Here Weekly - Richmond

11/16/2024

🎉Meet this week’s guest editor, Helen Rai! Helen’s story is one of resilience and community. Born in Nepal, she moved to Richmond in 2005, where her family found strength in the local community. Now, as Program Director at Circles RVA () and Director of Client Engagement at ReEstablish Richmond (), Helen works to foster shared responsibility and well-being in the community.

Passionate about her heritage, Helen serves on the boards of the Asian American Society of Central Virginia, the Nepali Community of Greater Richmond Virginia, and Kasama Collective, amplifying Asian American and Nepali voices.

In today’s issue of , Helen drops three tips for exploring and celebrating the River City. First on her list is Circles RVA Homecoming & Family Reunion. This month marks 7 years of Circles RVA, and everyone is invited to the Homecoming Event on November 16th to celebrate at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, (815 E. Grace Street).

Next up is the “Uniting to Amplify Love: A Collective Meditation” event . With special guest Marianne Williamson (), hosted by Candace Blair and The Love Tower at Ashah, this isn’t just a meditation—it’s a global gathering, amplifying our collective intention. While this will be a live streamed event accessible around the world, Marianne Williamson and Candace Blair will be with LIVE and in-person at The Well Collective with a limited number of seats available to join!

Helen also recommends checking out the wildlife specialists from the Alliance of Wild Animal Rehabilitators and Educators as they discuss their mission of rehabilitating, providing sanctuary and individualized care for Virginia’s native wildlife with the intent to release. On Saturday, November 16, 11:00 - 12:00 pm, they will provide tips at Libbie Mill, on what to do if you find wildlife in need of help.

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11/07/2024

Meet Here Weekly's guest editor this week, Ellyn Parker! An artist, writer, and community connector, Ellyn believes in the power of nature and the arts to heal and bring people together. Growing up in a cabin near Lynchburg, VA, she developed a love for the Blue Ridge Mountains and learning. After 20 years in the Bay Area working in community development, she returned to Virginia in 2015, where she’s been an advocate for public art ever since.

Ellyn's picks:

✨ InLight 2024: Grounds for Clearing //
Experience the magic of community, nature, and art under the stars! InLight, ’s annual public exhibit, features multimedia works, sculptures, installations, and performances that use light as a medium. Additionally, Ellyn and artist Beth Anne Booth have an installation in InLight 2024; a visual meditation on healing, breathing, and our connection to nature.
📍 Pine Camp Cultural Arts Center | 📅 Nov 8 & 9 | 🕖 7-11 PM | 🎟 FREE

✨ Quarry RVA & Art Grove Artist Connector // Join Richmond artists for an afternoon of connection and creative inspiration. Discuss the process, share your hopes, and connect over tea and cookies.
📍 Main Public Library | 📅 Nov 10 | 🕑 2-4 PM | 🎟 FREE

✨ Sunrise at the River // Nature is the best teacher and therapist. Join us in embracing the beauty of morning over the James River. Here are Ellyn's favorite spots:
📍Pony Pasture
📍T. Pot Bridge
📍Chimborazo Park Overlook
📅 Nov 7-13 | 🕕 6:41 AM

10/31/2024

Meet Dr. Anjali Ferguson, this week's guest editor of .weekly! 🎉

Anjali is a clinical psychologist, TEDx speaker, and children’s book author dedicated to inclusive, equitable communities. As founder of Parenting Culture and Executive Director of VAIMH, she champions mental health access for minoritized communities. She’s a Style Weekly Top 40 Under 40 honoree and an award-winning media psychologist featured in national outlets. Plus, she's a mom, foodie, arts lover, and passionate traveler!

Here are her top event picks around town this weekend:

📅 First Fridays at VMHC
Nov 1, 5-8 pm | Free entry to the Virginia Museum of History & Culture! Enjoy live music, food trucks, family-friendly fun, and discounted drinks.

💀 Día de los Mu***os at Lewis Ginter
Nov 2, 10 am-2 pm | Celebrate with cultural crafts, face painting, and a taco bar at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

🍷 Two Up, Wine Down
Nov 2, 3-6 pm | Wine lovers, head to Charlottesville for tastings, music, and community vibes. Tickets start at $45.

