Livingston Reporting - page 225

Popular Roofing For Homes In The North

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A popular material to use in roofing here in the north is asphalt shingles.  In this installment on roofing our contractors will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using composite shingles for your new or replacement roof.

Two types of shingles are available on the market, organic and fiberglass.  Fiberglass shingles are created with a bottom layer mat that is created out of glass fiber.  The mat is then coated with a mixture containing asphalt and mineral fillers to create a waterproof barrier. Fiberglass is more widely used because they offer excellent protection against fire.  Organic shingles on the other hand use a mat created from recycled paper, covered with asphalt and a top layer of bonding salt and ceramic granules implanted on the top.  Organic shingles are incredibly durable however highly flammable.

Shingles have many advantages over other materials used in roofing.  Shingle roofing is incredibly affordable.  It is comparatively inexpensive upfront and is the most affordable option in the short term.  When properly installed a shingle roof can offer a solid level of protection against a wide range of climates for at least twelve to fifteen years.

Even though shingle roofing is inexpensive does not mean that it lacks in variety.  The most common and cost effective is the three tab shingle followed by architectural and premium.  No matter what style your home is there is a shingle roofing option to complement and enhance the exterior.  Another benefit is the vast number of colors and patterns to choose from.  Shingle roofs can be used to create an alluring custom look that can greatly enhance the overall appeal of your home’s exterior.

Professional roof contractors appreciate the next benefit, ease of installation and repair.  Asphalt shingles are light weight and can be easily installed without requiring any added structural supports, special tools or without any major prep.

This isn’t to say that asphalt shingles are without fault.  Some disadvantages of having roofing contractors install asphalt roofing are:

  • If the roof needs to be installed and temperatures fall below freezing shingles are more apt to be damaged.
  • Asphalt damage can occur without proper attic ventilation.
  • Extreme heat causes cracking and color loss in shingles.
  • Bi-yearly maintenance and regular repairs are essential to ensure shingle roofing keeps its integrity.
  • Asphalt shingles, for the most part, are not environmentally friendly.

Overall however shingle roofing is the most preferred material by roofing contractors to install on home in areas where the climate varies substantially between seasons.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

 

 

Home Pro Roofing MI

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The Benefits of Metal Roofing Over Other Roofing Options

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Residential roofing contractors are encouraging more and more homeowners to consider metal roofing over other options in roofing such as asphalt shingles, clay tiles, slate, wood shingles and more.  Why you ask?

Advantages of Metal Roofing

  • Durability – A metal roof can last upwards of forty to fifty years whereas homeowners can only get about twelve to fifteen years out of asphalt shingles. Metal roofing lasts. It maintains its integrity in aspects of both strength and appearance.
  • Eco-Friendly – Metal roofing is the king of recycled roofing materials. At least twenty five percent of the contents in metal roofing come from recycled materials.   Metal roofing itself is one hundred percent recyclable when it is time for your homes roof to be replaced.
  • Impact Resistance – Roofing needs to protect homes from damage that can occur due to weather. Metal roofing does just that.  In climates where the weather doesn’t only change between seasons, but also from day to day, can benefit from metal roofing.
  • Fire Resistant – Metal roofing has a higher fireproof rating than any other material in roofing. Let’s face it metal is near impossible to set on fire.
  • Energy Conservation – Reflective materials such as metal aid homeowners in helping to keep their homes interior cool when the air is running throughout the summer. Metal roofing will help you save on air conditioning bills.
  • Steep Pitch –Metal roofing is ideal for all pitches and slopes that can be found on homes. From the steepest roof to the flattest roof metal roofing is ideal.  During the winter months snow easily glides off.

With all the benefits of metal roofing it is hard to imagine that all homeowners living where the climate changes don’t install metal roofs.  However, there are some drawbacks to purchasing metal roofing over other traditional materials available in roofing.

Drawbacks of Metal Roofing

  • Cost – One major disadvantage of metal roofing is the cost. Up-front metal roofing is tremendously expensive in comparison to composite asphalt shingles.  Metal is a long lasting, heavy duty roofing solution however the initial investment could end up lasting longer than most homeowner’s desire.
  • Noise – Many homeowners enjoy the pit-pat of rain on metal roofing but consider hearing it day after day. It is true that the peaceful sound or rain or hail can get a bit tiring after awhile especially for homeowners with sensitivity to sound.

