their sweet, juicy flavor and are often used in desserts, jams, and other culinary creations. Georgia’s peach industry is a major contributor to the state’s economy, and the fruit is celebrated each year with festivals and other events.
42 Hoppin’ John morsel: PEA
Hoppin’ John is a traditional Southern dish that is often served on New Year’s Day. It is made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon or ham, and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. In this context, the answer to the crossword clue is “PEA,” since black-eyed peas are a key ingredient in Hoppin’ John.
43 George of “The Goldbergs”: SEGAL
George Segal was an American actor who played the role of Albert “Pops” Solomon in the television show “The Goldbergs.” Segal had a long and successful career in Hollywood, appearing in numerous films and television shows over the years. He was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in the 1966 film “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and also won a Golden Globe for his performance in the 1973 movie “A Touch of Class.”
45 Word with ring or music: MOOD
The word “mood” can be used in a variety of contexts, but in this crossword clue, it is used in conjunction with “ring” or “music.” In these cases, “mood” refers to the emotional or mental state that a particular piece of music or a particular ringtone might evoke. For example, a fast-paced, upbeat song might be said to have a “happy” mood, while a slow, melancholy tune might be said to have a “sad” mood.
46 Relaxation stations: SPAS
A spa is a facility that is designed to provide relaxation and rejuvenation to its clients. Spas typically offer a variety of services, including massages, facials, and other types of skin and body treatments. Many spas also have amenities such as saunas, hot tubs, and steam rooms, and some even offer yoga and fitness classes. The goal of a spa is to help its clients de-stress and unwind, leaving them feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
47 Claire of “The Crown”: FOY
Claire Foy is an English actress who is best known for her role as Queen Elizabeth II in the Netflix television series “The Crown.” Foy’s performance in the series was widely praised by critics and earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama. She has also appeared in a number of other films and television shows over the years, including “Upstairs Downstairs,” “Wolf Hall,” and “The Girl in the Spider’s Web.”
49 Fleetest of foot: SWIFTEST
This crossword clue refers to someone or something that is particularly fast or quick. The word “fleet” can be used to describe a group of ships or vehicles, but in this case, it is being used to describe a person or animal’s speed. The word “swift” can also be used to describe something that is quick or fast, and is often used to describe birds or other animals that are known for their speed.
51 Brandy glass: SNIFTER
A snifter is a type of glass that is commonly used for drinking brandy and other types of liqueurs. The glass has a wide, rounded bowl that is designed to enhance the aroma of the drink, allowing the drinker to fully appreciate its complex flavors and aromas. The stem of the snifter allows the drinker to hold the glass without warming the contents with their hand, and the wide base provides stability, preventing the glass from tipping over.
55 Penta- minus one: TETRA-
The prefix “penta-” typically refers to the number five, while the prefix “tetra-” typically refers to the number four. In this crossword clue, the answer is “TETRA-,” since “penta- minus one” would equal four. This prefix is commonly used in scientific and technical terminology to describe things that have four parts or components, such as a “tetrahedron,” which is a geometric shape with four triangular faces.
56 Goddess who is the mother of Apollo and Artemis: LETO
Leto is a goddess from Greek mythology who is the mother of Apollo and Artemis, two of the most important and well-known gods in the Greek pantheon. According to legend, Leto was pursued by the jealous wife of Zeus, Hera, and was forced to wander the earth in search of a place to give birth to her children. She eventually found refuge on the island of Delos, where she gave birth to Apollo and Artemis.
57 Protein option for pho: TOFU
Pho is a Vietnamese soup that typically contains a variety of ingredients, including rice noodles, broth, herbs, and protein. While beef or chicken are common protein options, some people prefer to use tofu, a plant-based protein made from soybeans. Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, and is a popular option for vegetarians and vegans who are looking for sources of protein that do not come from animals.
