In this issue
Fall Newsletter 2026 - Vol. 46 No. 1
President's Message
Claudia Cisneros, CMC, City Recorder, McMinnville
Greetings OAMR!
I hope you are enjoying the downtime after a wonderful 2026 OAMR Conference in Lincoln City. I was able to enjoy two weeks away in Italy before I start the busy exciting presidential duties.
First, thank you for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to serve as your OAMR President. I’m honored to be here, and I know I wouldn’t be in this position without the encouragement and support of this association. My hope this year is that we continue to be that voice of encouragement for one another. Because sometimes, all it takes is one person believing in us to help us take a chance on ourselves. I know that because it happened to me and I can’t wait to see who we inspire to take that next step this year.
I’d like to congratulate and welcome our leadership team, who took office this fall: Immediate Past President Scott Stauffer, Vice President Natasha Johnson, Treasurer Kim Herring, and Secretary Melissa Martin. I look forward to continuing working alongside this wonderful team in the year ahead! Additionally, OAMR voted for the IIMC Region IX Director Oregon position. Congratulations Nanci Sandoval, Umatilla.
Our September conference in Lincoln City was a wonderful success, bringing members together for a week filled with valuable learning, collaboration, and connection. This would not have been possible without the commitment and efforts of our members and committees. Special recognition goes to the Events & Fundraising Committee (EFC) and the Education Committee, along with sincere thanks to all the committees who contributed to the sessions and helped make the week so meaningful. I hope everyone who attended had an enjoyable and rewarding experience!
We also achieved great success with our fundraising efforts, particularly the live auction, thanks in large part to Jamie Young’s hard work and dedication. As we begin preparing for the 2027 conference at Eaglecrest, I encourage everyone to start reaching out to their cities early to secure donated items for both the silent and live auctions. Your participation and support will help us continue building our scholarship fund and investing in future opportunities for our recipients.
As we continue reflecting on this year’s conference, I’d also like to recognize and celebrate our outstanding award recipients. Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees!
Sylvia Murphy, Sherwood our Recorder of the Year (ROY), Kim Herring, Dallas recipient of the President’s Award of Distinction (PAD), and Jamie Young, Lincoln City our Breaking Barriers (BB) award recipient.
A special thanks to our out of state guests and International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) folks who joined us at the coast -- International Institute Municipal Clerks (IIMC) President Lee Frazier, Marc Donohue and Shawn Campbell, our Region IX Directors, Northwest Clerks Institute (NCI) Director Joann Tilton, Alaska Association of Municipal Clerks (AAMC) President Kim Lane, California Municipal Clerks Association (CMCA) Suzanne Guzzetta, and Washington Municipal Clerks Association (WMCA) President Peri Gallucci & President-elect Kathy Linnemeyer. Your presence was appreciated!
Up next – the OAMR Board will hold its first meeting on Monday, November 30th, 20256, on Zoom. Board members are required to attend, committee chairs are highly encouraged to attend, and all association members are welcome to attend. Watch for the agenda to kick off the year! Please attend if you can!
As for OAMR committees, if you haven’t already signed up for a committee and if you haven’t heard from a committee chair, let me know and we’ll get you on the roster. Lots of opportunities not just to learn more about OAMR but also build lasting connections, sign up today!
Be on the lookout for the annual membership renewal email with our newly approved tiered due structures as approved at our September Business Meeting. Thank you Alex Downing and all who helped with this heavy lift.
In December I will be heading to Anchorage, Alaska and the AAMC annual conference. This will be my first time in Alaska, I’m a little nervous of the weather but excited as well and will report back.
Lastly, I encourage each of you to embrace this year’s theme, “Dare Because Others Believe.” Just as we make a difference in our communities, we have the opportunity to make a difference in each other’s lives. Sometimes, all it takes is a little encouragement, a kind word, or someone believing in us to give us the confidence to take that next step.
So, as we move into this next year, I encourage you to be that person for someone else. Recognize someone’s potential, encourage them to step outside their comfort zone, and remind them that they are capable of more than they may realize. Because sometimes, the belief we give someone else becomes the belief they find in themselves.
