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Exercises and Enrichment: Key to Wellness

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Exercises and Enrichment: Key to Wellness

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining physical and mental well-being is more important than ever. Exercises and enrichment activities play a vital role in ensuring both body and mind stay healthy, energized, and balanced. While exercise targets physical health, enrichment focuses on enhancing cognitive, emotional, and social well-being. Together, they contribute to overall wellness, ensuring a fulfilling life. This article will explore the benefits of exercises and enrichment activities, their impact on your health, and how to incorporate them into your daily routine.

What Are Exercises?

Exercise is any physical activity that improves or maintains physical fitness and health. It involves movement that uses the body’s muscles and requires energy expenditure. Exercise can take many forms, from light activities like walking or stretching to more intense ones like running or weight training. Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health and preventing numerous chronic diseases.

Types of Exercise

  • Cardiovascular Exercise: This type of exercise increases your heart rate and helps improve heart health, lung capacity, and endurance. Examples include running, cycling, swimming, and dancing.
  • Strength Training: Strength exercises, or resistance training, involve using weights or resistance bands to build muscle mass and improve overall strength. Examples include weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, and resistance band workouts.
  • Flexibility and Balance Exercises: These exercises focus on enhancing flexibility and balance, which is particularly important as we age. Yoga, Pilates, and Tai Chi are popular examples.
  • High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT combines short bursts of intense exercise with rest periods. It’s an effective way to burn fat, improve cardiovascular health, and boost metabolism.

Benefits of Exercise

  1. Physical Health: Regular exercise strengthens the heart, muscles, and bones, boosts the immune system, and improves flexibility. It also helps regulate body weight, reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.
  2. Mental Health: Exercise is a powerful mood booster. It increases the production of endorphins, the brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, which reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
  3. Improved Sleep: People who exercise regularly tend to sleep better, experiencing deeper and more restful sleep.
  4. Increased Energy: Regular physical activity improves overall stamina, leading to higher energy levels throughout the day.
  5. Longevity: Exercise has been linked to a longer life expectancy by reducing the risks associated with chronic diseases and enhancing quality of life.

What Is Enrichment?

Enrichment refers to activities that stimulate the mind, emotions, and social well-being. These activities go beyond basic cognitive functions and engage the individual in ways that promote growth, creativity, learning, and happiness. Enrichment activities can range from intellectual challenges to artistic endeavors or social engagements.

Types of Enrichment Activities

  • Cognitive Enrichment: These activities challenge the brain and improve cognitive abilities, such as memory, focus, and problem-solving. Examples include reading, puzzles, board games, and learning new skills or languages.
  • Creative Enrichment: Creative activities help stimulate imagination and artistic expression. Painting, writing, playing musical instruments, and dancing are excellent examples.
  • Social Enrichment: Engaging in social activities promotes emotional health and well-being. Volunteering, attending social gatherings, and participating in group hobbies all fall into this category.
  • Emotional Enrichment: Activities that nurture emotional intelligence and resilience, such as journaling, meditation, mindfulness practices, and therapy, can also be considered forms of enrichment.

Benefits of Enrichment

  1. Enhanced Cognitive Function: Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities, such as puzzles or learning new skills, can help enhance memory, attention span, and cognitive flexibility.
  2. Emotional Well-being: Enrichment activities, particularly creative outlets, are known to reduce stress and promote positive emotional health. They can help individuals express their feelings and process emotions.
  3. Social Connections: Enriching social interactions help build meaningful relationships and a sense of community. Engaging in group activities or volunteering can provide a strong sense of belonging.
  4. Mental Stimulation: Enrichment activities encourage lifelong learning, keeping the brain active and engaged, which can reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age.
  5. Increased Creativity: Whether it’s through art, writing, or innovation in problem-solving, engaging in creative activities stimulates the brain and enhances creativity.

Integrating Exercises and Enrichment for Total Wellness

While both exercises and enrichment activities are beneficial on their own, combining them into a holistic approach to wellness can have even more profound effects. By incorporating both into your lifestyle, you can maintain a balance of physical and mental well-being.

