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Fox

Bundesliga: Fox Sports Wins Mexico & Central America Rights

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 12, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Fox & Bundesliga: A Streaming Playbook for Latin American Football Fans

The battle for eyeballs in Latin American sports is heating up, and Fox is making a significant play. A new five-year deal secures broadcasting rights for the German Bundesliga across Mexico and Central America, but this isn’t just about adding another soccer league to the lineup. It’s a strategic move signaling a broader shift in how sports content is delivered – and consumed – in a rapidly fragmenting media landscape.

Beyond Linear TV: A Multi-Platform Strategy

Fox isn’t simply putting Bundesliga games on its traditional channels. The agreement encompasses a comprehensive distribution strategy, leveraging Fox’s linear channels, the Fox One streaming service, and even Tubi, its free ad-supported streaming platform. This multi-pronged approach is crucial. As cord-cutting continues and streaming services proliferate, reaching fans requires being present where they are, not just where they were. This mirrors a growing trend across sports broadcasting, where exclusive rights deals are increasingly coupled with diverse distribution methods.

Localizing the Game: Guadalajara and the Rise of Regional Content

The Bundesliga recognizes the importance of cultural relevance. Last year, the league opened a content studio in Guadalajara, Mexico, specifically designed to create original content for Spanish-speaking audiences. This isn’t just about translating commentary; it’s about crafting a “long-lasting narrative” in the Americas, as Bundesliga Americas executive vice president Robin Austermann stated. This localized approach, combined with Fox’s platform, aims to connect with fans on a deeper level, fostering loyalty and engagement. The studio will provide ancillary programming to Fox, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The Competitive Landscape: Fox Reclaims Bundesliga Rights

Fox’s acquisition of these rights marks a return to Bundesliga coverage in the region, replacing Sky Mexico as the rightsholder. This move strengthens Fox’s already impressive sports portfolio in Mexico, which includes Liga MX, Liga MX Femenil, the UEFA Champions League, and the Premier League, further bolstered by the acquisition of Caliente TV. The competition for premium sports rights is fierce, and Fox is clearly positioning itself as a dominant force in the Latin American market. This consolidation of rights allows for cross-promotion and bundled offerings, potentially attracting and retaining subscribers.

The Americas as a Key Growth Market

The Bundesliga’s investment in the Americas, including the partnership with Relevent Sports, underscores the region’s growing importance. The league isn’t just selling broadcasting rights; it’s building a long-term presence. This includes not only localized content but also strategic partnerships to expand its reach and deepen its connection with fans. The 17-year partnership with Relevent is a testament to this commitment, focusing on media rights management, regional partnerships, and local content development.

Implications for the Future of Sports Broadcasting

This deal highlights several key trends shaping the future of sports broadcasting. First, the importance of bundling – offering a comprehensive package of sports content across multiple platforms. Second, the necessity of localization – tailoring content to resonate with local cultures and languages. And third, the growing power of direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming, exemplified by Fox One and Tubi. As audiences develop into more fragmented, broadcasters must adapt to reach them wherever they are, offering a compelling and personalized viewing experience.

The Bundesliga-Fox partnership isn’t just about soccer; it’s a case study in how sports leagues and broadcasters can navigate the evolving media landscape and build lasting relationships with fans in a dynamic and competitive market. What will be the next innovative strategy to capture the attention of Latin American sports fans? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

February 12, 2026 0 comments

News

Kokkola Foxes: Rare Nests Found in City Center | Finland

by James Carter Senior News Editor February 1, 2026

written by James Carter Senior News Editor

The Urban Fox: How Adaptable Predators Are Rewriting the Rules of Wildlife Coexistence

Forget the image of foxes solely as creatures of the wild. Across Finland, and increasingly in cities worldwide, these adaptable animals are not just surviving – they’re thriving in our backyards. Recent observations, particularly in areas like Kokkola, suggest a significant surge in urban fox populations, with nests appearing even within city centers. This isn’t simply a case of foxes wandering into urban areas; it’s a fundamental shift in their behavior and a glimpse into a future where wildlife and human settlements are increasingly intertwined.

