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48th WARD NEWS: DECEMBER 5, 2025
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Dear Neighbors,
This week, the Cook County Board of Review reopened Lake View Township, which includes all of the 48th ward, for property assessment appeals. The window to appeal is only open for a short period of time and closes again on December 12. Successful appeals will see property tax relief on next year's bill. I want to encourage all home owners to take advantage of this property tax savings opportunity. Our property taxes are already far too high and many 48th ward neighbors have seen meaningful relief through the appeal process.
In order to support home owners with filing property assessment appeals, my office is partnering with the Board of Review on a Property Tax Appeals event at the Broadway Armory on Tuesday, December 9, 5-8pm. There will be up to ten Board of Review analysts available to meet with neighbors one-on-one to assist with filing appeals.
You may also be eligible for property tax savings through exemptions including:
Complete a Certificate of Error application to redeem missing exemptions for the 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2021 tax years. If you have already paid the original amount due, you will receive a refund check from the Cook County Treasurer’s Office in the mail once the application is processed by the Assessor’s Office.
Again, the property assessment appeals window is brief and will close on December 12. Please call my office if you have any questions.
Yours in Community,
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Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
48th Ward Alderwoman
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DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
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Cut the Tape for Small Businesses
Small businesses are the backbone of Chicago’s neighborhoods and commercial corridors. On Small Business Saturday, the City of Chicago announced Cut The Tape for Small Business: an initiative to make it more affordable, faster, and easier to open and operate a small business in Chicago. Cut The Tape for Small Business is comprised of nine Cut The Tape for Small Business goals:
- Develop clear inspections guidance
- Simplify and digitize licensing and permitting
- Leverage cultural storytelling for neighborhood tourism
- Develop an interactive online business zoning map
- Streamline the administrative debt check process
- Explore new regulatory frameworks for emerging industries
- Eliminate information silos between city departments
- Collaborate with City Colleges to empower entrepreneurs
- Launch a digital literacy initiative
These goals were informed by input from eight small business roundtables over the course of 2025. Learn more on our blog.
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Steep Theatre Groundbreaking
- When: Thursday, December 11 at 10:15am
- Where: 1044 W Berwyn
- No RSVP is required for this event
Join us for the groundbreaking of the new $6.3 million Steep Theatre! In September, City Council approved $880,000 in community development funds towards this project. This funding was championed by Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth and brings the city’s total support for the project to $3,868,535. The new theatre will feature a 70-seat theatre, a lobby-lounge, and support spaces for artists/staff. We’re thrilled that Steep Theatre has found their forever home in Edgewater, and are looking forward to opening night! Read more about this project here.
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Bryn Mawr Historic District Updates
In recent years, the Bryn Mawr Historic District was unrecognizable from its heyday. The once thriving commercial corridor was hit hard by the combination of the COVID pandemic and the four-year Red-Purple Line Modernization Project construction. Vacant storefronts and empty streets became the landscape.
Since taking office, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth has prioritized the revitalization of Bryn Mawr, opening her office on the corridor, convening an on-the-ground task force called the Bryn Mawr Alliance, and bringing in resources from city departments and local community organizations. As a result of this hard work, we’re seeing a transformation of the corridor, and we’re not done yet!
Our long-term vision is a thriving, pedestrian-oriented business district and destination that represents our diverse community, preserves historic charm, supports small businesses, and celebrates arts and culture to strengthen the corridor’s future. Read our Bryn Mawr Revitalization blog to learn more about the work going on along Bryn Mawr and how you can get involved.
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New Lights at Puptown
Our office has been working with the Chicago Park District to install new lighting at Puptown in Margate Park, and we're delighted to announce that work is complete! A special thank you to Erik Gleaves and Mike Brown at the Chicago Park District and to the Friends of Puptown group for advocating for the improvement of this community space.
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Congratulations to First Sip Cafe on 8 Years!
It's been eight years since First Sip Cafe opened its doors in November of 2017! This cornerstone of the 48th ward community and Argyle staple is more than just a to-go coffee shop; it's a place where community gathers. As the owners put it, it's the place to go whether you're looking for "a treat, a quiet moment, a focused moment, or a chance to connect." Check them out at 1057 W Argyle.