59 Olympic volleyball great Kerri __ Jennings: WALSH
Kerri Walsh Jennings is an American professional beach volleyball player who has won numerous Olympic medals over the course of her career. She has won three gold medals and one bronze medal in beach volleyball at the Olympic Games, and has also won numerous other championships and awards throughout her career. Walsh Jennings is widely regarded as one of the greatest beach volleyball players of all time.
62 Honors course for an aspiring pastor? : AP PRAISING
This crossword clue is a play on words, using the term “AP” (which typically stands for “Advanced Placement”) to suggest that the course in question is an honors course for an aspiring pastor. The answer, “AP PRAISING,” is a reference to the act of praising or worshipping God, which is a central component of many religious traditions.
65 Totenberg of NPR: NINA
Nina Totenberg is an American journalist who is best known for her work as a legal affairs correspondent for National Public Radio (NPR). Totenberg has been with NPR since 1975, and has covered a wide range of legal topics over the course of her career, including Supreme Court cases, major political controversies, and high-profile criminal trials. She has received numerous awards and honors for her reporting, and is widely regarded as one of the most respected and influential journalists in her field.
66 Barbecue sites: YARDS
In the context of this crossword clue, the term “yards” refers to outdoor spaces, such as backyards or patios, where people might gather to have a barbecue or cookout. Barbecuing is a popular American pastime, particularly during the summer months, and many people enjoy hosting outdoor gatherings and cooking food on grills or smokers. The term “yard” is often used colloquially to refer to these types of outdoor spaces.
67 Creative flash: IDEA
An idea is a thought or concept that arises in the mind, often as a result of creative or imaginative thinking. Ideas can come from a variety of sources, including personal experiences, observations, or interactions with others. Many people rely on the generation of new ideas in their personal or professional lives, as ideas often form the basis for innovation and problem-solving.
68 Tiny annoyance: GNAT
A gnat is a small, flying insect that can be a nuisance to humans and animals. Gnats are often found in areas with high levels of moisture, such as near bodies of water or in damp soil. While gnats do not typically bite humans or cause any serious harm, they can be a nuisance due to their tendency to swarm around people’s heads or food.
69 Splash through puddles: SLOSH
To slosh is to move through water or other liquid in a way that creates a splashing or splattering sound. This can occur when walking or running through puddles or other bodies of water, or when liquid is spilled or splashed in a container. The term “slosh” can also be used more generally to describe the movement of liquids in a container, as in the case of a full cup of coffee that sloshes around when it is carried.
70 Prying: NOSY
To be nosy is to show an excessive or unwelcome interest in the affairs of others. This can include asking personal questions, eavesdropping on conversations, or otherwise inserting oneself into situations where one is not invited. The term “nosy” is often used in a negative context, as it suggests a lack of respect for other people’s privacy.
71 Meringue need: EGGS
Meringue is a type of dessert made from whipped egg whites and sugar. The egg whites are typically beaten until they form stiff peaks, at which point the sugar is added gradually to create a light and fluffy texture. Eggs are an essential ingredient in meringue, as they provide the structure and stability necessary to create the desired texture. Other ingredients, such as cream of tartar or cornstarch, may also be added to meringue to help stabilize the egg whites and prevent them from collapsing.
DOWN
1 Quaint plaint: ALAS
“Alas” is an interjection that expresses sadness, regret, or disappointment. The word is often used in literary or formal contexts to convey a sense of loss or longing, as in the phrase “alas, poor Yorick” from Shakespeare’s Hamlet. In contemporary usage, the term may also be used humorously or ironically to express a sense of resignation or disappointment, as in the phrase “alas, it was not meant to be.”
2 Shock: JOLT
A jolt is a sudden and violent movement or shock. The term can be used to describe physical sensations, such as the jolt that one might feel when a car hits a bump in the road, or emotional responses, such as the jolt of surprise or shock that one might feel upon receiving unexpected news.
