Exploring North Carolina’s Craft Beer Scene

My Home State

Whether you’re a hard-line IPA head, a crisp lager fan, or someone who judges a taproom entirely by its patio dogs and food truck selection, one thing is clear: North Carolina is the undisputed craft beer capital of the Southeast.

With well over 400 independent breweries scattered across the state, NC has evolved into a full-blown beer pilgrimage site. From the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains down to the salt-breezy Atlantic coast, here’s our official tour of North Carolina’s vibrant craft beer scene—region by region.

1. Western NC: The Mountain Heavyweights

If North Carolina craft beer had a birthplace, it would be the Blue Ridge Mountains. Blessed with clean mountain water and a laid-back, outdoor-loving culture, Western NC is home to some of the most celebrated taprooms in the country.

  • Asheville (Beer City, USA): You can’t talk about NC beer without talking about Asheville. Pioneer craft icons like Wicked Weed Brewing (famous for their complex sours at the Funkatorium) and local legends like Burial Beer Co. set the standard. Burial’s dark, moody aesthetics, hyper-creative names, and heavy-hitting double IPAs make it a non-negotiable stop.
  • Morganton & The Foothills: Down the mountain a bit sits Fonta Flora Brewery. They specialize in “Appalachian wild ales”—brewing with local flora, herbs, and grains foraged straight from the region. It’s farm-to-glass brewing at its absolute best.

Bill’s Pro Tip: Grab a four-pack from Fonta Flora or Burial and head straight for a tailgate overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway at sunset.

2. The Piedmont & Triangle: Innovation & Tradition

As you move into the heart of the state—covering Charlotte, the Triad, and the Triangle—the beer scene shifts toward bustling urban taprooms, innovative style experiments, and long-standing traditions.

  • Charlotte: The Queen City is bursting with neighborhood hubs. NoDa Brewing Company put Charlotte on the craft map with their award-winning Hop, Drop & Roll IPA. If you want lagers done with precision, drop into Resident Culture Brewing or venture out into the suburbs for hyper-clean craft lagers at Keepsake Brewery.
  • Winston-Salem: A trip to the Triad isn’t complete without visiting Foothills Brewing. Their legendary Sexual Chocolate Imperial Stout draws massive crowds every release season, making them true pioneers of NC brewing.
  • Raleigh-Durham: In the Triangle, Fullsteam Brewery in Durham champions “plow-to-pint” brewing, using southern ingredients like sweet potatoes, scuppernong grapes, and local farm barley.

3. Coastal NC: Beach Vibes & Fresh Taps

Nothing pairs better with ocean air than a cold draft beer. The coastal craft scene has exploded over the last decade, combining relaxed beach energy with high-quality brewing.

  • Wilmington: The Port City is a massive beer destination in its own right. Places like Outer Dunes Brewing offer breezy, coastal-casual vibes, while local hubs like Bill’s Brewing Company serve up crisp lagers and juicy IPAs alongside sand volleyball courts and massive outdoor hangouts.
  • The Outer Banks: Up on the coast, Full Moon Brewery in Manteo and Outer Banks Brewing Station in Kill Devil Hills (which runs on a wind turbine!) prove that great beer thrives all the way to the barrier islands.

Why NC Beer Stands Apart

So, what makes the Tar Heel State such a juggernaut for craft beer?

  1. Statewide Variety: Very few states let you sip a complex, spontaneous-fermentation sour in the mountains during the morning and a crisp, crushable beach lager on the coast by evening.
  2. Community Focus: Taprooms here act as community living rooms. They are family-friendly, dog-friendly, and almost always host local food trucks, run clubs, and live music.
  3. Agricultural Roots: NC brewers work closely with local farms and malthouses (like Riverbend Malt House in Asheville), keeping the supply chain hyper-local.

What’s on Your NC Tap List?

Whether you’re planning a full weekend road trip or just hitting your local neighborhood taproom, North Carolina’s craft beer scene has something brewing for every palette.

