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Sign Up for the 40th Annual Adopt-A-Beach Spring Coastwide Cleanup

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Sign Up for the 40th Annual Adopt-A-Beach Spring Coastwide Cleanup
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., encourages Texans to sign up to participate in the Texas General Land Office's (GLO) 2026 Adopt-A-Beach Spring Coastwide Cleanup on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 21 locations on beautiful Texas beaches from Sea Rim State Park to Boca Chica. Image courtesy of Texas GLO
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., encourages Texans to sign up to participate in the Texas General Land Office’s (GLO) 2026 Adopt-A-Beach Spring Coastwide Cleanup on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 21 locations on beautiful Texas beaches from Sea Rim State Park to Boca Chica. Image courtesy of Texas GLO

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AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., encourages Texans to sign up to participate in the Texas General Land Office’s (GLO) 2026 Adopt-A-Beach Spring Coastwide Cleanup on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 21 locations on beautiful Texas beaches from Sea Rim State Park to Boca Chica.

This year, the Texas General Land Office (GLO) Adopt-A-Beach (AAB) program will celebrate 40 years of taking care of Texas beaches. The Adopt-A-Beach program holds two Coastwide Cleanups each year in April and September, as well as smaller cleanups in February in South Texas. Between those dates, AAB helps local groups coordinate small, one-off Special Cleanups all along the coast.

In the 40 years since AAB began, more than 600,000 volunteers have cleaned 11,800 miles of beach while picking up more than 10,000 tons of trash. Please join us as we continue to work together to keep Texas beaches clean and our habitats thriving!

2026 GLO Adopt-A-Beach Cleanup:
Who: All Texans and visitors
What: Free public beach cleanup event
When: Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm
Where: 21 locations along the Texas coast

Click the link below to learn more and register to volunteer at the Adopt-A-Beach 2026 Spring Cleanups:

2026 AAB SPRING CLEANUPS

This year’s sponsors include Chevron, ONEOK, SLB, Valero, ExxonMobil, Texas Coastal Management Program, NOAA, Ocean Conservancy, Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program, Optimus Steel, SESCO Cement, Texas General Land Office Buffalo Brigade, and VLS Environmental Solutions.

To stay up-to-date on upcoming Adopt-A-Beach events, sign up for the Adopt-A-Beach newsletter and follow us on  Facebook,  Twitter, and  Instagram.

About the Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program:

Texas Adopt-A-Beach is an all-volunteer beach cleanup program dedicated to keeping Texas beaches clean and educating our communities about the detrimental effects of marine debris on people and our environment. Since our first cleanup in 1986, more than 600,000 Texas Adopt-A-Beach volunteers have picked up more than 10,000 tons of trash from Texas beaches.

Adopt-A-Beach is a program of the Texas General Land Office Coastal Protection Division. The Texas General Land Office manages state lands, operates the Alamo, helps Texans recovering from natural disasters, helps fund Texas public education through the Permanent School Fund, provides benefits to Texas Veterans, and manages the vast Texas coast.

Information source: Texas General Land Office (GLO)

MS‑13 Member Sentenced to 23 Months for Illegal Reentry After Prior Murder Conspiracy

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MS‑13 Member Sentenced to 23 Months for Illegal Reentry After Prior Murder Conspiracy
A 28-year-old El Salvadorian national who illegally resided in Houston has been sentenced for unlawfully reentering the country after removal. Image for illustration purposes
A 28-year-old El Salvadorian national who illegally resided in Houston has been sentenced for unlawfully reentering the country after removal. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

HOUSTON – A 28-year-old El Salvadorian national who illegally resided in Houston has been sentenced for unlawfully reentering the country after removal.

Ronald Alberto Rivas-Aguilar pleaded guilty Nov. 10, 2025.

U.S. District Judge Charles R. Eskridge has now ordered Rivas to serve 23 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to again face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence about his criminal history while illegally present in the country.

“Rivas-Aguilar pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit murder, was convicted, and removed from the United States—and still, he came back,” said Ganjei. “Gang members who believe that a prior removal is nothing more than an inconvenience should look carefully at what is happening in the Southern District of Texas. Working with our law enforcement partners, we will ensure that you never have the chance to bring your violence back into our country.

