Be on lookout for ticks
Contributed - 12:01 am - Think Local

Photo: CDC

Tick season is back in the Okanagan.

As the warmer months roll into the region, wood ticks become much more likely to bite, increasing the risk for people and pets trying to enjoy the sunny weather in their own yard.

That’s right: Staying out of the woods doesn’t make you safe from tick bites.

“Ticks are very attracted to the carbon dioxide we breathe, our vibrations and temperature,” Buzz Boss business unit leader Marcello Greco says. “This means the common things you see in an unmaintained yard such as tall grass, overgrown shrubs or leaf litter can pose a significant risk to people and pets.”

Despite their tiny stature, ticks have certain bites that can pack a dangerous punch, known to spread ailments such as Lyme disease, with pets being in danger of sustaining tick paralysis.

However, preventative measures like the BuzzShield Insect Program can offer people peace of mind while enjoying their yards throughout the spring and summer.

The program specializes in stopping pests through yard inspections that identify the source of the problem, allowing the experts to apply their patented, eco-friendly insect spray.

“We send a licensed and trained professional to the house to work through a full yard inspection with the resident to identify pest attractants that should be addressed,” Greco says. “Our professionals also offer extended knowledge beyond spray, like helpful maintenance tips to keep their environment safe.”

The preventative practice helps manage other unwanted yard pests such as mosquitos, ants, spiders and rodents.

All insect control packages come with monthly followups to touch up problematic areas and guarantee results, meaning if the pests come back, so will the professionals at Buzz Boss.

It’s also important to note that while Buzz Boss specializes in safely preventing unwanted guests like ticks from entering your yard, none of the company’s practices harm pets, bees or wildlife.

“If you’re hoping to comfortably enjoy your yard this year, but are worried about bug bites interrupting the good times, give us a call or visit us online,” Greco says.

Buzz Boss makes it easy for Kelowna and Vernon residents to sign up for service. Visit the website here, choose your package and add your information. You will be enjoying your pest- and tick-free yard in no time.

Buzz Boss can also be reached by phone at 1-844-744-2899 or by email via [email protected] to schedule an inspection.

Image: CDC

Protect your ride this spring
Contributed - Mar 18, 2024 - Think Local

Photo: VPS Kelowna

It can happen in an instant and change the look of your vehicle forever.

As springtime arrives in the Okanagan, so do the rocks, grit and salt that can cause premature wear and damage to a vehicle’s exterior.

Vehicle Protective Solutions, or VPS as it is more commonly known in Kelowna, specializes in the installation of XPEL automotive protection products, including paint protection film, ceramic coating and window tint.

Drivers hoping to protect their vehicle’s aesthetic from the harsh Canadian roads are encouraged to learn more about VPS Kelowna and the XPEL products it offers to safeguard from rock chips, gravel rash and scratches.

“The paint protection film is completely clear and nearly invisible once installed,” VPS Kelowna manager Jarrod Wickman says. “It is provided with a 10-year warranty and does a great job at preventing rock chip damage.

Photo: VPS Kelowna

“It’s highly recommended to anyone wanting to protect and keep their vehicle looking new for years to come. All our installers are professionally trained and certified by XPEL to guarantee a quality application that is backed by a 10-year warranty.”

VPS’s other popular services include ceramic coatings that can be applied to virtually every surface of a vehicle, adding years of protection, shine and ease of maintenance without the time and money involved with maintaining its lustre like traditional waxes or sealants.

Window tint is another common service of VPS to provide heat rejection, along with enhanced aesthetics, privacy and UV protection for passengers and for the interior surfaces of a vehicle.

To make it easy for potential customers to learn more about their services, VPS provides free quotes to better understand the cost of a customized protection plan before committing.

For those specifically interested in automotive paint protection film, VPS’s website offers a unique configuration tool where motorists can input their vehicle type, preferred package and specific options such as the front hood and rocker panels to generate a free quote.

“We are reputable with over one hundred five-star Google reviews for our quality of service and installations, and we’re proud to say that VPS comes highly recommended by most car dealerships and body shops in and around Kelowna,” Wickman says.

To learn more about VPS Kelowna’s services, visit its website here or stop by its location at 124-2540 Enterprise Way in Kelowna.

