Monthly Archives: November 2011

LUSH Christmas 2011

By | Christmas, What's New at Rustan's | No Comments

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HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL!

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Lush is a global business now, with over 700 shops in 43 countries, each of which have their own festive traditions and celebrations. We’ve tried to include some of these in our winter range, as we understand that this wonderful time of year means different things to different people in different countries. This is your passport to international beauty without having to leave the comfort of your own bathroom!

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Northern Lights soap (Php275 for 100g) … a bright, beautiful soap reminiscent of the spectacular Northern Lights. Vibrant reds, greens and yellows all swirl together, with the fresh scent of pine oil, cypress oil and lime oil. You could almost be standing in a Finnish forest, breathing in the scent of the woodland and the sights of the Northern Lights! Pine and cypress oils are calming for the mind, while lime oil works well on congested skin and cellulite. A good one to shower with after a late night, it will wake you up whilst soothing the emotions if you’re feeling a little delicate. Vegan

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Glögg shower gel (Php375 for 100g) … the traditional Glögg is a spicy, warming, fruity mulled drink popular in the cold Scandinavian countries such as Sweden, Finland and Norway. The Lush version is a shower gel with a similar warming fragrance to act as a hot toddy in the cold weather. Containing fresh orange and lemon juices, red wine, brandy, cinnamon and clove, this spicy wash will leave you feeling all toasty as it works to help improve the circulation. Vegan

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The Jilted Elf shower jelly … based on a cocktail recipe from a bar in New York, there’s vodka in here – a great skin brightener – along with honey and fig infusion to soften the skin. There’s also a blend of zesty grapefruit oil and spicy cinnamon leaf oil and ginger oil, to uplift the spirits and stimulate the circulation, helping to keep the cold at bay. Gold glitter tops off the recipe to leave you ready for the next round of Christmas parties! If you’re feeling brave, you can freeze it for a really invigorating shower to start the day.

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Australian Igloo sugar scrub (Php245) … polar opposites you would think, but we found that the beautiful Australian essential oils of eucalyptus and sandalwood made for a fantastic body scrub when blended with sugar. And it looks a bit like an igloo, hence the name! Each one has a soft, molten centre of extra virgin coconut oil, the idea being that the sugar gently exfoliates the skin and the coconut oil will soften and moisturise it. Skin will be left bright, smooth, healthy and glowing. Eucalyptus is also good for helping to clear congested skin and to aid concentration, so the perfect antidote to a hangover! Vegan

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Gingerbread House bubble bar (Php275) … Piparkoogid … or gingerbread to you and me … is everywhere at Christmas time, especially in countries like Estonia and Germany. This warming, spicy, stimulating bath time version is crammed full of ginger powder to help increase circulation and warm you up on cold winter nights. There’s also a hint of buchu oil and lime, to give it a fruity scent. Vegan

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Chilli Tingle lip tint (Php395) … a moisturizing lip tint made with Mexican chilies to make your lips tingle! Made with an emollient base of organic jojoba oil, fairtrade cocoa butter and candelilla wax to seriously soften the lips, the annatto seeds will leave them brushed with a tangerine hue. There’s icing sugar in the recipe to add a delicious, sweet taste while the chilies work to naturally plump and stimulate the lips into a perfect pout … grab some mistletoe for a red-hot smacker! Vegan

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In the Philippines, Lush is exclusively distributed by Stores Specialists, Inc. (SSI) and is located at Glorietta 4, Power Plant Mall, Shangri-La Mall, Greenbelt 3, Mall of Asia, and Bonifacio High Street. You may also visit us online at www.lush.com.ph

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Wings of Fantasy

By | What's New at Rustan's | One Comment

Swarovski Collection Fall/Winter 2011-2012

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 2011 will be a year defined by artistic endeavor. The final chapter in the “Beyond Nature” trilogy jewelry collection, by Artistic Director Nathalie Colin expresses her vision of a natural world that is artistic, mysterious, rhythmic, and ornamental. 