Save the Date
Natasha Johnson, CMC, City of Amity
Hello OAMR Friends!
I am so sorry to have missed the conference this year, but it sounds like the conference in Lincoln City was a blast – a big thank you to our host recorders Jaime Young and Shannon Macias and thank you to everyone on the Education Committee and Events & Fundraising Committee (EFC) who put in so much work to make conference a success.
I am pleased to report that we raised around $9,088.50 in fundraising activities in the last year. Approximately $641.50 came from our online drawings and sales in the spring and $8,447 at our conference. Many thanks to our EFC Fundraising Subcommittee for their hard work – in the spring and at conference – and thank you to all OAMR members and friends who donated items and participated in the auctions and raffles. Thank you!
Now, onto 2027 and the City of Redmond!
As announced by OAMR President Scott Stauffer, we will be gathering in Redmond next September for annual conference activities. Please mark your calendars for the week of September 21-25, 2027, and watch for future announcements for what will surely be a fun and educational time in Central Oregon!
We’re going to Canyonville in ‘28!
And finally, I am happy to report that at our annual conference in Lincoln City, OAMR members voted to award the 2028 annual conference venue to Seven Feathers Casino in Canyonville.
Welcome New Members
Welcome New Members
By Committee Co-Chairs Stacey Stockhoff, CMC, La Grande, and June Hinojosa, CMC, Bandon
On behalf of the Membership Committee, please join us in extending a warm welcome to our new members!
REGION I
Alixandrea Owens, Deputy City Recorder, City of Warrenton.
REGION II
Sarah Bossenbroek, City Recorder and Manager, City of Maywood Park.
Whitney Harvey, Administrative Assistant, City of Estacada.
REGION III
Brianna Hutley, City Clerk/Finance, City of Jefferson, has been with the City since 2018, when she started as a Utility Billing Clerk. Since then, she has gradually taken on additional responsibilities and grown into her current role in the City’s finance department since July 2024. Before entering local government, Brianna was a student, and she learned about OAMR through her City, which has been a member for many years. An Oregon native, Brianna has lived in Oregon her entire life. She is Native Hawaiian and shares her home with two cats she absolutely loves. When she’s not working, Brianna enjoys rockhounding and reading—two hobbies that give her plenty of opportunities to explore and unwind.
Fun fact: Brianna is a self-described big nerd who loves all things Anime, Disney, and Pokémon! If she could instantly master one skill, she’d choose Excel formulas—a very fitting goal for someone working in finance. Her motto is simple: “Hakuna Matata.”
REGION V
Joe Dittberner, City Recorder/Executive Assistant, City of Phoenix, brings a background in public service and community involvement to his role in local government. Before entering local government, Joe worked in Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services and served for four years as Vice Chair of Jackson County’s Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee. As he gets settled into his Recorder role, he’s excited to learn and grow, with elections, public meetings, and records retention among the areas where he’s looking forward to gaining more experience and guidance.
A Rogue Valley native, Joe has lived most of his life in Southern Oregon. He has been happily married to his high school sweetheart for 15 years and has one dog. Outside of work, Joe enjoys hiking, gardening, playing music, and generally being outdoors. He is also a musician and plays in a local community band. He’s currently just one term away from earning his Master’s in Public Administration.
Fun fact: Joe speaks Spanish fluently! If he could instantly master another skill, he’d choose either learning another language or playing another instrument. His personal motto for public service is: “It may not be my fault, but it is my responsibility,” reflecting his deep connection to his community and commitment to public service.
Erica Jacobson, Deputy City Recorder, City of Medford.
Christine Veselik, City Clerk,/Deputy Recorder, City of Gold Hill, stepped into her role in July 2026, bringing with her extensive experience in legal services and HOA management. New to municipal government, Christine is eager to learn every aspect of the municipal clerk profession and looks forward to growing into her new role. Originally from Oregon, Christine spent 15 years in Arizona before happily returning home. She now shares her life with three wild and hairy Australian Shepherds who, as she puts it, rule the roost. Outside of work, Christine enjoys camping, exploring Oregon, and taking day trips as she continues discovering all that the state has to offer.
