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Post Info TOPIC: Time for a change?


Motorer

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RE: Time for a change?
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yellowmininy wrote:

We can always have an arm wrestling match at the corn maze. biggrin.gif



I would pay good money to see this match up!!!  biggrinbiggrin



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Holly

2007 Astro Black [YES IT'S BLACK] MINI Cooper Convertible ("Pepper"); 2013 British Racing Green MINI Cooper S Hardtop ("Bini") and 2013 BMW X5 ("Wilhelm")



Motorer

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There is no site to move. this fourm will not change. the other is to link for pepole to this fourm. The (link removed-YellowMININY) is for the members to use in addition for the pictures,  selling of products and (link removed-YellowMININY) email address. This form will not change as it should not. It is a perfect site and runs well. It is a place for members to meet. they are on two different servers in different states. One last thing. The site has been pay for the first year as a gift to the club. The LOW cost will be covered. Like many of the other members about 10 involved right now, I too have connections. Family owns space on this server for other buisinesses.
-s

-- Edited by MightyMo at 17:51, 2008-10-17

-- Edited by yellowmininy at 18:18, 2008-10-17

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MiniMo - 2008 MINI Cooper S, Mellow Yellow, Checker glass roof, mirrors and sides, black stripes on boot & bonnet, Piaa black HID Rally lights. Zig Around Zoom Zoom


Obsessed (Taking the long-cut)

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MightyMo, you were asked not to create a new site in July, but did any way. Though you miay have good intentions, the point is, it is confusing to have 2 sites, and those of us who have seen the security issues that have come up before are not willing to take the chance of having our site hacked again.

I'm not sure what your issue is, but I would suggest that you take the time to get to know people and the history of the club before you persist in this. We've not had a lot of 'drama' on this board, and I would prefer not to. (There's always NAM for those who want that!)

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Motorer

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The members that I have met are great people. As I have said in the past it's like family. I am not looking for a fight here. I was working with other members to inhance our club. I respond to you in PM

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MiniMo - 2008 MINI Cooper S, Mellow Yellow, Checker glass roof, mirrors and sides, black stripes on boot & bonnet, Piaa black HID Rally lights. Zig Around Zoom Zoom


Obsessed (Taking the long-cut)

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The only good news about the commentroversy is that we've had more registered users online recently than 'guests' over the last couple hours.

This site may have some limitations, (mostly with photo hosting) but we have been (knock on wood) remarkably spam free. There have been hackers who have been specifically targeting Mini sites, so this is a major concern for Mini message boards and I know of one that's been hacked repeatedly. If anyone was around for the NYMINI/NEMINI domain name disagreement, that was ugly and ended up with bad feelings all around.

We aim to avoid that here, and to keep the local Mini community together.

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Motorer

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I've been more an interested observer of all the recent hubbub than a participant. Having been one of the earlier MINI owners - the first (I think) MCS in Rochester in the summer of 2002 - and a member of this place since it first appeared, I think I know the history fairly well. Both Cathleen and Jack have described the problem that arose when the site was hacked, plus the hassle and time it took to get everything back to where it was, and even better.

This site has been running well and it's doesn't seen there is any need for an additional club site. The idea of 2 separate but equal sites for the same club doesn't seem to be very realistic and could lead to confusion. Things like the logo and less than cutting edge features don't make a site / club, rather it's the individuals who belong / participate. The site is a tool used for communication to and between MINI enthusiasts, nothing more. Sure it could be flashier, but would things improve?

I have no way of knowing, but I'd find it difficult to believe that any significant number of potential members failed to join due to an older logo or lack of a classified section. Again, this place serves as tool. People are getting to caught up in the tool rather than the desired result. As I learned in a marketing class, if you could buy a box of holes, no one would ever buy a drill. It may be that some have been a little distracted by wanting a fancier drill rather than the holes.

- dl

P.S.  Just to have full disclosure, I'm no longer a MINI owner, but still keep up to date on the MINI world and am still a moderator on this board.