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Hollywood/Sheridan SBIF is Open
As of December 1, the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) is accepting applications for grants of up to $150,000 for commercial properties in the Hollywood/Sheridan TIF District. The TIF boundaries include parts of Broadway, Bryn Mawr, Argyle, and Sheridan. See the full map here.
The Small Business Improvement Fund is one tool that we use to invest in the 48th ward small businesses. Leni is a champion for the SBIF program and has been canvassing businesses in the ward to spread the word about this opportunity and others. This year, Leni has canvassed over 100 businesses on her Door to Door Business Tour.
Past SBIF grant recipients in the 48th ward have included Mella Café (5418 N Broadway) and Jenny's Tofu (5426 N Broadway). Click the links to see these 48th Ward entrepreneurs talk about the impact that SBIF had on their businesses.
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Submit Requests and Stay Informed with 311 and ChiStreetWork
For non-emergency city service requests, file a 311 report online, through the app, or by dialing 3-1-1. You can also search for and follow along with local city projects at chistreetwork.chicago.gov.
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Winter Parking Reminders
As of December 1, Chicago's winter overnight parking restrictions are in effect. Look out for signs on major roads restricting parking overnight when snow is over 2" deep. See examples of these signs above. These restrictions make it easier for snowplows to clear snow overnight leeaving roadways clear for morning commuters. Visit the City of Chicago's website for more information on snow-based parking restrictions.
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Tree Trimming Update
The City of Chicago uses a grid system for tree trimming with 1-2 trim crews from the Bureau of Forestry (BoF) trimming trees in a 16-block area, or "grid," on a given day of the week. BoF trims every tree in the grid, and if these trees are properly cared for, they should not need to be trimmed again for at least five years. BoF is currently working on grid area N052 - W012 which is bounded by Clark, Bryn Mawr, Broadway, and Foster. Weather and staff pemitting, trimming is scheduled for these addresses this week:
- 1400 W Rascher
- 1400 W Farragut
- 5300, 5400, 5500 N Wayne
- 5400 N Broadway
- 1200 W Bryn Mawr
- 5200, 5300, 5400 & 5500 N Magnolia
Visit our blog to see a map of the grid and determine when the trees on your street will be trimmed.
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48th Ward Delivery Robots Survey
The 48th ward south of Foster is part of a pilot program for Personal Delivery Devices (PDDs). You may have seen these delivery robots roving around the neighborhood; they are mostly autonomous with a remote human operator to pilot when crossing the street or navigating obstacles. PDDs companies travel on sidewalks/crosswalks at a speed of 4mph. Please take a moment to share your thoughts about PDDs with the alderwoman via our online survey.
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Mobile DMV
- When: Wednesday, December 10 from 11am-2pm
- Where: 1507 W Morse
- Appointments required
Join State Rep. Kelly Cassidy and the Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias for a Mobile DMV event. Access drivers license and ID services, vehicle registration assistance, license plate stickers, and more. Be sure to bring all necessary documents with you to the event. See a list of acceptable materials here. Email [email protected] or call 773-784-2002 to make an appointment.
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North Area Community Service Center December Programs
The North Area Community Service Center at 845 W Wilson has a variety of upcoming workshops and opportunities. These FREE programs are also listed on our community calendar.
- Nutrition Assistance: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 8am-4pm | Tuesday & Thursday from 9am-5pm
- Public Benefits Support: Tuesday & Thursday from 9am-5pm
- Free Mental Health Services: Wednesday, December 10 from 11am-2pm
- And much more: Call 312-744-2580 for more information about emergency rental assistance, domestic violence advocacy, and Credit 101
See the above schedule in PDF form here.
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Sustainable Gift and Party Guides from Chicago Environmentalists
Looking for ways to make the holidays more sustainable? Chicago Environmentalists has put together guides for throwing more eco-friendly holiday parties and being more earth-conscious in your shopping. Check out the sustainable party guide here and the sustainable gift guide here.
