Bismarck Tribune - Bismarck News - Tattooing of teen could lead to charges

Tattooing of teen could lead to charges

May 01, 2008 - 04:06:11 CDT

By JENNY MICHAEL and TONY SPILDE
Bismarck Tribune

A former tattoo artist could face charges for allegedly tattooing a teen without her parent's permission.

Bismarck Police Lt. Randy Ziegler said a father reported his 17-year-old daughter had gotten a tattoo without his permission on Saturday.

Under a law passed by the 2007 Legislature, tattoo parlors are prohibited from tattooing minors unless a parent is present and has given written permission.

The business did not have record of the girl getting the tattoo, and the employee alleged to have given the tattoo also did not remember performing the service, Ziegler said. He said the business owner reported the employee is no longer working at the tattoo parlor for reasons not related to the incident.

The name of the business was not released. The police report did not say what the tattoo depicted or where on the teen's body it was located.

Assistant City Attorney Paul Fraase had not seen the report by Wednesday afternoon, so no charges have been filed yet. He said he believes the case is the first report of a violation in Bismarck under the new statute.

In such situations, the employee likely would be charged first, but the business also could face penalties, Fraase said.

"They have some responsibility to monitor their employees,"he said. "And of course, the employee has to be more careful."

Karen Marter, owner of Michael Jays Tattoo & Piercing Clinic, said kids come in with their parents between three and 10 times a week. They're each required to bring state-issued ID, and if they don't have the same last name, they must prove they're related.

In each case, she sits down and talks to the child and the parent beforehand, to determine what they want and if it's something the clinic is willing to do. Marter said her business will not allow minors to get a tattoo that could limit their ability to get a job.

"I'm the mother of the group," she said. "A lot of times, kids come in and want something that just isn't appropriate, and you wouldn't believe how many parents would allow their kids to do it. But we won't let them. If it's something I wouldn't want on my kid, we won't do it. That makes a lot of people mad at me, but that's OK."

None of the high schools in Bismarck-Mandan has a policy specifically about tattoos. Each school, however, has a dress code and conduct code students must follow. If a tattoo is considered by staff to be obscene, gang-related or a depiction of alcohol or drugs, the student would be required to cover it.

Marter and the staff at Michael Jays pushed for the change in state law, which took effect last summer.

"We're a professional business,"Marter said. "We've gotten really involved (in making the law more strict) because somebody had to. If someone comes in and wants (a tattoo or piercing) that could ruin their future in any way, forget it."

Jay Sease, owner of J. Colorz Tattooing and Body Piercing, said his shop gets about the same number of minors each week as Michael Jays, about three to 10.

He's very strict about who he'll tattoo. Most times, even with parental permission, J. Colorz won't ink a minor.

"The law says Ican, but I say Ican't,"Sease said. "Personally, I've seen so many people say 'I got this (tattoo) when I was 16, what can Ido to cover it up?'"

"I will generally turn them down, unless the parent is covered in ink themselves, so the kid already knows the repercussions,"Sease said. "I made my own kids wait until they were 18."

(Reach reporter Jenny Michael at 250-8225 or jenny.michael@bismarcktribune.com.)

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Comments

HBIC wrote on May 9, 2008 9:14 AM:

" To: To HBIC: You said you are 30....so yes, I feel that you are capable of making the decision to get a tattoo. The post said if you are under the age of 25. Try reading the post first before you try to slam me. "

TO HBIC wrote on May 8, 2008 9:46 PM:

" I only have an AAS that provided me with an above average paying job. I am a 30yr old wife and mother, and am fairly responsible. As a don't have three years of post-secondary education, do you still feel that I am incapable of making the decision of getting a tattoo? "

Barb wrote on May 8, 2008 9:36 PM:

" Tattoos are fine--If that is what you want- I think they have to be done in good taste. I have seen some huge tattoos on women's backs, legs ,and arms. I think it looks like heck. What if you ever need to be in a wedding or need to dress up formally? If women want tattoos, do it in good taste. It's all what you like, I guess. It's just NOT me.
"

HBIC wrote on May 8, 2008 3:40 PM:

" I myself have several tattoos that I received around age 18. I was stupid enough to get a HUGE tattoo on my lower back, which is now referred to as a "tramp stamp" by the general public, and a term I like to use as well. It is hilarious, and although I do not fit the criteria for this, I feel like it is self-punishment for such a moronic action that I bought and paid for ten years ago. I also have another HUGE shoulder piece that is well....not what I really want, and no tattoo artist in this town can seem to grasp the concept of realistic-looking star gazer lillies. So in other words...my tattoos are one, super-huge, gross, mess.
Now that I am older and substantially more intelligent than days past, I wish I would of waited and got something, I don't know....better; or at least more thoughtful than what currently stains my perfect white skin.