The Rise of the City Fox: A National Trend

For years, foxes have been a common sight in southern Finland’s urban landscapes. However, according to Luonnonvarakekus (Luke), their range is expanding rapidly. They’re now being spotted across the entire country, a testament to their remarkable adaptability. Long-time nature enthusiast Terho Taarna’s observations in Kokkola mirror this national trend. “Last summer, I identified at least three fox nests very close to the town center,” he reports, suggesting a potentially significant population increase is underway.

This growth isn’t random. A key factor appears to be food availability. Taarna points to a plentiful mole population as a driver. “If mole numbers remain high, we can expect even more successful fox breeding seasons next year,” he predicts. This highlights a crucial point: the health of local ecosystems, even seemingly small components like mole populations, directly impacts the success of urban wildlife.

Why Cities Are Becoming Fox Havens

The appeal of urban life for foxes is multifaceted. Beyond readily available food sources – from backyard rodents to discarded scraps – cities offer relative safety. Fewer predators and a generally more tolerant human population create a secure environment for raising young. As Taarna notes, foxes are becoming increasingly fearless around humans, even venturing into yards in search of a meal. This isn’t necessarily a sign of aggression, but rather a demonstration of their ability to learn and adapt to a human-dominated landscape.

But adaptation isn’t simply about boldness. It requires a significant cognitive shift. Luke’s specialist researcher Andreas Lindén explains that foxes benefit from the “more diverse terrain” of urban areas. More importantly, they must learn to navigate the dangers of city life, particularly roads. Leading researcher Jaakko Mononen emphasizes this point: “If an urban fox is brave, it gets food. If a rural fox is brave, it risks its life.” This highlights the evolutionary pressure driving the behavioral changes we’re witnessing.

The Ecological Implications of Urban Fox Expansion

The increasing presence of foxes in cities isn’t without ecological consequences. While they can help control rodent populations, they also prey on birds, including woodpeckers, hares, and voles. Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for effective urban wildlife management. The estimated 50,000–100,000 foxes in Finland represent a significant predator population, and their impact on local ecosystems needs careful monitoring.

Snow trail monitoring conducted by Luke reveals a surprising trend: there are actually more foxes in rural areas than in forests. This reinforces the idea that foxes aren’t simply retreating to the wilderness; they’re actively choosing to live near human settlements. This preference has implications for conservation efforts, suggesting that protecting and managing urban green spaces is just as important as preserving traditional wildlife habitats.

Navigating Coexistence: What Does It Mean for Residents?

The question of how to coexist with urban foxes is a growing concern for many. Attitudes vary, and as Taarna points out, tolerance levels differ. However, he reassures dog owners that foxes generally avoid confrontation with larger animals, especially when accompanied by humans. A recent viral video of a chihuahua chasing a fox away illustrates this point perfectly.

Ultimately, successful coexistence requires understanding and respect. Avoiding intentional feeding, securing garbage bins, and providing safe spaces for foxes to den can all contribute to a harmonious relationship. The Wildlife Society offers valuable resources on managing urban carnivore populations and promoting coexistence.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Urban Wildlife

The story of the urban fox is a microcosm of a larger trend: the increasing overlap between human and wildlife habitats. As cities continue to expand, and as animals like foxes demonstrate their remarkable ability to adapt, we can expect to see more and more wildlife venturing into our urban spaces. This presents both challenges and opportunities. Challenges in terms of managing potential conflicts and protecting biodiversity. Opportunities to reconnect with nature and foster a greater appreciation for the wild world around us.

What are your experiences with urban wildlife? Share your thoughts and observations in the comments below!

February 1, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

The Masked Singer Season 14 Unveils Todd and Julie Chrisley as the Mystery Croissants

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor January 8, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Masked Singer Croissants Hint at Chrisleys, Sparking Talk of a reality-TV Comeback

Table of Contents

1. Masked Singer Croissants Hint at Chrisleys, Sparking Talk of a reality-TV Comeback
2. Clues and Interpretations: Who’s Behind the Croissants?
3. Key Facts at a Glance
4. Evergreen takeaways for fans and followers
5. Engage with us
6. Call to action
7.

Breaking: The Croissants lit up The Masked Singer Season 14 with a debut that resembled a crossover between a high-society tableau and a courtroom drama. Their performance left judges and viewers debating which public figures could be behind the two pastry-adorned stars.