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Recycle Non-Working Holiday Lights at the 48th Ward Office
Drop off your non-working holiday lights at the 48th ward office (1129 W Bryn Mawr) whenever we're open. Reduce Waste Chicago will recycle them safely. Be sure to separate lights from other decorations before dropping them off. The last day to drop off lights is January 31, 2026.
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Braver Angels Community Budget Debate
- When: Saturday, December 6 at 12pm
- Where: St. Paul's UCC (2335 N Orchard)
- Regsiter online.
Braver Angels hosts community debates where people on opposite sides of an issue have a constructive, enlightening discussions that reduces polarization and can lead to actual answers. Join them for their upcoming conversation: Is a high tax rate for the rich necessary for a thriving economy?
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Borderlands Film Screening and Know Your Rights Discussion
- When: December 7 & 8 at 7pm
- Where: Redtwist Theatre (1044 W Bryn Mawr)
- No registration is required for this event.
Join neighbors at Redtwist for a very special showing of “Borderlands,” an original short film written and directed by Mackenzie Baradic. This film focuses on the Border Industrial Complex and the trials of asylum seekers, particularly centering author Dora Rodriguez and 25 others who attempted to flee the Civil War from El Salvador. Both film screenings will begin at 7pm, followed by a talkback led by Dora herself. Bring your questions & prepare to be inspired! Pay-what-you-can tickets will be avialable at the door.
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Operation Warm Coat
- When: Saturday, December 6 from 1:30-4pm
- Where: Edgewater Library (6000 N Broadway)
- Register online.
The Edgewater Library branch is giving away 130 free coats (and books!) to children in the community ages 3-13. In order to get a coat and a book, the family must register by coming in person to the Edgewater library, in advance or day-of. Registration is necessary to ensure the right size is available. Coat distribution will take place on Dec 6th from 2-4pm.
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20th District Council December Meeting
- When: Monday, December 8 from 6-7:30pm
- Where: Broadway Armory (5917 N Broadway)
- No RSVP is required for this event.
Are you interested in public safety? Looking for a way to get involved in community safety initiatives? Attend your next local district council meeting and join the conversation! For this month's meeting, the 20th District Council will be reviewing and giving an opportunity for residents to provide feedback on our proposed 2026 20th District Council Goals and Priorities, as well to hear about the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability’s 2026 Goals and Priorities.
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Know Your Rights/Migra Watch Training
- When: Wednesday, December 10 at 6pm
- Where: Virtual
- Register online.
Join the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights' Know Your Rights + Migra Watch Training. This training aims to equip participants with ways to exercise our rights when encountering federal immigration enforcement actions.
Únete al Entrenamiento de Conoce Tus Derechos y Migra Watch a de la Coalición de Illinois por los Derechos de Inmigrantes y Refugiados. Este entrenamiento se enfocará en las herramientas que necesitamos para ejercer nuestros derechos en una operación de inmigración.
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Donate Items to EMAN's Free Store
Edgewater Mutual Aid Network (EMAN) accepts donations for their free store at the following times:
- Saturdays from 11am-1pm
- First and third Thursdays from 5:30-7pm
- By appointment (email [email protected])
See the full lits of accepted items, including both seasonal clothing and evergreen household needs, on EMAN's website here. Please do not donate items that are broken, dirty (including pet hair) or otherwise compromised to the point that you would not use/wear them yourself.
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24th District Council December Meeting
- When: Sunday, December 14 at 3pm
- Where: A Just Harvest Wellness Center (7637 N Paulina)
- Register here to attend via Zoom.
Are you interested in public safety? Looking for a way to get involved in community safety initiatives? Attend your next local district council meeting and join the conversation! Each district council is made up of three people elected by their community to build stronger relationships with police. The more people who participate in this vital community policing process, the more effective it can be. Thank you for working with us to build a safe and healthy neighborhood where we can all thrive.