In 2016, Rivas and another MS-13 gang member conspired to murder a rival gang member in Fort Bend County. Rivas transported the victim to Buffalo Run Park and tied the victim’s ankles with his shoelaces. A coconspirator then beat the victim to death with a machete. Rivas was subsequently removed to El Salvador after pleading guilty for conspiring to commit a murder.

However, he illegally returned to the United States. In July 2025, authorities encountered him during a traffic stop and took him into custody.  

Rivas has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Valenti and Amanda Alum prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

Updated March 2, 2026

PSJA ISD Recognized Again for Leadership in Texas Farm Fresh Initiative

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PSJA ISD Recognized Again for Leadership in Texas Farm Fresh Initiative
The Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District Child Nutrition Department has once again earned recognition from the Texas Department of Agriculture for its exemplary participation in the 2025 Farm Fresh Challenge. Photo courtesy of PSJA ISD
The Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District Child Nutrition Department has once again earned recognition from the Texas Department of Agriculture for its exemplary participation in the 2025 Farm Fresh Challenge. Photo courtesy of PSJA ISD

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PHARR, Texas – The Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District Child Nutrition Department has once again earned recognition from the Texas Department of Agriculture for its exemplary participation in the 2025 Farm Fresh Challenge. The statewide initiative promotes collaboration between schools and Texas farmers and ranchers while increasing student access to fresh, locally sourced foods. This achievement represents the district’s eighth consecutive year of recognition. 

The Farm Fresh Challenge complements the district’s broader efforts to elevate the quality and nutritional value of student meals. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

In a letter to district leadership, the Texas Department of Agriculture commended PSJA ISD for its commitment to expanding the use of Texas-grown products in school cafeterias. During October 2025, participating school food authorities across the state dedicated nearly 25 percent more resources to local products compared to the previous year. PSJA ISD joined 148 other Texas school systems in this effort, contributing to meaningful economic impact for local producers and enhanced nutrition opportunities for students. 

“Our Child Nutrition team has demonstrated what leadership looks like in action,” said Dr. Alejandro Elias, Superintendent of PSJA ISD. “When we invest in Texas agriculture, we invest in our students’ health, our local economy, and the future of our communities. This work goes beyond serving meals. It is about building strong systems that support student achievement and lifelong wellness.” 

The Farm Fresh Challenge encourages school districts to serve more Texas-grown foods, promote agricultural education, and engage students in learning about where their food comes from. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

The Farm Fresh Challenge complements the district’s broader efforts to elevate the quality and nutritional value of student meals. Beginning in 2024, PSJA ISD expanded its commitment to healthy options by introducing organic fruits and vegetables across all 44 campuses. Through an $85,000 grant from the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Local Food for Schools program, the Child Nutrition Program increased access to fresh, locally sourced organic produce, further reinforcing the district’s focus on student health and academic readiness. Additionally, all elementary campuses are currently participating in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Program, a $675,759 USDA grant received for the 2025-026 school year that introduces students to a new fruit or vegetable each day, fostering curiosity and promoting healthy eating habits from an early age. 

“We believe that healthy minds start with healthy meals,” said Pedro Contreras, PSJA Child Nutrition Administrator. “By integrating organic fruits and vegetables into our menus, we are enhancing the quality of food we provide while teaching students the importance of making healthy choices. This initiative aligns with our mission to foster lifelong wellness and learning.” 

The Farm Fresh Challenge encourages school districts to serve more Texas-grown foods, promote agricultural education, and engage students in learning about where their food comes from. By incorporating locally sourced fruits, vegetables, dairy, and proteins into school menus, districts help strengthen regional food systems while improving student participation in school meal programs. 

PSJA ISD remains committed to promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting local economies, and preparing students to become informed, health-conscious citizens. Through continued participation in the Farm Fresh Challenge and other farm-to-school initiatives, the district is helping build a strong and healthy future for the next generation. 