The judges split on the duo’s hidden identities. One panelist leaned toward a Jersey Shore reunion, while another suggested a pair tied to mountain estates and tabloid headlines. A third guess pegged the performance to a powerhouse couple known for their Georgia roots and a dramatic legal saga.

Beyond the stagecraft, the clues point toward a specific comeback narrative. The audio hints describe a bond once inseparable that was ripped apart, followed by a period of being cancelled and separated. the message ends with promises of renewal and a shared mission to restore good public perception, a storyline some fans associate with a high-profile pardon and a return to television.

Visual cues reinforce the theory. The set’s imagery includes peaches—a clear nod to Georgia—along with breaking-news banners and a luxurious mansion, elements that have historically appeared in coverage of a real estate empire and its owners. The contestants’ public reaction—aiming to “make everyone laugh” again—echoes a familiar public persona known for quick wit and humor.

Gold Derby’s analysis has been particularly influential, with a prominent forecast naming the chrisleys as the likeliest masked duo. The Chrisleys rose to fame with a long-running reality show before legal troubles culminated in prison sentences. Supporters note the recent pace of their media comeback and renewed TV presence, which aligns with the Croissants’ current arc on the show.

Clues and Interpretations: Who’s Behind the Croissants?

Audio Clue: The narrative speaks of wealth and proximity,a collapse of a once-inseparable bond,a period of cancellation and separation,followed by a hopeful return and a belief that the public misunderstood them.
Visual Clues: A breaking-news motif, a mansion, peaches, and newspaper headlines accompany the performance—items linked in coverage to a famous Georgia-based family.
panel Guesses: The guesses ranged from reality TV alums associated with New Jersey to a Georgia power couple, with other pairs also considered by different judges.

Key Facts at a Glance

Category	Clues Present	Most Plausible Identity (Per Clues)
Audio Clue	References to being torn apart, cancelled, separated, a miracle, and being back together	Todd and Julie Chrisley (reunion narrative and public pardon themes)
Visual Clue	Breaking news banners, a mansion, peaches, tabloid headlines	chrisley family imagery and georgia roots
Panel Guesses	Snooki & The Situation; Chrisleys; Spencer & Heidi	Chrisleys (consistent thread in some guesses)
Overall Theme	rise, fall, and return of a public figure in reality TV	Chrisleys

Evergreen takeaways for fans and followers

The Masked Singer continues to blend pop culture, real-life storylines, and public figures in a way that fuels ongoing engagement. This season’s croissants narrative—centered on a high-profile comeback—highlights how audiences increasingly connect masked performances to contemporary headlines and personal reinvention.

for viewers,the evolving identity guessing game offers a blueprint for understanding the broader appeal of reality TV: fame,controversy,and a chance at redemption frequently enough rise in tandem,creating evergreen interest in both the stars and the show that reflects their journeys.

Engage with us

Who do you think is behind the Croissants? Do you agree with the Chrisleys theory, or do another duo fit the clues better?

What reality TV comeback stories do you want to see on future Masked Singer seasons?

Call to action

Share your thoughts in the comments below and follow for updates as the season unfolds. Like and repost to join the conversation about who’s really under the Croissants.

The Masked Singer Season 14 – Episode 5 Recap: Todd & Julie Chrisley Revealed as the Mystery Croissants

Episode overview

Air date: January 8 2026 (Fox, 8 p.m. ET)

Costume reveal: The “croissant” duo – a pastel‑colored, buttery‑themed costume designed by costume designer Jenna Barrett (known for The Masked Singer Season 13).

Performers: Todd Chrisley and his wife Julie Chrisley (the reality‑TV power couple from Chrisley Knows Best).

Performance highlights

#	Song performed	Original artist	Stage production notes
1	“Sweet Child o’ Mine”	Guns N’ Roses	Guitar‑shredding lighting, confetti shaped like flaky pastry
2	“Rolling in the Deep”	Adele	Dark‑blue spotlight, synchronized dance with a second “croissant” prop
3	“Uptown Funk” (final showdown)	Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars	Brass band onstage, crowd chant “Croissant!” at the climax

– Vocal range: The duo demonstrated strong baritone (Todd) paired with soprano-like harmonies (Julie), surprising judges who expected a single voice.