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New Heated Shelters at Argyle, Berwyn, and Bryn Mawr
CTA has turned on the warming shelters across the network for commuters. Each of our new fully accessible CTA stations has 3 brand-new heated shelters just in time for the winter season!
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Sidewalk Snow Removal
Snow-covered sidewalks create hazards for everyone—especially vulnerable road users like older adults, people with disabilities, and children. Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from their sidewalks to keep our neighborhoods safe and accessible. Property owners who do not comply can face fines up to $500 per day of violation. You can report snow removal requests to 311, and read more about snow removal here: Sidewalk Snow Removal. If you need help shoveling snow or would like to volunteer to help your neighbors shovel, contact the 48th Ward Shovel Squad.
Bike Lane Snow Removal
CDOT crews have been deployed citywide since Monday to clear snow from the city’s 70 miles of protected bike lanes. Please continue to report bike lanes in need of attention through the City’s 311 system. Remember that shoveling snow from sidewalks into bike lanes is prohibited.
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Food Security Resources
The federal government shutdown has ended allowing thousands of Illinoisans to access overdue benefits. While this comes as a relief for many families, many more lost their benefits at the start of December following changes to SNAP eligibility requirements. To access foo security resources and find out how to help our at-risk neighbors, visit our blog.
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Cold Weather Resources
With temperatures dropping, it's important to be prepared with resources for staying safe in extreme cold weather. Remember that you can always contact 311 to find warming centers, file no-heat complaints and request well-being checks for yourself or others. Visit our blog for more winter safety tips.
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to opt in to receive occasional crime alerts from our office. If you're having trouble with this link, you can also opt in by re-subscribing HERE and checking the box at the bottom of the form. Doing so will not alter or double your existing newsletter subscription.
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Lakefront Litter Cleanup with EEC - RESCHEDULED
- When: Saturday, December 6 at 11am
- Where: Hollywood Beach House (5800 N DLSD)
- RSVP online.
Join the 48th Ward Green Council and the Edgewater Environmental Coalition (EEC) for a post-thanksgiving litter cleanup at Hollywood Beach. This is part of EEC's Litter Free Edgewater program. Learn more here. Please note that this event was previously scheduled for November 29 and was rescheduled due to snow.
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Catch a Ride on the CTA Holiday Fleet!
CTA Holiday train rides have begun! You can catch a festive ride through the 48th ward on the red line on December 16, 18, and 20. Learn more about the holiday fleet and how to track trains and buses here.
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Winter Walk on Wilson
- When: Friday, December 5 from 5-8:30pm
- Where: Participating businesses on Wilson
- No RSVP is required for this event
Stroll along Wilson Avenue to experience the holiday cheer of live performances and tasty offerings by Uptown's small businesses! Learn more.
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Paskuhan 3.0
- When: Saturday, December 6 from 10am-4pm
- Where: 1332 W Irving Park
- No RSVP is required for this event.
Join Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth for a holiday celebration at the Rizal Center. Bring your brightest parol (Christmas Lantern) for the parol parade, and show off your best Christmas outfit or costume!
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Enjoy the Holiday Season in Andersonville!
The holidays in Andersonville are a joyful celebration of community, connection, and local pride. Throughout the season, Clark Street sparkles with festive lights, creative window displays, and neighborhood events that bring people together. Come together with neighbors at the following upcoming events:
Looking for a place to buy holiday gifts? Pick up a Shop Small Passport and shop at 10 or more local Andersonville businessesfor a chance to win up to $500 in Andersonville shopping gift cards! Passports can be picked up at many of the businesses throughout the neighborhood, or at the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce (1554 W Hollywood).
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Pop-Up Holiday Market at the Broadway Armory
- When: Saturday, December 13 from 3-6pm
- Where: Broadway Armory (5917 N Broadway)
- No RSVP is required for this event.
Join us at the Broadway Armory for a pop-up holiday market with vendors, treats, food, and more! Stick around for a Wheel Thru the Season Holiday Rock 'n Roll Show with CirquesExperience and School of Rock Andersonville at 5pm!
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Festival of Lights - Chanukah Dinner
- When: Sunday, December 14 at 5pm
- Where: Emanuel Congregation (5959 N Sheridan)
- RSVP online.
