How do You Embody Style?
Fashion and style - elements of a person that are uniquely their own. However, there are many different ways to display these individual aspects.
You don’t have to look very far in our community to see the varying styles people have. From laid back and casual to glamorous, Little Elm, Aubrey, Krugerville, Oak Point, Lakewood Village and Crossroads all have a distinct flair. What many forget is style embodies more than the clothes on our backs. It’s how we present ourselves in our homes. It’s fluid and can change depending on our mood or the trends. It’s a state of mind.
That is what this issue is all about - celebrating the different areas of our styles and how they continuously evolve. In these pages, we proudly display the different ways to show off someone’s style. From how you implement those finishing touches in your home to a uniquely tailored tattoo, style comes in many fun packages.
One of the most profound ways of creating a fashion statement that is 100% you is within your home. While many think decor is the main way to show off a space’s ambiance, builders like Olivia Clarke Homes take your one-of-a-kind perspective and add timeless, feminine and customized touches to each build. From a highend, glamorous look to a coastal feel, the options Olivia Clarke Homes presents are the epitome of style and fashion.
Our friends at Conspiracy Ink Tattoo have helped many patrons bring their sense of style to life through gorgeous body art. From something small and delicate to bold and fierce, Dennis Matthews and his team of talented artists get to know each customer before their creations come to life on their bodies.
Do you need a way to protect these special and fashionable assets? Brad Kiesling with Kiesling Insurance Agency has you covered with his expert industry advice on how to keep your family and valuables safe during unprecedented events.
As our magazine continues to grow, we strive to bring you editorials and highend photography from a unique Lakeside lens. Thank you for continuing to support us as we highlight our local businesses and people.
ALEXIS
JACKSON, PUBLISHER @LAKESIDECITYLIFESTYLE
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Alexis Jackson | alexis.jackson@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Gabrielle Bailey | gabrielle.bailey@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Vashti Moore | vashti.moore@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Shannon Spake, Gabrielle Bailey, Vashti Moore, Katelyn Briscoe
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Amber McMahan, Katelyn Briscoe
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
city scene
1: Alexis Jackson proudly shows the July issue of Lakeside City Lifestyle. 2: Patrons of Frost Bank enjoy a sweet treat. 3: Brad Kiesling of Farmers Insurance networks at a LE*NKS meeting. 4: The Little Elm Ladies Luncheon kicks off with networking opportunities and guest speakers. 5: Residents of Little Elm enjoy the Juneteenth celebration. 6: Point Bank in Little Elm has fun celebrating 140 years of service. 7: A City of Aubrey employee celebrates National Hot Dog Day.
business monthly
Town of Little Elm - Autumn Fest
Little Elm is celebrating 40 years of Autumn Fest with four days of music, carnival rides, tasty food, and more from Sept. 12-15. Each night will have a live band and a specialized event, such as celebrating Mexican Independence Day on Sept. 14 with a Tacos and Tequila Fun Walk and the Selena Forever Tribute Band. Tickets are available for purchase at lakefrontlittleelm.com/autumn-fest.
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Christian Brothers Automotive - Aubrey
Christian Brothers Automotive in Aubrey has been family owned and operated since opening its doors in 2018, providing People-First Auto Repair. The team services all makes and models and is positioned as a dealership alternative with the expertise to handle everything from manufacturer-recommended maintenance to complete transmission and engine repair. Call 940-283-0521 to schedule an appointment today.
Little Elm Medical Weight Loss
Little Elm Medical Weight Loss works with each individual in a caring, patient and understanding manner. More than just a weight loss clinic, the team aids in anti-aging procedures, vitality boosters, skincare, and IV therapy. Each product is vetted for quality to ensure client safety and happiness. Visit littleelmmedicalweightloss.com to book an appointment.
Photography by Little Elm EDC
Photography by Christian Brothers Automotive
Photography by Little Elm Medical Weight Loss
HOW ONE FEMALE-OWNED HOME BUILDING COMPANY INCORPORATES BEAUTIFUL, FEMININE STYLES
Changing the Homestyle Game
ARTICLE BY GABRIELLE BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVIA CLARKE HOMES
Jennifer Clarke Johnson
““Women are the heart of the home. We also make 90% of the purchase decisions."