3 Honors course for an aspiring lawyer? : AP PROVING
“AP PROVING” is a play on words, suggesting an advanced honors course for students who aspire to become lawyers. The term “proving” can refer to the process of establishing the truth or validity of a claim or argument, which is a central aspect of legal practice. An “AP” course, meanwhile, is an advanced placement course that is offered in high school and may be taken for college credit.
4 Lives: RESIDES
To reside is to live or dwell in a particular place or location. The term can refer to a permanent or temporary living situation and may be used to describe individuals, families, or groups of people. The word “reside” is often used in legal or official contexts to refer to a person’s official place of residence or domicile.
5 Perón of Argentina: EVA
Eva Perón was the wife of Argentine president Juan Perón and served as First Lady of Argentina from 1946 until her death in 1952. She was known for her advocacy on behalf of the working class and for her charismatic public speaking style, which earned her the nickname “Evita.” After her death, Perón became a controversial and polarizing figure in Argentine politics, with some viewing her as a champion of social justice and others criticizing her for alleged authoritarian tendencies.
6 Out-of-reach goal: PIPE DREAM
A pipe dream is an unrealistic or unattainable goal or aspiration. The term is thought to have originated from the idea of smoking opium through a pipe, which can induce vivid and unrealistic dreams or hallucinations. In contemporary usage, the term is often used to describe goals or aspirations that are seen as impractical, unrealistic, or impossible to achieve.
7 __ Smurf: PAPA
Papa Smurf is a fictional character from the popular animated television series The Smurfs. He is the leader and father figure of the Smurf community and is known for his wisdom, kindness, and blue beard. The character was created by Belgian cartoonist Peyo and has been a beloved figure in popular culture since the 1960s.
8 Arboreal slowpoke: SLOTH
A sloth is a slow-moving, tree-dwelling mammal native to Central and South America. Sloths are known for their slow movements and low-energy lifestyle, which is due in part to their specialized diet and physiology. Despite their sluggishness, sloths are skilled climbers and spend most of their time hanging upside down from tree branches.
9 Metal in pewter: TIN
Tin is a soft, silvery-white metal that is commonly used in alloys with other metals, such as bronze and pewter. Tin has a low melting point and is malleable, ductile, and non-toxic, making it useful for a wide range of industrial, decorative, and culinary applications.
10 Bright lipstick shade: HOT PINK
Hot pink is a bright, vibrant shade of pink that is often associated with youth, femininity, and rebellion. The term “hot pink” originated in the 1950s and has been used to describe a range of bright, neon-like shades of pink.
11 Gabrielle of “L.A.’s Finest”: UNION
Gabrielle Union is an American actress and activist who is best known for her roles in films such as Bring It On, Bad Boys II, and The Birth of a Nation, as well as her television work on shows like Being Mary Jane and L.A.’s Finest. In addition to her acting career, Union is an outspoken advocate for social justice and has spoken publicly about issues such as racism, sexual assault, and gender equality.
12 Capital of Belarus: MINSK
Minsk is the capital and largest city of Belarus, a country located in Eastern Europe. The city has a rich history dating back to the 11th century and has been a cultural, economic, and political center of the region for centuries. Today, Minsk is home to a diverse population of more than 2 million people and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife.
13 Audiobook’s lack: PAGES
Audiobooks are audio recordings of books that are designed to be listened to rather than read. Unlike printed books, which are made up of pages of printed text, audiobooks are delivered in a digital audio format that can be played on a range of devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and dedicated audiobook players. Because audiobooks do not have physical pages, they are often measured in terms of their running time, rather than their page count.
19 “You think so?” : IS IT
The clue “You think so?” is a question asking for confirmation or agreement. The answer to this clue is “IS IT,” which is a phrase commonly used to express doubt or disbelief in response to a statement or assertion made by someone else. It can also be used as a rhetorical question to express skepticism or to prompt the listener to consider whether a statement or assertion is really true or accurate.