How to Incorporate Exercise into Your Daily Routine

  1. Start Small: If you’re new to exercise, start with simple activities like walking or stretching. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
  2. Set Goals: Whether you aim to run a 5K, lift a certain weight, or simply exercise more frequently, setting realistic fitness goals helps keep you motivated.
  3. Choose Enjoyable Activities: The best exercise is the one you enjoy. Try different forms of exercise to find what works for you. It could be anything from yoga to hiking or swimming.
  4. Consistency is Key: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Regularity is more important than intensity, especially for beginners.
  5. Mix It Up: Incorporate various types of exercises—cardio, strength, and flexibility—into your routine to work on different aspects of fitness and prevent boredom.

How to Incorporate Enrichment Activities into Your Life

  1. Learn Something New: Take up a hobby like learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, or taking an online course. This engages your brain and fosters continuous learning.
  2. Engage in Creative Expression: Whether it’s painting, journaling, or writing, make time for creative activities that allow you to express yourself.
  3. Stay Socially Active: Make time for social interactions that promote positive relationships. Join a club, volunteer, or attend social events to enrich your social life.
  4. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in activities like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to calm your mind and promote emotional well-being.
  5. Challenge Your Mind: Take on brain-teasing activities like puzzles, chess, or strategy games to keep your mind sharp and engaged.

The Connection Between Exercise and Enrichment

While exercise targets physical health, enrichment activities focus on mental and emotional well-being. However, both can work synergistically to improve your overall wellness.

  • Exercise Boosts Cognitive Function: Physical activity has been shown to enhance cognitive performance, improving memory, concentration, and problem-solving. It also boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports brain health.
  • Mental Health and Exercise: Exercise not only improves physical health but also helps reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to engage in enrichment activities without mental fatigue.
  • Creativity and Exercise: Physical activities like walking or cycling can stimulate creativity by giving you a break from daily routines and allowing your mind to wander, often leading to creative ideas.

Creating a Balanced Wellness Routine

To achieve total wellness, balance is essential. Here are some tips for creating a routine that integrates both exercise and enrichment:

  1. Plan Your Week: Dedicate specific days or times for exercise and enrichment activities. For example, you could exercise in the morning and engage in a creative or cognitive activity in the evening.
  2. Prioritize Self-Care: Wellness is not just about physical health; emotional and mental well-being are just as important. Make sure you’re taking time for activities that nourish both the mind and body.
  3. Stay Flexible: Life can get busy, so be flexible with your routine. If you can’t fit in a 30-minute workout or an hour of reading, make the most of the time you have and adjust your activities accordingly.
  4. Track Your Progress: Keep a wellness journal to track your exercise routine, the enrichment activities you engage in, and how they make you feel. Monitoring progress helps maintain motivation and consistency.

Conclusion

Incorporating exercise and enrichment into your daily life is a powerful way to enhance both your physical and mental health. By exercising regularly, you can improve your body’s strength, endurance, and overall fitness. Meanwhile, enrichment activities stimulate your brain, emotions, and social life, leading to a more fulfilling, balanced lifestyle. Together, these practices form the foundation of a holistic approach to wellness that can positively impact your quality of life. Whether through physical activity or intellectual growth, prioritizing both exercise and enrichment is essential for long-term health and well-being.

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HEALTH

How to Choose the Besto Pesto for Pasta & More

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Pesto isn’t just a sauce; it’s a story of tradition, taste, and versatility. Whether you want to toss it with pasta, spread it on bread, or swirl it into soup, pesto delivers rich, bold flavors. But with so many besto pesto brands out there, shoppers often struggle with one question: Which pesto should I buy?

One food lover recently shared online: “I tried five different jars last month, and only one actually tasted like fresh basil and Parmesan. The rest felt too oily or bland.” This sums up the common frustration—picking the right pesto is tricky.

That’s where besto pesto comes into play. Let’s explore how it compares to authentic Italian pesto, what to look for in healthy pesto options, and why reviews matter in 2025.