When deciding between metal roofing and other options consider the above while also taking a long hard look at the exterior of your home.   Metal roofing enhances the exterior of almost all homes but perhaps to you aesthetically it just isn’t what you are looking for.  Only you as the homeowners will truly know if a metal roof is ideal for your home.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home Pro Roofing MI

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Tips When Hiring A Handyman

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Many of us are not handy when it comes to even the smallest home improvement project.  This is why it is important to have a professional handyman on speed dial at all times.  In order to get the most out of hiring a handyman consider the advice below.

Get organized and maintain an ongoing list of work that needs to be accomplished.  This will allow you to maximize the work that is done when the handyman is at your home.  When it comes to the repairs and work needed on your home be upfront with your expectations.  Handyman services vary between companies and therefore it is important to make sure what you need is something that can be accomplished using the individual you have contracted.  If your request is not within the services that they offer they will be more than happy to refer you to someone who can handle your request.

When hiring a handyman look no further than friends and family for referrals.  Most handymen businesses are grown based on word of mouth alone.  If the person you are looking to hire can’t provide at least three local references then pass on them.  Any good handyman will have a large handful of regular clients that use their services on an ongoing basis.

As with any contractor working within your home or business it is crucial that they are not only licensed and insured but also bonded.  If they are injured on your property while performing work for you it is important that they have insurance otherwise you will be fully liable.

Before you allow a handyman to perform any work within your home make sure you get a signed, written estimate that includes both the cost of labor and materials.  Reputablehandyman will be able to estimate jobs within ten percent.  Make it clear to potential handyman that you are looking to hire that you understand this fact and aren’t interested in any low ball estimates.

You have to be one hundred percent comfortable with this individual as they will be working in your home close to your family.  It is pertinent that you are not only comfortable with their work and pricing but also their demeanor.

Establish a detailed schedule of when work is to be accomplished.  It should include when work is to start, an estimate on finishing with check in points throughout the project.  This schedule should be agreed upon between both parties to avoid any miscommunication in what is to be done.

Finally ask about guarantees on materials and craftsmanship.  If the handyman you are looking to hire does not offer any type of satisfaction guarantee then avoid hiring them.  You should get in writing a statement of from the handyman ensuring that they will take care of quality issues and workmanship failures for a specific amount of time, free of extra charge.

 

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

How To Determine If It Is Time To Plaster Your Residential Gunite Swimming Pool

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It is believed that commercial pools should be plastered about every ten years however with residential pools the answer isn’t as clear.  In this installment on pool plastering we will look at several signs that are dead giveaways that the pool needs to be plastered.  The pools plaster protects both the look and structural elements.  Watch for the signs below to know when it is time to call in pool plaster professionals.

Over a period of time, no matter how balanced the chemicals in your pool are the minerals in the water will stain the plaster and change the look of the original plaster.  As this occurs it becomes more and more evident that the plaster needs to be replaced.

Most in-ground pools are constructed out of Gunite, a concrete substance that is used to create the base of the pool.  The plaster is used on top of the Gunite and acts as a waterproof protective barrier that offers an aesthetic appeal as well.  When the Gunite begins to show through the plaster this is another sure sign it is time to call in the pool plastering professionals.

If you notice that your feet are being torn up by the bottom of the pool and that swimming in the pool is becoming rougher and rougher to the touch it is a good sign the plaster needs updating.  Bathing suits will start to snag on jagged plaster edges when the plaster starts to wear down.  This may not be visible to the naked eye.  If you start to feel or see rough patches on the pools plaster it is time to plaster your pool.  Cracks, pits or patchy spots are all common when plaster has aged and is in need of replacement.

Plastering your residential Gunite swimming pools costs between three and five dollars depending on a number of factors including: the contractors, the size of the pool, the climate, and the area in which you reside.  An average pool runs between four and five thousand dollars to plaster.

If you decide that this is going to be the year you plaster your pool it is best to get a call into the pool plastering company early in the season.  Depending on where you live the season in which you can enjoy your pool can be short.  If this is your situation you will want to have the pool plastered before opening it for the season to avoid any usage downtime.  Contact a reputable pool plastering company to come out and quote your project.  After you have several quotes and have done substantial research on each of the local pool plastering companies it will be time to schedule an appointment to have your pool plastered.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Proper Maintenance Tips For Electronic Driveway Gates

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It is without a doubt that one of the greatest deterrents of crime is the addition of an automatic driveway gate.  They are put in place to not only secure homes but also businesses.  Not only do they help to secure the space they do so in a convenient, practical, attractive and affordable manner.  Most gates are simple to operate and demand very little maintenance.  Below you will find the simple maintenance tips to maintain your electronic driveway entry gate.