10/24/2024

Meet this week’s guest editor, Nick Serfass ()! Nick is the Chief Executive Officer . Nick is a creative problem-solver who thrives in association life, blending entrepreneurial spirit with event production, media storytelling, and community impact. Formerly an architect with Baskervill, he shifted careers to work in regulatory agencies and student organizations, ultimately landing at rvatech/. There, Nick has positioned Richmond as a potential AI and machine learning tech hub and helped launch a brand platform to attract and retain tech talent in “Tech’s Most Creative City.”

In this week’s issue of , Nick drops a handful of recommendations to encourage subscribers to explore and celebrate this creative place that we all love to call home.

🎃 On Nick’s list of events not to miss, he suggests Halloween UnHappy Hour happening tonight (there’s still time to make it). Presented by , this beloved event has a special Creature Feature theme tonight and Richmond surf rock legends will be there. As always, there will be a contest for the best costumes, scary-good refreshments, beer from Triple Crossing, an assortment of wines, and food by .

🍽️ Next up is Richmond Restaurant Week! Since 2001, Richmond Restaurant Week has showcased the city’s diverse food scene while supporting . For two weeks each year, diners can enjoy a three-course meal at top locally-owned restaurants for just over $35.

🎉 And finally, Nick suggests checking out Central Virginia’s premier fall technology conference, rvatech/‘s Women in Tech Conference on October 30. It’s curated by Richmond’s women in tech community but is designed for all audiences including technologists, business leaders, community builders, educators, and students. The event will feature a robust slate of keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. Held , the Women in Tech Conference features tracks on technology, innovation, and leadership.

Make sure to follow and check out techsmostcreative.city to learn more about Tech’s Most Creative City!

10/18/2024

Meet this week’s guest editor: Jesse Smith!

From VCU art student to leading the 36th Annual Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention, Jesse is a major advocate for Richmond creatives. His Carytown tattoo studio, Loose Screw Tattoo, hosts 12 talented artists, and you've likely seen his mural outside Taboo or his latest work with All City Art Club. With 20 years of tattoo expertise, Ink Master fame, and global mural projects, Jesse’s an unstoppable force.

Check out Jesse's top event picks:

Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention 🗓️ Oct 18-20 | DoubleTree Midlothian 🎫 $33+ | World-renowned artists, live art, celeb meetups & more!

Maymont’s Garden Glow 🗓️ Oct 16 - Nov 10 | Maymont 🎫 $14-18 | Light show & sculptures, perfect for families!

Live Art for Charity Global artists create one-of-a-kind pieces to support childhood cancer awareness. Auction opens after the convention!

If you're not subscribed, visit hereweekly.com to catch next week's volume.

10/10/2024

Meet this week’s guest editor, Shep Roeper!🎉 Co-founder of Richmond-based nonprofit Beyond Boundaries, Shep believes adventure is for everyone. From adaptive outdoor experiences like rafting the James to climbing the Manchester Wall, Beyond Boundaries empowers individuals with disabilities, veterans, underserved youth, and those in recovery. Shep’s mission? To ensure everyone in RVA has the chance to create lifelong memories.

When Shep’s not leading life-changing adventures, he loves paddle-boarding on the James, creating art, and fishing with his family. ☀️

🗓️ Shep’s Here Weekly Event Picks:

• Autumn Garden Walk at Agecroft Hall (Oct 12, 10 AM, $10)
• Haunts of Richmond Ghost Tour (throughout October, $25)
• The Beyond Boundaries Bonfire Gala (Oct 18, 6 PM, $100, use code HEREXBB for $10 off)

10/04/2024

Meet this week’s guest editor, Srija Kothakonda ()! Srija is a talented henna artist and co-founder of The VA Foodies (), a blog dedicated to showcasing local culinary gems and celebrating diverse flavors. Renowned for her intricate henna work (), she loves creating art that bridges cultures. As a nail content creator, she expresses her creativity through vibrant nail designs. Through her blog, Srija inspires others to explore and support local food scenes while sharing her own culinary adventures.