Best Pesto Brands in 2025

Choosing from the best pesto brands isn’t just about popularity. It’s about ingredient sourcing, taste consistency, and health-conscious production.

What Sets the Best Brands Apart?

  • Fresh basil quality – Authentic Genovese basil makes all the difference.
  • Cheese choice – Parmigiano-Reggiano vs. Grana Padano.
  • Nuts – Pine nuts are traditional, but walnuts and cashews offer affordable twists.
  • Oils – Extra virgin olive oil remains the gold standard.

Some leading brands in 2025 emphasize organic sourcing, while others keep prices competitive by offering store-bought pesto in family-friendly jars.

Authentic Italian Pesto: Tradition That Never Fades

When people think of authentic Italian pesto, they picture traditional basil pesto from Genoa. This style—known as Genovese pesto—dates back centuries and follows strict ingredient rules.

Key Characteristics of Genovese Pesto:

  • Genovese DOP basil
  • Extra virgin olive oil from Liguria
  • Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino cheese blend
  • Pine nuts and garlic

Imported jars of authentic Italian pesto remain premium but are increasingly available worldwide. If you’re chasing tradition, this is the benchmark.

Homemade Pesto Alternatives

Not everyone wants a jar. Many people prefer homemade pesto alternatives because they control freshness, oil levels, and nut variations.

Why Go Homemade?

  • Control salt and oil levels
  • Customize with kale, spinach, or arugula
  • Save money with nut substitutions
  • Freeze for later use

That said, besto pesto jars are designed to mimic that homemade quality, which is why they’re so appealing to busy households.

Pesto Sauce Recipes You’ll Love

If you buy besto pesto, you’ll want creative ways to use it beyond pasta.

Popular Pesto Uses in 2025:

  • Toss with roasted veggies
  • Spread on sandwiches and wraps
  • Drizzle on grilled chicken or salmon
  • Swirl into soups or risottos
  • Mix into scrambled eggs

For adventurous cooks, pesto sauce recipes now include blends with sun-dried tomatoes, lemon zest, and even avocado.

Organic Pesto: A Health-Conscious Trend

The demand for organic pesto continues to rise in 2025. Shoppers want fewer preservatives, eco-friendly farming, and pesticide-free basil.

Benefits of Organic Pesto:

  • Cleaner label with recognizable ingredients
  • Supports sustainable farming
  • Often packaged in eco-conscious jars

Besto pesto has carved a niche by appealing to this health-driven crowd, balancing taste with sustainability.

Jarred Pesto Reviews: What Buyers Are Saying

Nothing guides purchasing decisions like real feedback. Jarred pesto reviews in 2025 highlight a few key factors:

  • Texture consistency (not too oily, not too thick)
  • Authenticity of flavor
  • Price vs. portion size
  • Shelf life after opening

Some buyers note that store-bought pesto can be salty, so reading labels remains essential.

Store-Bought Pesto vs. Homemade: Which Wins?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide between store-bought pesto and making your own.

Feature Store-Bought Pesto Homemade Pesto
Convenience Ready anytime Takes prep time
Flavor Consistency Same each jar Depends on fresh ingredients
Customization Limited Fully customizable
Cost Moderate Can be cheaper
Shelf Life Weeks (sealed) Days (fresh)

For many busy families, besto pesto balances the best of both worlds.

Traditional Basil Pesto: The Classic Base

The foundation of most brands remains traditional basil pesto. While creative blends are growing, nothing beats that bright green flavor paired with Parmesan and pine nuts.

Besto pesto often markets its jarred version as “like Nonna made it.” That branding resonates with buyers craving tradition in a modern package.

Genovese Pesto: Protected and Prestigious

Genovese pesto holds DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) status in Italy, ensuring authenticity. Not every jar labeled “pesto” qualifies. True Genovese pesto has strict rules about basil, cheese, and olive oil origin.

When buying besto pesto, check if the label emphasizes authenticity or Genovese-style roots.

