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| Volume 6 | Issue 9 |
February 27, 2026 |
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Weekly Update from Supervisor Foley
Out in the Fabulous Fifth and in the Board room, we continue enhancing safety, public health, and financial stability of our residents. This week, the Board approved important legislation to protect Orange County residents from theft, strengthen environmental resilience with our Climate Action Plan, and improve travel amenities at John Wayne Airport.
In the District, my team prioritized clarity around our flood channel maintenance in partnership with OC Public Works – learn more in my health section.
With the 2028 LA Olympics on the horizon at Lower Trestles in San Clemente, we continue cultivating a seaside Olympic Village for visitors far and wide. Tune into my interview about how Orange County prepares for 2028 Olympics here.
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Board of Supervisors Meeting
Our Board meeting this week resulted in decisive action on safety, climate, airport and community grants in the Fabulous Fifth. Notable items from this week include:
Combatting Catalytic Converter Theft
Hardworking families cannot cover the rising costs of car ownership and the price of theft. Passing my proposed Catalytic Converter Ordinance by a bi-partisan Board vote closes loopholes ignored by Sacramento. The new law provides our law enforcement partners clear, practical tools to deter repeat theft, and better protect Orange County car owners, small businesses, and our neighborhoods. Hear more in my discussion with KNX News.
Five years ago, Orange County lacked a greenhouse gas inventory and readiness for state climate mandates. This week, the Board unanimously adopted the County’s first Climate Action Plan, establishing a roadmap for county operations to reduce energy costs and emissions, reduce reliance on toxic chemicals, reduce pollution and prioritize greener, cleaner options, strengthen environmental stewardship, and increase our ability to compete for state and federal funding.
San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station remains on track for complete demolition in fewer than five years, yet the federal government continues delaying their obligation to remove the spent nuclear fuel off our vulnerable coastline. By extending our support for the Spent Fuel Solutions Coalition, the County continues leading the charge to ensure the federal government upholds their obligations and enacts necessary changes to the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to swiftly remove nuclear waste from Southern California shores.
At John Wayne Airport, we continue focusing on reliable operations and setting clear priorities for the future of local travel. The Board-approved plan maintains current departure levels, clarifies how airline slots are assigned, and supports reliable service without increasing overall airport capacity, environmental impact, or noise over neighborhoods.
Contract renewals with Siemens Industry, Inc. and Science Applications International Corporation ensure continued security system maintenance and upgraded cybersecurity protections to safeguard airport operations and passenger information.
The Board approved grant awards from Fifth District discretionary funds for arts, mental health, hate crime tracking, health care research, and more:
Read more about our week below.
Keeping Our Community Safe
Yesterday our Orange County Fire Authority formalized the employment agreement for Interim Fire Chief T.J. McGovern, ensuring steady leadership during this transition. Chief McGovern brings decades of OCFA experience and a strong understanding of our operational and fiscal responsibilities.
I was appointed to serve on the Legislative & Public Affairs Committee, which I previously served on from 2023-2024. This committee plays an important role in advancing Orange County’s fire service priorities at state and federal levels.
We also voted to direct staff to review and update our “Standard of Cover” for Air Operations – the assessment determining how many aerial resources we need, appropriate positioning, and adequate response times. This review ensures our air fleet remains aligned with current wildfire risks and emergency response needs.
 Building Healthy Communities
Following a series of thoughtful inquiries sent to my office last week regarding San Juan and Trabuco Creek Flood Channels, I got to work on identifying clear answers to your outstanding questions during my check-in with OC Public Works. To reiterate, the county has not used Glyphosate in our San Juan and Trabuco Creek Flood Channels since January 2025 due to a formal investigation we lodged at that time following a credible complaint. We also do not plan to use Glyphosate in these channels in the future. During my recent meeting with OC Public Works, I expressed deep interest in exploring more cost-effective nature-based alternatives.
 Growing our Thriving Economy
Thank you to Senator Catherine Blakespear’s office as well as our partners at OC United Way for joining us in providing no-cost IRS-certified tax preparation for families at our “Tea & Taxes” event. We know how stressful tax season can feel for many in our county. With access to these trusted resources, our Orange County veterans, seniors, neighbors living with disabilities, and low- to middle-income families save money and secure full refunds owed.
 Top: With OC United Way; Bottom Left: With Kim Carr of Senator Blakespear’s office; Bottom Right: Chatting with a resident utilizing tax preparation services.