Home is where the heart is, and that saying rings true for Jennifer Clarke Johnson, the founder and president of Olivia Clarke Homes.
As a female-owned and operated home production company based in Dallas-Fort Worth and one of the first female-owned home production companies in the country, it was important for Johnson to add a feminine touch to each home to make it easier for the household decision makers - usually women - to picture themselves making lifetime memories within its walls.
“Women are the heart of the home,” Johnson said. “We also make 90% of the purchase decisions. For homes to have a female lens included in the conversation and in the design makes a difference.”
Even the name Olivia Clarke Homes has a light, elegant and distinctively feminine touch to it. The gorgeous moniker is precious to Johnson for two special reasons.
“Clarke is my maiden name and it's my son's middle name. Olivia is my daughter's middle name,” she explained.
When Johnson started Olivia Clarke Homes four years ago, she envisioned people settling into their dream homes that emulated their sense of fashion and style. She approached home buying from a client’s perspective and pictured the ways they would
live and entertain in a home setting. This angle drove her to take the next step in her career.
Johnson used the expertise from her 30-year career in real estate to bring that curated home buying experience to life. Everything, from the exterior of the house to the floor plans to the finishing touches, undergoes meticulous quality control to ensure each customer is moving into a home that fits their taste. Olivia Clarke Homes has partnerships with a variety of high-grade manufacturers to personalize each build depending on the client's desires and needs.
“It's important to understand and provide what the home buyer wants,” Johnson said. “Our clients are given time with an interior designer to really get into the details of what they envision in their home. We allow them to select every interior design element. We don't limit their choices to a certain package.”
Johnson understands that empty nesters will want something different than a family of five, so all home buyers enjoy individualized appointments with Southwestern Interiors, which has a design studio in Coppell. They have one-on-one time with an interior designer, who helps them bring their dream home to life.
“We really invest in that experience so that our customers do feel like their voices are heard and that
We really try to make their Pinterest board come alive. “ ”
their style will be represented in the home that we're building for them,” Johnson explained. “We really try to make their Pinterest board come alive.”
With established and upcoming communities in Celina, McKinney, Frisco and Aubrey, Olivia Clarke Homes has a luxurious feel that is timeless and high end. While trends come and go, Johnson said she wants her homes to have an age-old, classic feel.
“When I drive through historic neighborhoods, I think, ‘Wow, just like the person who decided to build that home, I want our homes to stand the test of time like this,’ she said. “Not just for that individual family that is going to live in that home, but the generations of families after them. It needs to be right.
“We want quality products that have a reputation for a long life, that is durable, and that provides an excellent value for what you're investing in.”
Currently, Olivia Clarke Homes is offering to help buy down rates on houses that are finished or nearly finished. It’s Johnson’s way of giving that boutique, design-centric experience to a variety of clients.
“We're just trying to help bridge the gap while interest rates are high so people are comfortable to go ahead and buy now with a lower rate,” she said.
Currently, the company is preparing to build in two new communities north of Dallas. Chatham Reserve in Aubrey will have 80 homes on oversized lots and The Arbors at Lakewood Village will have 19 homes on half-acre lots. Johnson explained that since Olivia Clarke Homes is dedicated to serving the home buyer first, she wants the quality of the homes to top the quantity.
Interested buyers can visit OliviaClarkeHomes.com to see the available homes and floor plans in each curated community.
Where Art and Personal Style Converge
CONSPIRACY INK TATTOO COMMEMORATES
PERSONAL EXPRESSION AND INDIVIDUAL STYLE
In the heart of Little Elm lies a gem that redefines what it means to get a tattoo. Conspiracy Ink Tattoo, run by Dennis Matthews, is more than just a place to get inked — it’s a sanctuary for art and personal expression. Although Dennis’ entrepreneurship extends outside tattooing, his passion for the trade has created a space that melds tradition with individual style.