Have a favorite NC brewery we missed? Drop your top picks in the comments below, and let us know what we should review next!

Cheers,

Bill 🍻

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My Latest Brew

Glass mug of BrewDog Hazy Jane beer with foam on top on a wooden table
A frothy BrewDog Hazy Jane beer sits on a wooden table in a lively pub.

Getting Lost in the Haze: A Look at BrewDog’s Hazy Jane

Every once in a while, a beer comes along that perfectly captures a style—and for many craft beer fans, Hazy Jane by BrewDog is exactly that kind of brew. Whether you’re already deep into hazy IPAs or just dipping your toes into the style, this one deserves a spot in your rotation.

What Is Hazy Jane?

Hazy Jane is a New England–style IPA (NEIPA) brewed by BrewDog, a Scottish craft brewery known for bold flavors and boundary-pushing beer. [hopculture.com]

In its most common form, it clocks in at around 5.0% ABV, though stronger variants (like Double and Triple Hazy Jane) also exist. [brewdog.com]

This beer is intentionally unfiltered and brewed with oats and wheat, giving it that signature hazy appearance and smooth, soft mouthfeel. [brewdog.com]

Appearance: Hazy by Name, Hazy by Nature

Pour a Hazy Jane into a glass and you’ll see exactly what the name promises. Expect a cloudy, golden-orange body with a light, fluffy head. [beer-insiders.com]

It looks less like a traditional IPA and more like a glass of fresh citrus juice—and that’s entirely by design.

Aroma: A Tropical Invitation

The aroma is where Hazy Jane starts flexing its muscles. Right out of the can or glass, you’re hit with a wave of tropical and citrus notes.

Common aromas include:

  • Pineapple
  • Mango
  • Citrus zest
  • Stone fruit

This fruit-forward character comes from generous late-hop additions and dry hopping, which maximize aroma without adding harsh bitterness. [dropt.beer]

Flavor: Juice Bomb Territory

Take a sip, and Hazy Jane delivers exactly what the nose promised. This is a**“juice bomb” IPA** with layers of fruit flavor:

  • Mango and pineapple
  • Peach and other stone fruits
  • Tangerine and citrus notes

[brewdog.com]

Unlike traditional IPAs that lean heavily on bitterness, Hazy Jane keeps things balanced. There’s still a hint of bitterness, but it plays a supporting role rather than stealing the spotlight.

Mouthfeel: Smooth and Easy Drinking

One of the defining features of this beer is its soft, pillowy texture. Thanks to oats and wheat in the grain bill, Hazy Jane has a smooth, almost creamy body that makes it incredibly approachable. [beer-insiders.com]

At 5% ABV, it’s also highly drinkable—perfect for those times when you want something flavorful without being overly heavy.

A Bit of Background

Hazy Jane first arrived in 2018, during the peak rise of New England IPAs. [hopculture.com]

Originally released as a stronger “juice bomb,” BrewDog later introduced a lower-ABV version to make it more sessionable—helping it become one of their most recognizable beers worldwide. [brewdog.com]

Since then, the “Hazy Jane family” has grown to include several variations, proving just how popular this style—and this beer—has become.

Food Pairings

If you’re pairing Hazy Jane with food, lean into its citrusy, tropical character:

  • Grilled seafood
  • Fresh salads with citrus dressing
  • Spicy dishes (like tacos or curry)
  • Fried foods

The beer’s juicy profile and moderate bitterness help cut through rich or spicy flavors beautifully. [beermonthclub.com]

Final Thoughts

BrewDog’s Hazy Jane isn’t just another hazy IPA—it’s a great example of why the style exploded in popularity. It’s fruity, smooth, approachable, and just complex enough to keep experienced craft drinkers interested.

Whether you’re chasing haze or just looking for an easy-drinking IPA with big flavor, Hazy Jane delivers.

Rating (BillsBeerBlog Style): 🍺🍺🍺🍺
A solid, juicy crowd-pleaser that earns its place in the haze craze.