A piece of advice from somebody who knows: DONT GET TATTOOS IF YOU ARE UNDER THE AGE OF 25 AND HAVE NOT COMPLETED AT LEAST 3 YEARS OF POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION.

You will regret it. And that's a promise.

"

Lil J wrote on May 8, 2008 1:51 PM:

" I have a tattoo. It is to honor my father, who passed over a year ago. He always wanted a tattoo. He enjoyed what he did for a living and it was a part of him and he wanted artwork to adorn his body to represent that. He was diagnosed with cancer and passed away 8 months later. I decided to get the tattoo that he had talked about, and I will never regret it. He didn't shake his head from above either. I now own artwork from an amazing artist. If anyone is considering a tattoo go and visit Jason Doll at Doll Kustom. He is hard to get into (right now you may get an appointment in September if you call today) but is very much worth the wait. He is an amazing artist and does amazing work. "

MamaMia wrote on May 8, 2008 12:59 PM:

" Deb and REX: Kinda has a nice ring to it! ;>) "

Deb wrote on May 8, 2008 12:53 PM:

" Seriously? I was answering a question that MamaMia directed to me.

Wow. "

To Deb and Rex wrote on May 8, 2008 12:47 PM:

" From some of these posts...you two seem to comment on everything! To the people with tattoos good for you guys. I personal would like one but just haven't figured out what I want yet. And yes I have my ears pierced. There is nothing wrong with changing what God gave you. "

Deb wrote on May 8, 2008 11:45 AM:

" REX: huh? "

REX wrote on May 8, 2008 10:18 AM:

" Deb, You are always so sure of yourself and always so wrong. "

Mindy wrote on May 8, 2008 9:56 AM:

" I love my 4 tattoos and have an appointment in June already scheduled to get the 5th. Most of these posts are rediculous. Why do you people care what I or anyone else has on my body? If you don't like it don't worry about it or look at it! My tattoos all have a lot of meaning to me, for instance, I have one on my shoulder blade that is my daughters' handprint out of her baby book along with her name and birthdate. Am I going to be ashamed of that when I'm 80?! I don't think so! People in this city need to stop being so closed-minded and prudes. I bet all of you guys that are saying things like "oh its terrible to alter the body that God gave you" are the ones sitting there with your ears pierced....but let me guess....because YOU have that, its different. "

MamaMia wrote on May 8, 2008 9:19 AM:

" To: My Opinion: Thank you for that civil, insightful comment regarding my opinions on tattooing. Your ability to state your case without offending others is outstanding. I especially like the term "butt out". Based on your linguistic ability I would guess. . . you have a tattoo! "

Deb wrote on May 7, 2008 4:41 PM:

" MamaMia: not a chance "

RLC wrote on May 7, 2008 4:15 PM:

" And by the way, to the businesses who monitor who gets tattoed in their shop, THANK YOU! You can't control what your employees do at home. If the young lady in the story got a tattoo from someone's home, the business shouldn't be in trouble. I'd understand a parents anger though if someone tattoed "my child" if they are under the age of 18. Also, how the heck do you spell tattoed? That looks wrong. :) "

RLC wrote on May 7, 2008 2:59 PM:

" I have some close friends who, on their 18th birthdays, got a tattoo. As each turned 18, they went and got a tattoo of their brothers initials or his name. He died when he was 13. They do it as a daily reminder that he is still with them, I'm sure. None of the tattoos are done in a tasteless way, none are gawdy, all show that their brother will be with them always, in many ways. It's sad how some people pass judgement onto others based on what they do (in a tasteful way) to their bodies. I don't wear makeup, but I don't call women who do trashy. It's their choice. They don't pass their judgement onto me, I won't pass mine onto them. It isn't my job to judge people. Yes, some tattoo's are not attractive, but it isn't my body. I don't HAVE to look at it. I can choose to look away. While I may not get a tattoo, some are rather pretty or done in a very tasteful way. I think some are great, showing their honor to loved ones, honor to their country, or honor to their God. If you don't like it, look away. "