Fun fact: Christine has a large collection of brooches inherited from her grandmother. If she could instantly master one skill, she would choose to become a helicopter pilot! Her motto is: “Good stewardship means leaving things better than you found it!”
REGION VII
Jennifer Mespelt, Administrative Assistant, City of Pilot Rock.
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OAMR Awards
RECORDER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sylvia Murphy, mMC, City of Sherwood
The Recorder of the Year Award recognizes a recorder who has demonstrated exceptional services and commitment, not just to OAMR, but to their community and organization. This award is a testament to the hard work, integrity, and innovation required to excel in this role.
Murphy has been an active member of OAMR since 2006. She has served as a member and chair on numerous committees including Mentoring and Retired Clerks Committee, Records and Regulations Committee, and OAMR Strategic Planning Group. She received her Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation in 2009 and the prestigious Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designation in 2013 from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC).
Murphy has worked at the City of Sherwood since 2001, becoming City Recorder in 2006.
During the award presentation, OAMR President Scott Stauffer stated, “I wholly agree with their city manager that this year’s recipient is a quiet, steady, and highly respected leader whose professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment have earned the confidence of elected officials, City leadership, colleagues, and fellow municipal recorders.”
Congratulations, Sylvia!
PRESIDENT'S AWARD OF DISTINCTION
Kim Herring, CMC, City of Dallas
The President’s Award of Distinction is awarded to a member of our association who has contributed greatly to a committee or has performed exceptional work for OAMR. Nominations for this award are accepted only from OAMR members. Some areas considered might be in Leadership, OAMR Committee Work, Lifetime Achievement, OAMR Programs, or Education Development.
During the award presentation, OAMR President Scott Stauffer announced, “This year’s PAD recipient is, by some standards, not yet a long-time member, but has already proven to be an invaluable member and leader of OAMR. Critically, this person stepped into a crucial leadership position at conference last year and within days of taking office the Board saw immediate action to reconcile, record, and right the OAMR ship."
Herring has been an active member of OAMR since 2023. Not only does she serve as the OAMR Treasurer she is also on the Events & Fundraising Committee, Strategic Planning Group, Bylaws Committee and Budget Committee. She began working for the City of Dallas in 2023.
Congratulations, Kim!
THE BREAKING BARRIERS AWARD
Jamie Young, MMC, City of
Lincoln City
The Breaking Barriers Award is awarded to a member of our association, recognizing the outstanding work and contribution of an OAMR committee member. The award recognizes and honors an OAMR member who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, significant contributions, and outstanding work on one or more OAMR committees. This award also celebrates individuals who go above and beyond in their committee responsibilities, positively impacting OAMR’s goals and initiatives.
During the award presentation, OAMR President Scott Stauffer stated, “On a personal note, my time in OAMR’s leadership – including this year as president – could not have been as successful if it were not for the tireless efforts of our boots on the ground person here on the coast. Certainly, it is no stretch to say that our facilities and fundraising and host recorder work would have been nowhere without this individual’s tireless efforts and expert knowledge of Lincoln City.”
Young has been an active member of OAMR since 2020. She has served on the Records Committee, Handbook Committee, and Events and Fundraising Committee, and she chairs the Facilities Committee. She began working for the City of Lincoln City in 2012.
Congratulations, Jamie!
CMC and MMC Awards
Wendy Lynn, City of Portland, earns her CMC!
By Gloria Tucker, Port of Newport
The Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders (OAMR) would like to congratulate Wendy Lynn, Council Committee Clerk at the City of Portland, for earning her Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation! Wendy has been with Portland for less than a year. Prior to that, she was Board Coordinator at the Urban Flood Safety District for three years. She joined OAMR four years ago and has served on the Records and Regulations Committee with Alex Downing for the past two years. In that role, they set monthly meeting and training topics and facilitate meetings.
As a part of the RR Committee, she has helped organize several conference sessions over the last three years, focusing on the new state records retention schedule and the new public meeting law guidance.
She encourages everyone to attend PD and join an OAMR committee.
"Whether or not you need certification for your job or your career advancement, I would encourage you to go to PD where you will learn how to do your job better, learn about your work style, and make amazing friends!" she said. "Joining a committee and working on special projects gives you a chance to get out of your city bubble and work closely with other recorders/clerks across the state. These professional connections are invaluable for your career development and mental health!"