-- Edited by Pamlico at 16:39, 2008-10-18

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Motorist

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yellowmininy wrote:

MightyMo, you were asked not to create a new site in July, but did any way. Though you miay have good intentions, the point is, it is confusing to have 2 sites, and those of us who have seen the security issues that have come up before are not willing to take the chance of having our site hacked again.

I'm not sure what your issue is, but I would suggest that you take the time to get to know people and the history of the club before you persist in this. We've not had a lot of 'drama' on this board, and I would prefer not to. (There's always NAM for those who want that!)



No offense yellow mini but I like NAM  There are alot of great people on that site as there is here also.



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Obsessed (Taking the long-cut)

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There are things that I like about NAM, and things that I don't like about it. It is now not as argumentative as it once was, and I think that is a good thing.

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Motorer

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Ok I am going to through my opinion in. As I am somewhat new it is limited. Changing the URL is probably more work than it is worth. The redirect site is an appropriate, easy and no problem way to solve that problem. Many sites use this method, more so when they move but it makes sense in this situation.

The logo should not be "changed" but maybe updated. Take the same idea, same look and just modernize it with current technology. (I will work on this no promises and no problem if you don't like the new version.)

As for software I am not sure how a switch over works, but I would assume the tech people that create the software would help. I found this http://www.nextbbs.com/ which is really sweet because it has a live chat feature, a calendar which events could be put on has rss so we can subscribe, and is free.

I think at some point software will have to be upgraded, we are active now and may only lose inactive members.

Again this is my opinion maybe this issue does not need to be covered right now, but it may be better to address it before is has to be.

P.S. I know how much work changing a site over can be, that has been my job for the college of education at SUNY Fredonia.
http://www.fredonia.edu/coe/
This change over was for the same reason as I feel it will be necessary to do so here, new software and update the look.

This is the problem with technology, someone works very hard to get something just right and it is perfect and works great, then new tech comes out and an update is needed.

-- Edited by Mitch at 09:25, 2008-10-21

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Obsessed (Taking the long-cut)

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The logo was created 2 years ago by Cooperation, who is one of the best known Mini owners worldwide for his graphic designs, and most of the national event T shirts & designs are done by him. Besides the fact that he is one of the nicest people on the planet... It is his logo, he created it for us for us to use, and if it needs to be 'updated' then I would defer to him. Personally, I'm not quite sure what is being suggested by 'updated'.

I think change for the sake of change but not necessarily improved function is not the best use of our time. Any extra time I can find will go to event organizing and site publicity. As I've said before, it's hard to justify the cost of printing materials to publicize the website when a few people keep talking about how we need to change the name, the logo, the website, and it has to be one or the other (publicize or change). Personally, I think getting the word out is a better use of resources.

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Motorer

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The logo update would probably just be taking that and making it more 3d is all.

I am not suggesting change up upgrade. Just like when you upgrade the OS on your computer. If you don't eventually your old OS will not work very well with the new programs. As this forum is getting outdated the buttons telling me there is a new response do not work quite will. And the new technology of the calendar and chat feature would be a nice addition.

Put the logo, url and name aside the software could be upgraded so there are more features to use. I am always a little sad when I see others online and I can not contact them other than PM or start a thread. Both of which are cumbersome ways to do what a chat feature would do easily.

I agree publicity is a good goal, but if people come to this and get board or are not willing to wade through every post to find out what events are going on. We could start another thread on this forum to have just events and their dates without discussion, but again that is a cumbersome way to do what new technology can easily do.

Your work is obvious in this group yellowmininy, and it shows in the activity of all the new members. I really appreciate that when I bought my MINI could step right into a fun new club. As far as resources go the forum link I put in this is a free program. I don't have the resources to publicize much but I do have the tools to try to learn how to upgrade our software. Using our resources also involves using what our members have to offer.

For example if I want to get another tattoo I will seek vegan brian because that is what he is good at, but I won't go to him for some recipes on grilling some meat.