My Opinion wrote on May 7, 2008 12:25 PM:

" These postings are a hoot!!! You've got MamaMia trying to put her personal opinion onto Bic. Hey MamaMia - do you have pierced ears? Have you ever worn earings or necklaces? Do you wear MakeUp? Do you have your hair cut, curled, dyed, or permed? If you answer yes to any of these questions then you need to leave Bic alone. What a person does with his or her body is his or her business not yours. You don't have a clue what the art of tatooing means to those who have tatoos, piercings, etc. There are quite a few of us in extremely well-paying, top management positions that have gorgeous inked areas and are proud of them. I for one am very happy with my ink and don't ever intend to have it removed. And...I'm OVER 50 and I'm a Mother - so I know just as much as you do MamaMia - your opinion is just that - and mine is mine - Just because you're a mother doesn't mean you know anything about anyone else's life or child's life. You need to butt out. "

MamaMia wrote on May 7, 2008 12:02 PM:

" Grumpy, she was,believe me! :>)). I've told my daughter that I believe in my lifetime I will see her get rid of her tattoo, and I do believe it will happen. Please, please, please. . . "

Grumpy Old Republican wrote on May 7, 2008 8:47 AM:

" MamaMia, I have a tattoo in honor of my mother on my chest above my heart. I rarely missed an opportunity to hug her, send a card or tell her I loved her. I can't do that any more, but I'm proud to have a permanent tribute to her. But, you may be right...for all I know she may have been looking down from above while I was getting inked, shaking her head and calling me an idiot. :) "

tattoos are a personal choice wrote on May 7, 2008 12:50 AM:

" bootattoo you need to get over yourself. Your dislike for tattoos is no more meaningful than my like for them. Stop being so preachy. "

Noisedemon wrote on May 6, 2008 8:58 PM:

" Simply stated, if you do not like tattoo's do not get any. Being tattooed myself, it is a part of me, and who I am. Just because I have tattoo's, it does not mean I am a criminal, drug abuser, alcoholic, child molestor or anything. It also does not mean that I lazy, nor that I care about the job that I have. People need to realize that this is not the 1800's or prior. As for those talking about other ways to pay tribute to someone or something, take note, my parents are fully aware of the art I have, and accept it, For those of us who are of the inked variety, it is artwork that is truly one of a kind. To those who are critical of it, you need to just get over it, and worry about things in your own life. Stop casting judgement on people just because they do not fit into your old style Americana vanilla cone ideal of what people should be. "

Bic wrote on May 6, 2008 7:33 PM:

" I don't think my mom minds my tattoos, she's got one herself with her kids' names on it and a couple other tattoos as well! ;-) "

MamaMia wrote on May 6, 2008 3:19 PM:

" And Bic, seriously, if you want to pay a tribute to your mom, send her a card, send her flowers, put your arms around her and tell her you love her! Don't mark up the body she spent nine months of her life growing for you. That's respect. Trust me on this. I'm a mom. I know. "

bootattoo wrote on May 6, 2008 3:10 PM:

" There are a million ways to honor your mother or support your country without drawing it on your body. Mother's day and Independence Day are coming up. Maybe you can think of a few. "

Bic wrote on May 6, 2008 1:23 PM:

" I respect my body just as much as the next person if not more, thank you. Surely there is nothing disrespectful about getting a tribute in the form of a tattoo to your mother or someone else who is close to you.

I guess we'll have to agree to disagree on this, but it still seems that some people around here need to come out of the dark ages. "

REX wrote on May 6, 2008 12:16 PM:

" MamaMia, I'm with you but I didn't see the Irish chick. My TV went out with the trash years ago. "

bootattoo wrote on May 6, 2008 11:54 AM:

" You can "be who you are" and "stand up for your beliefs" without marking up your body. "

MamaMia wrote on May 6, 2008 11:22 AM:

" Bic: If you'd respect the body nature gave you, you wouldn't feel the need to mark it all up. "

Bic wrote on May 6, 2008 10:04 AM:

" To someone with ink, their tattoos are a part of them. It's about who they are, and what they stand for. It is more than just "writing a letter to the editor". A lot of times, it's about respect as well. But then I guess I wouldn't expect non-inked people to fully understand that. "

bootattoo wrote on May 5, 2008 11:36 PM:

" Here are my thoughts on "personal expression." If you want to express yourself, do it by the way you act, don't advertise it with ink on your body. There's nothing more unattractive to me than a tattoo. "

MamaMia wrote on May 5, 2008 2:14 PM:

" Anybody see the Irish chick on American Idol? Nuff said. "

Tatted Vet and Professional wrote on May 5, 2008 3:34 AM:

" What makes some of the people here think that just because we have tattoos we are bikers, criminals or Seamen? I myself am a vet from the Army, I served my country during Desert Storm when I was 18 years old. The second day I returned from Iraq, my squad and myself went to get tattoos together. It was away we could all still be together. Since then I have gotten 4 more. They all have some meaning for a point in my life. I also ride bike. I have a professional job, I was a Police Officer and now work at the prison. So where am I a low life, or a thug because of them? Pull your heads out and judge people for who they are not what they have. "

truth wrote on May 4, 2008 9:59 PM:

" i personally know an artist that works at a tattoo shop in bismarck and does work on the side, in his home. Maybe parents should know where their children are. And to Nadean, I got my first ink when i was 16 and I dont drink or do drugs. So stop being such a crab. Not all teenagers with tattoos are bad kids. "

my tatoos rock wrote on May 4, 2008 1:31 PM:

" I personally find all of this very amusing and I smiled quite a few times reading some of the comments. I'm a 49 year old mother of 2 who has 2 tatoos. One in memory of my sister who passed and the other for my husband. I am contemplating a third to honor my son who spent a year in afghanistan, but have not found the perfect art work yet. Not a day goes by that I do not look at them and enjoy. I'm not sure what is so unappealing to others, but I enjoy them and what they stand for. I'm also a bit lost on the sagging comments beacuse I guess if my tatoo is looking all that bad when I'm 80, that may be the least of my worries. if thats sagging i'm thinking I may need a little distraction from the parts of me that are REALLY not so attractive any more. "

REX wrote on May 3, 2008 7:04 AM:

" Mamma Mia, I didn't suspect you of that last comment. Niether one of appear to be the kind to hide behind annonymity. I enjoy most of your posts also, unless you post in French, at which point you have me at a distinct disadvantage. "

REX wrote on May 3, 2008 6:53 AM:

" To "TO REX" I comment on many subjects becuse I have opinions on them. If you should tire of seeing my comments, I recommend you watch TV. This is a free, open forum established to invite comments. What you really mean is that you disagree with some of my comments but lack the ability to present an argument based on ideas, intelligence and opinions. "

Mom wrote on May 2, 2008 8:49 PM:

" well said Proud Mom! "

Proud Mom wrote on May 2, 2008 7:28 PM:

" I got my first tattoo when I was 34,I had hearts with my kids initials. Years later I got tattoos in remembrance of my son who passed away, Each time I went in they asked for my ID which they photocopied and I also had to fill out paperwork. Michael Jays was very professional and clean. I love my tattoos and get comments on them always. They are an expression of me. I wear them with honor and pride!! I am very honest when kids ask about them-- Yes they hurt--Don't put just anybodys name on you.Stick with Mom,Dad or names of your kids-they are forever! Start small and discrete. Think about your future. Put it somewhere that if need be can be covered because of professional circumstances, weddings, etc.. I don't like it when people judge others because they have a tattoo. Most tattoos are an expression of something or someone that has impacted that persons life. You would never believe I had one when I am not wearing my casual clothes. I am business owner, loving Mom and wife,daughter,sister,friend,volunteer,christian and I have a clean background. Like in any business rules get broken by employees and customers can be dishonest. Overall I think the tattooing business in our city is doing a great job. Tattoos are an art form and most shops in Bismarck want to keep a good reputation. "

Southpark wrote on May 2, 2008 3:55 PM:

" Whats wrong with a tattoo? Its a personal decision and should be left that way. Why label all people into the same category just because they have a tattoo? Not everyone is an exhibitionist just because they have tattoos. Give me a break already. "

MamaMia wrote on May 2, 2008 3:31 PM:

" Hey REX, that last comment wasn't from me! I rather enjoy some of your comments. I did comment back to you on this comment board but for some reason it did not show up. Not insulting either, but agreeing with you. Oh well, maybe the Online Editor has a big fat tattoo and doesn't agree with us! :) "

To Rex wrote on May 2, 2008 2:46 PM:

" Why do you feel the need to post on EVERY subject? Your comments make no sense half of the time and we are sick of reading them. Chill for awhile, would ya? "

REX wrote on May 2, 2008 10:36 AM:

" Mamm Mia, I've noticed that the ancient Greeks, in their sculptures, did not find it necessary to enhance their subjects with tatoos. Perhaps they could see something many today do not. "

To Also to RLM wrote on May 2, 2008 9:40 AM:

" People often delude themselves on how they look - that's why we see things like women wearing low-slung jeans with their muffin tops hanging over the tops. I have a friend who has 3 or 4 tattoos, and always thought they looked good, until she saw a recent photo of herself, and caught the start of sagging. Now she's looking into having a couple of them removed. Age happens to all of us - those with tattoos are not exempt. "

MamaMia wrote on May 2, 2008 9:36 AM:

" A tattoo is a form of personal expression? If you want to express yourself, write a letter to the editor! "

fork and spoon wrote on May 2, 2008 8:35 AM:

" So people get a tattoo to be better looking? Wow, that is a new one. "

Hahaha wrote on May 1, 2008 10:46 PM:

" A tattoo is pretty harmless and fairly mainstream nowadays. It's not a cigerette, it's not meth, it's a freaking tattoo. At the very worst it will be an embarrasing reminder to this person in 30 years that may make a good lesson that she could teach her daughter. People learn by making mistakes, not by forbidding them, especially teenagers.

Share your opinions, don't legislate them. "

Independent Conservative wrote on May 1, 2008 10:45 PM:

" I'm going to have Herve Villechaize's face put on my shoulder. "

Not always the truth wrote on May 1, 2008 8:18 PM:

" I think Michael Jays does a great job but I couldn't help but laugh at Karen's claim that she sits down with the parents and teen when a minor comes in for a tattoo. I brought my son in when he was 17 to get a tattoo and no one sat down and discussed what tattoo he was getting or why with us. We were never "counseled" by Karen. This was just a couple years ago. I'm not saying they weren't good and didn't do a good job but her statements aren't exactly the truth. "

REX wrote on May 1, 2008 6:13 PM:

" I like attractive women not exhibitionists. Nothing can improve on the beauty of the female body as God intended it. "

sixxdog wrote on May 1, 2008 5:24 PM:

" TO: RLM
Let's see, in your brief, mindless post, you managed to insult anyone who has ever served in the Navy, bikers, and everyone who has a tattoo. I got my first tat at 17 and currently have two half sleeves, a full backpiece, and several others. I have held the same professional job in which I must be licensed by the State of ND for 18 years. My daughter and I got matching tats for her 16th birthday. Now I have never served in the USN, and although I do ride, I wouldn't consider myself a full fledged "biker" so to speak, but you all but elude that we are all a bunch of lesser beings because we have ink. By the way, I listen to rock n roll really loud too, so be careful, I might just be the devil!! "

LDH wrote on May 1, 2008 4:44 PM:

" I'm 25, and still pondering over what I want to get done as far as tattooing. Kudos to Michael Jay's and J Colorz to not tattoo minors if they feel it may be a hindrance later on. "

Also to RLM wrote on May 1, 2008 4:00 PM:

" I am a 53-year-old woman and I have two tattoos. One is the American flag that I got after 9-11. I agree with the other post that your opinion is narrow-minded and stodgy. AND, as far as 'saggy,' speak for yourself! "

online editor wrote on May 1, 2008 3:36 PM:

" It wasn't released because the business itself could face charges. "

Tired wrote on May 1, 2008 3:30 PM:

" To; Online Editor

I have a question? When you run stories about under-age kids buying alcohol and tobacco, you print the names of those businesses. How come you don't know the name of this business? I'm just curious! Thanks "

Real mom wrote on May 1, 2008 3:25 PM:

" One of my kids got a tattoo when she was with her dad's wife, her step-mom. She had the same last name as my daughter, but DID NOT have the right to sign as a parent...yet she did. My daughter had consequences, but she also had a tattoo. So having the same last name does not guarantee the signing person is a parent. "