First and foremost it is important to keep your automatic gate clean.  Occasionally you will find that it is important to was and wax the exterior of the gate to keep it looking as beautiful as the day it was installed.  This is especially important for fences that are glossy.  Don’t wait until the fence becomes tarnished, discolored or begins to flake.  At that point the gate will need the paint removed, the fence sandblasted and the fence repainted.  Thoroughly cleaning the fence every six months will keep the fence looking beautiful.

It is important to spray silicon spray on the inner tube that passes through the arm of the opener.  Silicon spray doesn’t gather dirt and grime.  The silicon in fact allows the inner seal to remain flexible.  This is especially important in cold climate environments as it helps to get rid of moisture that is trapped inside the arm of the opener and helps to keep it from freezing up.

Maintenance on the hinges of an automatic driveway gate is important and demand more attention than the gate itself.  Regular greasing of the gates hinges is crucial as it helps to protect the tension and durability of the gate.  Be sure to look for small cracks in the hinges as small cracks can create a large expense in a homeowner’s pocket book.

When you have a slide gate installed you will want to take time to grease the drive chain on the opener regularly.  The chain needs to remain flexible to avoid becoming jagged in order to remain performing as it is intended.  It is best to use heavy grease over a spray when applying lubricant to this area of the gate.  The most appropriate lubrication for a gate drive chain is white lithium grease.

If you purchase a quality electronic entry gate and take the time to maintain it properly it will last you a lifetime.  Take into consideration the quality of the gate you can purchase to stay within your allotted budget.  It is best to postpone the purchase if you find this is a challenge.  The higher quality the entrance gate, gate operator, and control system the longer you can expect the lifespan of the fence to be especially if you take the necessary steps to maintain it.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic driveway gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

 

SAC Fence

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Differences In Elder Law and Estate Planning

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There is a common misconception about elder law and estate planning.  Many people think that these two concepts only apply to individuals with wealth during the later part of their lives.  However, this is the furthest thing from the truth.  Everyone has an estate.  Elder law is actually an area of law that affects everyone at any age that plans on growing old.

There are many questions that people wonder about as they grow old including:

  • If I can’t make decisions for myself anymore what will happen?
  • Who will make decisions for me if I am no longer able to?
  • Do I qualify for any special benefits?
  • How will I go about making arrangements for special financial obligations?
  • What will happen with my belongings?
  • As I grow old where will I live and how will I continue to pay for it?

These questions and more are answered when you meet with an elder law attorney.  Meeting with an attorney that specializes in elder law is an incredibly proactive step to take.  It is a step that everyone should take but especially those with health and medical concerns.  Elder law goes well beyond estate planning because it addresses your quality of life, housing arrangements, financial and medical concerns.

Estate planning is beneficial for everyone because it affects people from all sectors of life, not just the wealthy.  No one is protected against the conflict that can arise in a family after the death of a loved one; with a detailed estate plan in place though a lot of family disagreements can be avoided.  Everything and anything that an individual possesses can be part of an estate plan including: cars, homes, bank accounts, life insurance, furnishings and personal property.  Estate planning should be done early in life and updated on a regular basis.

An estate planning attorney helps individuals think ahead to prepare for and make arrangements while they are still living.  It is in place to minimize taxes, probate expenses and create less family drama upon an individual’s passing.  If an estate plan is not in place the estate is distributed based on the rules of the state and the court.  Without a plan in place probate laws state how the distribution of the estate will play out.  What this could mean is that your spouse, children and other relatives may end up not provided for in the manner that you would have chosen.

An estate planning attorney can assist with drawing up wills, trust, designating beneficiaries, power of attorneys, gifting, special financial arrangements and insurance needs.  Estate planning attorneys help individuals with a variety of concerns including:

  • Making sure that your instructions are carried out as you wish.
  • Helping to minimize the amount paid in taxes, court fees and miscellaneous expenses.
  • Helping detail your heath care directive and ensure that your instructions are followed if you should become disabled.
  • Taking care of naming individuals as guardians and ensuring the inheritance will be managed by the correct individual.
  • Providing detailed instruction for special needs family members.
  • Determining what insurance is needed including life, disability and long term care.
  • Ensuring that wishes with business endeavors that are in place are carried out accordingly including transfers of ownership.

An elder law attorney encompasses a very broad spectrum of the law.  Elder law lawyers can assist clients with all the functions of estate planning and more.  As individuals live longer more planning is needed to ensure that not only are their families cared for but that they are as well.  Thoughtful planning and budgeting take place to ensure that the twists and turns of life are all met.  Elder law attorneys take care of special needs including:

  • Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security Issues
  • Retirement benefits
  • Long term care and housing needs including financing
  • Issues with age discrimination
  • Elder abuse and neglect issues
  • Disability planning
  • Veterans planning
  • Issues with insurance
  • End of life decisions

The Law Office of Sean J. Nichols is dedicated to assisting clients throughout legal issues that come with aging including: elder law, estate planning, probate law and more.  Check out the Law Office of Sean J. Nichols at http://www.seanjnichols.com to contact an estate attorney today.