Motorcycle Patrol Unit to be Unveiled at March 3 Commissioners Court Ceremony

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Motorcycle Patrol Unit to be Unveiled at March 3 Commissioners Court Ceremony
Constable Atanacio "J.R." Gaitan has announced the launch of the first Motorcycle Patrol Unit in Hidalgo County Precinct 4 history. The new unit represents an important step in the office’s continued commitment to modernizing operations and strengthening public safety across the precinct. Image for illustration purposes
Constable Atanacio “J.R.” Gaitan has announced the launch of the first Motorcycle Patrol Unit in Hidalgo County Precinct 4 history. The new unit represents an important step in the office’s continued commitment to modernizing operations and strengthening public safety across the precinct. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

EDINBURG, Texas – Constable Atanacio “J.R.” Gaitan has announced the launch of the first Motorcycle Patrol Unit in Hidalgo County Precinct 4 history. The new unit represents an important step in the office’s continued commitment to modernizing operations and strengthening public safety across the precinct.

As Hidalgo County continues to grow, the Motorcycle Patrol Unit will give deputies greater mobility, allowing them to navigate congested roadways and respond to calls more efficiently. The unit will focus on traffic enforcement, escort services, and community policing efforts.

“Our goal is to stay proactive in keeping our streets safe,” said Constable Gaitan. “These motorcycles allow our deputies to be more visible, more mobile, and more accessible to the residents we serve.”

The precinct will deploy two specialized motorcycles that will be outfitted with modern law enforcement equipment. Deputies assigned to the unit have completed advanced training to ensure safe and professional operations. 

Constable Gaitan and his office will officially unveil the motorcycles during the Commissioners Court meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 10 a.m. A resolution recognizing the new unit will be presented, and the motorcycles will be displayed in the lobby.

The public and media are invited to attend.

EVENT DETAILS
What: Hidalgo County Constable Precinct 4 Unveils Motorcycle Patrol Unit
 
When: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 10 a.m.
 
Where: Hidalgo County Commissioners Court
100 E. Cano Street, First Floor, Edinburg, TX 78539
 
Who: Precinct 4 Constable Atanacio “J.R.” Gaitan and deputies

DPS Advises Public to Download iWatchTexas to Report Suspicious Activity and Behavior

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DPS Advises Public to Download iWatchTexas to Report Suspicious Activity and Behavior
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans of the iWatchTexas program— a critical resource anyone can use to report suspicious activity or behavior in their schools and communities. Using iWatchTexas, everyone can take an active role in keeping our state safe. Image for illustration purposes
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans of the iWatchTexas program— a critical resource anyone can use to report suspicious activity or behavior in their schools and communities. Using iWatchTexas, everyone can take an active role in keeping our state safe. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding Texans of the iWatchTexas program— a critical resource anyone can use to report suspicious activity or behavior in their schools and communities. Using iWatchTexas, everyone can take an active role in keeping our state safe.

TheiWatchTexas program allows Texans to report any suspicious activities or behaviors that may indicate criminal, terroristic or school safety-related threats.

Screenshot from App Store, for illustration purposes

The public can report behaviors via the mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org or by calling 1-844-643-2251. A report typically takes less than five minutes, and once submitted, each report is reviewed by law enforcement analysts. All reports are confidential (providing contact information, which is optional, will allow for follow-up questions).

Often, preparations for crimes, terrorist attacks and threats to school safety may be seen by someone but not reported. When in doubt, DPS encourages everyone to speak up. 

Here are some examples of behaviors and activities to report:

  • Comments about killing or harming someone.
  • Strangers asking questions about building security features and procedures.
  • A social media post about a possible school attack. 
  • A social media account encouraging and posting about acts of vandalism, sabotage or arson.
  • People requesting sensitive information, such as blueprints, security plans or VIP travel schedules, without a need to know.
  • Purchasing supplies that could be used to make bombs or weapons or purchasing uniforms without having the proper credentials.
  • Taking photographs or videos of security features, such as cameras or checkpoints.

The iWatchTexas app is available at no cost to iPhone users on the Apple App Store (iWatchTexas) and for Android users on Google Play (iWatchTexas). Texans are urged to download the app now.

Note: The iWatchTexas program is not designed to report emergencies. If a situation requires an emergency response, call 911. 