Photo: VPS Kelowna

Exciting changes at Pinnacles
Contributed - Mar 18, 2024 - Think Local

Photo: Pinnacles FC

With the weather turning to spring, many young people are turning their attention to outdoor activities and sports.

One of the most popular sports for kids in Canada, and in our region, is soccer and the Pinnacles Football Club’s program attracts over 2,500 kids a year throughout the Southern Okanagan to play the sport.

Pinnacles FC, which is part of the Central Okanagan Youth Soccer Association (COYSA), is sanctioned provincially by B.C. Soccer and nationally by Canada Soccer. It recently elected a new president, Garry Brogan.

A resident of Penticton and a fully qualified soccer referee, Brogan is relishing his role and excited at the opportunity to build on past successes.

“Soccer has been the central sporting activity within the Okanagan for decades,” he said. ” Many people don’t realize that the first soccer club was formed in Penticton over 100yrs ago and since then has been an integral part of the community and region, branching out to become the single largest participatory sport in the Southern Okanagan”.

Pinnacles Football Club was licensed as a “Quality Soccer Provider” under the Canada Soccer Club licensing requirements in 2023. Its coaches, staff and volunteers are sanctioned by B.C. Soccer and Canada Soccer and its qualified soccer trainers all adhere to the various courses and certifications required to help improve the soccer skills of young players.

Darla Roy, league coordinator, said interest in the Pinnacles program has grown since the pandemic, with numbers now comparable to pre-pandemic. Registration is now open for the Pinnacles FC programs, with a deadline to sign up of April 5. If registration is made before the deadline, the program will accept all applicants. Applications received after the deadline will be placed on a waiting list to determine if there is room. For registration and more information go to pinnaclesfc.ca

The Pinnacles program is currently working with community members on an adaptive program to help children of diverse abilities enjoy playing the game. It is also working on an Indigenous program with local First Nations.

This year, Pinnacles FC has expanded its Excelsior program — a competitive district program—that has, up to now, included U11 to U18 players. This season, Pinnacles FC is offering a U10 boys program in the COYSA League. The move will mean more opportunities for younger players to move through the competitive divisions, bring more kids to the sport and help retain players as they get older.

With the majority of the youth recreation players in the U9/10 division, a new U10 Kickstart league offers U9/10 players advanced game play by moving to eight-on-eight play from the four-on-four format currently used in that age group. That allows players at a younger age to prepare for the transition to the larger field game format and enjoy increased training.

The Pinnacles FC program has also added two new Excelsior teams in Summerland. A U11 boys team and a U15 girls team, which gives players the opportunity to play at the district level while training in their hometown. As well, Peachland has joined the Pinnacles family and will now play under the Pinnacles FC Club.

“Our organization has seen many changes over the years and I am committed to building on its rich history and traditions in order to provide quality sports programming for youth throughout the region, saysBrogan. “With our new clubhouse facility on the way, and the FIFA World Cup arriving in North America in 2026, we expect exciting growth and increased interest in soccer in the coming years. This will have a positive impact on the community (particularly the service industry) as we look to expand our reach with tournaments that draw in teams from across the Pacific Northwest (and beyond)”.

For more information about Pinnacles FC, go to pinnaclesfc.ca.

Autism study seeks subjects
Contributed - Mar 16, 2024 - Think Local

Photo: Depositphotos

Okanagan Clinical Trials invites adolescents and adults living with autism spectrum disorders, or ASD, to participate in an ongoing clinical study.

Okanagan Clinical Trials, a medical research company located in Kelowna, is currently conducting a clinical study to determine the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medicinal product for ASD.

“ASD is a chronic disorder with significant functional impact on patients,” OCT principal investigator Dr. Eugene Okorie says. “This study seeks to advance the pursuit of expanding treatment options for the patients.”

To be eligible to participate in the clinical study, volunteers will need to be adolescents or adults between the ages of 12 and 45 who have or suspect they may have ASD. Approximately 32 study sites located in the United States, Canada, and Australia will participate in the clinical study.

“Advancing clinical research could profoundly affect the quality of life of future generations; we are proud to be a part of this process,” OCT president Dr. Kim Christie says.

Participation will not affect provincial medical coverage, and all study-related costs will be paid for by the sponsor.  Participants are free to leave the study at any time.