South Coast Metro Luncheon
At our South Coast Metro Alliance luncheon on Wednesday, I provided an update on our County’s Environmental Health Programming, highlighting our new automated permit application that reduced wait times by nearly 90%, the launch of a digital construction guide and dashboard, and expanded education for businesses. I also highlighted more than $300 million in five-year county investments to the City of Costa Mesa, including investments in road repairs, active and public transportation, parks and libraries, music instruments, books and school supplies, community gardens, support for the symphony and theater, after school programming, and at least $4.8 million for the Costa Mesa Bridge shelter.
 Infrastructure Improvements
On Monday, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board recognized three February Employees of the Month for their outstanding performance. Congratulations to Coach Operator Phong Phanel, Maintenance Worker Omar Guzman, and Administrator Cherie Finona for helping deliver safe, reliable, and innovative transportation across Orange County.
The Board also reviewed Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed FY 2027 state budget, which maintains current transportation funding but excludes $690 million for the Zero-Emission Transit Capital Program in FY 2027-28. This omission creates uncertainty for the zero-emission bus and Orange County infrastructure projects needed to meet the state’s 2040 goal. My office continues advocating for this funding to ensure cleaner air and fully zero-emission public transit in Orange County.
Interested in helping us keep Orange County moving safely? Apply for our Environmental Oversight Committee, which oversees the protection of preserved open space and restored lands in Orange County under OCTA’s Environmental Mitigation Program. Submit an application and resume by Friday, March 20, 2026.
 John Wayne Airport
We continue monitoring flight paths to and from Mexico during this sensitive time. JWA advises Southwest Airlines travelers between JWA and Mexico to check southwest.com/travel-advisor for information.
For tourists in affected areas in Mexico, the U.S. State Department advises you to:
- Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements
- Avoid areas around law enforcement activity
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Monitor local media for updates
- Follow the instructions from local authorities
- Avoid crowds
- Keep family and friends informed of your location
- Call 9-1-1 in case of emergency
The State Department also established an American Citizen Services taskforce for U.S. citizens in Mexico. Anyone needing assistance can contact:
- From U.S. & Canada: 1-888-407-4747
- From Overseas (including Mexico): +1-202-501-4444
USO Treat Our Troops Recognition
Through the Treat Our Troops program, John Wayne Airport travelers can buy certain products at check-out to support our military personnel with much-needed goods while overseas. Thank you to the USO, JWA customers, and the top-selling associates of Paradies Lagardère for your daily commitment to giving back to our servicemembers. Great work!
 Bottom Left: Recognizing our top 3 Paradies Lagardère Associates for their incredible fundraising – bringing in more than $193,000 for the Treat our Troops program.
Engaging With Our Community
Chinese Chamber of Commerce
Laguna Hills Chamber of Commerce
Thank you to the Laguna Hills Chamber of Commerce for inviting me to install your new leadership. I enjoyed celebrating the outstanding business and community leaders shaping our Fabulous Fifth economy. My office looks forward to growing our workforce and local business community through the Jeffery Halloran Scholarship for Saddleback College business students in memory of outstanding Chamber member Jeffrey Halloran.
Sherman Gardens Groundbreaking
Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar broke ground on a once-in-a-generation $17 million revitalization of this historic community treasure. Upgrades include reimagined botanical gardens, a new bell tower entrance to welcome visitors right off PCH, a full-service garden-to-table restaurant, and expanded educational programs for all ages. My office contributed $15,000 toward the project, as well as another $15,000 for an incredible mural unveiled last November. Check it out!
 A Look Ahead
This weekend, I look forward to celebrating the “Vision & Visionaries” awards in Costa Mesa, highlighting the best and brightest of California State University, Fullerton alumni shaping academia, arts, athletics, business, journalism, humanities, and science throughout Orange County. Congrats to Pete Mitchell, Kristin Crellin, Dr. Robin Holmes-Sullivan, Michael Losquadro, and Gregory Wright. Thank you to these Cal State Fullerton alums for years of hard work in our county. Have a great weekend!
Be well,
 Katrina Foley
Vice Chair
County of Orange
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In This Edition
Read more about local events, community and health news, District and County initiatives, and other important updates!
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 Upcoming Board of Supervisors Meeting on March 10, 2026
Community Correspondence
 
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Staff Reports
Anthony Nguyen
Policy Advisor
This week, I reviewed a grand jury report entitled, “Connecting Orange County to LAX: Evaluating Transportation Options”, which assessed current travel options between Orange County and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The study evaluated available services, travel times, costs, and service gaps through interviews, document reviews, field research, and evaluation of public complaints. The Grand Jury determined that although a reasonably affordable and reliable public transportation option to LAX currently exists, significant opportunities remain to improve travel efficiency for Orange County residents. The Grand Jury identified five Orange County locations for potential direct-to-LAX transportation services that could reduce trip times to LAX by 30 minutes or more, reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions, and potentially reduce transportation costs to LAX.