(HQ 2026-022) Texas DPS

Texas Courts Face New Election Temporary Restraining Order Rules

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Texas Courts Face New Election Temporary Restraining Order Rules
As of September 1, 2025, state law requires that all courts in Texas notify the Office of the Attorney General as soon as practicable of any hearing on an application for a temporary restraining order under the Election Code. mage for illustration purposes
As of September 1, 2025, state law requires that all courts in Texas notify the Office of the Attorney General as soon as practicable of any hearing on an application for a temporary restraining order under the Election Code. mage for illustration purposes

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Image: X

AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton issued this notice informing Texas courts on how to notify the Office of the Attorney General (“OAG”) to fulfill statutory obligations under the Texas Election Code regarding temporary restraining orders (“TROs”) issued in Election Code matters. 

As of September 1, 2025, state law requires that all courts in Texas notify the Office of the Attorney General as soon as practicable of any hearing on an application for a temporary restraining order under the Election Code. This notice must be provided to ensure that the OAG is promptly informed of proceedings that may impact the enforcement of Texas election laws. 

Under Section 273.082, courts are also required to allow the OAG to participate remotely in any hearing on a temporary restraining order brought under the Election Code. Additionally, a court may not enter a temporary restraining order until at least one hour after providing notice to the Attorney General. The statute expressly provides that any order issued in violation of these requirements is void and unenforceable under Texas law. 

To facilitate compliance and streamline the notification process, the Office of the Attorney General has created a dedicated online submission form that automatically delivers required notices to the appropriate agency staff. 

The Office of the Attorney General encourages all courts, clerks, and practitioners handling Election Code matters to review Section 273.082 carefully and to utilize the designated online form to ensure prompt and proper notice in accordance with Texas law. 

The notice form may be accessed here. 

Pharr Public Health Opens New Breast Milk Donation Site and Wellness Room

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Pharr Public Health Opens New Breast Milk Donation Site and Wellness Room
The new milk depot provides a convenient local drop-off site for approved donors, making it easier for local mothers to donate extra breast milk to help premature, sick, and medically fragile infants. Image for illustration purposes
The new milk depot provides a convenient local drop-off site for approved donors, making it easier for local mothers to donate extra breast milk to help premature, sick, and medically fragile infants. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

PHARR, Texas – The Pharr Public Health Department will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, March 4, at 11:00 AM at Pharr ONE (1121 E. Nolana Loop) to celebrate the opening of a new Breast Milk Donation Site in partnership with Mothers’ Milk Bank at Austin, along with the launch of its new wellness room.

The new milk depot provides a convenient local drop-off site for approved donors, making it easier for local mothers to donate extra breast milk to help premature, sick, and medically fragile infants.

DETAILS
WHAT:  Ribbon Cutting for New Breast Milk Donation Site & Wellness Room
WHEN: Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at 11 AM
WHERE: Pharr ONE (1121 E. Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577)

Read the full story at:

Pharr Public Health Opens New Breast Milk Donation Site and Wellness Room

National School Breakfast Week 2026: The Quest for School Breakfast March 2–6

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National School Breakfast Week 2026: The Quest for School Breakfast March 2–6
School nutrition teams are transforming cafeterias into adventure zones with exciting activities, special menus, creative decorations, and hands-on fun that shows exactly how breakfast powers success in the classroom. Image for illustration purposes
School nutrition teams are transforming cafeterias into adventure zones with exciting activities, special menus, creative decorations, and hands-on fun that shows exactly how breakfast powers success in the classroom. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is calling on students statewide to embark on The Quest for School Breakfast during National School Breakfast Week, March 2–6. This year’s theme challenges kids to discover the real rewards of fueling up with a nutritious school breakfast—sharper focus, better learning, and stronger starts to the day. School nutrition teams are transforming cafeterias into adventure zones with exciting activities, special menus, creative decorations, and hands-on fun that shows exactly how breakfast powers success in the classroom.

“A solid school breakfast ignites academic performance,” Commissioner Miller said. “Research proves it, and our kids deserve every edge. This week, I’m urging every student to kick off the day in the cafeteria—not just for great nutrition, but to meet the dedicated teams who prepare these healthy meals every single morning.”