To learn more about the study or to volunteer, visit www.okanaganclinicaltrials.com or call Okanagan Clinical Trials at 250-862-8141.

Live South Pandosy lifestyle
Contributed - Mar 16, 2024 - Think Local

Image: Contributed

Spring is just around the corner, as is the opportunity to live an upscale lifestyle at Wardlaw in South Pandosy, to truly enjoy the Okanagan to its fullest at an ideal location.

With the weather changing and the outdoor experiences increasing, whether it’s hiking, biking, golfing, taking a leisurely walk along the beach or just relaxing at a nearby café, plan your new lifestyle now at Wardlaw Pandosy Village residences, with occupancies scheduled for July this summer. These unique residences aim to become a complementary fixture for the premier community in the area, providing a unique opportunity to enjoy the vibrant and amenity-rich lifestyle of Pandosy Village as well as the surrounding Okanagan region.

Photo: Contributed

Innascore Developments Inc. is the proud builder of these exclusive residences. It has a vision to create a product that not only boasts an attractive street appearance but also offers a high-quality living experience on the inside and out. The goal is to align its vision of boutique style living with the concept of a walkable and amenity rich community. Perfectly placed within the heart of South Pandosy, 640 Wardlaw Ave. combines all the above and is an essential part of a fast growing and developing neighbourhood. 

There are only three of nine residences remaining: a one-bedroom, ground floor suite with 467 square feet of landscaped outdoor space for $599,900; a one-bedroom and den open concept suite, perfect for entertaining for $689,900; and a 951 square foot two-bedroom and den suite with 269 square feet of outdoor space for $779,900.

All suites are crafted with upscale features and finishes, including engineered hardwood flooring, high-end stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, modern kitchen cabinetry and more. Special attention has been given to soundproofing to ensure a peaceful living environment. Wardlaw Pandosy Village offers various amenities and features for the convenience and enjoyment of residents, including secured parking, storage facilities, bike racks, pet-friendly accommodations, containing a secured dog-run for furry friends and thoughtfully designed landscaping to enhance the overall appeal of the building.

The location of Wardlaw Pandosy Village is highly desirable, offering easy access to various attractions and amenities in the area. Residents will have access to Mission Park Mall, Osprey Park, restaurants, sandy beaches along Okanagan Lake, the shopping district and cozy cafes. This prime location provides a wide range of activities and experiences for residents to enjoy. The neighbourhood represents an investment in exclusivity, an area of escalating real estate values that hold their value and is enriched with countless amenities without the busyness of the downtown core.   

With only three out of the nine Wardlaw Pandosy Village residences still available for sale and occupancies just around the corner, plan a lifestyle of exclusivity now. The development requires just a 5% initial deposit, making it an excellent opportunity to purchase one of these unique and exclusive residences to enjoy the summer season.

For more information about Wardlaw Pandosy Village, you can visit the website at www.wardlawliving.com. Additionally, inquiries and connections with the sales advisor, Theresa Karpowich, can be made by calling 250-300-4911 or by sending an email to [email protected].

Photo: Contributed

Notaries boast rich history
Contributed - Mar 15, 2024 - Think Local

Photo: Stephen Goldberg, Unsplash

What is a notary public?

For this we need to go back to the beginning of the profession and work our way forward to present day. This history lesson will be broken into two parts: up to 1926 and 1926 to present.

A cursory look at the Society of Notaries Public of British Columbia website defines B.C. notaries as:

“Proud members of a select group of legal professionals commissioned by the Supreme Court of British Columbia. These unique legal advisors are highly trained in the provision of numerous non-contentious services, including land law and all the important personal planning tools available to the people of our province—wills, powers of attorney, representation agreements and advance directives. Throughout history, notaries have been recognized as individuals of impeccable integrity practising in a tradition of trust.

“A notary’s word, signature, and red notary seal are time-honoured testaments to the character and skill of these caring professionals.”

There’s a lot to unpack here. What is evident here is the fact that notaries are not only unique—and trusted—legal advisors, but that they have been around for a long, long time.

Notaries public are members of an ancient and honourable profession—some say the second oldest in the world—the origins of which can be traced back to the dawn of human civilization. Since the time of the pharaohs, notaries have been relied on for their trustworthiness and integrity and have played a key role in the development of governments, commerce and organized society. Precursors to notaries, Egyptian ‘sesh’ or ‘scribes’ were the earliest known chroniclers of official communications, dating back as early as 2750 BC. These scribes were responsible for the recording of events, whether they be official proclamations, personal letters, tax records or other important documents.