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When Your Pinter Starts Leaking: A Brewer’s Tale of Drips, Fixes, and Foam

If you’ve brewed with a Pinter long enough, you know the honeymoon eventually ends. One day you’re pulling a perfect pour, the next you’re staring at a mysterious puddle on the counter wondering if your beer has staged a quiet escape. Recently, both of my Pinter Brewing devices decided to start leaking — because of course they did — and I figured it was worth documenting the troubleshooting journey for anyone else in the same sudsy boat.

The First Sign: The Dreaded Drip

It always starts small. A bead of liquid under the tap. A faint sticky ring on the base. You tell yourself it’s condensation. You lie to yourself. But once the drip becomes a trickle, it’s time to roll up your sleeves.

Common Culprits (and How I Tackled Them)

1. The Tap Seal

The tap assembly is the usual suspect. Over time, the silicone seal can warp, dry slightly, or just get grumpy.

My fix: I removed the tap, cleaned everything thoroughly, and gave the seal a light coat of food‑grade silicone grease. That alone stopped one of the leaks entirely.

2. The Front Door Not Fully Seated

If the front door isn’t locked in with a satisfying click, pressure can escape around the edges.

My fix: I reseated the door, pressed firmly around the perimeter, and made sure the latch was fully engaged. Simple, but surprisingly effective.

3. Over‑Carbonation

If the brew gets a little too excited during conditioning, pressure can push out through the weakest point.

My fix: I vented the Pinter gently, then chilled it down to calm the carbonation. The leak slowed immediately.

4. The Keg Seal (The Big One)

The main body seal can flatten over time, especially after many brews.

My fix: I inspected the gasket for nicks or compression marks. A quick clean and re‑grease helped, but I’m ordering a replacement set — these seals do eventually age out.

How Much Beer Does a Pinter Actually Make?

Since I was elbows‑deep in troubleshooting anyway, I revisited a question I get a lot: How much beer does a Pinter keg produce?

A standard Pinter brew yields about 10 pints, depending on the recipe and how much sediment you leave behind. It’s a sweet spot — enough to enjoy over a few days, not so much that it overstays its welcome.

Final Thoughts From the Leaky Front Lines

Brewing at home is equal parts science experiment and therapy session. A leak isn’t a failure — it’s a reminder that these little devices are doing real work under pressure. And honestly, once you’ve fixed a Pinter leak or two, you feel like you’ve earned your brewer’s badge.

If your Pinter has sprung a leak, don’t panic. Most issues come down to seals, seating, or carbonation. And if you’ve discovered a fix I didn’t mention, I’d love to hear it — Bill’s Beer Blog is all about swapping stories from the brewing trenches.

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Cosmic Little Thing IPA: A Stellar Experience for Bill’s Beer Blog 

Exploring the Flavor, Story, and Appeal of Sierra Nevada’s Cosmic Little Thing IPA 

Discovering the Magic of Cosmic Little Thing IPA 

If you’re like me and love exploring new brews, Sierra Nevada’s Cosmic Little Thing IPA is the kind of beer that’s sure to capture your curiosity—and maybe even your taste buds. As a beer enthusiast writing for Bill’s Beer Blog, I couldn’t wait to crack open this can and share my impressions. 

The Story Behind Cosmic Little Thing IPA 

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. has a reputation for innovation and quality, and their Little Thing series highlights both. Cosmic Little Thing IPA is their latest addition, positioned as a hazy, juicy, and out-of-this-world IPA. Its name and can design—deep purple with cosmic imagery—promise a galactic adventure in every sip. 

Aroma and Appearance 

Poured into a glass, Cosmic Little Thing IPA presents a hazy, golden-orange body capped with a fluffy white head. The aroma leaps out: pineapple, mango, and citrus notes hit first, rounded out by hints of peach and passionfruit. It’s bright, tropical, and inviting—almost like a fruit salad from another dimension. 