Wendy worked for decades as a journalist and non-profit executive director before "accidentally" joining the profession.
"I guess you could call clerking my pre-retirement career," she said. "My main goal is to support my coworkers and elected officials and continue to learn so I can give back to my community. Personally, I’m focused on aging well, staying healthy physically and mentally. My favorite hobby right now is singing!"
Some of her achievements include organizing and coordinating the District’s first board election in 2024. She worked with County elections staff to create forms and procedures as well as help candidates navigate the complicated qualification rules.
Wendy lives in a co-housing community where she helps manage a large garden.
"Fifteen of my neighbors are kids under the age of 10!" she said. "I love their crazy energy and watching them grow. I’m also a crazy houseplant lady and enjoy time with my pets – a chihuahua/corgi mix and calico cat. Singing, crafting, and kayaking bring me joy. I’m grateful to live in a city with live music, theater, and arts to enrich my life!"
Alissa Kolodzinksi, City of Ashland, earns her CMC!
By Brooklyn Osterhage, City of Brookings
Angie Fowler, City of Yamhill, earns her CMC!
By Brooklyn Osterhage, City of Brookings
Jakob Wiley, City of Oregon City, earns his CMC!
By Brooklyn Osterhage, City of Brookings
The Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders (OAMR) would like to congratulate Jakob Wiley, Oregon City City Recorder, for earning the Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation! Jakob has been with Oregon City since December 2020 and a member of OAMR since the start. He started as the Assistant City Recorder and was promoted to City Recorder a year later. During his time with OAMR, he has served on the Strategic Planning Committee, the Legislative Committee and then the Rules and Regulations Committee after the restructuring.
Ronnie Smith, City of King City, earns his MMC!
By Melissa Martin, City of Keizer
The Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders (OAMR) is proud to recognize Ronnie Smith, King City, City Recorder, as he continues to grow in his professional journey. Ronnie has recently earned his Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designation, a testament to his dedication, expertise, and commitment to the profession.
Ronnie began his career in public service with the Port of Astoria, Oregon, before joining King City, where he has served as City Recorder since 2017.
Ronnie has served on several OAMR Committees including the Digital Assets Committee, Education Committee and the Northwest Clerks Institute Committee. His dedication and passion for services has made a significant impact in our organization. Ronnie believes that “getting involved, lending a hand, and supporting one another are what make our organization so special”.
This past year one of his most enjoyable moments was working alongside the wonderful OAMR members while helping set up the annual conference.
When asked about his advice to his other recorders pursuing certification, Ronnie encourages them to “Keep moving forward with radical curiosity! Never stop asking questions, seeking knowledge, or challenging yourself to grow. Certification is about so much more than earning a few letters after your name. It's about the journey, the knowledge you gain, the people you meet, and the confidence you build along the way. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, embrace new challenges, and remember that every opportunity to learn is an opportunity to grow. Celebrate the small victories, give yourself grace along the way, and most importantly, enjoy the journey!”
Throughout Ronnie’s journey of service, he has been honored with the OAMR President’s Award of Distinction, the Hiram Award, from the Oregon Freemasons, and the Bronze President’s Volunteer Service Award from the American Red Cross.
Reflecting on his experience with OAMR he encourages fellow recorders to “get involved, make connections, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!” He describes OAMR as an incredible organization filled with knowledgeable, passionate, and supportive people who understand the unique challenges of our position.
Ronnie encourages others to attend conferences, join committees, volunteer and embrace the many opportunities to learn. He notes “You never know when a simple conversation will turn into a meaningful friendship or connection that helps you navigate a challenge years down the road.” Ronnie highlights that some of the best memories are the friendships he’s made along the way.
“Over the past few years, I've had the opportunity to attend the Northwest Clerks Institute in Tacoma, Washington, for professional development," he said. "While the education and knowledge I've gained have been invaluable, it's the people I've met who have made the experience truly special. I've made some amazing friends, including Stacy, June, Lea, and so many others. I love that we continue to stay connected, share experiences, ask questions, and encourage each other to grow and become better versions of ourselves. That's one of the things I appreciate most about this profession and organizations like OAMR. You come for the education and professional development, but you leave with friendships, a support system, and connections that extend far beyond the classroom or conference.”