Join Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth in celebrating the Festival of Lights with good food, joyful company, and warm community spirit at Emanuel Congregation. This fun family event will include a community candle lighting—please bring your family chanukiah so we can fill the room with light together!
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Cocoa, Cookies, & Carols at Berger Park
- When: Saturday, December 13 from 11am-1pm
- Where: Berger Park Cultural Center (6205 N Sheridan)
- No RSVP is required for this event
Instrumental Theatre Company invites you to enjoy cocoa, cookies, and carols at Berger Park! Bring your voices, your instruments, your cookies, and your friends!
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Friends of Goudy Hot Chocolate Fundraiser
- When: Sunday, December 7 from 9:30am-12pm
- Where: Haibayo Cafe (1132 W Argyle)
- No RSVP is required for this event.
Come support the newly formed Friends of Goudy group as they raise funds to uplift and empower our local Goudy school-age youth! Enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate - lovingly made by the students themselves!
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Holiday Meal Kit Donation Drive
We're partnering with Commissioner Gainer's office on a Meal Kit Donation Drive. Please shop entire recipes when possible and drop off meal kits at our office (1129 W Bryn Mawr) by December 8. Learn more on our blog.
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Volunteer to help with Christmas in the Wards
Every year, wards across the city come together to give families a Christmas to remember! This year, the 48th ward office is seeking volunteers to help with gift wrapping on Friday, December 12. Sign up here.
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Nepalese Aid Toy Drive
Edgewater Presbyterian is collecting toys to benefit Nepalese Aid. Bring new and unwrapped toys for children ages 0-13 to the Edgewater Presbyterian church office (1020 W Bryn Mawr) by Wednesday, December 10.
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Centro Romero Toy Drive
Spread the holiday spirit this year by providing a gift for Centro Romero youth. These dontations ensure every child Centro Romero serves has something special to unwrap, helping to make their Christmas truly memorable. The toy drive collection is opened until December 15. There are three ways you can donate:
- Amazon Wish List
- New Toys (deliver to 6216 N Clark | M-F 9-5)
- Gift Cards (deliver to 6216 N Clark | M-F 9-5)
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Care for Friends Toy Drive
Care for Friends is now collecting toys for their 2025 holiday drive. Toys can be dropped off at the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce (5706 N Clark) during their regular business hours. They are seeking donations of toys for kids ages 2-17. If gifts are wrapped, please label with the item and intended age. Great gifts include stuffed animals, board games and puzzles, and balls for sports!
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CHECK OUT THE 48th WARD CALENDAR
Never miss an event! See the calendar on our website for more exciting things happening in the ward. Fill out this form to have your own event listed.
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WHERE IN THE WARD IS LENI?
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Leni and Agnes walked Broadway with Lakewood Balmoral Residents' Council (LBRC) President Jim Shunk and LBRC members Eric Wagner and John Charmelo to talk history, current developments, and the future of Broadway.
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Leni was delighted to join the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce for their tree lighting ceremony on Sunday! Thanks to the committee that pulled this event off including Ed Kaczmarek from Urban Pooch, Dena Jo Pavlovic from Enjoy, and Lindsey Anderson from Uvae.
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This week, Leni served residents at Care for Real's new Edgewater facility on Broadway. Director Gregory Gross hosted Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Mayor's Faith Team giving them a tour of the new Broadway facility, explaining the vital services that Care for Real provides, and sharing the increase for demand that they've seen. For food assistance and to support these efforts see our blog: SNAP & Food Security.
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Leni and Angel spent a day at Care for Friends serving hot meals to neighbors and handing out free groceries. Leni secured and presented Care for Friends with a $500 check in order to support their critical mission. At the Church of Atonement, Care for Friends serves hot meals and has a pantry where people gather in community to eat a meal and grab a bag of groceries. With the donation, Care for Friends will provide a meal day on Christmas Day for those without a place to eat or gather. For food assistance and to support these efforts see our blog: SNAP & Food Security.
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