21 __ ejemplo : POR
“Por ejemplo” is a Spanish phrase that means “for example.” The phrase is commonly used in both spoken and written Spanish to introduce an example or illustration of a point that has been made.
25 Waves from a boat: WAKE
A wake is a disturbance that is created by a boat as it moves through the water. The wake is made up of waves that spread out behind the boat and can be seen as a V-shaped pattern on the water’s surface. The size and shape of the wake are influenced by factors such as the size and speed of the boat, the water’s depth and temperature, and the wind and weather conditions.
27 Milo’s “Gilmore Girls” role: JESS
Milo Ventimiglia is an American actor who is best known for his role as Jess Mariano on the television series Gilmore Girls. Jess is a troubled young man who becomes involved with the show’s main character, Rory Gilmore, and is known for his rebellious attitude and literary interests.
28 Slangy smokes: CIGS
“Cigs” is a slang term that is short for “cigarettes,” which are small cylindrical tubes of finely cut tobacco that are typically wrapped in paper and smoked. Cigarettes are a popular form of tobacco consumption worldwide and are associated with a range of health risks, including lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems.
29 Big Apple stage award: OBIE
The Obie Awards are an annual awards ceremony that recognizes excellence in Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway theatre productions in New York City. The awards were first presented in 1955 and are named after the statue of the Egyptian god Obelisk, which is the trophy given to winners.
30 Tuesday fare: TACOS
Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of a soft or hard shell filled with various ingredients such as seasoned meat, vegetables, cheese, and salsa. Tacos are typically eaten with the hands and are a popular street food in Mexico and in many other parts of the world.
34 Many entries in the Great American Songbook: SHOW TUNES
The Great American Songbook is a collection of popular songs from the early 20th century that are considered to be standards of American popular music. The songs in the Great American Songbook were written by a variety of composers and lyricists and have been performed by many different artists over the years. Show tunes are a significant subset of the Great American Songbook and refer to songs that were written for and performed in musical theatre productions. Show tunes are known for their catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and theatrical flair.
36 Honors course for an aspiring bell ringer? : AP PEALING
The answer to this clue is “APPEALING”, which is a play on words related to bell ringing. In bell ringing, “pealing” refers to the sound made by a set of bells when rung in a particular sequence. An “aspiring bell ringer” might take an “honors course” in order to learn how to create such peals, and “APPEALING” is a word that means attractive or desirable, which could describe such a course.
37 Dim sum brews : TEAS
The answer to this clue is “TEAS”, which are a type of hot beverage commonly served with dim sum, a style of Chinese cuisine that features small, bite-sized portions of food. “Dim sum” literally means “touch the heart”, and it’s often enjoyed as a brunch or lunch-time meal. TEAS are typically served with dim sum to help cleanse the palate between courses.
38 All-Star side : EAST
The answer to this clue is “EAST”, which could refer to the Eastern Conference of the National Basketball Association (NBA). The NBA All-Star Game is an annual exhibition game that features the league’s top players, divided into two teams: the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference. So, the “All-Star side” in this case would be the Eastern Conference team.
40 Storyline : PLOT
The answer to this clue is “PLOT”, which is a term often used in literature and film to refer to the sequence of events that make up a story. A “storyline” could be thought of as a broader concept that encompasses multiple elements of a story, including its characters, themes, and setting, while the “plot” specifically refers to the sequence of events that move the story forward.
41 Falco of “Nurse Jackie” : EDIE
The answer to this clue is “EDIE”, which refers to the actress Edie Falco, who played the title character in the Showtime series “Nurse Jackie”. The show followed the life of Jackie Peyton, a nurse who struggles with addiction while trying to balance her personal and professional lives.
44 Provides, as an opportunity : AFFORDS
The answer to this clue is “AFFORDS”, which means to give someone the opportunity to do something. For example, if someone says “this job affords me the opportunity to travel”, they mean that the job provides them with the chance to travel.