In this week’s issue of , Srija offers tips for exploring and celebrating this place we love to call home. Her first tip for the weekend ahead is to make sure not to miss the 2nd Street Festival () on Saturday, October 5th, 11:30 am - 7:00 pm & Sunday, October 6th, 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm! With live music, a Kidz Zone, delicious food vendors, and Artists Row for shopping, it’s a fantastic opportunity to dive into the vibrant culture and community spirit!

Next up, Srija recommends checking out RVA Supporting Appalachia: Benefit Concert ! Virginia artists are uniting to raise relief funds for communities hit hard by Hurricane Helene in Southwest VA, Western NC, Eastern TN, and beyond. The RVA Supporting Appalachia Benefit Concert will take place on Sunday, October 6th at Get Tight Lounge and will feature performances by , , , & , , and more! Event proceeds will go to the Appalachian Helene Response Fund.

Srija also shouts out Pasta and Pumpkins! This cozy event will take place on Sunday, October 20th, 5:00 - 7:00 pm at 1721 E Franklin St and will be hosted by the amazing team . The event kicks off with a glass of prosecco as participants learn to make Pumpkin Gnocchi and Pecorino Nutmeg Orecchiette Pugliesi. Plus, there will be an autumn-themed cocktail, a Southern Italian antipasto, and a special dessert. It’s the perfect chance to gather with friends and family for a night of great food and fun!

➡️ hereweekly.com

09/26/2024

🎉Meet this week’s guest editor, Prabir Mehta ()! For nearly two decades, Prabir has been a driving force in shaping the soundtrack of Central Virginia and beyond. Based in Richmond, he’s a versatile musician and performer, known for his dynamic musical projects, scoring independent films, composing for museum exhibits, and teaching composition at the University of Richmond. With over 100 live performances this year alone, Prabir is now focused on “Long After The Empire,” the latest album from his India-inspired rock band, Prabir Trio.

🎵Here subscribers, check your inbox for Prabir’s tips for exploring and celebrating this place we love to call home. Prabir begins his issue of with a special invite to come out tonight for the Prabir Trio Album Release Show with .music & . This is going be a great night, featuring SO many Richmond musicians on stage .
Thursday, September 26th, doors at 7:00 pm, music at 8:00 pm / $10 - $12 / The Camel, 1621 West Broad Street.

Next up, Prabir suggests checking out the Festival of India to enjoy food, music, and culture. “India has hosted so many diverse types of cultures, traditions, and continues to build a new ones in an ever-changing new world. This festival is a great way to get a glimpse at the many offerings of the subcontinent,” shared Prabir. The Festival of India / Saturday, September 28th from 11:00 am - 9:00 pm & Sunday, September 29th, 11:00 am - 8:00 pm / free / Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 North Third Street.

And finally, Prabir recommends catching Shagwüf at The Camel on Sunday, September 29th. “While we often rave about our hometown of Richmond (and rightfully so!), let’s not forget Virginia as a whole is bursting with creativity. Charlottesville’s is a prime example—a genre-blending, mind-bending rock ‘n’ roll experience,” says Prabir. Doors at 7:00 pm, music at 8:00 pm / $12 - $15 / The Camel, 1621 West Broad.

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09/26/2024

Learn more about this week's guest editor, Prabir at the Richmond Grid article below!

Richmond, VA — September 26, 2024 — Prabir Mehta, of the Prabir Trio, releases newest album Long After The Empire, an emotional and sonic adventure blending his Indian heritage and American experiences. The record offers a deeply personal narrative, inviting listeners on a journey through India,...

09/20/2024

🎉Meet this week’s guest editor, Rachael Deane!Rachael serves as Chief Executive Officer at Voices for Virginia’s Children (), a Richmond-based, statewide advocacy organization advancing the interests of children and youth through public policy. A native Richmonder, Rachael is an attorney and longtime advocate for economic, racial, and social justice, with experience in education and housing policy at several nonprofits in the Richmond area and nationwide. She is a believer in the power of civic engagement to create transformational change in our communities and in the value of honest conversations across lines of difference.