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) equips schools with ready-to-use resources under the Quest for School Breakfast theme: eye-catching posters, participation trackers, morning announcements, and a complete Do-It-Yourself toolkit with step-by-step guidance. Everything is free at SquareMeals.org/SBW.

TDA’s themed menus spotlight seasonal Texas ingredients, aligning with Commissioner Miller’s Farm Fresh Initiative. By serving local products, schools connect students directly to Texas farmers and ranchers—teaching kids where their food comes from while keeping them homegrown and healthy.

Join the quest. Fuel up. Thrive.

Brownsville Judge Hands Down 168‑Month Sentence in Child Exploitation Case

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Brownsville Judge Hands Down 168‑Month Sentence in Child Exploitation Case
A 57-year-old man has been sentenced for possession of child sexual abuse material. Image for illustration purposes
A 57-year-old man has been sentenced for possession of child sexual abuse material. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 57-year-old man has been sentenced for possession of child sexual abuse material.

Todd Edward Ellison pleaded guilty Dec. 17, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. has now ordered Ellison to serve 168 months in federal prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. At the hearing, the court heard that Ellison was previously convicted of child exploitative offenses on two separate occasions. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Restitution to the victims will be determined at a later date.

In May 2020, authorities suspected Ellison was using social media to impersonate and harass a female victim and obtained a search warrant for his residence. At that time, they located and seized numerous digital media devices. The evidence showed Ellison had knowingly possessed child sexual abuse material across multiple digital devices. Forensic analysis revealed he possessed over 1,500 images and 21 videos of child pornography.

Ellison will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations – Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitations Investigations Task Force conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ana C. Cano and Jose A. Esquivel prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

Updated March 2, 2026

Texas Drives American Energy Security in a Volatile World

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Texas Drives American Energy Security in a Volatile World
The American energy dominance that starts in Texas gives the United States options that keep our nation strong, our military ready and our allies supplied, according to a statement released by the Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA). Image for illustration purposes
The American energy dominance that starts in Texas gives the United States options that keep our nation strong, our military ready and our allies supplied, according to a statement released by the Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA). Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

By Texas Ole and Gas Association (TXOGA)

AUSTIN – The American energy dominance that starts in Texas gives the United States options that keep our nation strong, our military ready and our allies supplied, according to a statement released by the Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA).

TXOGA President Todd Staples. Courtesy image

“Energy security is national security. At a time when geopolitical tensions, including military action involving Iran, disrupt global energy supply routes, the United States and Texas provide stability,” said TXOGA President Todd Staples. “Americans can rest assured that the United States, led by Texas, has the capacity to respond because of unmatched production, robust pipelines and world-class refining and export infrastructure.”

“While price fluctuation often occurs during times like these, Texas energy helps to minimize volatility for American consumers and stabilize global markets,” he said. “American families and businesses, our military, and our allies abroad can depend on the reliable, affordable energy supply that starts here.”   

The facts below show why maintaining America’s energy leadership is essential for our national security, our military readiness, our economy, and the everyday lives of consumers. In short, these facts confirm why American energy dominance matters.

Crude Oil

  • The United States is the world’s largest crude oil producer, producing approximately 13.7 million barrels per day (mb/d) (EIA, Feb. 2026). 
  • Texas alone produces about 5.8 mb/d, meaning if Texas were a country, it would rank as the world’s fourth-largest oil producer, nearly twice the output of Iran.

Strait of Hormuz Risk

Approximately 20% of global petroleum liquids consumption—roughly 20–21 mb/d—flows through the Strait of Hormuz (EIA, June 2025). This volume primarily originates from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, and Iran. Any disruption in this corridor has historically spurred global price volatility.

Natural Gas

  • The United States is the world’s largest natural gas producer, producing approximately 120 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) of marketed production and 109 bcf/d of dry natural gas production.
  • Texas accounts for roughly 35 bcf/d, or nearly 30% of total U.S. marketed production.

With over 35 bcf/d of natural gas marketed production, Texas alone produces around 28 bcf/d of dry gas—more natural gas than Iran—the world’s third-largest gas producer.

Virtually all new liquids pipeline projects are concentrated in Texas, and more than two-thirds of new natural gas pipeline capacity is located in Texas.

For additional key statistics on production, rankings and exports, click here.

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