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Obsessed (Taking the long-cut)

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I don't know of any Mini message board that has ever successfully maintained a chat feature, though I know several that tried it (MINI2, NEMINI). Both disabled theirs for lack of interest.

As far as the calendars go, if you've ever entered event info on multiple Mini web sites, it is a tedious task, and it becomes twice as tedious where it is expected that every evey event is also entered on a calendar. Honestly, the best responses we ever get to event info is through broadcast emails.

Many of you suggesting changes are new to this board, one thing I am curious about is why some of the folks who have been here in the early years aren't posting much. I have seen many sites lose previously active members from making too many changes (MINIUSA is the prime example), which actually decreases the functionality of the site for many people.

Security of the site is still my prime objective. As long as this site is able to resist hackers and spammers as it has, I'm not in any hurry to change it. Check out the 'List All Users' list & see how many 'guest' users from Brazil, Finland, Russia, China & who knows where else are visiting, and you can see that it's not that they're not trying.

At least we know our Czech Republic visitor.

-- Edited by yellowmininy at 10:53, 2008-10-21

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Motorer

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The chat feature may not be used a lot, but I do notice we are checking more often. A calender on this site would not be that bad we are small and I am not saying put every MINI event, just the local ones which local members have created. This site can not be compared to the large sites like MINI2 NEM and the such they operate under a different purpose. As far as security with newer software security should be less of an issue. Also these changes aren't things I (or others as far as I can tell) are asking you to do, but maybe something they or myself are willing to work on.

Older members who do not post as much may not be posting for a couple reasons, both of which happen to me here and on other forums.

1. Board nothing new being discussed. When new people come on they talk about the same things we all talked about when we signed up.

2. Move on to other hobbies. Newer hobbies usually take precedence with people.

3. Forums demographics change from time to time, and sometimes it changes as people move on and new people come.

I just feel that if people want to upgrade some of the features then it should be done, since there have been more members wanting upgrades than ones specifically saying they are opposed.

What it really comes down to for me is that I am happy with how things are now, they could be better everything can be. I am willing to work on it to the best of my ability.

-- Edited by Mitch at 11:29, 2008-10-21

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Motorer

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The only thing I can say for now is if its not broken dont fix it. And thanks for all the new friends that I and my family have met. see ya CJ

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Willow:::bee, 2008 Mini Cooper"S"Clubman,LazerBlue,premiumpack,chrome interior,side mirrors,chrome exterior,dual sunroofs,checkerd dash,clothseats
Pearl, 2010 Mini Cooper ,Oxygen Blue ,leather interior,heated seats,dual sunroofs


Motorer

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yellowmininy wrote:
At least we know our Czech Republic visitor. biggrin.gif


I don't know thats pretty sketchy!... I think you should keep an eye on him wink

 



-- Edited by Venno at 14:31, 2008-10-22

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Venno

DS w/DS '06MCS-17%/Alta CAI/Detroit Bypass Valve/Alta Air Diverter/Schroth Rcng Hrnss/CF Uber Scoop/Alta 19mm Sway Bar/Irlnd Cmbr Plt/Team Dynamics ProRace 1 17" Anthracite Rims with Jerzee Plts and a Gray-Scale Czech roof flag


Obsessed (Taking the long-cut)

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Well, for one thing, I don't think he's driving the Mini in the picture! (At the moment, anyway.) Say, you haven't been in Finland or Brazil lately, have you?



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Motorer

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yellowmininy wrote:

Well, for one thing, I don't think he's driving the Mini in the picture! (At the moment, anyway.) biggrin.gif Say, you haven't been in Finland or Brazil lately, have you?



Yup, See, I knew there was something sketch about him!

Finland, No, Not yet, but soon, I have a coworker who's originally from there.
And Brazil- Nope....

