A Brand New Courtney- A Shero's Journey From Being Broken to Being Blessed!

“The “make up” of Courtney M. Hawkins is that of one, who through sheer strength of will, finds a way to live through it all! From brokenness to blessedness, Courtney’s testimony is nothing short of a miracle. She has reached a place in her  healing process to be a blessing to someone else.” -Pastor Darrell L. Fairer Faith Bible Tabernacle, Buffalo, NY

Courtney Hawkins

We all are on a life journey, and Courtney takes us on one of healing, redemption and growing from being Broken to Being Blessed. “Dr. Courtney" new memoir, The Make-up of Me: Embrace Your Natural Beauty is one every woman going through the journey of rebirthing and unmasking oneself should read. She shares how she healed with the grace of God and his mercy. She broke from the the bondage of self-hatred, guilt, self-hatred, guilt, shame, incompetence, depression, anxiety and thoughts about suicide. Her words will inspire you, encourage and motivate you to love yourself.

1.      Courtney, I would first like to thank you for allowing me to the opportunity to write an article about you. Could you give the readers the make-up of Courtney?

“Dr. Courtney” is a woman of passion, perseverance and vision. Her purpose is to coach and assist the broken hearted through their delivery and healing process. She is a Minister, Author, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Mental Health First Aid Trainer, Life Coach and Public Speaker.

“Dr. Courtney” is admired for her strength, courage and willingness to be very transparent about her flaws with hopes others may feel freed to embrace their own.  Her very straight forward and straightforward approach has her dubbed as the Dr. who’s “A tough pill to swallow”.

1.      What spark the idea to write a memoir and share your life story?

As an overcomer who has endured same-sex molestation, rape and a survivor of a fatal car accident that claimed another’s life, I understand how it feels to be broken. As a result, of these events, I was filled with self-hatred, guilt, shame, incompetence, depression, anxiety and thoughts about suicide.

Tired of hiding and determined to break free of mental and emotional bondage, I chose to surrender my fears and do the work necessary to live an abundant life. I selected to accept the transformational power of forgiveness, grace and mercy for my life which is legally bestowed to me as a child of God, and now I continually practice self-love while embracing my flaws and all.

This book is an eye into my diary of healing. I wanted to chronicle my life through my memoir while being optimistic that others would read it and uncover vital insights that will guide the reader into embracing their natural beauty. Also, with hopes that the reader will discover within the pages the written keys that will unlock their truth that can support them in setting themselves free.

2.      Share a little about The Make-up of Me: Embrace Your Natural Beauty and why you chose that title?

Generally speaking “Makeup” has been used for countless generations to make oneself more attractive by masking their imperfections and flaws.  Flaws and blemishes can be an embarrassment to many people.  Because many of us lack the courage and confidence needed to accept and embrace our flaws we misrepresent ourselves by covering them with masks.

I chose to name the book “The Makeup of Me: Embrace Your Natural Beauty” because I wanted to remove my mask and expose myself so that others who witnessed my trials and tribulations would also know of God’s healing power.  I wanted to share my story so that others would be freed to embrace their flaws and share their own stories. 

3.       4. What words of encouragement would you like to share with women who are in the rut of life and feel like they will never recover?”

Here’s an excerpt from her Memoir The Make-up of Me: Embrace Your Natural Beauty and why you chose that title and Chapter “EMBRACELET.”

“Embracing the truth and letting go of the lies that I told myself was a process for me and remains a practice that I continue on a daily basis.  Just as I accept brand new mercies and grace for myself daily, I also make a conscious effort to embrace something positive and let go of something negative.   What lies are you telling yourself that you should let go of?  What truths do you need to embrace?”- Courtney M. Hawkins

Here are a few to consider…

Embrace                                                                Let go of

I’m fearfully and wonderfully made                  I’m flawed and imperfect 

I’m more than a conqueror                                I’m not enough

I’m unconditionally loved by the King                No one loves me

4.      What have you learned (or still learning) since being in the business of self-publishing?

 I’ve learned to trust myself and believe in my abilities. That with God’s guidance I can accomplish things that I didn’t know I was capable of doing on my own.