A LEGACY OF ART
Dennis’ passion for art was kindled by his father, a Vietnam veteran who had a knack for art that enabled him to create a comic book. Dennis’ early exposure to the art world laid the foundation for his adventure into tattooing.
Although he does black and gray, he focuses on the American Traditional look. Known for its clean black lines and bold colors, this style nods homage to the classic tattoos of yesteryear while embracing the individual stories of today’s clients. Dennis started with a mentor in the tattoo industry while living on the East Coast. Leaning on his upbringing and support from his family, he takes pride in sharing that passion with new and repeat customers.
A WARM WELCOME
One step inside Conspiracy Ink, the atmosphere immediately sets it apart from what one would expect from a “typical tattoo parlor.” First-time visitors are often pleasantly surprised by the shop’s clean, inviting ambiance. Clients are greeted with warm smiles, a comfortable setting, and an air of professionalism that puts the most anxious minds at ease. Customers can even have freshly made coffee while waiting.
Dennis Matthews, owner of Conspiracy Ink Tattoo
FAMILY INSPIRATION
Dennis’ drive to succeed and his artistic inspiration are also deeply influenced by his wife Kimberly, who runs a female-only piercing business called the Pin Cushion.
"I'm so proud of her, and she is definitely an inspiration to me and others," said Dennis. “Her success and entrepreneurial spirit has fueled us to continue to grow and help others.”
CLIENTELE DIVERSE AS EACH PIECE
Community is at the heart of Conspiracy Ink’s clientele. From 18-year-olds seeking their first tattoo to grandmothers commemorating a lifetime of memories, everyone is represented. Dennis and his team are committed to making every visitor feel valued, ensuring that their tattoo experience is both memorable and enjoyable.
“We take this process very seriously,” Dennis said. “Their tattoo is a statement that will live with, and on, our clients for a lifetime. If we feel the art selection is good and the placement choice is poorly thought out, we’ll have that conversation with our clients.”
GUIDANCE AND HONESTY
What sets Conspiracy Tattoo Shop apart is the team’s dedication to collaboration and honest feedback. They guide clients through the process, offering expert advice on placement and design to ensure the final piece is meaningful and unique. This open communication helps clients feel confident in their choices.
“Getting tattooed tends to be cathartic. Working in such close proximity to our clients, especially those whom we have seen many times, can be a very emotional experience, people tend to open up about their lives. Naturally, we get to know these folks and many have become dear friends over the years,” Dennis explained.
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“We take this process very seriously. Their tattoo is a statement that will live with, and on, our clients for a lifetime."
"Working in such close proximity to our clients, especially those whom we have seen many times, can be a very emotional experience, people tend to open up about their lives. We get to know these folks and many have become dear friends over the years."
CHALLENGING NOTIONS
"The popular perception of a tattoo shop just isn’t accurate," Dennis said. "It is not an underworld hidden away in alleys and back rooms. Those days are over. We serve the mainstream public — grandmothers, judges, pastors, folks from every walk of life."
This inclusive approach helps demystify the tattoo experience, showing it as an accessible and welcoming option for personal expression. After all, it is one of the original expressions of individuality.
The earliest known evidence of tattoos is on Ötzi the Iceman, whose remains were discovered in the Alps in 1991. The tattoos, which date between 3370 and 3100 B.C., include over 50 lines and crosses on his spine, knee, and ankles. However, the practice of inserting pigment under the skin likely began long before Ötzi.
A PLACE OF PERSONAL EXPRESSION
At Conspiracy Ink, the art of tattooing is more than just a service — it’s a way for individuals to express their stories and style. Dennis and his team have created a haven where art and personal expression coexist beautifully. Whether it’s a small, discreet piece, a large, intricate design, Photo Realism, Traditional, or Fine Line, Conspiracy Ink Tattoo is where ideas come to life.
For those looking to turn their bodies into a canvas of meaningful art, Conspiracy Ink Tattoo is the place to be. From the first hello from receptionist Brooke to Dennis’ team of artists — Billy, Beau, and Ryan — they are here to turn ideas into reality.