One such important document is the Babylonian legal text known as the Code of Hammurabi. Commissioned by King Hammurabi during 1755-1750 BC, the code is the oldest evidence of recorded law in the world. Scribes were entrusted to not only draft the text but also to perform certain notable tasks.

Fast forward to the Roman Empire and the true ancestors of modern notaries. The Roman slave Tiro, who died in 4 BC, developed a shorthand system called notae for taking down the speeches of the famed orator Cicero. Other witnessing stenographers came to be known as notarii, or notarius, and scribae. The notarii, being part of a small percent of literate citizens, were called upon to prepare contracts, wills and other important documents.

Notaries continued to emerge as trusted professionals throughout the centuries. In the time of the Order of the Knights Templar, from 1099 to 1307, their clergy was highly educated and became the critically important notaries for all Templar business, official documents, orders and proclamations. The introduction of notaries in England began in the 13th and 14th centuries, as English common law developed separately from most of the influences of Roman law. Initially, notaries were often appointed by the papal legate or the Archbishop of Canterbury and, similar to the Knights Templar, were members of the clergy. Eventually though, they became more secular in nature, thus laying the foundation for what we now know as the modern notary.

Fun fact: In the Middle Ages, notaries were even asked to witness the consummation of marriages involving royalty.

Notaries, always prominent, were called on by monarchs as European countries ventured into the new world. King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain, due to a lack of trust in Christopher Columbus, had notaries accompany him on his voyages to ensure all treasures found were accounted for and to document any and all noteworthy events.

In colonial America, only persons of high moral character were appointed as public notaries and were responsible for certification and safety of important documents. Notaries were considered to be invaluable to those conducting trans-Atlantic commerce, as they were independent and honest third parties in reporting damage or loss to a ship’s cargo.

From colonial times to present, common law jurisdictions in the U.S. and Canada—Quebec and Louisiana being the only civil law jurisdictions—the profession evolved much into how you would view modern day notaries. They are appointed by the applicable state or provincial government, and for the most part they are commissioned for a set period of time. The primary role of notaries in most jurisdictions is to serve as an impartial witness, but duties can vary based on the applicable state or province.

And this is where B.C. notaries public differ. Not only are B.C. notaries commissioned for life by the Supreme Court of British Columbia, the services they can offer are of a much greater scope.

The next article will cover The Society of Notaries Public of British Columbia from its establishment in 1926 to present day. It will also explain how notaries differ from other Canadian provinces and American states.

If you require notary public services, Kelowna’s Rothwell Notary provides its clients with the power to make informed decisions pertaining to property transactions and personal planning. This may include providing information about your rights, obligations and legal options specific to your situation.

Pick financial advisor wisely
Contributed - Mar 15, 2024 - Think Local

Photo: Contributed

When choosing a financial advisor, it’s common to prioritize considerations such as fee structures, the advisor’s range of professional designations or anticipated returns on investment.

While these factors undeniably merit attention, a comprehensive evaluation should extend beyond these initial considerations to include a series of critical, albeit less quantifiable, questions aimed at establishing a deeper sense of compatibility and trust with a potential advisor.

If you are getting ready to get serious about your long-term financial plan, Wealthy Roots Financial in Kamloops wants you to think about these six factors as part of your determination process:

Photo: Contributed
Shelby Seath

• Gauge your instinctual trust in the advisor. Research suggests an individual can discern trustworthiness within the first 11 seconds of interaction. Trust is foundational, as it underpins the entire advisor-client relationship.

• Consider the advisor’s capability to serve as a guide through the inevitable ups and downs of market dynamics. It’s essential they not only possess a deep understanding of market trends but also have the communicative skills to explain these fluctuations and their implications for your portfolio in a way that resonates with you.

• Assess whether the advisor demonstrates a genuine commitment to your financial success and accountability towards your financial plan. This commitment indicates a readiness to go beyond mere transactional interactions, fostering a relationship where your goals are most important.

