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   <title> Remodelers Tidbits </title>
   <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/remodeling-blog.html</link>
   <description>Remodelers Tidbits Blog is the place to find relevant news and valuable insider information about the remodeling process.</description>
   <language>en-us</language>
   <category domain = "http://www.remodeling101.com/remodeling-blog.html#">remodeling</category>
   <pubDate>Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:48:25 GMT</pubDate>
   <lastBuildDate>Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:48:25 GMT</lastBuildDate>
   <copyright>remodeling101.com</copyright>
   <item>
    <title>Helpful Resources</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/helpful_resources.html</link>
    <description>These additional resources will assist you in making informed decisions regarding your remodeling project.</description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:48:24 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Raising Awareness</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/remodeling-blog.html#Raising-Awareness</link>
    <description>Today I will not be blogging about construction, but rather something much more important.

The 19th &amp; 20th of August are very special days.  The WEEI &amp; NESN Jimmy Fund Radio/Telethon is going on.

Come on Red Sox Nation.  I know you are out there.  Please join in on the fight.  If you ever wanted to help someone you know who may be afflicted this is a way.

88 cents of every dollar goes to research at Dana Faber and helping these children and their families with a better quality of life.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with this wonderful event please click here for more information.

Click on 
&lt;A HREF=&quot;http://www.remodeling101.com/please_help.html &quot;target=new&gt;History of the Jimmy Fund&lt;/A&gt;&lt;/b&gt; for more information.  

Even if you miss the telethon you can still donate any time of the year.

But please donate today by clicking on the &quot;&lt;b&gt;more Info&lt;/b&gt;&quot; link below and help eradicate this horrible disease!</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:20:24 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Laminate Floors Offer Versatility at an Attractive Price</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/laminate_floors.html</link>
    <description>Style and durability make laminate floors a great selection for any room.</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:16:45 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Tile Floors Create a Beautiful Surface That Can Last a Lifetime</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/tile.html</link>
    <description>Tile floors create a beautiful, durable surface that can work with any decorating style.</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:13:17 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Today&#39;s Vinyl Flooring Not Like the Old Days</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/vinyl_flooring.html</link>
    <description>Vinyl flooring is a durable option with many styles and colors available.   Learn the pros and cons of vinyl flooring.</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 2010 23:40:33 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Your Homes Flooring Makes a Statement </title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/flooring.html</link>
    <description>Your home&#39;s flooring can play a multitude of rolls.  It can be an eyepopping focal point or just blend into the background and be part of the overal design theme.</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 2010 23:30:07 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>New EPA Lead Regulations</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/remodeling-blog.html#New-EPA-Lead-Regulations</link>
    <description>Starting April 22, 2010 a new federal law will require all contractors to get certified in removal and working with areas that contain lead paint.  There had already been a handful of states that required a similar certification and now all must comply with the new EPA regulations.

The distribution of paint chips and dust during construction are dangerous to humans; especially children.

The certification provides education on the hazards of lead paint and direction on containment, minimization of dispersion and clean-up.  These new regulations are for work on any homes built prior to 1978.

For contractors, this means additionally paperwork, funds to train employees and additional costs for disposal.  It also means due diligence in hiring certified sub-contractors to work on their projects.  

Fines to contractors who are not in compliance can be as much as $37,500.00 per day!

For homeowners it means that there will probably be additional costs related to remodeling projects of older homes.  If you are renovating the home yourself, you are not subject to the new rules and guidelines but you are responsible for your families well being.
 
&lt;b&gt;Update&lt;/b&gt;

EPA delays enforcement of new lead laws.  The delay is due to not having enough certified instructors to handle the amount of people seeking certification.  