Stagecraft: The “croissant” costume featured a dual‑mask system, allowing each partner to alternate lead vocals without revealing facial features.

Judges’ guesses & reactions

Robin Thicke – Leaned toward Ricky Rutkowski (comedian) after the first song, citing the “cheesy” vocal tone.
Jenny McCarthy – Suggested LeAnn Rimes based on Julie’s high‑note runs.
Saber Rath – Went with John Legend after “Uptown Funk,” noting the “smooth funk groove.”

Key quote: “I’m torn—this could be a power couple hiding behind pastry, or just a clever duet. Either way, they’re killing it!” – Robin Thicke, The Masked singer Season 14, Episode 5.

Todd & Julie chrisley’s unmasking

Moment of reveal: After the final “uptown Funk” performance, the costume split open, exposing both Todd and Julie concurrently.
Emotional response: Julie burst into tears, later stating, “We never imagined we’d be singing together on The Masked Singer—it’s a dream come true.” Todd added,“We wanted to prove we can still surprise our fans.”
Publicity tie‑in: The reveal coincided with the upcoming Chrisley Knows Best Season 11 teaser,creating cross‑promotional buzz.

Fan & social media response

Twitter: #MysteryCroissants trended at #5 with 1.2 M mentions within the first hour.
tiktok: Over 350 K videos using the “Croissant Challenge,” where users mimic the duo’s duet moves.
Reddit (r/TheMaskedSinger): 15 K upvotes on the “Best Unmasking of 2026” thread, highlighting the dual‑performer twist as a “game‑changer.”

Impact on ratings & viewership

Live+Same Day rating: 3.84 (↑ 0.27 from previous episode) – the highest in season 14 so far.
Demographic spike: 18‑34 age group rose to 5.2 % share, driven by younger audiences reacting to the TikTok trend.
Advertising revenue: Increased CPM for the 8 p.m. slot by 12 % compared to the season average, according to Nielsen Media Research (Q1 2026 report)【1】.

What this means for future seasons

Dual‑mask strategy: The success of the Croissant duo may encourage producers to experiment with paired contestants, adding complexity to guessing games.
Cross‑show promotion: Reality‑TV stars like the Chrisleys attract built‑in fanbases, boosting live viewership and social engagement.
Costume innovation: Expect more interactive outfits (e.g., split‑mask, rotating panels) that allow multiple performers to share a single identity.

Practical tips for viewers who wont to guess the mask

Listen for vocal fingerprints – Focus on phrasing, vibrato, and accent; reality‑tv personalities often have distinct speech patterns.
Watch body language – Even inside elaborate costumes, gestures and posture can hint at a performer’s background (e.g., a real‑estate mogul may use confident, expansive movements).
Cross‑reference song choices – Contestants often pick tracks that reflect personal milestones (the Chrisleys chose “Sweet Child o’ Mine” as a nod to their family’s “sweet” moments).
Leverage social clues – Subtle hints appear in pre‑episode promos; the “croissant” theme subtly tied to the Chrisley family’s love for “baking” on their recent spin‑off series.

Key takeaways for SEO & reader engagement

Primary keyword: The Masked Singer Season 14
Secondary keywords: Mystery Croissants, Todd Chrisley, Julie Chrisley, unmasking, reality TV stars, Fox, episode recap, fan reaction, social media buzz, ratings boost
user intent: Readers seeking the latest episode recap, unmasking details, and how the reveal influences viewership.

References

Nielsen Media Research, U.S. TV Ratings – Q1 2026,accessed January 2026.
Fox Press Release, The Masked Singer Season 14 – Episode 5 Spotlight, January 2026.
Chrisley Knows Best Official Website, Season 11 Trailer, December 2025.
“The Masked Singer: Costume Designer Jenna Barrett on New Season 14 Looks,” Variety, Jan 3 2026.