Healthy Pesto Options in 2025

Modern consumers don’t just want tasty food—they want healthier choices. Healthy pesto options now include:

Lower-sodium jars

Vegan pesto (using nutritional yeast instead of cheese)

Nut-free pesto for allergy concerns

Low-oil versions for calorie-conscious eaters

Besto pesto has adapted by offering lighter variations without losing its signature flavor.

Real-Life Example: A Busy Parent’s Perspective

One parent shared: “I love cooking, but after work I barely have time. Besto pesto saves me. My kids think dinner is special even when I just toss it with pasta. It’s my weeknight hero.”

This shows how store-bought pesto fits into everyday life—not as a compromise, but as a smart solution.

FAQ’s

What is Besto Pesto made of?

Besto pesto usually includes basil, extra virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or alternatives), and garlic. Some variations are vegan or organic.

Is Besto Pesto healthy?

Yes, especially if you choose healthy pesto options. It’s nutrient-dense but can be high in calories, so moderation is key.

How does Besto Pesto compare to homemade pesto?

While homemade offers customization, jarred pesto reviews praise Besto Pesto for consistency, convenience, and authentic taste.

Can I freeze Besto Pesto?

Yes. Like most store-bought pesto, freezing helps preserve flavor and texture for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

From authentic Italian pesto roots to modern organic pesto trends, the pesto market is booming in 2025. Whether you want fluffy homemade pesto alternatives, healthy pesto options, or simply a reliable jar, besto pesto delivers quality and convenience.

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How Patient Check-In Technology Is Simplifying Healthcare

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How Patient Check-In Technology Is Simplifying Healthcare

Healthcare facilities increasingly adopt digital patient check-in systems to enhance efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and improve patient experiences. These self-service kiosks and online platforms allow patients to update personal information, verify insurance, and complete forms quickly, minimizing wait times and reducing paperwork. By automating repetitive tasks, staff can focus more on patient care, which boosts morale and reduces costly human errors. The technology also supports greater accuracy in record-keeping, helping ensure compliance with healthcare regulations. The streamlined process reduces stress and creates a smoother journey from arrival to treatment for patients. Facilities benefit from faster throughput, improved data management, and the ability to allocate staff resources better. As healthcare demand grows and workforce shortages persist, efficient check-in solutions have become essential in meeting operational needs and patient expectations, making the care experience more seamless, accurate, and satisfying for everyone involved.

Introduction

The healthcare industry faces mounting pressures from rising patient volumes and ongoing staffing shortages, making operational improvements more critical than ever. Technology-driven tools are emerging as key allies in bridging service gaps and enhancing overall care delivery. In an era where efficiency and patient satisfaction are paramount, healthcare providers are turning to modern solutions to streamline administrative tasks and improve patient journeys. One of the most significant advancements in recent years is the adoption of check-in kiosks for patients, which are transforming how patients engage with healthcare facilities from the moment they arrive. These digital solutions offer a seamless, self-service alternative to traditional paper-based and manual check-in processes, addressing common pain points such as long wait times and paperwork overload.

By digitizing the check-in experience, facilities can enhance data accuracy, expedite patient flow, and reduce staff administrative workload. As more healthcare organizations implement these innovations, patients and providers are discovering the tangible benefits they bring, including improved compliance, better information management, and a more welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. The integration of check-in kiosks for patients is just one example of how technology is making healthcare more accessible, personalized, and efficient.

The Evolution of Patient Check-In

For decades, patient check-in at clinics and hospitals relied on manual steps: forms were filled out by hand, identification and insurance cards were presented at the front desk, and staff would collect and enter this information. This approach created bottlenecks at busy reception areas and increased the risk of errors and miscommunication. It became clear that a more efficient and patient-friendly system was needed, sparking the shift to digital alternatives.