The artists at Conspiracy Ink Tattoo
ARTICLE BY VASHTI MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMBER MCMAHAN
BRAD KIESLING OFFERS HIS EXPERT OPINION ON HOW TO ENSURE EVERYONE HAS PROPER INSURANCE COVERAGE
ANSWERING INSURANCE CONCERNS
The team at Kiesling Insurance Agency
“A
Every person, from an 18-year-old college student to a retiree, needs some form of home and auto insurance. Someone might feel that since they’ve never had insurance claims before, they don’t need coverage or are fine with a basic plan.
A homeowner’s policy can help cover damage to other structures on the property, like a fence or garage, and replace personal belongings if they’re damaged, destroyed or stolen. It covers increased living expenses for temporary relocation because of dam-
ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL APPROACH DOESN’T ALWAYS WORK WHEN IT COMES TO INSURANCE.”
Farmers Insurance agent Brad Kiesling of the Kiesling Agency emphasized this is rarely the case.
“Choosing the cheapest option could potentially mean you do not have all the coverage you want,” he said. “A one-sizefits-all approach doesn’t always work when it comes to insurance.”
Kiesling breaks down the need behind homeowners and car insurance and how he can customize the best rates for any person.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE?
Homeowners insurance helps provide a financial safety net when the unexpected happens. If your home is damaged or destroyed in a disaster — like a tornado, kitchen fire, or hailstorm — insurance can help pay for the repairs. While home insurance is not required by law, if you have a mortgage, your lender can require you to have insurance until the loan is paid off.
age from a covered event. Coverage also includes protecting finances with liability coverage. If someone is hurt at your house — say a visitor slips on your sidewalk — this coverage helps pay medical and legal costs. If someone’s property is damaged — for example, your child hits a baseball through a neighbor’s window — this coverage can help pay to repair or replace it.
HOW CAN YOUR AGENCY AND FARMERS INSURANCE HELP
HOMEOWNERS WITH SEVERE STORM DAMAGE?
We offer comprehensive insurance coverage, personalized options and supportive services by providing policies that typically cover damage to homes, cars and personal belongings caused by severe storms.
Our customizable coverage options allow you to tailor your insurance to your specific needs. We also provide educational resources and tips on preparing for storms. Finally, we assist
in the claims process by helping file your claim and navigate it efficiently after storm damage occurs.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN DECIDING ON AUTO INSURANCE?
Not having enough liability coverage, which is coverage if you’re found negligent in an accident. It's tempting to go for the minimum coverage, but it may not be enough if you are responsible for another person’s injuries. In Texas, the minimum coverage is $30,000 to cover someone’s medical bills and $60,000 total for the accident. If you injure someone who has medical bills that are $50,000, the insurance company is only responsible for $30,000 and the insured may be on the hook for the other $20,000. Cheap car insurance may save you money in the short term, but it could cost more if an accident happens.
HOW CAN PARENTS PROTECT THEIR TEENAGERS FROM CAR ACCIDENTS?
Parents are instrumental in helping young drivers avoid accidents. Enrolling teenagers in a reputable driver education program is very important because they will learn fundamental driving skills, rules of the road and defensive driving techniques. Setting clear rules and expectations such as curfews, seat belt usage, passenger restrictions, texting and phone usage are vital for new drivers. If you are getting them a car, focus on the safety features and not the sexiness.
Brad Kiesling of Kiesling Insurance Agency
"CONSULT
WITH AN INSURANCE PROFESSIONAL ABOUT YOUR COVERAGES."
WITH YOUR EXPERTISE, WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER CUSTOMERS?
Consult with an insurance professional about your coverages. Consumers may not fully understand the complexities of insurance policies and the implications of different coverage options. Talking to a licensed insurance agent can ensure they make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs.
WHY SHOULD A CUSTOMER CHOOSE YOUR AGENCY FOR ANY KIND OF COVERAGE?