Beyond his MMC certification, Ronnie is ambitiously working toward obtaining Government Archives and Records Administration and Certified Records Analyst certifications further showcasing his believe in lifelong learning and growth. He reminds us “there is always something new to discover, another skill to develop, or a different perspective to explore.”
Outside of his professional commitments, Ronnie enjoys spending time with his wife and their kiddos. They enjoy exploring farmers markets, wandering through antique shops, and hunting for unique treasures and hidden gems.
Ronnie is also gardener with a particular love for roses! He loves to spend time outdoors, whether hiking, going for walks, or simply enjoying nature. When he has a little extra time, he dabbles in woodworking and enjoys finding creative projects to keep him busy.
Committee News
scholarship committee
Cathy Nelson, MMC, City of Harrisburg
Hello my fellow OAMR members. We will soon take Scholarship Applications for the upcoming 2027 IIMC Conference in Fort Worth, TX. Please indicate on the application form witch scholarship you are applying for and make sure to fill out the portions pertaining to that specific scholarship. Please also remember that you are required to include a letter of support from your agency to be considered for any OAMR scholarship. If awarded a scholarship, you will need to sign up for and participate in the Conference Committee during the next year.
Application window is Dec. 1 through Dec. 31, 2026.
Region News
rEGION vI
Keli Pollock, City of Madras, Region VI Director
Happy Fall from Region VI!
First, a huge thank you to all the individuals and committees who work so hard to make the OAMR conference happen each year! A special shoutout to the Education Committee for finding the perfect balance between fun, inspiring speakers and practical tips and tricks we can bring home and put to work. And to our fellow recorders who stepped up to lead sessions and share their expertise, thank you! I often find that some of the most valuable learning comes from one another.
Back in Madras, I've been putting some of that conference inspiration to work as we tackle records management improvements, transition shared files into SharePoint, and develop more consistent processes for organizing, retaining, and accessing City records. It's a big undertaking, especially alongside elections, public meetings, and all the other hats we wear! But meaningful improvements don't happen overnight. Sometimes progress is simply identifying a better way to do something and taking that first step.
As we head into election season, I hope things are going smoothly for everyone! I'm grateful to be part of an organization where we can share ideas, ask questions, and learn from each other along the way.
Wishing everyone a wonderful fall and a successful election season!
2026 Conference
Region I
From Left, Melissa Thompson, CMC, Rockaway Beach; Susan Reeves, MMC, Scappoose; Alixandrea Owens, Warrenton; Hanna Bentley, CMC, Warrenton; and Chelsea Hollis, Tillamook
Region II
Back, From Left: Sylvia Murphy, MMC, Sherwood; Rachel Bateman, Cornelius; Rachel Thomas, Newberg; Meghan McGee, CMC, Happy Valley; Wendy Lynn, MMC, Portland; Angie Fowler, Yamhill; Krystal Stevens, Willamina; and Lindsay Bartholomew, Tigard
Front, From Left: Claudia Cisneros, CMC, McMinnville; Scott Stauffer, MMC, Milwaukie; Jakob Wiley, CMC, Oregon City; Kara Kerpan, MMC, Happy Valley; Rocio Vargas, Dayton; and Aimee Amerson, Carlton
Region III
From Left: Renea Oravetz, Mid-Willamette Valley COG; Sheena Dickerman, Millersburg; Mary Dibble, MMC, Albany; Makenna Kackley, Albany; Desyree Ambriz, Gervais; Jennifer Hummel, Aurora; Cathy Nelson, MMC, Harrisburg; Myra Russell, Independence; Pamela Dornbusch, Monmouth; Gloria Tucker, CMC, Port of Newport; Melissa Martin, MMC, Keizer; Jamie Young, MMC, Lincoln City; Paul Johnson, Toledo; Shannon Macias, Lincoln City; Erik Glover, CMC, Albany; Heather Pierson, MMC, Woodburn; and Kim Herring, Dallas