5.       Tell me a little about your company Broken Branches, Inc.?

 Broken Branches Inc. Provides a wide range of programming that pertain to an individual’s mental health.  Our Mission is to comfort those who mourn, restore healthy relationships, and increase mental health awareness in our communities with the hope that individuals live a more healthy, abundant and productive life.  Our Motto: Lean on us for your Life, Health, and Strength!

6.      Lastly, if you had to choose one person living or dead who would you like to have a dinner with?

I would love to have dinner with Karyn Washington. Karyn was the beautiful visionary behind the encouraging and uplifting website, Forbrowngirls.com.   She created the forum to celebrate the beauty of darker shades of brown skin, to encourage women to embrace the skin they’re in. At just the age of 22, while finding it difficult to grieve the loss of her mother Karyn committed suicide.

I wish I were able to comfort her during her time of grieving.  I wish I could’ve told her that she can lean on me for her Life, Health and Strength. 

 You can follow her on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/Voniquedesigns

Thank you for allowing me as well as so many women share in your journey tragedy but teaching us to see that each struggle, each life changing journey is God's road map to your true purpose.  

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SUMMER'S HOPE: LATOYA MURCHISON

LaToya Murchison was born and raised in Southern Pines, NC and started writing poetry as a junior in high school.  LaToya found that writing allowed her to be creative and eventually discovered her interest in becoming a published author.  After graduating from high school and uncertain of her career path, she attended and received an Associate Degree In Office Systems Technology from Sandhills Community College in Pinehurst, N.C.

LaToya’s life has been filled with very colorful people and experiences. With the stress of battling health issues and the loss of loved ones in her life, LaToya found writing provided her with a source of therapy and healing. LaToya serves as Media Director and Children’s Ministry Assistant at Love Grove Free Will Baptist Church.

courtesy of www.latoyamurchison.com

Imani: Welcome to the Lounge. Let's start off with a simple icebreaker and begin with your story, just who is LaToya Murchison?

LaToya: Hi Imani and thank you for having me as a guest in your Lounge. I would describe myself as being seasoned and I say that because I am a mixture of many different things. I am a woman of God, a daughter, sister,  author, poet,friend, aunt, and caregiver to many.My passion is helping to build up and inspire others in everything that I do.  My life has not been easy and I have experience a lot of hurt, lost, pain, and sickness. The one thing that remined the same is God’s love for me. For most of my life dating back to when I was a young child I spent a lot of time in and out of hospitals and doctors offices. They never were really able to tell my parents what was wrong with me. At the age of 18 the doctors gave me what they thought was a death sentence and stated that I would not live to be 25 years of age. Little did they know God turned that death sentence into a life that I am still living almost 20 years later.  My hope is that God continues to use me as one of his chosen vessels to speak to his people about how good he is, and that he allows my life to be a living testimony.

Tell us more about your latest project. What's the inspiration behind this book?

My latest project is called Poetic Expressions which is a collection of poems that I have written over the years. Some of the poems are from my own personal experience and the rest family and friends asked me to write. For example the poem called Grandma was written on behalf of my sister after her grandma passed a few years ago. She asked me to write something that showed how much she loved and missed her. My sister is actually the one that pushed me into publishing this project because she said they needed to be shared with the world. She tells me all the time that my heart come out and shines through everything that I write.

Briefly, explain what makes your book different from the vast choices in the same genre?

What makes my book differentbfrom others in this genre is simple. They are my personal experiences and conservations that I had with others. My inspirational poems are my personal consetvations with God.

What were the challenges of writing this book?

The only challenge with writing my latest book was choosing which poems I wanted to include in the book. It was important  tomake sure that each poem fix my message and there was something everyone could relate too.

Everyone has a testimony and usually, that testimony is linked to some type hope. So, what’s your definition of this beautiful word?

At the age of 18 doctors stated that I would not live to see the age of 25. With God’s continue grace and mercy over my life I will turn 37 years old on August 2. Over the past few weeks my health has fallen but the hope that I have in God is what keeps me going. Hope is knowing that God has not given up on me and he has allowed me to live far longer than the doctors quoted to me. Hope is knowing this is just the beginning and not the end. Hope is knowing that though God’s I am healed and delivered because of his love, daily grace and mercy.

Tell me your hope in a few sentences.