 



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Venno

DS w/DS '06MCS-17%/Alta CAI/Detroit Bypass Valve/Alta Air Diverter/Schroth Rcng Hrnss/CF Uber Scoop/Alta 19mm Sway Bar/Irlnd Cmbr Plt/Team Dynamics ProRace 1 17" Anthracite Rims with Jerzee Plts and a Gray-Scale Czech roof flag


Motorer

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Third party chat rooms rarely work correctly. If you want proof NAM, WhiteRoofRadio, SOMC all used to have chat rooms and they ditched them.
I would recommend setting up a MSM Messenger account and share contact info.

As one of the founding members I find that my lack of posting is due to not having much to say. The current evolution of this board has moved from a Buffalo/ Niagara site to a Rochester site. (I have no opinion as to if this is a good or bad thing It is just an observation) Out side of posting events that I think the membership may be interested in or helping with some technical advice I really dont have much to add to the discussion.

The subject of updating the site has been one of the hot button items here lately. I have no problem improving the looks or adding new features. Cathleen David and I are willing to listen to suggestions for improvements. However it must be understood that not all things are possible.  Please dont take the "You didn't listen to my ideas so I am taking my toys to another sand box to play." outlook when one of us says that isnt something we can do now. The important thing to remember is that we are providing a stable place to meet.

Happy Motoring,
Jack



-- Edited by Jack07734 at 14:50, 2008-10-23

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Motorer

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Well said Jack.

- dl


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Obsessed (Taking the long-cut)

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I think the folks who are asking to improve the site have good intentions. Having spent 5 years on Mini message boards, and I have to say I've spent time on a lot of them, I've seen a lot of what works and what doesn't, and Jack & David (Pamlico) have been on all those boards right along with me (though I may be the only MINIUSA regular, but NAM, MINI2, Roadfly & a lot of smaller boards). I've set up Yahoo groups of my own and watched them fade out.

From what I've seen in other boards and clubs, there's been a transition of interest where some people who've had Minis for 5 years aren't quite as excited about it any more, where there are also a lot of people buying Minis now due to the fuel & economy situations, so there is a lot of new enthusiasm. It is kind of a challenge to meld both groups together into one cohesive club.

I'm just getting to an end to (or close to the end) of a 6 month long house renovation project, so I'm hoping to put more time in longer range event planning, and get the regular dinner events going for winter, and maybe the weather will cooperate enough for some driving.

Holly had an idea of volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House to cook breakfast some Sunday, and I've always wanted to see if we could get some Mini owners to a bone marrow registry event, so we are hoping to do some good things besides just eating & driving (though that may be what we do best.)

Jack, I think there is still quite a few people in the Buffalo area. One thing that might make sense is breaking down into smaller area expectations, and have dinners on the same night in 2 different places, or a week apart so any one who wanted to travel could go to both, but I think it is harder for people to justify the expense of traveling far on a regular basis just to hang out.

Just had a long drawn out day at work, and came out to find another yellow Mini parked next to mine in the parking lot. Somehow that makes the whole day better. :)

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Member

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I vote to keep the site as is. The only improvement would be to possibly add under your profile pictures of your MINI that can be viewed by everyone. Take a look at the SOMC website, its pretty good. Towne MINI gave me a WNY MINI Club Card when I purchased my MINI and from there I visited the website. I think we should also have small bumper stickers/badges that we can put on our cars to advertise the WNY MINI Club.

Thanks
The Baron

-- Edited by redbaron at 22:32, 2008-10-23

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Motorer

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I hear everyone that says if it isn't broken then don't try to fix it. I am not stirring the pot or anything, just a thought to chew on. I always go with if it isn't broken then just try to make it better.

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Motorer

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Mitch,

Have you ever heard of "new coke"? Didn't do so well. They went back to classic. Why? Because it wasn't broke. Same goes for clear Pepsi. Must have seemed like a good idea at the time...