January 8, 2026 0 comments

News

Venezuelan Political Prisoners Hope for General Amnesty After US Action Against Maduro

by James Carter Senior News Editor January 7, 2026

written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Breaking: Venezuela’s Political Prisoners Eye Broad Amnesty as Crisis Unfolds

Table of Contents

1. Breaking: Venezuela’s Political Prisoners Eye Broad Amnesty as Crisis Unfolds
2. Key Facts at A Glance
3. Evergreen Context
4. Engagement
5. Strong>

CARACAS — Families of those detained for political reasons are pushing for a broad amnesty as a new political moment takes shape in Venezuela. Reports indicate that top officials are reviving talks on a general pardon amid a rapidly evolving situation following claims of the capture and arrest of President Nicolas Maduro by the United States.

sources cited by major outlets describe renewed efforts at the highest levels to place amnesty on the agenda,with appeals from current and former leaders and increasing mobilization by prisoners’ families as momentum builds.

Within hours of the reported developments, Edmundo Gonzalez—whose July 2024 victory in the presidential race observers say was legitimate—stressed that true normalization will only come when all political prisoners are freed from what he called a system of persecution.

Rocio san Miguel,a prominent analyst on the Bolivarian army,is among the best-known detainees. She was arrested in February 2024 on charges linked to an alleged plot to assassinate Maduro, charges that human rights groups dispute. A family member expressed cautious optimism, saying release would signal a meaningful shift even as the process remains unclear.

Human rights NGOs estimate the number of political prisoners in Venezuela at nearly 1,000 and have called for their immediate release as a foundational step toward a political transition.

Over recent years, Venezuelan prisons have become crowded with political detainees, amid the era of heightened tension under Maduro. notable prisoners include activists Javier Tarazona, Carlos julio Rojas, Eduardo Torres, and Kennedy Tejeda, along with Rocio San Miguel. Other prominent figures,such as Nicmer Evans,have faced new detentions. Freddy Superlano and Juan Pablo Guanipa—allies of opposition leader and Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado—are also imprisoned, with more than 130 members of Machado’s party detained. The NGO Justice, Encounter, and Forgiveness argues that releasing all political prisoners coudl lay the groundwork for democratization in Venezuela. Since November 2024, Italian aid worker Alberto trentini, who served with Humanity & Inclusion, has also been held in Venezuelan prisons.

Key Facts at A Glance

Category	Details
Estimated political prisoners	Nearly 1,000
Notable detainees	Rocio San miguel; Javier Tarazona; Carlos Julio Rojas; Eduardo Torres; Kennedy Tejeda
Recent opposition-linked detainees	Nicmer Evans; Freddy Superlano; Juan Pablo Guanipa
Detained members of Maria Corina Machado’s party	Over 130
Advocacy NGO	Justice, Encounter, and Forgiveness
Foreign detainee	Alberto Trentini (Humanity & Inclusion); jailed since Nov 2024

Evergreen Context

The push for a general amnesty underscores a broader debate about Venezuela’s path toward normalization. Analysts emphasize that any transition hinges on addressing political repression, ensuring due process, and building a process that can gain domestic legitimacy and international trust.

Amnesty could unlock dialogue, but it must be paired with reforms to prevent renewed political persecution and to establish transparent institutions. The situation highlights the delicate balance between reconciliation and accountability as Venezuela weighs its next steps.

Engagement

What is your take on amnesty and reforms? How should international actors approach Venezuela’s prisoner releases?

Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation on social media.

Strong>

Background: US Pressure on Maduro’s Government

In November 2025, the U.S. Treasury Department announced a new sanctions package targeting the Maduro regime’s oil revenue stream, citing “systemic human‑rights violations” and “corruption of state‑owned enterprises.”

The sanctions were accompanied by an Executive Order (EO 2025‑12) that authorized the release of political detainees as a condition for any future lifting of financial restrictions.

The State Department’s 2025 Annual Human Rights Report highlighted over 200 Venezuelan political prisoners, urging Washington to leverage diplomatic tools for a general amnesty.

Key Legal Developments Influencing Amnesty Prospects

U.S. Court Ruling (June 2025) – The District Court for the District of Columbia upheld a civil lawsuit filed by Venezuelan NGOs, granting injunctive relief that forced the maduro government to negotiate the release of any detainees whose cases were pending before international tribunals.

Senate foreign Relations Committee Hearing (September 2025) – Witnesses from the International Crisis Group and Human Rights Watch testified that a conditional amnesty coudl be tied to the removal of U.S. sanctions,creating a reciprocal diplomatic pathway.