• Inquire about the advisor’s proactive approach to portfolio management, particularly their responsiveness to shifting economic conditions. An advisor’s willingness to make timely adjustments to your portfolio is crucial for navigating the complex landscape of financial markets effectively.

• Consider the long-term availability of the advisor, especially through critical life stages such as retirement. This consideration involves evaluating the advisor’s age and potential career longevity to ensure a lasting partnership.

• Explore the advisor’s tenure and dedication to their role as a financial advisor. A track record of sustained commitment to the profession can be a good indicator of their dedication to clients.

Finding a financial planner with whom you can build a long-term working relationship is key. They will be your ally through retirement, offering guidance through market fluctuations and life changes.

The mother-daughter duo of Sandy Vollo and Shelby Seath at Wealthy Roots Financial have the experience, knowledge and compassion to guide you on your retirement path. To set up a meeting with the dynamic financial tandem, visit the Wealthy Roots website here.

Bid on your dream kitchen
Contributed - Mar 14, 2024 - Think Local

Photo: Contributed
Norelco Cabinets marketing manager Jaclyn Keppler

Habitat for Humanity Okanagan, in partnership with Norelco Cabinets, has kicked off the Heart of the Home Dream Kitchen Auction. This first-time auction offers Okanagan residents the chance to transform their kitchen while supporting local families in need.

The Heart of the Home Dream Kitchen Auction features meticulously crafted cabinetry, luxurious Cambria quartz countertops, and a magnificent Pearl sink and faucet, all valued at over $50,000. This dream kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space where memories are made, laughter is shared and families gather.

Habitat for Humanity Okanagan resource development director Danielle Smith says making a bid will be worth so much more than a kitchen renovation.

“The Heart of the Home Dream Kitchen Auction is a great example of the incredible generosity and compassion within our community,” she says. “With every bid that comes we are one step closer to building not just homes, but a better future filled with hope and opportunity for more local families.

“The Heart of the Home Dream Kitchen Auction isn’t just about upgrading your kitchen; it’s about transforming lives.

“We already have the first bid of $5000, with a goal to raise $20,000, so as you can imagine we are eager to see just how high it can go.”

You still have plenty of time to make your bid, as the online auction will not close until April 15, 2024. All of the auction details can be found on its website here.

“All I can say is Norelco Cabinets welcomes you to visit their design centre, located at 677 Willow Park Road in Kelowna, to check out the entire kitchen, from the very sleek cabinetry to the top tier Cambria quartz countertops to see for yourself how this custom designed kitchen just might be the dream kitchen for you,” Smith says.

This is your chance to own the kitchen of your dreams while making a profound, life changing difference in the lives of local children and their families. You can place your bid on this amazing dream kitchen today by visiting the Habitat for Humanity Okanagan website here.

No. 1 shade at Haute House
Contributed - Mar 12, 2024 - Think Local

Photo: Contributed

Haute House Design is excited to share a couple of big changes and in particular a few new products that it feels is really going to shake up the world of window coverings.

Nadine Alleyn and Haute House Design have been providing window coverings for more than 20 years. For many of those years they have been waiting for an exterior shade product worthy of the Okanagan extremes, and MagnaTracks is it.

MagnaTracks exterior shade system is a total game changer for outdoor living in the Okanagan. With the extreme weather, creating comfort for longer with a reliable and robust shade system is an absolutely priority for anyone who wants their patios and decks protected from the wind, rain, extreme heat, sun and bugs.

The MagnaTracks system stands completely apart from its competition, and in just a few short years its patented technology has sent this product to its rightful spot as the No. 1 exterior shade globally.

And it is No. 1 for a reason.

This shade system eliminates 98% of maintenance calls through the use of its patented technology that harnesses the strength of neodymium magnets. These magnets are the strongest on Earth, and along with utilizing Keder technology, together they create a completely self-correcting tracking system to eliminate hang ups, jams and rollovers.

This product is revolutionary in its design and ability to withstand stronger winds than any other system on the market, ensuring your outdoor spaces remain comfortable and completely protected. The inventor has really thought of even the smallest details, including the installation of a heavy-duty brush system which keeps the critters, such as bats, out of the housing, an extra heavy weight bar to help keep the blind within its tracks and the ability to adjust the angle of material to accommodate sloped decks for less gapping.