My hope is that through sharing my past and present with others will encourage them to stand tall and walk into their futures knowing the best is yet to come. My hope is to be able to keep smiling and trusting in God no matter what I may face. My hope is to keep standing and shining when others say I should just give up.

Professionally or personally, where do you see yourself in five years?

In the next 5 year I see myself finally having my non-profit organization up and running which is called REACH Community Services. REACH Community Services is a organization that offers help to all persons in need. It was established with caring people, with innovative programs to empower men, women and children. We strive to inspire, enable and educate young people from all backgrounds and circumstances to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. REACH stands for (Respect*Encourage*Assist*Commit*Hope). I also see myself as a nationally known author who travels the world empowering and encouraging others.

Share with us, your motivating song that gets you going?

I Know Who Holds Tomorrow by Kelly Price

A Praying Heart

Excerpt:

Jesus

You woke me up this morning to have a better day. Instead of praising you I disobeyed you and at times I am not sure what I am supposed to do. The sound of your name rings in my heart and I hope that it never stops.

Lord I pray that you forgive me for all my sins. Forgive me for passing judgement on others. Teach me to have forgiveness in my heart for those who have mistreated me. As you lead me to the riverside to leave all of my trouble behind. I look to the future instead of my past. Thank you for blessing me with the talent to express my feelings through your loving words. Lord it took me a long time to realize my gift now that I have I promise to use it to uplift your people. Thank you for teaching me that I had to fall before I would be able to walk and stand tall. Lord thank you for being the lover of my soul and the joy in my life. When I was down you allowed me to sit on your shoulders until I was able to get up and stand on my own. Lord with all that I am I offer up this prayer today and every day to come in. You precious name. Amen

Find Latoya at these sites:

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

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JAMI GREENE: THE LEGACY IN THE MAKING

When the name Jamesina (Jami) Greene comes to mind, I think of strength, compassion, and grace. I'm honored to share her story of triumph, overcoming the obstacles that many would succumb to its challenge. Though this Ordained Minister still has a lot of fight; she's a warrior not only in her faith, but for the voiceless who think their past hurts are a definition of who they are. 

Minister Greene was like many who have suffered abuse and lived in the shame. She also can relate to grief, because she understands the pain of losing loved ones. Most people assume ministers, or a person of Faith, live the perfect lives; they live by the Word while gleaming a smile, give time to the less fortunate, and, of course, give inspiration. 

If only it's that simple.

Minister Greene storms were tumultuous, a monsoon of heartache. Truthfully, it's human nature. No matter who the person is, or the background they come from, or how big they're bank account, the pain of depression does not discriminate --even for the person of God. 

And yet this talented author and Blog Talk Host and Producer to her show "Voices of Triumph" has proven her journey is far from over. 



Imani: Pink Noire is proud to welcome Author and Motivational Speaker, Minister Jamesina (Jami) Greene. Before we go further, tell us something yourself.

Jami: I would like to begin by saying that I am truly honored to be a Guest of Pink Noire.  I am grateful for this opportunity to share my heart and my voice with your Readers.  I am a Mother of two Princes and the Grandmother of four Princes.  I am an Ordained Minister, Published Author, Radio Show Host, Entrepreneur and Advocate for loving those who feel unloved.  I am a Voice that has been developed from much pain and loss.

Let's begin with a topic you're so passionate about -- depression. The number of diagnosed cases in this country is staggering. So could you share with the readers your personal struggle with the illness?

You are absolutely correct.  I am extremely passionate about the topic of Depression.  I have struggled with Depression for most of my life, but I was not diagnosed until age 32.  For the majority of my life, I suffered silently.  Wearing the mask that was required of the Preachers' daughter; the Minister/Teacher and a multitude of other roles.  Then in one day, all of the pretense was uncovered.  I hit a that wall, that life event where your reality demolishes your fantasy.  The real me was exposed to me and to others and I was forced to make a choice.  I had to choose to be real and get healed or keep pretending that everything was OK.  I chose to get real and heal.  

I've been diagnosed with Clinical Depression and didn't quite understand the symptoms until my thirties. So what are the signs a "sufferer" should recognize?