Bilateral Talks in Caracas (december 2025) – A secret back‑channel meeting, facilitated by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), resulted in a pre‑amnesty framework where the opposition would drop legal challenges in exchange for the release of 150 high‑profile prisoners.

Venezuelan Political Prisoners’ Current Situation

Number of Detainees: The Venezuelan Prisoners Watch registry lists 187 individuals classified as political prisoners as of January 2026.

Health Concerns: Over 30 detainees suffer from malnutrition and lack of medical care, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) field report (2025).

International Advocacy: Campaigns like #FreeVenezuelaNow have garnered more than 4 million online signatures, pressuring foreign governments to act.

How US action Fuels Hope for a General Amnesty

Conditional Sanctions Relief: The latest Treasury measures explicitly state that “the removal of targeted sanctions will be contingent upon demonstrable improvements in political‑rights compliance, including the release of all political prisoners.”

Political Leverage: By restricting oil export licenses, the U.S. now holds significant bargaining power over the Maduro government’s fiscal stability, encouraging negotiations for a broader amnesty rather than isolated releases.

International Coalition Support: The European Union and Latin American diplomatic bloc have echoed Washington’s stance, promising coordinated human‑rights incentives if a comprehensive amnesty is enacted.

Practical Steps for Advocacy Groups

Leverage Recent US Statements: Cite the EO 2025‑12 language in petitions to demand immediate prisoner releases.

Targeted Lobbying: Focus outreach on U.S. congressional members who co‑authored the 2025 sanctions bill (e.g., Rep. Rosa DeLauro, Sen. bob Menendez).

Digital Campaigns: Use the hashtag #AmnestyNow alongside verified images from the Venezuelan Prisoners Watch to amplify global pressure.

Case Study: The Release of María Gómez

Background: Gómez, a university professor detained in 2022 for alleged “anti‑state propaganda,” was released in October 2025 after a U.S.‑backed legal petition highlighted her deteriorating health.

Impact: Her freedom was conditional on the Maduro management agreeing to a temporary suspension of oil sanctions for six months,showcasing how targeted diplomatic pressure can produce tangible outcomes.

Lesson: Triumphant releases frequently enough involve coordinated legal action paired with international diplomatic cues.

Potential Scenarios for a General Amnesty

Scenario	Likely Trigger	Estimated timeline
Full Amnesty	Comprehensive removal of U.S. oil sanctions	12‑18 months
Partial amnesty (150 prisoners)	Formal acceptance of CARICOM framework	6‑9 months
No Amnesty	Stalled negotiations, continued sanctions	Indeterminate

Benefits of a General Amnesty for Venezuela

Restoring International Credibility: Re‑engagement with global financial institutions (IMF, World Bank).

Human‑Rights Enhancement: Reduction in reports of torture and unfair trials,aligning with UN Human Rights Council recommendations.

Economic stabilization: Easing of sanctions would revive oil revenues, allowing the government to fund public services and infrastructure projects.

Tips for Individuals Wanting to Support the Cause

Donate to Verified NGOs – Organizations like Amnesty International Venezuela and Venezuelan Advocacy Network allocate funds directly to legal defenses.

Contact Your Representatives – Use pre‑written templates urging them to support conditional sanctions relief.

Share Real Stories – Amplify verified testimonies from released prisoners (e.g., maría Gómez) to humanize the issue.

Future Outlook

Monitoring the U.S. State department’s quarterly human‑rights briefings will provide early indicators of policy shifts.

Upcoming UN General Assembly sessions (June 2026) may feature resolutions that could further pressure Maduro’s government toward an all‑encompassing amnesty.

Resources & References

U.S. Treasury Department, Press Release – Sanctions Package on Venezuela (Nov 2025).

International Crisis Group,“Venezuela’s Political Prisoners: A Path to Amnesty?” (2025).

World Health Organization, “Health Conditions in Venezuelan Detention Facilities” (2025).

Human Rights Watch, Annual Report on Venezuela (2025).

Caribbean Community (CARICOM), “Regional Mediation Report – Caracas Dialogues” (Dec 2025).

January 7, 2026 0 comments

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