Tasting Notes 

The first sip delivers on the aroma’s promise. It’s full-bodied and juicy, with dominant flavors of pineapple, orange, and mango. There’s a subtle creamy texture, courtesy of the hazy style, and a moderate bitterness that balances the sweetness. While some hazy IPAs can be cloying, Cosmic Little Thing has a crisp finish that keeps it refreshing and approachable. 

ABV, IBU, and Drinkability 

Cosmic Little Thing IPA clocks in at around 6.8% ABV, making it a solid option for both casual sipping and pairing with food. The bitterness (IBU) is moderate—enough to satisfy hop lovers, but friendly enough for those new to IPAs. This balance makes it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and a reliable go-to for any IPA fan. 

Perfect Pairings 

Looking for the right food to enjoy with your Cosmic Little Thing? Try pairing it with spicy tacos, grilled shrimp, or citrusy salads. The juicy hop character complements and lifts bold flavors, while the crisp finish keeps your palate refreshed. 

Final Thoughts 

Sierra Nevada’s Cosmic Little Thing IPA stands out in a crowded field of hazy IPAs. Its tropical flavors, approachable bitterness, and galactic branding make it an excellent addition to the Little Thing series—and a must-try for anyone who enjoys vibrant, juicy IPAs. So whether you’re a cosmic explorer or just thirsty for a new experience, grab a can and let your taste buds blast off! 

Have you tried Cosmic Little Thing IPA? Share your thoughts below in the comments or let me know your favorite IPA discoveries. Cheers! 

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My pets own me

What is your favorite animal?

My dog. My cat and I tolerate each other most of the time, just barely.😊

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Balancing Craft Beer and Weight Loss: How I Enjoy IPAs and Still Hit My Goals

If you’re like me, you love a good craft beer—especially a bold, hoppy IPA. There’s something about that crisp bitterness and aromatic punch that makes every sip an experience. But here’s the reality: I’ve been on a serious health journey, and over time, I’ve lost more than 60 pounds. That didn’t happen overnight, and it definitely didn’t happen without a few tough choices.

The Plateau Problem

When you’re dieting, plateaus are inevitable. You’re cruising along, the pounds are melting away, and then—bam—you hit a wall. Or worse, you step on the scale and see a pound gained. It’s frustrating, and it can mess with your motivation.

For me, that’s when I make a smart pivot. Instead of giving up beer altogether (because let’s be honest, that’s not happening), I switch gears.

Enter Michelob Ultra

Michelob Ultra has been my go-to when I need to keep calories in check without sacrificing the enjoyment of a cold beer. At just 95 calories and 2.6 carbs per serving, it’s a lifesaver for beer lovers who are watching their waistline. It’s light, crisp, and refreshing—perfect for those moments when I need to stay disciplined but still want to enjoy a brew.

Why This Works

  • Mindful Choices: I don’t deprive myself; I adjust. Craft beers are still part of my life, but I save them for when I’m in a good groove.
  • Michelob Ultra as a Safety Net: It’s my fallback when the scale starts creeping up or stalls out.
  • Balance Over Perfection: Dieting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making sustainable choices.

Final Thoughts

Loving beer and losing weight don’t have to be mutually exclusive. It’s all about balance. Enjoy those IPAs when you can, and when you need to tighten things up, reach for something lighter like Michelob Ultra. Your taste buds—and your goals—will thank you.

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Jai Alai IPA: A Bold Tribute to Tampa’s Heritage


When it comes to craft beer, few names resonate as strongly as Cigar City Brewing, and their flagship Jai Alai India Pale Ale is a true icon in the IPA world. Named after the fast-paced Basque ball game once popular in Florida, Jai Alai is more than just a beer—it’s a celebration of Tampa’s rich cultural history and the artistry of brewing.


The Story Behind Cigar City Brewing

Founded in 2009 in Tampa, Florida, Cigar City Brewing was born from a passion for creating beers that reflect the culture and flavors of the Sunshine State. The brewery’s name pays homage to Tampa’s historic cigar industry, and its beers often incorporate local ingredients and themes. Jai Alai quickly became their flagship IPA, helping put Florida on the craft beer map.