Region IV
From Left: Allyson Pulido, Springfield; Katie LaSala, Eugene; Sara McKinney, Eugene; Rhonda Bryan, Reedsport; Jessica Klarr, Cottage Grove; Amy Nytes, Roseburg; Mindy Roberts, Cottage Grove; and Lindsey White, Florence
Region V
From Left: Alissa Kolodzinski, Ashland; Angela Watson, Jacksonville; Diane Oliver, City of Rogue River; and June Hinojosa, CMC, Bandon
Region VI
From Left: Doni Van Dolah, Maupin; Kayla Duddy, MMC, Redmond; and Keli Pollock, Madras
Region VII
From Left: Kelli Torres, Nyssa; Amanda Mickles, Boardman; Stacey Stockhoff, CMC, La Grande; Lea Moyer, CMC, Fossil; and Megan Langan, Baker City
Past Presidents
From Left: Nanci Sandoval, MMC, Umatilla; Kayla Duddy, MMC, Redmond; Cathy Nelson, MMC, Harrisburg; Ruth Post, MMC; and Nicole Morris, MMC, Tualatin
Honored Guests
From Left: Kim Lane, Alaska Association of Municipal Clerks (AAMC) President; Peri Gallucci, Washington Municipal Clerks Association (WMCA) President; Suzanne Guzzetta, California Municipal Clerks Association (CMCA) President; Scott Stauffer, OAMR President; Lee Frazer, IIMC President; Marc Donohue, IIMC Region IX Director; and Shawn Campbell, IIMC Region IX Director
Representatives
OAMR Board Members Pictured Above
(L-R): Immediate Past President Scott Stauffer, MMC; Region I Director Melissa Thompson, MMC; Secretary Melissa Martin, MMC; President Claudia Cisneros, CMC; Treasurer Kim Herring; Region VI Director Keli Pollock; Region II Director Krystal Stevens; and Region IV Director Allyson Pulido.
2026-2027 OAMR Board
| Board Officers |
Region Directors |
|---|---|
|
President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Immediate Past President |
Region I Director Region II Director Region III Director Region IV Director Region V Director Region VI Director Region VII Director |
2026-2027 OAMR COMMITTEE CHAIRS
|
Audit Committee Budget Committee Kim Herring Bylaws Committee Digital Assets Committee Lisa Figueroa, CMC [email protected]
Nanci Sandoval, MMC
Education Committee
|
Events & Fundraising Committee Krystal Stevens City of Willamina 411 NE C Street Willamina, OR 97396 503-876-2242 Membership Committee Stacey Stockhoff, CMC Mentoring & Retired Clerks Committee Nominating Committee
|
Northwest Clerks Institute Education Committee
Publications Committee Gloria Tucker, CMC Port of Newport 600 SE Bay Blvd. Newport, OR 97365 541.265.7758 Records & Regulations Committee Alex Downing, CMC City of Corvallis PO Box 1083 Corvallis, OR 97333 541.766.6729 x5075
Alissa Kolodzinski, CMC, Ashland
Scholarship Committee Strategic Planning Group |
2026-2027 OAMR COMMITTEES
|
Audit Committee Budget Committee Bylaws Committee Digital Assets Committee Education Committee Events & Fundraising Committee |
Membership Committee Mentoring & Retired Clerks Committee Nominating Committee Northwest Clerks Institute Education Committee Publications Committee |
Records & Regulations Committee Scholarship Committee Strategic Planning Group |
Mission Statement
The mission of the Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders is to enhance the quality of our office and to encourage dedication to our profession, by providing educational experiences of the highest quality as well as promote the professionalism of the office of municipal recorder.
Newsletter Submission Deadlines
Winter 2026 - December 11, 2026
Spring 2027 - March 5, 2027
Summer 2027 – June 11, 2027
Winter Newsletter 2026 - Vol. 45 No. 2
- Welcome New Members
- President's Message
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Spring Newsletter 2026 - Vol. 45 No. 3
- Welcome New Members
- President's Message
- Ad
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Summer Newsletter 2026 - Vol. 45 No. 4
- Welcome New Members
- President's Message
- Ad
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