Our team is here to help you figure out exactly what protections you need to take care of the people and things you love most. At Kiesling Insurance Agency, we don’t just write insurance policies. We build long-term relationships focused on ensuring you and your family are protected. We hold ourselves to these core values: Honesty, Empathy, Persistence and Trustworthiness.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CONTACT YOU IF SOMEONE NEEDS COVERAGE?
We'd love to have you stop by and meet with us. Our office is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and by appointment on Saturday. You can also call us at 469-447-5500 or email me at bkiesling@farmersagent.com.
EYE FOR DESIGN
PAVING THE WAY FOR WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATELYN
BRISCOE
The world of construction has traditionally been a man’s world. But, for Celina local and owner of Humble Home Designs, Trisha Puente, the construction field has become her new stomping ground. After starting her business, Trisha said she stumbled upon her work in construction through her work in interior design.
“I had a client who called me and wanted me to come do her kitchen. I had done some design work for her before, so I had just assumed I was going to decorate her kitchen,” Trisha said. “When I got there, she started to say, ‘Okay, I want new countertops, new cabinets, new backsplash ...' I got really excited and decided that was a fun challenge and I wanted to do it.”
Through this unexpected step into new territory and by leaning on her husband and his construction experience, Trisha found an open doorway leading to a new opportunity to flex her talents and expand her skills.
“I did what I needed to do, and I brought my husband in with his knowledge. He's been in construction forever, so I was able to lean on him for the learning curve and the things that I didn’t know,” Trisha said. “I jumped on that, took off running, and have loved it ever since.”
What started as one project has now changed the shape and structure of her business.
“I’ve grown that side of the business quite a bit where it’s pretty much 50/50 with interior design and remodels and construction,” Trisha said. “So, I’ve got a really good crew that I’ve built up over the years, and I can rely on them a lot for help with the things that I don’t know: the in-depth construction side of the world.”
Mastering the art of construction as an addition to her list of services was already challenging, but the reality of being a woman in a male-dominated industry added an extra layer to the struggle.
“It’s frustrating being a woman in this field because I think so many people have a hard time wrapping their head around the fact that I am capable of doing construction, project leading and project managing remodels because I AM a woman,” Trisha said. “So, that part of it’s hard.”
Women in construction are so few and far between, Trisha says that she still has yet to work with other women in her field since dipping into construction four years ago.
“I told my husband just the other day, ‘Do you know how amazing it would be if I could get an all-female crew?’” Trisha said. “If I had a tile person who was a woman and someone who does paint, texture, drywall, I think that would be such a cool way to run the business: sort of a bucket list kind of dream that I’d like to try to find. I haven’t really worked with other women in the industry, but I would love to do that.”
Trisha says women are needed in construction because of what she and other women bring to it to make it better.
“I think one of the biggest things women, in general, [bring to the field] is attention to detail — the woman’s touch of how we see things,” Trisha said. “Myself, as a woman, [what I bring to construction] is the interior design — the fact that I have that background and can provide that, whereas a lot of contractors are like, ‘Okay, here’s how much it’ll cost to rip everything out and put it in new, but you’re on your own. Go find everything.’ It’s a bonus that I can help pick out things and help put together what your vision is as opposed to a lot of contractors who don’t offer that at all.”
While Trisha’s team is working on multiple projects around DFW, Celina is where the heart of her business is.
“We moved from Frisco and decided we were going to raise our kids here and made it home,” Trisha said. “We love it here. It was important to connect our business to the town we were raising our family in and are well-established in. Although we work in lots of surrounding areas, Celina is definitely our main area of focus — our main clientele. It’s our home, so it's where we want to do most of our business.”
Since starting Humble Home Designs in 2015, the
>
business has evolved and grown. Recently, Trisha’s team finished out the new Lone Star Vision office in Celina, showcasing an example of the unique skill set Trisha brings to the field as a woman, particularly through her favorite aspect of the build out: the butterfly wall. She designed this sitting area as a tribute to the owner’s late wife. She has hope that her field will include women more in the future.