Until October 1, 2010, the EPA will not take enforcement action for violators of the RRP Rules firm certification requirement.   For violations of the RRP Rules renovation worker certification requirement, EPA will not enforce against individual workers if the person has applied to enroll in, or had enrolled in a certified renovator class by not later than September 30, 2010.  Renovators must complete the training by December 31, 2010.</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jul 2010 21:37:51 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>How I Found the Secret to Building a Successful Website and Business</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/the_secret.html</link>
    <description>Learn the Secrets with Site Build It to Creating a Successful Online Business</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jul 2010 14:41:14 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Radiant Heat</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/radiant-heat.html</link>
    <description>Hi   We are renovating our whole house and are not sure what type of radiant heat to use.  From what we have read here and been told, we should use tubing</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jul 2010 01:09:49 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Choosing The Right Water Filtration</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/water_filtration.html</link>
    <description>Learn to Compare Water Filtration Systems</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 07 Jul 2010 23:01:51 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Perfect Designer Bath</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/perfect_designer_bath.html</link>
    <description>Your guide to creating the perfect designer bath</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:24:15 GMT</pubDate>
   </item>
   <item>
    <title>Radon in Countertops?</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/radon-in-countertops.html</link>
    <description>Hi  I recently heard that granite countertops can give off radon.  Is this true? If so is it dangerous?  Thank</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 02:41:39 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Lighting</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/lighting.html</link>
    <description>Hi  Im remodeling my kitchen and was wondering what is better recessed lighting in the ceiling or under cabinet lights.  Thanks</description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 12 Jan 2010 02:06:10 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>DIY Heating and Plumbing</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/diy_heating_and_plumbing.html</link>
    <description>DIY Heating and Plumbing - A Word of Caution </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:46:44 GMT</pubDate>
   </item>
   <item>
    <title>Contractor selection.  How to hire reputable contractors.</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/contractor_selection.html</link>
    <description>The right contractor selection can mean the difference between success and failure of your project.  Learn how to identify a reputable contracting firm.</description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:40:27 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Do you know the effects of radon gas?  You should it can affect your families we</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/effects_of_radon_gas.html</link>
    <description>Effects of radon gas and what to do about it.</description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:36:00 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Whole House Automation Changing the Way you Live.</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/whole_house_automation.html</link>
    <description>Life has just become easier with whole house automation.  Integrate all of your homes systems into one.</description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:27:04 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Work Triangle?</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/work-triangle.html</link>
    <description>I am just starting to design our kitchen and I am not sure our budget will allow for a designer.    We have been looking at cabinets, counter tops and</description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:58:32 GMT</pubDate>
   </item>
   <item>
    <title>Be the Envy of Your Friends and Create Your Perfect Designer Kitchen.</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/designer_kitchen.html</link>
    <description>How would you like a designer kitchen like those in the magazines?  It can be done if you know how.</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 11 Nov 2009 02:06:18 GMT</pubDate>
   </item>
   <item>
    <title>2009 American Recovery &amp; Reinvestment Act</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/remodeling-blog.html#2009-American-Recovery-&amp;-Reinvestment-Act</link>
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For those of you who are currently remodeling or thinking of it, you should check out the tax incentives, credits and grants afforded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Under the new ARAA, Americans are able to get tax breaks for purchases and work performed for energy efficient products, appliances and systems.  

In addition to the new credits and grants, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has reinstated many of the tax incentives first put into action by the 2005 Energy Policy Act and the 2008 Emergency Economic Stabilization Act.

Unlike the policies from 2005 and 2008 however, the American Recovery &amp; Reinvestment Act gives an equivalent tax deduction credit which is a dollar for dollar reduction vs. a deduction of percentage of tax owed.  Meaning you owe the government less tax dollars.

Some states also offer tax incentives or rebates for energy efficient products and work done to your home.  These can include windows, roofs, insulation, hvac systems as well as appliances.

Check with your state to see if you have qualifying purchases.  Some date back to the 2008.  Be sure to note the cut off dates for purchases as well as submissions for credits.  


With winter shortly upon us, visit Remodeling101&#39;s &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.remodeling101.com/save_energy.html&quot;target=new&gt;Save Energy Save Money&lt;/a&gt; page to learn some additional ways you can save money by doing some simple tasks.


For specific information on incentives, grants and tax credits, visit the following sites.


&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.energy.gov/recovery/taxbreaks.htm&quot;target=new&gt;US Department of Energy&lt;/a&gt;

&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index&quot;target=new&gt;Energy Star&lt;/a&gt;

&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.dsireusa.org&quot;target=new&gt;State Database&lt;/a&gt;