In this week’s issue of , Rachael shares her recommendations for exploring and celebrating this place we all love to call home. She begins her issue of Here with an RVA East End Festival going down on Saturday, Sept. 21 at Chimborazo Park from 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm. This year’s festival will feature local professionals and talented youth artists, including members of and the Armstrong High School drumline. Closing out the evening will be Richmond’s beloved James “Saxsmo” Gates ()! The event is free, and donations support music, visual arts, and performing arts programs in Richmond Public Schools ().

Rachael also shouts out Innerwork Center Autumn Equinox Labyrinth Walk happening Sunday, September 22, 5:00 - 6:00 pm (by donation). The Labyrinth is located in Yaupon Place, across the street from 3318 Loxley Road in Northside.

And to close out her issue of Here, Rachael drops one of the best tips ever by encouraging Richmonders to participate in the School Board candidate forum at Huguenot High School, cohosted by League of Women Voters of the Richmond Metropolitan Area and The Richmonder. “Suffice to say, school boards are major cultural and policy battlegrounds, and public education is good for everyone,” explains Rachael.

📥 Here subscribers, make sure to check your inbox for Rachael’s issue or subscribe at hereweekly.com.

➡️ And make sure to follow Voices for Virginia’s Children, the state’s only nonpartisan, multi-issue youth policy and advocacy organization .

09/14/2024

Meet this week's guest editor, Landon Elliott ()—a singer-songwriter and indie pop artist embracing his true self. Landon’s music offers a heartfelt exploration of his experiences and inspires listeners to find strength in their own stories.

Rooted in Richmond's music scene, Landon blends the sweeping sound of arena rock with the intimate storytelling of folk, creating a style that's both bold and deeply personal. Originally from the Outer Banks, he’s also a dedicated runner training for the Richmond Marathon in November. And if you’re curious, his love language? Mexican food!

Catch his band at VA Pridefest () this Saturday, and check out his upcoming event picks below!

VA Pridefest 2024
📅 Saturday, September 14
⏰ 12:00 - 8:00 pm (Landon's band performs at 2:15 pm)
📍 Bon Secours Training Center, 2401 West Leigh Street

Shagwüf Staff Picks w/ TRAPCRY and Oh Devil! at
📅 Sunday, September 15
⏰ 7:00 pm doors, 8:00 pm show
📍 The Camel, 1621 West Broad Street

Black Pumas at
📅 Monday, September 16
⏰ 5:30 pm doors, 6:00 pm show
📍 Maymont, 1710 Hampton Street

09/05/2024

🎉Meet this week’s guest editor, Katie Kenyon ()! As Executive Director of Village Green RVA (), Katie is dedicated to promoting food accessibility and providing comprehensive support for individuals and families in need. With her strategic approach, she has built partnerships across various sectors to ensure holistic community well-being.

In this week’s issue of , subscribers receive a handful of tips from Katie about suggested ways to explore and celebrate this place we all love to call home. Make sure to check your inbox for her tips, including the Soul Vegan Block Party (). This is free event (Saturday, September 7, 1:00 - 7:00 pm) will introduce and promote a healthy and ethically conscious plant-based lifestyle in a positive environment to all people regardless of race, gender, age, or sexual orientation with a focus on uplifting communities of color. 📍Abner Clay Park,119 W. Leigh Street.

Also on Katie’s list is Richmond Brunch Weekend kicking off on Friday, September 6th from 5:30 to 9:00 pm with food trucks, live music, swag bags for the first 100 attendees, vendors, and more! A portion of beer sales will go to support the lifesaving work . On Saturday and Sunday, enjoy brunch specials at one (or more) of the participating restaurants listed here, also benefitting the Richmond SPCA.

⚾️ Katie also suggests checking out as they close out the 2024 season celebrating YOU, the fans! Sunday, September 8th, gates open at 12:30 pm, first pitch at 1:35 pm.

➡️ This issue also features a partner spotlight celebrating . LMR’s Board Connector is a casual, open-house networking event developed to foster increased civic engagement across all sectors and advance equity in leadership through board service. This community event is open to the public. Registration is required for individuals and nonprofit participants to attend. 🗓️Sept. 25, 2024, 5:00 - 7:30 pm, .