The Life Journey itself, comes with days of feeling down and blue.  However, if an individual experiences long periods of feeling down, overwhelmed, hopeless and helpless, I highly recommend that they seek Professional help.  Sometimes things occur in our life, over which we have no control and these things effect our total being to the point that they control us.  If you have experienced great loss, molestation, etc. and everything in your life has changed to the point that you no longer feel in control, then you should definitely talk to someone about it.  I personally believe that the stigma attached to Depression, hinders many people from acknowledging that they suffer with it.  Especially, if you are a Christian.  It has been my experience that too often we are taught how to be fake in the Church.  We often teach that anything that has happened in your past, should stay in the past.  The reality of life is that whoever you are today, is a sum total of all that has brought you to this place on your Journey.  Acknowledge that and then you can move forward.

I've read in another interview that you're a survivor of sexual abuse. I won't ask you to relive that painful part from your life. But I would like to ask had the abuse contributed toward the depression?

My experience with sexual abuse as a child AND as an adult, definitely correlate with the Depression.   The childhood sexual abuse began around age 8 and continued for many years.  It taught me that I was useless and invaluable.  These feelings were carried with me into adulthood and by keeping the abuse to myself, it further pushed me into a depressive state.  This is one of the main reasons that I "go hard" for individuals who have suffered sexual abuse.  It effects every area of your life.

"We often teach that anything that has happened in your past, should stay in the past.  The reality of life is that whoever you are today, is a sum total of all that has brought you to this place on your Journey.  Acknowledge that and then you can move forward"

In your bio on Amazon you wrote, "I am a Voice rising like a Phoenix out of the ashes. I am a Voice for ALL generations developed from pain and loss, mixed with unbridled love and compassion for all who know pain." Very well said, Minister. So is it fair to say, you write not just healing for yourself, but for all who needs to be healed from their own pain?

Yes Ma'am.  To say that "I am a Voice for all..." is the perfect summation for why I write.  After being diagnosed with Major Depression and Anxiety Disorder, I was encouraged by my Therapist to write, daily, in a Journal.  Those writings became the basis for my book, 'Help, I Don't Like Myself!" and the more I shared my feelings and experiences, the more I became aware that there are so many people going through the same thing.  By writing from this very real place, I show them that they are NOT alone and that there is hope for deliverance and peace.  It is my desire to write for as long as I have breath in my body.  Praying that my Story is my Gift to the world, and that lives will be changed by my sharing my Gift.

To make a great inspirational book, which do you prefer: Outlining by chapter, or let it go with the flow?

To make a great Inspiration Book, I personally prefer to go with the flow.  It is my experience with writing, that Inspiration often comes from unexpected place and unexpected times.  Inspiration is like a water flow.  It should be unbridled and allowed to set its own course.  However, I am currently in the process of writing an Inspiration book which contains specific and varied topics.  With this book, I will allow the flow to happen within said topic.

Recently, you've collaborated with the great ReShonda Tate Billingsley, for the book, The Motherhood Diaries. How did the collaboration happen? And will there be another collaboration in the future?

Wow!  What an honor it was to collaborate with the amazing ReShonda Tate Billingsley.  I still break out in a smile every time I think about the connection I have made with her and the other phenomenal Sisterwriters that participated in that project.  The collaboration happened as a result of a Submission Request sent out by ReShonda and her Publisher.  It is my understanding that they received over 300 submissions for the book, but only 21 were chosen.  I was truly blessed to be one of the 21.

I would LOVE to do another collaboration with ReShonda Tate Billingsley.  She is one of my all-time favorite Authors and has become a genuine friend.  We have remained in touch and when I went through major surgery, she personally called me to check on me and has stayed in touch during my recovery.

"Inspiration is like a water flow.  It should be unbridled and allowed to set its own course."

Is there another author you would like to work with -- perhaps another dream collaboration?

Yes!  I would absolutely adore the opportunity to collaborate with Author extraordinaire, Tina McElroy Ansa.  Her writing speaks to my spiritual side and reminds me that I am a spiritual being whose stories must be told.

I know you've experienced the loss of your beloved parents in recent years. You have my deepest sympathy. Yet I'm sure they are smiling down at your accomplishments. What do you they'll say about everything you've achieved?