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&lt;br&gt;
&lt;br&gt;</description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2009 23:16:27 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Be Sure to Pick the Appliances that Best Suit your Family&#39;s Needs</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/appliances.html</link>
    <description>Appliances can be one of the costliest parts of a kitchen remodel.  Learn what you need to know.</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 04 Oct 2009 01:15:24 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Architects Put the Interest of the Client Above All Else</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/architects.html</link>
    <description>Architects are creative problem solvers who offer technical and design expertise to make your project a success. </description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 04 Oct 2008 14:11:12 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Learn Designing Basics to Help Create the Home of Your Dreams.  </title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/designing.html</link>
    <description>Creative designing need not be costly but shoud be unique and show your style. Learn designing basics to help create the home of your dreams.</description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2008 01:03:38 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Save Energy - Save Money</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/save_energy.html</link>
    <description>Save energy, save money, save the environment.  Yes you can achieve all three.</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 07 Sep 2008 01:09:24 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Make the Right Remodeling Choice Every Time</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/remodeling_choice.html</link>
    <description>So many decisions.  So little time. Need help making the right remodeling choice?</description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 30 Aug 2008 17:22:39 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Saving electricity can be easily achieved with a few simple steps</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/electricity.html</link>
    <description>Electricity can be a Big Energy Saver In Numerous Ways</description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 11 Aug 2008 01:01:25 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Heating and air conditioning can save tons of energy if optimized properly</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/heating_and_air_conditioning.html</link>
    <description>Heating and Air Conditioning can Save Money if Properly Maintained</description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 07 Jul 2008 03:16:42 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Windows and Doors Can Save Energy</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/windows_and_doors.html</link>
    <description>Windows and doors can be a source of huge loss of energy.  If you cannot replace them you should at least examine for air infiltration.</description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 02 Jun 2008 01:37:52 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Insulation can be key to keeping your home energy efficient</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/insulation.html</link>
    <description>Insulation is Key to Your Home&#39;s Energy Efficiency</description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 19 Apr 2008 22:23:08 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Bulbs</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/bulbs.html</link>
    <description>Knowing which bulbs to use for which application can be confusing.  Find out how to choose the correct bulb for the mood you are trying to create.</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 16 Mar 2008 00:17:44 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Need Help With Your Plumbing Design </title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/plumbing_design.html</link>
    <description>Your plumbing design should be layed out early in the remodeling process.  This will help avoid costly changes later on.</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:13:44 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Alternative Heating</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/alternative_heating.html</link>
    <description>Learn about alternative heating solutions</description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 28 Jan 2008 03:19:31 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Plumbing Fixtures and Plumbing Equipment</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/plumbing_fixtures.html</link>
    <description>What a difference a decade makes when it comes to plumbing fixtures and equipment.  Check out whats new.</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 23 Jan 2008 02:27:59 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Happy New Year</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/remodeling-blog.html#Happy-New-Year</link>
    <description>Happy New Year to All!  Here&#39;s hoping that your have a safe, health and prosperous new year.</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 02 Jan 2008 01:46:03 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Helpful Countertop Selection Information</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/countertop.html</link>
    <description>Facts to help you choose the right countertop for your kitchen.</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 02 Jan 2008 01:20:53 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Site Map for Remodeling101.com</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/sitemap.html</link>
    <description>Remodeling101 site map will help you locate important information quickly.</description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 31 Dec 2007 04:59:54 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Choose the Right Cabinet Hardware for Your New Designer Kitchen</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/cabinet_hardware.html</link>
    <description>Cabinet hardware should provide both a functional and aesthetic aspect to your kitchen design.</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 30 Dec 2007 03:33:39 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Comparing Hot Water Heaters</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/hot_water_heater.html</link>
    <description>When comparing hot water heaters there are many things to consider.  Learn to select the proper heater for your family. </description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 30 Dec 2007 02:58:01 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Lighting Design</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/lighting_design.html</link>
    <description>If done properly, a good lighting design will not only create the perfect atmosphere for entertaining but for everyday living as well.</description>
    <pubDate>Sat, 24 Nov 2007 04:14:34 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Happy Thanksgiving!</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/remodeling-blog.html#Happy-Thanksgiving!</link>
    <description>Seems like I was just posting this on my blog last year.  Happy Thanksgiving to all my faithful readers!  Enjoy the day!</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 22 Nov 2007 13:47:00 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Carpeting: A Warmth Like No Other</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/carpeting.html</link>
    <description>Carpeting can add beauty and comfort to most any room in the house.  The style and colors are almost endless.</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 23 Sep 2007 19:47:49 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Calculate Quantities for Your Flooring Purchase</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/calculate_quantities.html</link>
    <description>Figuring out the right amount of flooring required can be difficult.  Learn how to calculate quantities.</description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 17 Sep 2007 01:41:06 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Cork Flooring an Exciting Medium for Your New Home or Project</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/cork_flooring.html</link>
    <description>Cork flooring provides a durable product that is comfortable underfoot and environmentally responsible.</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 16 Sep 2007 18:02:17 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Natural Hardwood Floors Nothing Says Beauty Like Them</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/natural_hardwood.html</link>
    <description>Natural hardwoods are the most sought after flooring.  No flooring adds as much value to your home as natural hardwood flooring.</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 16 Sep 2007 01:18:20 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>test</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/shopping_list.html</link>
    <description></description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Sep 2007 02:09:16 GMT</pubDate>
   </item>
   <item>
    <title>Choosing Kitchen Cabinets</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/kitchen_cabinets.html</link>
    <description>Kitchen cabinets represent the largest investment in your kitchen remodel.  Learn how to choose the best quality for your budget.</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 15 Jul 2007 00:57:57 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Plan for the Future with Universal Design</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/universal_design.html</link>
    <description>Universal Design A Plan For All Ages</description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 03 Jun 2007 21:34:25 GMT</pubDate>
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   <item>
    <title>Remodeling101 - A Home Remodeling Guide for Beginners</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/index.html</link>
    <description>Remodeling, renovating or home improvement.  No matter what you call it, the right steps will insure a successful project.  Learn to remodel like a pro and turn an ordinary house into your dream home.</description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 30 May 2007 01:19:02 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Sound Therapy - The Ultimate in Relaxatoin</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/sound_therapy.html</link>
    <description>Learn to reduce stress and feel good with Sound Therapy.</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 03 May 2007 00:58:30 GMT</pubDate>
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    <title>Hydrotherapy for Whole Body Treatments</title>
    <link>http://www.remodeling101.com/hydrotherapy.html</link>
    <description>Learn how hydrotherapy can soothe aches and pains</description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 03 May 2007 00:56:08 GMT</pubDate>
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