08/30/2024

🎉 Meet this week’s guest editor, Kyle Epps ()! As a Richmond native, dedicated land steward, and passionate cultural advocate, Kyle M Epps brings a wealth of knowledge to their artistic practice. A proud graduate of , they have remained a lifelong student of art, history, and science. Their impressive journey spans from published scholar to award-winning artist, with features in a range of publications. Now, married with children, the artist seamlessly blends their diverse interests to inspire and foster greater harmony amongst people and their surroundings.

🌈 In this week’s issue of , Kyle drops a handful of hints for exploring and celebrating this place we all love to call home. Tips include checking out the hilarious Tony Award-winning play with music, Peter and the Starcatcher, . Kyle also suggests exploring, learning, and experiencing holistic health, wellness, and social change at the 21st Happily Natural Day Festival ) on Saturday, August 31st. The festival is dedicated to holistic health, cultural awareness and social change bringing communities together through arts and culture. Celebrate life with live performances, food, vendors, workshops, special guests, and a new mural unveiling. In addition, Kyle recommends the LGBTQ Richmond Bus Tour happening on Monday, September 2nd from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Celebrate Richmond’s Endless Summer of Pride with this romp through the city’s LGBTQ+ scene past and present! Join ’s Director and , author of Le***an and Gay Richmond, to explore the people, neighborhoods and events that shaped the gay, le***an and q***r community in Richmond over the decades.

📥 Here subscribers, make sure to check your inbox for these tips and more from Kyle. And if you’re not yet a subscriber, do your thing at hereweekly.com. It’s free!

🎨 And for more from Kyle, make sure to stop by for two new immersive experiences, including Blooms of Light AR exhibition and Secret Garden Legacy Adventure.

08/23/2024

Say hello 👋 to this week’s guest editor, Liza Mickens! Hailing from Richmond, Liza is dedicated to advancing gender equality, inspired by the trailblazing legacy of her great-great-grandmother, Maggie Lena Walker. As a spokesperson for Vote Equality US and the Social Media Specialist at Virginia Tourism Corporation, she passionately shares why ‘Virginia is for Lovers’ through creative content.

A proud JMU grad in Communications and PR, Liza’s journey has taken her from pursuing fashion dreams in NYC back to Richmond, where she celebrated Virginia’s ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Now, she’s fully embraced her hometown’s growth, eagerly awaiting JMU’s football season, and hoping the Washington Commanders give her something to cheer for this season!

Check out these can’t-miss upcoming events highlights in her volume of .weekly:

1. **Vintage Market**
Celebrate CobbleStore Vintage’s 2-year anniversary with an awesome market featuring vendors like . Enjoy bites from TBT El Gallo and Ruby Scoops, and jam to 2000s and 90s hip hop by Fan Ran & Profound79.
📅 Saturday, August 24th
🕚 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
📍 324 South Pine Street
🎟️ Free

2. **M?LES at Gallery 5**
Kick off a new monthly series with performances and showcases by the creative duo M?les and friends. Explore the newly redesigned space at Gallery 5 and enjoy a night of local talent.
📅 Friday, August 25th
🕔 5:00 - 10:00 pm
📍 Gallery 5, 200 W. Marshall Street
🎟️ $10 in advance, $15 at the door

3. **RATIFIED at the Byrd Theatre**
Join us on Women’s Equality Day for the Virginia debut of *RATIFIED*. Learn about the key figures behind Virginia’s ratification of the ERA, followed by a panel discussion.
📅 Monday, August 26th
🕡 6:30 - 9:30 pm
📍 Byrd Theatre, 2908 W Cary St
🎟️ Tickets: $5 - $28

08/09/2024

Meet this week’s guest editor, Elaine Digges! She’s the force behind and founder of , a new social group in Richmond designed to help you make friends and explore the city. She’s also an integral part of the team! Check out these upcoming events she highlights in her volume of .weekly:

🌳 Community Walk at Maymont (): Wed, Aug 14th, 6-7pm. Free!
🍷 Wine Tasting at Barrel Thief (): Wed, Aug 21st, 6-7pm. $10.
🎉 Richmond Social Hour at The Workshop by T&D (): Thurs, Aug 29th, 6:30-8:30pm.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Here.Weekly at www.hereweekly.com so that you won’t miss a moment! ✨

Follow Elaine at and , support local, and connect with fellow Richmonders!