Today, Cigar City Brewing is recognized nationwide for its innovation and quality, with Jai Alai leading the charge as one of the most beloved IPAs in the U.S.


Appearance & Aroma

Pouring a deep amber-orange with a sturdy off-white head, Jai Alai immediately catches the eye. The aroma is a vibrant bouquet of citrus zest, tropical fruits, and a hint of caramel malt, promising complexity before the first sip.


Flavor Profile

This IPA delivers a bold hop-forward experience balanced by a subtle malt backbone. Expect flavors of orange peel, grapefruit, and tangerine, layered with notes of toffee and bread crust. At 7.5% ABV, it’s assertive yet approachable, making it a favorite for seasoned IPA lovers and adventurous newcomers alike.


Perfect Food Pairings

Jai Alai’s bright bitterness and citrus-forward hops make it an excellent companion for bold, flavorful dishes. Here are some pairing ideas:

  • Spicy Shrimp Tacos
  • Grilled Steak with Chimichurri
  • Sharp Cheddar or Blue Cheese
  • Citrus-Glazed Chicken Wings

Home Cooking Recipes to Pair with Jai Alai IPA

Here are three easy recipes you can make at home that pair beautifully with Jai Alai:


1. Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Corn tortillas
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, and paprika.
  2. Sauté in a skillet until pink and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Mix sour cream and lime juice for crema.
  4. Assemble tacos with shrimp, crema, and cilantro.
    Pairing Tip: The citrusy hops in Jai Alai complement the lime crema and spice perfectly.

2. Citrus-Glazed Chicken Wings

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
  • ½ cup orange marmalade
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Bake wings at 400°F for 40 minutes until crispy.
  2. Mix marmalade, soy sauce, and sriracha in a saucepan; simmer until thickened.
  3. Toss wings in glaze and serve hot.
    Pairing Tip: The sweet and spicy glaze mirrors Jai Alai’s fruity hop character.

3. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb flank steak
  • Salt and pepper
  • ½ cup fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

Instructions:

  1. Season steak with salt and pepper; grill to desired doneness.
  2. Blend parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar for chimichurri.
  3. Slice steak and drizzle with sauce.
    Pairing Tip: The herbal chimichurri balances the IPA’s bitterness beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Jai Alai isn’t just another IPA—it’s a benchmark for what a well-crafted, hop-forward beer should be. Pair it with these dishes for an unforgettable experience that brings out the best in both food and beer.


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Hoppy Little Thing IPA: Sierra Nevada’s Citrus-Forward Hop Adventure


If you’re craving a beer that’s bold yet approachable, Sierra Nevada’s Hoppy Little Thing IPA is the perfect pick. This brew bursts with citrus zest and tropical hop character, making it a standout in the craft beer scene.

Why It’s a Must-Try

  • Style: IPA
  • ABV: 6.6%
  • Flavor Profile: Bright citrus, grapefruit, and subtle tropical notes with a crisp finish.
  • Bitterness: Balanced—enough to satisfy hop lovers without overwhelming the palate.

The Pour

Golden, effervescent, and aromatic. Each sip delivers a refreshing hop punch with a clean, smooth bitterness that pairs beautifully with spicy dishes or a laid-back evening.

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Perni Haze: The Juicy IPA You’ll Want on Repeat

so good!

f you’re a fan of hazy IPAs, Perni Haze from Wicked Weed Brewing deserves a spot on your radar. This Asheville-born brew is a celebration of juicy hops and smooth drinkability, crafted with precision and a touch of Southern charm.