*Sigh* My parents are my roots.  Even though they have transitioned from their earthly bodies, they still provide me with daily strength.  When I approach obstacles in my Life Journey, I often find myself asking, "What would Daddy and Mom want me to do?  How would they handle this?"  Since their deaths, I hear more and more how much I look and act like them.  (smile).  Sometimes, I actually believe that they speak through me.  I have suffered great loss and change since their deaths, yet, I truly believe that I am much stronger because I am being force to walk out my own Journey.  I now they are proud of me.

 Let me say while writing this interview, you've become my new Shero. That said, with all of your successes and positive spirit, have you ever forgiven the person who abused you? And if so, explain the why the power of forgiveness is important?

Awww.  I'm your Shero. You're gonna make me cry (smile). The power of forgiveness is mandatory for a successful Journey.  Following the death of my parents I really, really had to learn this lesson.  There were many negative, dishonest and downright nasty things that happened to my family after they died.  The Church that they founded and pastored for 40 years, was taken from us and I became extremely bitter.  Then one day, while in prayer, I heard Holy Spirit say, "The essence of your parents cannot be contained in a building.  That building is not who they were.  YOU are the Legacy that they left behind."  At that moment, I began to pray for forgiveness for the bitterness, etc. and have continued to move forward in the freedom that forgiving others provides.

"The essence of your parents cannot be contained in a building.  That building is not who they were.  YOU are the Legacy that they left behind."

Do you have any projects planned for 2015?

Yes Ma'am.  For 2015, it is my desire to complete the book manuscript that my Father and I began together before his death.  I am currently working on my first Children's book and a Daily Inspirational Journal.  I have been conferring with a Music Producer to go in the Studio and record a music demo of a song that I have written.  As a creative being, my mind is constantly filled with ideas.  The challenge I face with my physical health, etc., has slowed me down quite a bit.  But I refuse to give up.

Finally, if you were to have a dinner party and guest list are three legendary figures (living or not), who would they be, and what one question you would ask them?

If I were to have a dinner party with three legendary figures, they would probably be:  1)  Mother Teresa; 2) Gladys Knight and 3)  Toni Morrison.  I would ask Mother Teresa to share with me her personal motivation for loving the unloved.  I would ask Gladys Knight how it felt to break through and maintain a career during a time when it wasn't very easy for women to do so.  I would ask Toni Morrison about her strength to write unpopular stories, while facing such public backlash.

Thank you, Minister Greene. This interview has been a moving experience for me. I truly appreciate you. Could you share with the readers where they can purchase your work, as well as finding you on the web?

It has been a overwhelming pleasure for me to talk with you.  I feel such a spirit of peace and acceptance here.  The readers can feel free to contact me on the following:  Facebook (Jamesina Greene);  Twitter (SheInspires61);  LinkedIn (Jamesina Greene) and email:  jamee_2001@yahoo.com.  At this time I do not have a website.  It's on my "Step up my Game List".  LOL

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FAITH: THROUGH THE HEART AND MIND OF KANDISE CARLISLE

You might not have heard of Kandise Carlisle but I guarantee after reading this interview, you'll want to know more about her. 

This Alabama native developed her love of writing at a young age. In fact, her imagination grew strong enough to author her first novel, Open Heart with Closed Eyes, receiving outstanding reviews on Amazon. But this mother of two have many layers to her talent -- playwright, fashion designer, praise dancer, and businesswoman. Fortunately for Carlisle, the God-given gifts she been bestowed are only the beginning; 2015 will be full of surprises in the literary world. 

Kandise's sheer will should be an inspiration for "dreamers", proving it's never too late to grow up and be what you want to be. 


Imani: Today, The Lounge has a special New Year's treat. Joining me is author, playwright, and fashion expert, Kandise Carlisle for this one-on-one interview. Welcome Kandise, tell the readers about yourself?

Kandise: Thank You so much for giving me the opportunity of having this interview with you it's an honor. Well...Imani, who is Kandise? Kandise is a daughter, mother of two beautiful daughters, a sister, aunt mother-in-law and great friend. Humble, love God and family, a go-getter when I put my mind to something I go hard at it making sure that it's complete the way it should be. A writer, dancer, fashion lover and love to encourage others to go after what ever it is that they want to do.

When was that "ah-ha" moment you knew you were a writer?