Sean J. Nichols

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Top Reasons To Have An Estate Plan In Place

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are many reasons to make time to meet with an estate planning attorney to create an estate plan.  In this installment on estate planning we will look at the top reasons estate planning is necessary for even those with small estates.

The most common reason most individuals seek out an estate planning attorney to create a plan for their estate is to avoid their estate from sitting in probate upon their passing.  Many of us have never had to deal with probate and probate courts but the one thing we know and understand from other people’s experiences is that it is best to avoid it at all costs.  There are many horror stories to be told from the media, neighbors, friends and business associates.  It is enough to make most of us understand that it is crucial to have an estate plan in place to ensure our estate avoids probate for the sake of our families.

Another common reason that individuals seek out estate planning attorneys is to help significantly reduce their estate taxes.   Avoiding federal and state inheritance taxes is a great motivator for most people to put together an estate plan.  Even the most basic of estate plans can greatly reduce or eliminate estate taxes for married couples.  Eliminate estate taxes all together with the creation of trusts or revocable living trusts.  Attorneys specializing in estate planning are super beneficial in helping both individuals and couples decrease the amount they are required to pay in estate and inheritance tax.

After personally experiencing or seeing a loved one experience the mess of probate and poor estate planning encourages many individuals to seek out an estate planning lawyer.  Avoiding a mess for the family you are leaving behind is one of the key reasons to have in place an estate plan.  Estate plans do more than save in taxes and help avoid probate; they allow a plan to be in place that saves time, money and allows individuals to focus on what is most important at the time of your passing.  An estate plan often allows you to choose someone to be in charge if you are to become mentally incapacitated and again after your passing.  This executor is able to decide who will get what, when it will be given and how it will be distributed.  This keeps family fights to a minimum and helps to avoid costly probate and court proceedings.

Call today to schedule an appointment with a local estate planning attorney to ensure your estate is executed as you desire.

The Law Office of Sean J. Nichols is dedicated to assisting clients throughout legal issues that come with aging including: elder law, estate planning, probate law and more.  Check out the Law Office of Sean J. Nichols at http://www.seanjnichols.com to contact an estate attorney today.

Sean J. Nichols

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Proper Maintenance and Care For Medical Equipment Part Two

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In this installment on maintenance and care of medical equipment we will consider aspects in medical equipment care and maintenance including: contracting medical technicians, in house maintenance and basic and extended warranties.  It is crucial that facilities protect their investments especially when it comes to expensive medical equipment that is not easily replaced.  Medical facilities rely on medical equipment to be reliable and in proper working order as needed.  Each piece of medical equipment is responsible for accurate diagnosis.  Each technician is accountable for keeping the equipment software up to date, the equipment running properly and keeping patient care at the highest level possible.

In our last installment we discussed why both proper usage and following manufacturer’s use and maintenance guidelines were crucial in increasing the longevity of medical equipment.  In this installment we will further discuss ways to properly maintain and care for costly new and refurbished medical equipment.

In House Maintenance

It is crucial that the technicians operating medical equipment are not only trained in how to properly use the machine but also on how to perform regular, basic maintenance.  There are certain maintenance tasks that will not be able to be performed by equipment operator however basic upkeep is possible.   This will allow for immediate response if the medical equipment has a failure which reduces downtime and interruptions in patient care.  It is important to be aware of the operator’s capabilities and to know when to bring in professional help.

Comprehending Equipment Warranties

With proper care, maintenance and usage there equipment will be able to run properly for an extended period of time.  Problems can still occur and when that happens it is important to have an understanding of the products warranty.  Failure on the facilities part to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer could void the warranty.  This is why it is so important to thoroughly read and review equipment procedures and keep software regularly updated.

Hiring Professional Medical Equipment Technicians

It is vital for the longevity of the equipment in your medical facility to be regularly services by professional technicians.  As with any large piece of equipment be it in your home or business regular inspections, cleanings and maintenance are required yearly to keep functions running smoothly.  Service is offered in several different manners.  Your medical facility could have a scheduled contract with service specialists, hire third party of vendors on an as needed basis or rely on remote assistance.

The most important element that should be taken from these installments is that with regular care and maintenance provided by in house trained equipment operators and hired professional’s the longevity of  medical equipment will increase.