A theatrical type of winter is the focus. The muse of the season is a woman who sways between contemporary ballet and choreographed performance. She casts her shadow with rhythmic, esthetic movements and is symbolized by an elegant, intricate bird in flight. “I imagined an artist, a star of the dancing world, in the intimate, serene setting of her dressing room, as she prepares her outfit for the stage. Suddenly, she transforms herself into an enigmatic and glamorous, modern, radiant diva as she takes to the stage. The collection tells of this metamorphosis from shadow into light,” explains Nathalie Colin.

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Entitled “Wings of Fantasy”, this new collection depicts these two extremes in the life of the artist via the “Cabinet of Dreams” and “Mysterious Disguise” themes.

“Cabinet of Dreams” takes us into the artist’s dressing room, and unveils her most intimate secrets. Surrounded by precious, personal, possessions, her personality is revealed by each item of jewelry. Consisting of lucky charms, souvenirs linked to past performances, accessories inspired by dance and the world of show business, and a host of trinkets set against romantic, iridescent colors. Delicate jewelry pieces sit alongside majestic jewels, and reflect memories of her emotional journey.

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The “Polly” theme reflects the world of our heroine’s childhood, with a doll pendant featuring long plaits decorated with crystal, and a red leather dress bearing mini crystals and hand-stitched flowers. A second pendant features a unique design of crystal pearls in a variety of color shades that link a double gold-plated chain. Completing the theme are three bracelets on a fine red, violet or turquoise cord, with pavé, gold-plated details.

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Inspired by the delicate nature of the wings of a bird, the “Pigment” ring is striking because of its size. Perfectly rectangular black agate covered with feathers of minicrystals in metallic tones and shades are applied by hand using the Pointiage® technique.

These same colors burst forth on the majestic “People” necklace which also features the sophisticated, refined Pointiage® technique. A true work of art evoking feathers fluttering in the breeze, each crystal is encircled by crystal sequins or briolettes with Aurora Borealis highlights.

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Inspired by the grace of a moving tutu, the collection is characterized by a sense of elegance. The “Paloma” necklace offers seven palladium circles with shaded pavé mini crystals, reflecting the sequences of a dance. The “Prelude” bangle also embodies a spherical action depicting a dancer in movement. The central corolla offers a distinct sense of rhythm, with the center of the violet Pointiage® crystal unfurling in colored ribbons of crystal or epoxy to the base of the jewelry piece. This is rhodium-plated, and is notable for its hammered metal finish.

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The final moment arrives as our muse prepares to take to the stage. As the curtain is raised, we notice the distinct, chameleon-like transformation and intriguing qualities of our multifaceted artist. “Mysterious Disguise” evokes an enchanting, sophisticated profile, with spectacular effects. The jewelry pieces comprise of mysterious colors, dramatic shaded tones, and dark flashes of light. The bird is once more interpreted in a magical, majestic fashion, with each item bold and opulent. Reminiscent of richly colored, subtly shaded feathers, the “Mysterious Disguise” theme provides an explosion of strong colors and changing effects. The female bird is covered in the star colors of the season, violet and indicolite.

The boldness of the “Parade” necklace encapsulates this theme impeccably. Structured around a midnight blue crystal and threaded violet stones, two feathers of clear navette-cut chaton crystals, take flight. Eye-catching, tone-on-tone crystals delicately caress the neck. The simplicity of the new blue “Nirvana Petite” ring ensures it make the perfect companion for this opulent necklace.

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Omnipresent this season are bracelets, bangles, and cuffs. Like our star, the wide “Prism” cuff sparkles brilliantly, with the black acrylic glass base and geometric pavé crystals offering a vintage couture look. In a first for Swarovski, the “Pony” bangles are available on leather or on an intense violet base made entirely of Ceralun and Pointiage®. Each one is finished with a plethora of crystals in various sizes, following the example of the “Purple Red” bangle, with its splendid cabochon of intense red and black. The radiant “Platinum” bracelet harmoniously combines gold, silver, and black crystals.

The impressive “Proudly” set offers an abundance of hand-embroidered navette crystals. With polychrome tones, this superb piece pays homage to the feathers of majestic birds. The “Pony” ring, in ruthenium and violet epoxy, draws the eye with its hand-applied turquoise, mauve, and violet mini crystals.