To RLM wrote on May 1, 2008 3:20 PM:

" " Personally, I do not understand the appeal of tattoos. I always thought tattoos were something that sailors got while on shore leave, or that bikers got in prison. " . . . typical narrow minded thinking by another person in Bismarck. There are plenty of sailors and other servicemen that defend our rights and our country everyday, so you and I can do what we do. A tatto is a personal expression! There are plenty of bikers that support our citizens, ABATE toys for tots, charity rides for injured emergency personel, and other countless charitable causes. Personally I support most of the rides, never seen the inside of a prison, log over 8,000 miles a year on my bike, and have a tattoo from one of the fine studios here in Bismarck. "

RLM wrote on May 1, 2008 2:13 PM:

" Personally, I do not understand the appeal of tattoos. I always thought tattoos were something that sailors got while on shore leave, or that bikers got in prison. Young people need to remember that it may look good when you are 18, but someday gravity will take affect, and that cute butterfly you have may end up looking like a saggy buzzard. "

citizen wrote on May 1, 2008 12:39 PM:

" Did the minor deceive the artist about her age? If so, the minor should be charged just as they would if they used a false id in a liquor establishment. "

To Stacey Larose wrote on May 1, 2008 12:16 PM:

" I totally agree with you when i was 16 years old i went over to a friends house who happens to be a tattoo artist/body piercing and had work done, who is going to regulate that? "

Profeesional business owner wrote on May 1, 2008 11:55 AM:

" Is there actual proof that this happened. Teens will do anything to get a rise out of their parents! There are also crazy parents out there that are looking to make a dime after the fact that they allowed them to do it! Don't knock a business until you are sure it was them that did it!!! "

Online Editor wrote on May 1, 2008 10:24 AM:

" To to Online Editor: I do not know the name of the business. "

to online editor wrote on May 1, 2008 10:20 AM:

" Can we know what business this was so that we can choose to not do business with them? "

Nadean wrote on May 1, 2008 10:18 AM:

" Now I read this cause my step daughters mother sent it to me. Now When I read in here that the business is going to be fine or what not. Now my question is when did the employee get fired? What about searching throguh all the pictures in the shop to see if there is one? Ask the Teen again that she is also getting the shop in trouble and if she is lying about where she got the Tattoo done she can gbe in even more trouble. Its wrong to tattoo a child I understand that. I have a few tattoo's myself. Still, I know alot of artists that will never tattoo a child. Now what if this child has a FAKE ID and no one knows about this. Has anyone looked at the child a bit more. I bet not because I know that chilren who go off and get tattooed, drink, do drugs, and sometimes far worse things. Are never great kids so look at the child as well....come on "

Hats off wrote on May 1, 2008 9:56 AM:

" Hats of to Jay Sease. I have personally been in his office and gotten tats and piercing from him (he does AMAZING work). While in his office I witnessed him turning away minors EVEN WITH their parents standing there. I am one of those who got a random inking at 15 and regret it THANKS JAY FOR COVERING IT WITH SOMETHING I WILL NEVER REGRET! Great job at standing firm on your choices on who you ink up its nice to know its NOT just about making money! "

Stacey Larose wrote on May 1, 2008 9:52 AM:

" The thing is: Any tatoo artist can put ink down on Any person, no matter what age they might be, outside of the business setting. That is, as long as they have their own equipment or access to tatooing materials, in any setting. How can you control that? "

Grumpy Old Republican wrote on May 1, 2008 9:23 AM:

" Karen and the crew at Michael Jay's are extremely professional and will turn away business if they feel it would be inappropriate. Kudos to them! Most scrupulous tattoo artists will not do an ink job if it's something they feel the potential customer will regret in the future. I have several tattoos, but they're all easily covered with a short-sleeved T-shirt because I work in a professional setting. My kids talk occasionally about getting ink when they are older, and I have told them not to even consider it until they're finished with college and have a direction set for their futures. "

deb wrote on May 1, 2008 9:19 AM:

" No tats - you can rest assured that dad has punished his daughter... :( "

No tats wrote on May 1, 2008 8:12 AM:

" Ya it's all the businesses fault....hopefully mommy and daddy are punishing their daughter as well for taking the initiative to get it done. "

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