46 Idiosyncratic : STRANGE
The answer to this clue is “STRANGE”, which means unusual or bizarre. “Idiosyncratic” is a word used to describe something that is unique or peculiar to a particular individual or group, and so the two words are related in that they both describe things that are outside of the norm. For example, someone might have an idiosyncratic way of dressing that others find strange.
48 Creature in Tibetan myth : YETI
The answer to this clue is “YETI”, which is a legendary creature said to inhabit the Himalayan region of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. The Yeti is often described as a large, ape-like creature that walks on two legs and is covered in shaggy hair. Some people believe that the Yeti is a real animal, while others think it’s purely a myth.
50 “Woo-hoo!,” in textspeak : FTW
The answer to this clue is “FTW”, which stands for “for the win”. In textspeak, “woo-hoo!” is an expression of excitement or enthusiasm, and “FTW” is often used to indicate that someone or something is a winner or a favorite. For example, if someone says “I just got tickets to the concert tonight, FTW!”, they mean that they’re really excited about it.
51 Leaves rolling in the aisles : SLAYS
The answer to this clue is “SLAYS”, which means to make someone laugh uncontrollably. In this context, “rolling in the aisles” is an expression used to describe someone who is laughing so hard that they’re literally rolling on the floor. So, if a comedian “SLAYS” their audience, it means that they’re making them laugh so hard that they’re rolling in the aisles.
52 Place to spot a 48-Down, maybe : NEPAL
The answer to this clue is “NEPAL”, which is a country located in the Himalayan region of South Asia. As mentioned earlier, the Yeti is a legendary creature said to inhabit this region, so it’s possible that someone could “spot a 48-Down” (i.e. a Yeti) in Nepal. However, it’s important to note that there is no conclusive scientific evidence that the Yeti actually exists.
53 Staffer who’s good at networking, for short : IT PRO
The answer to this clue is “IT PRO”, which stands for “information technology professional”. An “IT PRO” is someone who works in the field of information technology, which involves using computers and software to manage and process data. In this context, an IT PRO who’s “good at networking” would be someone who’s skilled at building and maintaining professional relationships with others in the field.
54 Pitcher’s gripping aid : ROSIN
The answer to this clue is “ROSIN”, which is a type of resin that’s used to improve the grip on certain types of equipment, including musical instruments and sports equipment. In baseball, pitchers often apply rosin to their hands to improve their grip on the ball, which can help them throw more accurately and with greater velocity.
58 Everymutt : FIDO
The answer to this clue is “FIDO”, which is a name often used to refer to a generic, average dog. The name “Fido” became popular in the 19th century as a name for dogs because it was thought to be easy for them to understand and remember.
60 Obstacle : SNAG
The answer to this clue is “SNAG”, which means a difficulty or obstacle that hinders progress. The word “snag” originally referred to a rough or sharp projection of wood that could catch on clothing or other objects and impede movement. In a figurative sense, a “snag” is anything that causes a delay or obstruction.
61 Bowlers, e.g. : HATS
The answer to this clue is “HATS”, which is a general term for any type of head covering. In this context, “bowlers” refers specifically to a type of hat with a hard, round crown and a narrow brim that was popularized in the mid-19th century. Other types of hats might include baseball caps, fedoras, top hats, or beanies.
63 Fire pit residue : ASH
The answer to this clue is “ASH”, which is the powdery residue that remains after something has been burned. In the context of a fire pit, “ash” refers to the remnants of burned wood or other materials. Ash can be used as a fertilizer, as a component in construction materials, or simply disposed of as waste.
64 Carefree : GAY
The answer to this clue is “GAY”, which means lighthearted, carefree, or cheerful. The word “gay” has had different connotations over time, but in this context it’s being used to describe a person or situation that’s happy and free from worry. However, it’s important to note that the word “gay” has also been used as a derogatory term for LGBTQ+ individuals, and it’s important to be mindful of the context in which it’s being used.
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