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Finally, the bird theme is creatively continued with the “Phoenix” pendant, which embodies the seductive, rock star attitude of the artist. In full flight, the powerful silver-plated wings feature pavé turquoise crystals, displaying an enormous magnetic violet crystal, clasped under its beak. The piece complements the generous “Pure” pendant, made up of a single large teardrop crystal, set off by shaded Pointiage®.

Swarovski continues to sprinkle artistic poetry, magic, and grace throughout the fall/winter season, with a sophisticated combination of new, harmonious colors.

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Swarovski is exclusively available at Rustan’s Makati and Shangri-la Plaza.

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Mr Jones Expansion at Greenbelt 5

By | Foodie | 2 Comments

After a yummy meal at Lusso ( Lusso by Gaita Fores October 2, 2011 ), Tita Ludette treated us in Mr. Jones which is a few steps away at Greenbelt 5

Previous entry:  Mr Jones April 25, 2010 

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They had just expanded their restaurant and this is the extension side 

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Kids were full already so they just played with the games on the table 

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It was the weekend before Halloween so there were still Halloween treats and decor 

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Dad tried the fried pickles – he was curious and the server said that even if you don’t eat pickles, you will like this dish.  I guess she was correct because even I ate it and I don’t really like pickles 🙂

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and even if I was full from dinner, I was itching to try the milkshake! I heard that they were known for their milkshakes 

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I had the intense coffee milkshake! 

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I almost finished that glass!!!!! I just stopped myself to control calories…but it was good! 

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Tory Burch Tote

By | Fashion, What's New at Rustan's | One Comment

 Tory Burch is pleased to offer a special gift for its customers at the newly opened Tory Burch Rustan’s Makati boutique. For every P25, 000 spent on regular price items, customers will receive a limited edition gift – a tote bag in a fun Tory Burch cheetah print. The offer is valid from November 17 to December 4, 2011.

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All New BMW 1 Series Sport and Urban Lines

By | Events and Launches, Toys for the Big Boys | No Comments

James dragged me to go with him to the BMW event.  He wanted to show me the new 1 series 

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Suddenly I don’t mind being in a car event 🙂

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The All-New BMW 1 Series

Unique driving pleasure in the premium compact segment.Asian Carmarkers Corporation (ACC), the official importer of BMW cars in the Philippines, today announced the official launch of the All-New BMW 1 Series which will be available in three variants; BMW 116i, BMW 118d Urban Line, and BMW 118d Sport Line. This second generation entry-level BMW model has achieved maturity, offering an even better balance between sportiness and driving comfort, improved functionality, and numerous driver assistance systems previously available only in higher segments. “The premium compact BMW 1 Series is already synonymous with driving pleasure. Now, the All-New BMW 1 Series offers state-of-the-art engine and suspension technology, further improvements in fuel efficiency, significantly more space and an innovative range of features and equipment. By building on the strengths of its predecessor which has already sold more than one million units worldwide, we are confident that the All-New BMW 1 Series will be even more welcomed by the Filipino market,” said ACC President Maricar Parco.

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So happy to see our friend, Jim, the handsome 🙂 owner of Prestige Cars

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James and I answered the questions in the maze 

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So funny how we exactly answered opposite in each and every question  

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James personality fits the Sport line 

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And me the Urban line  

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BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line make their debut.

The design of the All-New BMW 1 Series is a powerful expression of the latest technological advances. The model’s fresh, youthful image has been stylishly updated, using the latest BMW design language. The All-New BMW 1 Series is also the first model to be offered with the BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line.

“The All-New BMW 1 Series Sport Line and Urban Line is our response to the ever-changing driving needs of our consumers. At BMW, we are dedicated to ensuring that our consumers’ experience sheer driving pleasure and now with the All-New BMW 1 Series, there is a vehicle fit for their personalities and lifestyles,” explained Ms. Parco.

The body of the All-New BMW 1 Series is 85 millimeters longer than its predecessor at 4,324 millimeters, while the wheelbase has widened by 30 millimeters to 2,690 millimeters. The car also looks more powerful because its overall width has increased by 17 millimeters to 1,765 millimeters, while its height remains unchanged at 1,421 millimeters. The rear seats have 21 millimeters more legroom, and the luggage compartment has expanded by 30 liters to 360 liters.