The Basics

  • Style: Hazy IPA
  • ABV: 6.9%
  • IBU: ~39
  • Hops: Citra & Simcoe
  • Grain Bill: Malted wheat & flaked oats for a silky body

From the first pour, Perni Haze greets you with a hazy golden hue and a fluffy white head that lingers. The aroma bursts with ripe tropical fruit, stone fruit, and tangerine, thanks to generous hopping in both the brewhouse and cellar. It’s a beer designed to be enjoyed fresh and often—Wicked Weed calls it a “hazy hop delivery vehicle,” and that’s no exaggeration. [wickedweed…rewing.com], [beerboard.menu]

Flavor Profile

On the palate, Perni Haze strikes a beautiful balance:

  • Front: Juicy citrus and mango notes with hints of bubblegum sweetness.
  • Mid: A semi-sweet malt backbone that keeps things smooth without overshadowing the hops.
  • Finish: Light bitterness and a touch of pine, leaving a creamy, refreshing aftertaste. [beeradvocate.com], [drinkhacker.com]

The mouthfeel is light-to-medium bodied, slightly creamy, and incredibly crushable—perfect for pairing with spicy dishes, Thai curries, or even a backyard burger. [beerboard.menu]

Why It Stands Out

What makes Perni Haze special is its effortless drinkability. While some hazy IPAs lean heavy on sweetness or bitterness, this one threads the needle with finesse. It’s juicy without being cloying, and its subtle bitterness keeps you coming back for another sip. Fans on BeerAdvocate rate it an impressive 92/100, and Untappd users give it a solid 3.86/5, cementing its reputation as a standout in the hazy IPA category. [beeradvocate.com], [untappd.com]


Final Thoughts: If you’re looking for a hazy IPA that delivers tropical fruit vibes, a silky body, and a finish that won’t wear out your palate, Perni Haze is your beer. Grab a fresh can, pour it into a proper glass, and let the haze take you away.


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I Love India Pale Ales


What Does IPA Mean? And Why Tropical IPA Tops My List

If you’ve ever browsed the beer aisle or visited a craft brewery, you’ve probably seen the term IPA everywhere. But what does it actually mean?

IPA stands for India Pale Ale, a style of beer that originated in England during the 18th century. Brewers added extra hops to their pale ales so the beer could survive long voyages to India without spoiling. Those hops didn’t just preserve the beer—they gave it a bold, bitter flavor that became iconic.

Fast forward to today, and IPAs have evolved into one of the most popular styles in craft brewing. They’re known for their hoppy aroma, citrusy notes, and a wide range of variations—from West Coast IPAs with piney bitterness to hazy New England IPAs bursting with juicy fruit flavors.


My Favorite IPA: Tropical IPA

While I enjoy exploring different IPA styles, my personal favorite is the Tropical IPA. Why? Because it’s like a vacation in a glass. Tropical IPAs layer the classic hop bitterness with bright, fruity flavors—think mango, pineapple, and passionfruit. The result is a refreshing, vibrant beer that pairs perfectly with warm weather or just when you want to escape to a sunny state of mind.


Perfect Food Pairings for Tropical IPA

One of the best things about beer is how well it pairs with food. Tropical IPAs, with their fruity notes and crisp bitterness, complement a variety of dishes:

  • Spicy Foods: Think Thai curry or jerk chicken. The hops balance the heat, while tropical fruit flavors enhance the spices.
  • Grilled Seafood: Shrimp skewers or grilled salmon work beautifully with the fruity undertones.
  • Tacos: Especially fish tacos with mango salsa—this pairing is a flavor explosion.
  • Cheese: Try a tangy goat cheese or a creamy brie to contrast the IPA’s bitterness.

Brewery Recommendations for Tropical IPA Lovers

If you’re ready to dive into the world of Tropical IPAs, here are a few breweries that consistently deliver:

  • Dogfish Head Brewery – Known for creative IPAs with tropical twists.
  • Lagunitas Brewing Company – Their seasonal IPAs often feature fruity notes.
  • Sierra Nevada – Check out their “Tropical Torpedo” for a classic tropical IPA experience.
  • Local Craft Breweries – Don’t overlook your local scene! Many small breweries experiment with tropical hops and fruit additions.

Final Thoughts

IPAs have come a long way from their origins, and Tropical IPAs are proof that innovation in brewing is alive and well. If you haven’t tried one yet, make it your next beer adventure. Pair it with a spicy dish, kick back, and let those tropical flavors transport you.


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