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Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC)
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Irvine Transportation Center
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Fullerton Park & Ride and Orangethorpe Transit Village Conceptual Study
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The Village at Buena Park Mall (transit-oriented development)
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Bolsa Pacific at Westminster (transit-oriented development at the former Westminster Mall)
With World Cup 2026 and the 2028 Olympics ahead of us, Vice Chair Foley urges that we must accelerate preparation for our transportation and infrastructure systems. Our transportation agencies must improve collaboration and strategize how these millions of tourists, residents and spectators will commute to venues throughout our County and in Los Angeles.
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Adam Tallabas
District Director
Happy Friday. Yesterday, I joined our Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa at the Orange County Business Council Annual Dinner & Red Tape to Red Carpets Awards! Congratulations to District Five Honorees: The City of Irvine, Jamboree Housing, Irvine Unified School District, and Irvine Company. Thank you to our Orange County business community for stimulating our strong economy and providing good-paying jobs for Orange County residents.
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 Please join our team for Supervisor Foley’s second annual Woman Veterans Mental Health & Benefits Symposium with on Saturday, March 7 at Orange Coast College. Continental Breakfast & lunch will be served. RSVP at bit.ly/OCWomenVeterans.
Abby Paulson
District Representative
Happy Friday, D5! This week, I attended the B.L.E.S.S.I.N. community meeting in Laguna Niguel to give updates about the Compass Energy project on behalf of Supervisor Foley. Last year, Supervisor Foley worked with County staff to develop, and the board unanimously approved common sense guidelines for Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects and joined our neighbors in advocating against the project. Now, Engie confirmed they are not pursuing the Saddleback Church location for a BESS facility. This is a big step towards protecting the health and safety of our residents. Thank you to everyone who joined the community meeting!
Finally, Supervisor Foley and I worked closely together this week on planning a community town hall this coming Monday to discuss San Juan and Trabuco Creek Flood channel questions and concerns. RSVP to join us!
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Morgan Goldstein
District Representative
The Committee has been hard at work preparing for this educational excursion at the Aliso Viejo Ranch, which preserves the last remaining buildings of the historic Moulton Ranch. The field trip allows students to step back in time to the period between 1910 and 1930, when ranching was the main industry in South Orange County. With the participation of Moulton Museum staff and dedicated volunteers, the Aliso Viejo Ranch will be transformed into an authentic representation of life during that era. We are eager to see the impact of this immersive program on our District 5 students!
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Robbie LaBounty
District Representative
This week I attended a brainstorming meeting with our JWA Advisory Committee that was formed by Supervisor Foley. Together we spoke about what we want to accomplish this year, and what options we have available to us to help make the airport quieter for the surrounding neighborhoods in the flight paths. Changing regulations and getting large airlines to change their behavior to be better neighbors isn’t easy, but we believe it’s well worth the effort.
I also attended a ribbon cutting for an Orange County nonprofit Team Kids, Inc. which celebrated their 25th Anniversary at Sgt. Pepperoni’s Pizza, another Orange County based staple which will get another location in John Wayne Airport soon thanks to Supervisor Foley. I’m honored to celebrate this amazing nonprofit which has helped teach children for decades that they’re not too young to change their community for the better.
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Orange County Seeks CEO
 
Apply to Join a Commission!
The County of Orange is looking for passionate individuals to serve on the variety of County Boards, Commissions, and Committees. I encourage anyone interested and meets the qualifications to apply for a position.
Specific qualifications listed below, but all applicants must be registered to vote in Orange County and reside in District 5, which includes the cities of Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, a large portion of Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Newport Beach, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, as well as the unincorporated areas of Coto de Caza, Emerald Bay, Ladera Ranch, Las Flores, Rancho Mission Viejo, Stonecliffe and Wagon Wheel.
Here are a list of Boards, Commissions, and Committees with openings in District 5:
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Must be an Attorney, CPA or Public Accountant, Real Estate Broker, or Appraiser who is licensed/certified within the State of California for a period of at least 5 years. Must maintain qualifications through term of office.
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Orange County In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Advisory Committee
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Must be a recipient who is a current or past user of personal assistance services.
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Public Financing Advisory Committee
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Shall not be serving or running for elective office.
Seeking Candidates to Join First 5 Orange County Commission
Health News
OC Social Services Updates
Medi-Cal Eligibility Changes
Starting January 1, 2026, when you apply for or renew your Medi-Cal, we will look at what you own. This is called an asset check. Assets are things you own that have value. You may be affected if you:
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Are age 65 and older and meet the household income limit for Medi-Cal
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Have a disability (physical, mental, or
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Are in a family that makes too much money to qualify under federal tax rules
To learn more about these asset limits, visit here.