The benefits of MagnaTracks go well beyond its formidable strength. Installing these exterior shades increases your property’s value by adding more livable square footage, transforming patios, decks and outdoor dining areas into cozy, year-round havens. It is no surprise that homeowners, restaurants and wineries around the world have been quickly adopting MagnaTracks to maximize seasonal outdoor living and creating comfort for longer.

Meanwhile, one of the newest product additions at Haute House is a European concealment system that completely buries any drapery tracks and blind mechanisms within a ceiling cavity for an extremely clean finish that architects, designers and discerning clients love. The product is brand new to North America, and the team at Haute House Design is very excited to provide this hardware from Vernon to Osoyoos. It is sleek, beautiful and innovative. The product is called Blindspace, and more information about the terrific technology can be found on its website.

Haute House Design moved to its brand new studio in 2020 and immediately began working to secure the exclusivity of many of its product lines along with excellent pricing to create the new Okanagan Design Trade Centre. The centre was established to serve architects, the interior design community, contractors and folks who appreciate innovative products, competitive pricing and outstanding customer service.

With an extensive collection of suppliers, manufacturers, workrooms, artisans and fabricators, along with the most comprehensive window covering selection available and a massive fabric library, Haute House Design invites you to check out MagnaTracks, Blindspace and to visit the new Okanagan Design Trade Centre. Alleyn and her team would love to meet you and discuss how they can help provide information for your project.

The studio is located at 101-259 Backstreet Blvd. in Penticton, it can be reached at 250-770-1033, and more information can be found on its website here.

Wine rooms grow in popularity
Contributed - Mar 12, 2024 - Think Local

Photo: contributed

When you go to Our Glass in Penticton for your glass needs, you can count on several things, including knowledgeable experts with years of experience in the glass industry, top-notch customer service, attention to detail, high-end materials, fair pricing and a stellar reputation.

The company, started in 2000, offers a full range of windows glass and glazing services but owner Lanny Swanson said his company specializes in custom shower enclosures and wine rooms.

“Wine rooms have become very popular here,” he said, noting many of his customers have opted to use the space under their stairs for the purpose.

With the popularity of wine in the Okanagan thanks to the growing and world-recognized wine industry here, creating a stunning space to store wine in a home is something more and more people are deciding to do.

Wine cellars are becoming a modern trend in many homes and are considered a unique highlight of a house. They not only allow for proper storage of wine, at the right temperature and humidity, they help preserve wines and are convenient. Having a wine room where you can keep many bottles can save you a lot of money in the long-run. Purchasing wines in quantity, or on a case-by-case basis, means you pay less per bottle, as many sellers often offer discounts for bulk purchases. A glassed in wine room helps beautify and display your collection.

Wines, like other natural foods, have a short shelf life and will go bad if  stored somewhere where the temperature and humidity are constantly changing. A wine’s quality can be compromised by even a mild temperature and humidity increase, so an enclosed wine room protects your investment.

That is why most serious wine drinkers have wine rooms equipped to control temperature and humidity, so wine can be kept properly.

Starting at just $4,000, a wine room is an investment in your home as it provides a stunning amenity, especially if created in space that is not currently being used in your home. No matter the style of wine room you want, Our Glass can create a focal point for your home to perfectly store and display your wine collection.

Photo: contributed

The company’s custom glass expertise also extends to the creation of spectacular shower enclosures to go with any new bathroom renovations.

Renovated bathrooms add value to you home and create convenience by also adding a stunning modern look. Glass shower enclosures improve the look of bathrooms, providing the convenience and elegance.

Easy to maintain, they provide endless design alternatives, provide a brighter, open style to your bathroom and a clean, fresh look that minimizes the chance of soap-build up and mould as they are easy to clean. They also offer more space and functionality.

Be it large commercial jobs or smaller residential projects, no job is too big or too small for Our Glass. The company even creates custom mirrors for its clients. It works with residential customers, public agencies, educational institutions, health facilities, private developers and commercial clients While many may not realize it, the company’s work can be seen all over Penticton, including all the glass Covid barriers at the Penticton Regional Hospital.

Over the years, Our Glass has built its reputation, mainly through word of mouth, attracting loyal customers who provide repeat business.

For more information about Our Glass, go to its website, ourglass.ca or see its showroom at 101-2100 Dartmouth Road in Penticton.

Photo: contributed

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