Radparts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts for Linear Accelerators and Radiation Oncology equipment.  We provide high quality, user friendly, low cost parts support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment.  For more information on low cost parts for repairing Linac equipment find us at http://www.radparts.com.

RadParts

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Proper Maintenance and Care For Medical Equipment Part One

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Medical equipment is costly and often requires a great deal of budgeting to purchase.  Even if the facility is able to find refurbished medical equipment it should be assumed that it will be rather pricey.  Gently used medical equipment that has gone through stringent refurbishing is one way that facilities can help cut costs.  It is important to remember that proper maintenance and regular care of refurbished medical equipment is as important if not more important than that of brand new equipment for medical use.

Proper maintenance and care is crucial for equipment that is used in the treatment of patients.  Daily use wears equipment down quickly.  In order to achieve the best results for patient care equipment must be kept functioning properly.  If equipment is not maintained facilities run the risk of constant malfunctions and breakdowns leading to a decrease in customer care which makes the practice seem unreliable.  Here are some valuable maintenance and care tips to help get your facility on the right track.

Appropriate Management

The way that facilities care and use medical equipment daily will predict how long the machine will last.  Improper use of sensitive medical equipment on regular basis will set the machine up for malfunction and failure.  Medical equipment should only be used as directed by the original manufacturer.  When medical equipment is used in a way that is not recommended there is a greater risk of harm to the patient as well as to the equipment operator.

Follow Manufacturer Procedures

When medical equipment is purchased, whether it is new or refurbished it is crucial that the manufacturer’s instructions on proper use and maintenance are included.   The manual will show a plan for regular diagnostics, updates to software and will advise facilities on hiring professional technicians to inspect and care for the equipment. It is important that the manufacturer’s guideline is followed. This will ensure that machine failure and snafus are kept to a minimum.

In the next installment on maintenance and care of medical equipment we will discuss contracting medical technicians, in house maintenance and warranties.  It is important to protect your investment.  Medical equipment is expensive and not easily replaced.  With the main objective of medical facilities being reliable, affordable patient care it is crucial that each piece of medical equipment is kept up to date, running as expected, providing proper diagnostics and keeping patient care at the highest level possible.

Radparts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts for Linear Accelerators and Radiation Oncology equipment.  We provide high quality, user friendly, low cost parts support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment.  For more information on low cost parts for repairing Linac equipment find us at http://www.radparts.com.

RadParts

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Technology Is Changing The Home Improvement Industry

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to new construction and home improvements today it is amazing how technology has changed the way professionals work.  Advances have made that make home building techniques of yesterday obsolete.  Homes are made with greener, more sustainable materials as well as being built to fit the way we live today.  Below you will find some of the most popular trends in new construction and home improvement.

As mentioned previously, homes today are built with more sustainable materials than ever before.  Home construction is all about environmental friendliness and green living.  Energy efficient elements are being included in new construction home designs all in an effort to reduce a homeowner’s footprint on the Earth.

Other ways homeowners are changing the construction industry while maintaining the environment is with the use of reclaimed wood.  The use of reclaimed wood is popular in flooring and for accents.  It is a terrific way for homeowners to combine rustic and contemporary styles in their homes.

Technology is being used throughout home design as well to account for the increase in homeowners needs to be connected through their smart phones and tablets.  This is largely developing in modern kitchens as the desire to enhance easy living for busy families on the go.  Smart appliances are also being integrated throughout homes in an effort to augment homes to match the changes in the family climate.

Open shelving throughout the home is another trend that is popular for 2016.  This includes open designs within kitchens and bathrooms as well as shelving throughout the living room and bedroom areas.  Open shelves allow homeowners the ability to showcase more aesthetically pleasing elements.

LED lighting along with the use of colors in lighting are both trends that contractors are seeing in new construction.  Colored lighting controlled by smart phones is a popular way that homeowners can control the ambience of the room without moving.  LED lights are being placed above showerheads to enhance the water stream and in kitchens above the cabinets to increase the visual appeal of the space.  These are all elements in the home improvement industry that are being altered because of advances in technology.

Trends in the home improvement industry are definitely nothing new to most professional contractors that are around today.  From shag orange carpet and plaid couches to refrigerators that allow you to shop directly from them contractors are used to being a part of ever changing trends in the way families interact within their homes.

Aspen Construction is an innovative building leader specializing in home additions, new construction, bathroom and kitchen remodeling.  For all of your home improvement needs including electrical services contact us today at http://www.aspencoinc.com/.

Aspen Construction

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