The rise of digital check-in solutions began with simple electronic forms and has rapidly evolved to include self-service kiosks, tablet-based registration, and mobile check-in through dedicated apps or online portals. These platforms empower patients to update their records, review consent forms, and verify insurance benefits with minimal assistance, often before arriving at the facility. The result is a more streamlined process that benefits patients and healthcare providers alike.

Benefits of Digital Check-In Systems

  • Reduced Wait Times: Digital systems let patients handle paperwork and updates in advance, slashing the time spent in waiting rooms and keeping schedules running on time.
  • Enhanced Data Accuracy: Patients directly entering their information significantly reduces transcription mistakes. Digital checks for completeness and legibility further minimize clerical errors common with paper forms.
  • Improved Patient Satisfaction: Automated, user-friendly interfaces create smoother, more predictable experiences, reducing frustration and anxiety associated with lengthy check-in queues.
  • Operational Efficiency: When administrative staff are liberated from repetitive data entry and paperwork, they can focus on higher-value interactions and more complex patient needs.

Challenges in Implementing Check-In Technology

The path to modernizing check-in procedures is not without its obstacles. Implementing new technology presents notable challenges:

  • Cost Implications: Rolling out digital check-in options—especially check-in kiosks—can be costly. Smaller practices may struggle to justify the upfront investment, even with long-term efficiency gains.
  • Staff Training: Successful adoption depends on well-trained staff who can troubleshoot issues and help patients use new tools, fostering a smooth integration into daily routines.
  • Patient Adaptation: While many patients embrace digital options, older adults or those with limited digital literacy may feel overwhelmed. A compassionate, flexible approach to onboarding is essential to ensure no one feels left behind.

Real-World Examples of Successful Implementation

Many healthcare organizations have demonstrated the positive impact of digital check-in technologies.

  • NYU Langone Health: This renowned facility introduced Amazon’s biometric palm scanning technology to provide secure, touchless patient check-in. The move has streamlined identity verification and enhanced privacy and convenience.
  • Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust: By implementing TeleTracking’s cloud-based patient flow technology, this UK hospital system reduced emergency department wait times by over an hour per patient and achieved significant operational savings.

Future Trends in Patient Check-In Technology

Healthcare check-in technology is rapidly evolving, and several emerging trends are set to define its future:

  • Biometric Authentication: Palm scans, facial recognition, and fingerprints streamline identification while bolstering security.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-driven systems promise to predict patient flow, optimize appointment scheduling, and personalize the check-in process for each visitor.
  • Integration with Electronic Health Records (EHR): Seamless synchronization of check-in data with health records ensures clinicians have real-time, accurate information for better care coordination.

Technology like this is reshaping what patients expect from their visits, offering greater convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind. As healthcare facilities continue to invest in digital innovations, they position themselves to meet rising expectations and adapt to future advances with agility.

Ultimately, patient check-in technology—especially solutions such as check-in kiosks—represents a leap forward in making healthcare more responsive, efficient, and patient-centric. As the landscape evolves, these tools will be essential for delivering high-quality, modern care while keeping patient engagement at the heart of every interaction.

 

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Building Futures: Career Paths with IU Health

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Building Futures

Building Futures Indiana University Health, commonly known as IU Health, is synonymous with world-class caregiving, robust career advancement, and a culture deeply rooted in professional development. As the largest nonprofit healthcare system in Indiana, it offers a diverse range of roles—from nursing and physician positions to allied health, administrative, and patient care support disciplines. Those drawn to IU Health find themselves in an environment that values work-life balance, tuition reimbursement, and Magnet‑recognized excellence, all while serving communities across the Hoosier State.

A System That Supports Every Stage of Your Career

When you join IU Health, you become part of a vast network—comprising 16 hospitals and more than 38,000 employees—backed by a partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine . Known for its leadership in academic medicine, IU Health offers opportunities across specialties from critical care nursing to advanced provider roles like Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). Whether you begin as a medical assistant, step into telemetry, or pursue a position in respiratory therapy, the system is built for upward mobility.