The All-New BMW 1 Series features the new generation 4-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. Not only do these new generation engines offer a sporty feel, but it also has exceptionally low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The All-New BMW 1 Series also comes with the wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology such as Brake Energy Re-generation, electromechanical servo-assisted steering, as well as the unique-in-its-class features including the Eight-speed automatic transmission with the Automatic Start / Stop function and ECO PRO mode.

The new generation of petrol and diesel engines: dynamic power delivery and outstanding fuel efficiency thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

The 1.6-liter petrol engines making their debut in the All-New BMW 116i model use BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, consisting of a twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS. The forced-induction system uses the twin-scroll principle, with separate ducts both in the exhaust manifold and the turbocharger itself, each serving one pair of two cylinders. Output is also boosted by VALVETRONIC variable valve control, which is fully integrated into the cylinder head, and Double-VANOS variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust sides. The new petrol engines are also unusually fuel-efficient, thanks mainly to High Precision Injection. 

The All-New BMW 116i’s four-cylinder engine provides significantly improved driving dynamics compared to the predecessor model. It has an output of 136 hp at 4,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 220 Nm between 1,350 and 4,300 rpm. The car takes 9.1 seconds to reach 100 km/h from a standing start, and has a maximum speed of 210 km/h. The All-New BMW 116i’s fuel consumption over the combined cycle is 5.6 per 100 kilometers, and its CO2 emissions are 131 grams per kilometer (EU combined test cycle).

The four-cylinder diesel engine of the All-New BMW 118d has a maximum output of 143 hp at 4,000 rpm, and maximum torque of 320 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 212 km/h. Its combined-cycle fuel consumption is 4.4 to 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions of 116 to 119 grams per kilometre (EU test figures, variations due to differences in the tires fitted).

Efficient Dynamics technology

Class leading in fuel-efficiency.

The All-New BMW 1 Series continues to embody the concept of fuel-efficiency like no other premium car via a comprehensive array of consumption and emission-reducing technologies. BMW EfficientDynamics technologies fitted as standard include Brake Energy Regeneration and electromechanical servo-assisted steering, and tires with reduced rolling resistance. The Automatic Start/Stop function comes as standard also with the automatic transmissions. Using the driving experience switch, drivers can activate ECO PRO mode, which is designed to facilitate a particularly economical driving style.

The All-New BMW 1 Series is also standard with eight-speed automatic transmission – the only car in the compact segment to offer this. Its principle benefits are faster, smother gear changes, and superior fuel-efficiency.

Perfect handling and increased comfort: high-quality suspension technology, even weight distribution and improved stability control.

The All-New BMW 1 Series boasts best-in-class suspension technology, with a double-joint cross-strut front axle with MacPherson struts and sway bars, and a five-link rear axle. It has a wider track than its predecessor at both front and rear, and the almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution helps to translate the dynamic advantages of the rear-wheel drive layout into an exciting responses and a more comfortable ride compared with the predecessor model.

The electromechanical power steering of the All-New BMW 1 Series combines typical BMW precision with very low energy consumption. The standard Servotronic function provides speed-dependent power assist. The instant responses of the All-New BMW 1 Series are due to the combination of a powerful, reliable braking system and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), which is fitted as standard. Proven features such as ABS (anti-lock braking system), DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), CBC (Cornering Brake Control) and DBC (Dynamic Braking Control) are now augmented with braking assistance, fading compensation, brake drying, hill assist, and, in DSC Off mode, an electronic rear axle differential locking system.

Meanwhile, the driving experience switch, fitted as standard on the center console, adjusts the car’s set-up to suit the driver’s personal preferences. All models offer a choice of three modes, COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO. On the BMW Sport Line models, when fitted with the optional Variable Sports Steering, there is furthermore a fourth mode, SPORT+.

Intelligent Lightweight Construction

More agility, more safety

The lightweight body of the All-New BMW 1 Series makes it more agile and improves passenger safety, with high-strength steel being used to increase the torsional resistance and strength of the passenger safety cell while minimizing weight. The advances made in this area are reflected in the car’s dynamic responses and its improved power-to-weight ratio compared with its predecessor.