I found my nitch for writing as a young child in the third grade. I would take a pen and begin writhing out plays I would let my teacher look at what I wrote she loved it. We begin to act out the play that I wrote so I would say it started with me in elementary school.

What's your writing process? Do you outline by chapter, or just go with the flow and write?

I just go with the flow Imani. Once I see the characters in my head and have that visualization of what's going on I get that paper and pen and begin to write.

From what I read of your work, you are immensely talented. Where do you find the inspiration to write such eloquence?

I find inspiration from personal experience, pain, joy and being a survivor. Each day driving in and outside of Alabama I see, hear and meet so many people with all types of issues. I can't help but be inspired to change a life through my writing.

Tell us more about your book, "Open Heart with Closed Eyes". What's the inspiration behind the story and its characters?

Open Heart with Closed Eyes was very touching to me. Even though it was six characters all having their own personal issues Sharon and Darryl were the main characters. Sharon, feel in love with a marry man not only did this successful woman fall in love with this man she became pregnant by him. These six characters had to go through something, but what happen God coms in and take place in their lives. What inspired the readers is that God reveal his self in this story. They all had to go and repent asking for understanding and help. The had to go back to a place where they left and that was the church. This book starts out hot, juicy and messes, but in the end God got the glory.

"Each day driving in and outside of Alabama I see, hear and meet so many people with all types of issues. I can't help but be inspired to change a life through my writing."

Now I understand one of your goals are to open a boutique for petite women, tell us more about that.

WOW!! this was nothing but God. KUBBS Fashion was create in March 2014 and in November 2014 God open a door of opportunity for me to be able to put my cloths in a beauty shop. I now not only shop and sell to petite woman but plus size women as well. Right now I share space in the beauty shop with another young lady that does jewelry and I do the cloths and shoes. But with Faith and continually prayer God will allow me to have a building of my own. I feel that all woman of size should feel and look beautiful in their clothing. If KUBBS could touch one petite or plus size woman and make them feel good and walk with confidence KUBBS have done her job. Just to let you know KUBBS stands or Kandise Unique Books and Boutiques.

Your faith is first and foremost in your life, and it shows in your work. But I'm fascinated with your other gift -- praise dancing. How did you discover this craft, or did it discover you?

Yes!! My love for dancing is like a high. I love it dearly it started with my mom she was a dancer she loves it and at the age of 88 she stills likes to dance. It plays a big part in my family. I was a dancer in high school in the band so that's something that I have in me dancing on all types of level to music. But praise dance is something more of a love to me the church that I belongs to I visit it one Sunday twelve years ago. They had these young ladies to come out and praise dance I was in awww when I saw up there dancing. I visit three more times and on the fourth time I join the church became a part of the dance ministry. As of March of this year I became the leader working under me I have to co-leaders and about thirty dancers ranging from 4-50 I have five different groups so I'm putting dances together just about every week except for the mimes dancer.

"I feel that all woman of size should feel and look

beautiful in their clothing. If KUBBS could touch one petite or plus size woman and make them feel good and walk with confidence KUBBS have done her job. Just to let you know KUBBS stands or Kandise Unique Books and Boutiques."

Where do you see your writing career going in five years?

See my writing career going to another whole level of being all over. Not only will you be able to purchase my book from my website, but stores even in my clothing store you will be able to purchase my book. I will be connecting with two other ladies getting our business going to you will be able to get books from there as well. I not only see it selling in the states but outside of the states as well.

What are "Kandise Carlisle's" literary plans for 2015?

My writing goal is to reach a broader audience. As an author I want to appear to all readers from various cultures, background and race. Writing is universal and my goal is to touch various souls.

On a relaxed note, if you were to plan a dinner party and invited three distinguished guests (living or not), who would they be and what one question you would ask of them?

Cicely Tyson- How do you prepare yourself for the roles that you play in movies?

Luther Vandross- Would you still be writing and singing love songs are retired from it now?

Denzel Washington- How do you stay so sexy? lol

You can google me for my website at www.kubbspublications.com

kandisecarlisle@gmail.com

facebook.com/KUBBS Fashion

twitter.com/kanuniquewriter

facebook.com/AuthorKandiseCarlisle

authorden.com/kandisecarlisle

Thank You again Imani for having me.

Thank you, Kandise. Have a happy and prosperous New Year.

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