“I would really love to get more people to be open to the idea of women in this field and trusting that we can do it,” Trisha said. “All the clients that I do have, I’m very grateful for because they don’t bat an eye or think twice about it. But, I feel like I don’t get calls a lot for that part of my business [construction, project management, and remodels] because I’m a woman, so it’s challenging.”
“I think one of the biggest things women, in general, [bring to the field] is attention to detail — the woman’s touch of how we see things.” — Trisha Puente, owner of Humble Home Designs.
hacks HAIR
Braids are a great way to add style and uniqueness to your hair style rotation and have been a staple in hairstyles dating back to 3500 B.C. This historical hairstyle is here to stay, so we wanted to share some go-to impressive looks.
Braids to Keep You Chic All Year Long
ARTICLE BY ABBI SULASKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY KELSEY HUFFER
fishtail braids
Part the top half of the hair in two sections. Create fishtail braids (or braids of choice) and tie them together in the back of the hair. Add a fashion accessory around a ponytail for a little extra fun!
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pull through braid with space buns
Part hair down the center. Create pullthrough braids on each side of the head. Tie elastic at the end of the braids to create a ponytail at the nape of the neck. For extra volume in the buns, tease the hair in the ponytail before twisting it into a bun. Secure with hair pins and... Voilà!
simpleupdo
Part the hair down the center or side part, if preferred. Create braid(s) on the side of the head and secure with elastic. Twist the hair with braids into a simple bun, securing it with hair pins. Add an accessory for a classy touch.
simple bandana braid in a braids pony-tail
Place a bandana on the forehead and tie it in the back. Create as many braids as desired in the back of the head, teasing the ends to avoid using elastics.
Part a mohawk section of hair down the center of the head. Create a French braid down the middle. For a thicker-looking braid, gently pull on the strands working your way up and down the braid. Pull it back into a ponytail for a simple and trendy look.
Chatham Reserve
SEPTEMBER 3RD
PointBank
Business Breakfast
PointBank | Aubrey | 8:00 AM
Join like-minded professionals at the PointBank Business Breakfast as Brett Augustine from the Small Business Development Center gives insightful tips to local business owners. Breakfast and coffee will be served. 922 S. Highway 377 | Aubrey
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Live Music with Hannah Hokit
Fortunata Winery | 6:00 PM
Up-and-coming country artist Hannah Hokit will take the stage at Fortunata Winery for a special night. Enjoy fine wines, delicious charcuterie boards, wood-fired pizzas and original music from Hokit. Visit fortunatawinery.com to purchase tickets.
SEPTEMBER 21ST
Cross Roads Founders Day Festival
Star Ranch - Denton ISD Agriculture Facility | 2:30 PM
The town of Cross Roads is hosting its second annual Founders Day Festival that includes music from 90s country band 90 Proof, a classic car show, and a variety of demonstrations from local artisans. This family-friendly event will have a kid zone full of attractions and rides and a variety of food trucks. 8400 Fishtrap Rd. | Cross Roads
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SEPTEMBER 24TH
Little Elm Chamber of Commerce
Golf Tournament
Stonebridge Ranch - the Hills Course | 8:00 AM
The Little Elm Chamber of Commerce is hosting its inaugural golf tournament! Everyone is welcome to participate, no matter the golf skill level. Sign up with teammates or be matched with another team and get to know fellow Little Elm residents. Lunch and awards will take place afterward. Visit business.littleelmchamber.com to register.
SEPTEMBER 26TH
State of the Town & Education Update and Business Expo
Little Elm ISD Administration Building | 5:00 PM
Join the Little Elm Chamber of Commerce as it provides a detailed update on the Little Elm community, and hear from local business owners in the area. Tickets are free, but please register at business.littleelmchamber. com. 400 Lobo Ln. | Little Elm
SEPTEMBER 28TH
The
Courtney Patton Band
Prairie House Restaurant | 7:00 PM
Have a date night or meet up with a group of friends for live music from Texas’ own Courtney Patton Band at the Prairie House Restaurant. Enjoy classic southern bites and drinks as Patton and her group perform original music reminiscent of Tom Petty and Wilco. Purchase tickets at phtexas.com.
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