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Holly

2007 Astro Black [YES IT'S BLACK] MINI Cooper Convertible ("Pepper"); 2013 British Racing Green MINI Cooper S Hardtop ("Bini") and 2013 BMW X5 ("Wilhelm")



Motorist

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For what it is worth...it seems to me this site is about more than flashy graphics and outside links. Being a new member and having only attended 1 event (Letchworth) I'm excited about being a part of the group and am thrilled with the new friends I have made. Obvioulsy, I haven't had a chance to get to know a lot of you but would like to comment that I admire your passion. I think the problem is without the face to face interaction the message loses the intended meaning. Really it comes down to...what is the better experience, automatic or stick? Cooper or Cooper S?...would you agree it depends on what you are comfortable with? Personaly I will probably always drive a Cooper with a stick(as long as it has heated seats)...I have no need for more power with the car I drive or on this webpage ( : I like it the way it is but also know I am open to new things.

How about we all meet for a glass of beer or cup of coffee and talk about it? Or better yet...when can we do the Ronald McDonald House breakfast????

Let there be peace on earth...and enough gas to get you where you want to go...

Grammacoop3


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Motorer

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Grammacoop3 wrote:

How about we all meet for a glass of beer or cup of coffee and talk about it? Or better yet...when can we do the Ronald McDonald House breakfast????

Let there be peace on earth...and enough gas to get you where you want to go...

Grammacoop3



I think Gc3 may be on to something here. I felt a pang of relief / humor at the suggestion of arm-wrestling in the corn maze (you call it corn, but they call it maize). But by then, I think the tone/posture had been set for something sterner.

I'm game for a get-together...

 



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Motorer

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I will be in Niagra Falls this friday for a wedding  and possibly Sat Morn or Sun I could try to get together for a beer or coffee coffeecup.gifor potato water . Let me know. The wedding is friday night ,Magic show with both the groom and bride with tigers eyepopping.gif in the show Sat night then to the casino .I could slip out for a mini ride aye .See ya CJ

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Willow:::bee, 2008 Mini Cooper"S"Clubman,LazerBlue,premiumpack,chrome interior,side mirrors,chrome exterior,dual sunroofs,checkerd dash,clothseats
Pearl, 2010 Mini Cooper ,Oxygen Blue ,leather interior,heated seats,dual sunroofs


Motorer

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Dumpnrun wrote:

.....potato water .....



HA! Love it!!!
I think I'll be using that if that's alright smile.gif

 



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Venno

DS w/DS '06MCS-17%/Alta CAI/Detroit Bypass Valve/Alta Air Diverter/Schroth Rcng Hrnss/CF Uber Scoop/Alta 19mm Sway Bar/Irlnd Cmbr Plt/Team Dynamics ProRace 1 17" Anthracite Rims with Jerzee Plts and a Gray-Scale Czech roof flag


Motorist

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Are you serious about tigers at the wedding????  It might be worth a trip to Niagara Falls just to hear about it....my daughter is getting married in June and we are looking for something unusal to do for it...tigers might be a bit out of our price range though...

I am so glad we got to meet you....you certainly are interesting! headbang.gif



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Member

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I leave the site for two weeks and this is what I come back to?

I won't put my opinion upon you but being one of the original members you could probably guess that I would side with my fellow originies.

You can see by my low post count I don't live on this site. I just come to see what is going on and now, apparently, read very lengthy heated discussions. While you may feel you need more, I don't need anything more than what we've got.

What happened to the logo? As of this posting it isn't appearing at the top of the page.


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CR/B/Tartan Red/White lettered tires. Driving lights/Rear Fog. Drivetrain is factory original. 11k miles.

Ordered in March 2002, Mila has been a part of our life since May 18th, 2002.


Motorer

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The logo has been deleted due to Eric's Adelphia account being disabled.
Probably due to the takeover by Time Warner.

I managed to find a copy of it hiding in my internet cache.

As soon as I can find a new stable home for it I will restore it.

I just want to take a moment to mention the importance of having a stable location for our site. While temporarly loosing our logo is not a huge problem the same thing could have happened to the entire site. This is why I am not in favour of moving it.

Happy Motoring,
Jack

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