Crumple zones and clearly defined load paths absorb the force of an impact and deflect it away from the passenger cell. The standard safety package comprises front airbags, side airbags built into the seatbacks, front and rear head airbags, three-point automatic belts in all seats, front seatbelt tension limiters and pre-tensioners, and ISOFIX child seat mountings in the rear.

Exciting, elegant, innovative design

This innovativeness, elegance and responsiveness of the All-New BMW 1 Series are all reflected in its compact bodywork. Its overall proportions follow an instantly recognizable BMW template, with an elongated bonnet, long wheelbase and set-back passenger cell. The front of the car is dominated by the large BMW kidney-shaped radiator grill, boldly shaped headlight units and three-section air intake. The double-round headlights have an accent trim across their tops, while for the first time on a BMW model, the side indicator lights are built onto the exterior mirrors.

The slightly sloping roof line, sporty, angled rear windscreen and flat side windows give the car a coupe-like feel when seen from the side, while the Hofmeister kink – the low forward bend at the back end of the side windows – extends well into the C-pillar, making the door aperture wider and facilitating entry to an exit from the rear seats. The bold, characteristic BMW swage line gives powerful emphasis to the shoulder area. It starts at the front wing and rises continuously to the rear lights, with the door handle integrated neatly into it. The wide-set wheel arches reinforce the broad, powerful impression created by the rear of the All-New BMW 1 Series, and the rear light units too are set well apart. Each unit has a raised surround, and the different lights within it are structure horizontally

Premium ambience and excellent use of interior space.

Inside, a combination of typical BMW design features and innovative details creates a fresh, youthful and contemporary ambience, with a focus on spaciousness and driving pleasure. High-quality materials further enhance the premium feel. Where the BMW Professional radio is fitted, the All-New BMW 1 Series also comes equipped with the BMW iDrive system. This comprises a controller on the center console, favorites buttons and a freestanding flatscreen monitor.

The All-New BMW 1 Series also offers much more storage space, with large door pockets, two cupholders in the center console, a roomy glove compartment, and a compartment under the armrest. The 360-litre luggage compartment expands to a maximum of 1,200 liters by lowering the 60/40 split-folding rear seats, giving a flat surface extending all the way to the front seats.

Asian Carmakers Corporation ACC is a wholly owned Filipino company under the Alvarez Group of Companies, and is headed by ACC Chairman, Jose Ch. Alvarez.

The company boasts of the widest dealership network in the luxury vehicle segment – with six dealers working closely under the ACC helm. These dealers are: Autowelt BMW in Cebu, Autohaus BMW in Quezon City, Autozentrum BMW in Alabang, Prestige Cars BMW in Makati, Premier Cars BMW in Pampanga, and the upcoming Premium Motoren BMW in Cagayan de Oro.

ACC-BMW is supported by the BMW Group regional office for Asia in Singapore through BMW Asia Pte. Ltd.

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Holiday Products 2011 from Tricia’s Specialty Pastries

By | Christmas, Yummy! | One Comment

Heart2Hearts loves these Choco-Banana Muffins!!!!!

Previous Entries:  Banana Chocolate Chip Muffin by Tricia August 22, 2010 

Tricia’s Specialty Pastries  October 11, 2010  

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1 doz choco-banana muffins P290

1/2 doz choco-banana muffins P145

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 This is my 3rd feature and this time I can see that Tricia has other things to offer!!!  I love everything she makes!!! Her items make perfect christmas presents!  I suggest you order early!

I just tried her chocolate crinkles which is very moist and so chocolatey!     

1 doz chocolate crinkles P180

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Creamy leche flan P150

Duck and Chicken liver pate covered with portwine jelly served with crostini P600

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This is soooooooo yummy!!!  Just like the Choco-Banana Muffin without the chocolate chips but with super duper yummy streusel topping!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE! 

Small banana cake loaf with struesel topping P120

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Small orange pound cake P150

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Ham and Cheese  P 380

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Pls contact: 09064602106

                   7256944

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