07/20/2024

✨Meet this week’s .weekly guest editor, Whitney Cardozo (), chef and proprietress of Chez Foushee in Richmond! Whitney brings remarkable academic and culinary expertise to her restaurant, which features an all-female kitchen and LGBTQ+ friendly environment. Whitney’s diverse background spans catering, food styling, teaching, consulting, and design, and she advocates for a supportive work culture, equitable pay, sustainability, and local arts and nonprofits. A solo traveler who has walked 200 miles of the Camino de Santiago, Whitney enjoys Twizzlers, gluten-free Oreos, and adores her two daughters, her serial entrepreneur spouse, two geriatric dogs, and pet bird!

Her top picks as guest editor include:
▫️’s Ghost Light After Party at
▫️visiting local gardens like , , and
▫️shopping all things vintage at , , and

Visit hereweekly.com to subscribe (it’s free 🎉) and make sure that you don’t miss a volume!

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07/12/2024

Meet this week’s guest editor, Jeff Bybee! After years in NYC marketing and production, Jeff moved back to RVA, joining Hue+Cry () where he is now an Executive Producer. He’s ingrained in Richmond’s creative scene, collaborating with some of the industry’s finest talents in animation. He also has a lifelong enthusiasm for all things horror—the gorier, the better—and has ventured into special effects makeup, with his work featured in commercials, short films, and video game trailers.

In this week’s issue of , Jeff shares his top tips for exploring and celebrating this place we love to call home. He begins by recommending the RVA Square Dance at Studio Two Three () on Saturday, July 13th. Open to all ages, support this great organization with a suggested contribution of $5 - $10, while learning to square dance or honing your hoe down skills!

Also on Jeff’s list, he shouts out an opportunity for explore Ashland’s spooky past with the Haunted Ashland History Ghost Tour. Hear chilling stories from the Red Vein Army () in the thick of the night, and celebrate this attraction’s fifth anniversary all month long.

He rounds things out by suggesting a visit to Iridian Gallery () for two exhibitions: Julian Cobb’s dark, myth-inspired works and Arista Alanis’ colorful abstracts. As the South’s only LGBTQ+ gallery, Iridian showcases impactful, forward-thinking art.

Here subscribers, make sure to check your inbox for Jeff’s issue. If you haven’t signed up yet, it’s free at hereweekly.com.

06/27/2024

🎉 Meet our guest editor duo this week, Vana Chupp + Theodora Miller of the STUΔIO (.2510), a light-filled space in the heart of the Fan District.

Vana () began her love for silhouette art in 2008, growing from a small Etsy shop to a global business creating heirloom pieces. She transforms favorite photos into exquisite jewelry and personal accessories, consulting directly with clients to ensure each piece evokes lasting memories. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Glamour, and New York Times. Born in Albania, Vana came to the U.S. over 25 years ago. She holds a Master’s in Architecture, enjoys hand illustrating, and is fluent in Greek and Albanian. Married to her college sweetheart Aaron, they have two boys and love traveling to Greece and Albania.

Theodora () turned to artful living as part of her healing after a traumatic brain injury. Now a thriving artist, ceramicist, and surface designer, her work draws inspiration from emotions, nature, Greek heritage, and ancient symbols. Her creations are featured in corporate collections and homes worldwide. Theodora is the daughter of a Greek immigrant and a member of Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral. She lives in the Fan with her husband George, a cycling enthusiast, and is co-hosting the Art of Living Well Retreat in Greece this October.

Vana and Theodora, bonded by their Greek heritage and creative entrepreneurial journeys, have created STUΔIO, located at 2510 W. Main Street, as a hub for their artistic brands. Here, they offer client consultations, studio visits, workshops, pop-ups, and special events. Open by appointment, STUΔIO embodies their commitment to creativity and connection.

In a special issue of , subscribers are treated to tips from Vana and Theodora designed to encourage readers to explore and celebrate this place we all love to call home. Among their recommendations are suggestions to visit and support at The Diamond, immerse yourself in samurai history ’s newest exhibit, and celebrate anniversary of America’s independence at the naturalization ceremony on July 4th.

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