Every position—from entry-level patient care support roles to seasoned healthcare management tracks—features structured training and clear career pathways. For example, the patient care support team works bedside in one of IU Health’s 15 hospitals or community centers and can leverage bridge programs to transition into nursing or allied health roles

Medical team examining an x-ray report

 Comprehensive Benefits That Empower Staff

IU Health understands that well-being and financial stability are fundamental to long-term satisfaction. They provide:

  • Market-competitive compensation, including up to a 4% 401(k) match with immediate vesting, plus potential additional contributions based on performance

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance, with HSA/FSA options and a wellness incentive program offering up to $1,040 annually

  • Paid parental leave, long-term disability insurance, and bereavement support .

  • Tuition assistance programs, including full tuition reimbursement up to annual limits, qualified certification funding, and eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness

These benefits are designed to support employees through life transitions—from growing families to career advancement—reinforcing IU Health’s commitment to holistic employee care.

 Magnet Recognition & Professional Governance in Nursing

IU Health’s nursing division is a pillar of its excellence. Every facility holds either Magnet recognition or ANCC’s Pathway to Excellence® accreditation, hallmark distinctions of superior patient care and nursing leadership Collectively, over 9,000 nurses operate under a professional governance model. This setup promotes shared accountability, evidence-based practice, and decision-making rooted in frontline experience

Nurse career options range from Neonatal ICU (NICU) and oncology to flight nursing and clinical informatics, each offering specialized tracks with ongoing training and clear growth paths. The robust emphasis on professional governance nurtures a culture of continuous improvement and clinical excellence.

Specialist Roles & Education-Focused Workforce

Beyond nurses, IU Health attracts a wide range of allied health professionals and clinical educators. Positions such as Certified Genetic Counselors, Anesthesiologist Assistants, and Clinical Laboratory Scientists are integral to its mission . These roles often involve interdisciplinary teams, complex patient pathways, and opportunities for mentoring in both clinical and academic settings.

IU Health also partners with Indiana University campuses, notably in the IU School of Nursing and School of Medicine, creating synergy between workforce training, research programs, and patient care  As a result, professionals—especially those involved in healthcare management—find themselves at the cutting edge of health administration, population health, and academic medicine, supported by graduate fellowships and institutional leadership development opportunities.

Indiana’s Growing Healthcare Economy & Impact

Operating within Indiana—a state with a $63 billion life sciences sector and a booming healthcare job market—IU Health plays a pivotal role Its reach extends beyond Indianapolis across communities that are home to renowned facilities such as Riley Children’s Hospital, a Level I pediatric trauma center, and Ball Memorial Hospital, a teaching hospital in Muncie

These campuses offer a broad spectrum of employee experiences—from rural community hospital nursing to leadership roles in tertiary medical centers. This ensures that every IU Health employee can find both challenge and satisfaction in environments that best suit their professional and personal goals.

Doctors discussing over laptop in meeting

FAQs

Q1: What type of benefits can I expect as a new nurse at IU Health?
You’ll access comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans with HSA/FSA options, wellness incentives, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, long-term disability coverage, and a 401(k) match of up to 4% with immediate vesting

Q2: Does IU Health support career growth for non-clinical staff?
Absolutely. IU Health offers clear promotion pathways, certification support, tuition reimbursement, and leadership development programs—even for those in administrative, IT, or healthcare management roles .

Q3: What makes Magnet Recognition important at IU Health?
Magnet designation recognizes excellence in patient-centered care and nursing leadership. It means nurses work under a framework that fosters collaboration, continuing education, and accountability, contributing to high quality outcomes

Q4: Are there opportunities for part-time or flexible schedules?
Yes. Many roles at IU Health, especially in patient care support and nursing, are available in part-time and per diem formats. They also support flexible PTO policies and work-life integration initiatives .

Conclusion

Choosing a career with IU Health means more than landing a job—it’s about joining a mission-driven community that values patient wellness, employee development, and academic excellence. From frontline patient support roles to advanced practitioner and healthcare leadership positions, IU Health offers purpose-driven work, robust educational benefits, and a chance to make a meaningful impact.

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