Protect Against Measles While Traveling
Get Your Flu Shot!
The flu or influenza is a serious disease. It’s more than just a runny nose and sore throat. The flu can make you very sick and cause you to go to the hospital or even lead to death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get the flu vaccine (flu shot). You can protect yourself and those around you by getting a flu shot: Learn how from OC Health Care Agency.
Stay Safe from Harmful Substances -- Fentanyl, NOX, and Kratom:
 
 
Transportation News
Help us Plan for OC's Future
Complete OCTA’s Long-Range Transportation Plan survey to offer your thoughts on how to improve the future of transportation in Orange County. Please visit octa.net/LRTP to learn more.
Youth Ride Free Bus Passes
The pass provides youth aged 6 to 18 with free travel on safe, clean and reliable buses. Youth Ride Free passes are available from your child's participating Orange County school. Parent signature is required. REQUEST A PASS
OCTA Free Hikes & Equestrian Rides
Lace up your hiking shoes or saddle up your horse, and sign up for a free hike or equestrian ride today. Come see Orange County as it was yesterday, and as it will be tomorrow.
RSVP to Our Women Making a Difference Awards!
Every year, I look forward to celebrating Women's History Month and the women leaders helping us build a safer, healthier, economically thriving Orange County for all to call home.
In honor of Women’s History Month this March, join us in celebrating “Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” on March 14, 2026 at 5:30 pm. As space is limited, please RSVP by clicking the flyer below:
Senior Townhall in Rancho Mission Viejo
In partnership with Rancho Mission Viejo, Senator Catherine Blakespear and the Contractor State License Board, join our senior townhall at The Guest House in Rancho Mission Viejo on March 26 at 2pm. Join us for resource booths from various local partners as well two panels focused on protecting our seniors from scam activity and improving senior health access.
OC Restaurant Week
It’s back—for one week only, six diverse restaurants at South Coast Plaza will celebrate OC Restaurant Week.
Diners have tempting choices: a modern French bistro, eclectic fusion cuisine, a prime steakhouse experience and three authentic Asian restaurants, all featuring multi-course menus, irresistibly priced.
Laguna Niguel Chamber Spring Crafts & Marketplace
OC Office on Aging Introduces Free Mobile App for Senior Resources!
Old Orange County Courthouse Now Displaying "Omnivision: Art Across Boundaries"
Admire the creativity of local artists at Omnivision: Art Across Boundaries art exhibit, now on display at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana (211 W. Santa Ana Blvd.).
The collection is made up of 110 original paintings from more than 50 local artists featuring unique art depicting diverse scenes of nature and life in Southern California, cityscapes, florals and more. The exhibit is hosted by OC Parks, in partnership with Southern California Plein Air Painters Association (SOCALPAPA).
Admission to Omnivision: Art Across Boundaries exhibit is free and open to view at the Old Orange County Courthouse gallery Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through April 3.
Call for Artists
OC Streetcar arrives in 2026! Local artists are invited to submit portfolios for a chance to be featured in marketing campaigns. Learn more: octa.net/artists
Construction Updates from OCPW
Hershey Felder: The Piano & Me
Music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Bartok,
June 9-12, 2026
Known for his hit portrayals of musical geniuses in his beloved composer series, Felder now renders a different musical artist: himself. In this deeply moving new play, Felder pulls back the curtain on his own story. Growing up in Montreal as the child of Polish and Hungarian immigrants, a young Felder discovers the piano, its captivating music connecting him to his unsuspected heritage, while opening up a remarkable new world full of adventure, possibility, heartbreak, and connection. Featuring performances of beloved compositions by Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, Rachmaninoff, Bartók, and more, Hershey Felder: The Piano and Me recounts the inspiration behind Felder's illustrious career of more than 6,000 performances across the globe and offers a poignant and profoundly touching portrait of the power of music.
The New York Times described this American classic as “wry and electric!” Hilarious and harrowing, this unflinching portrait of a marriage ceaselessly astonishes audiences with its razor-sharp dialogue and thrilling performances.
Mariners 936 Dana Point Sea Scouts
Save the Date: 2026 Women’s Conference
Mark your calendars for the City of Irvine's Women’s Conference March 13 in honor of Women’s History Month.
The event will offer comprehensive resources and support for women in the community, such as financial education, networking opportunities, professional development, and programs that provide a holistic approach to health, safety, and overall well-being.
Stay tuned for details about the Women’s Conference coming soon at cityofirvine.org.
Support Ocean Friendly Businesses
This month, Surfrider celebrates the incredible Ocean Friendly Restaurants and Hotels that are leading the way in reducing single-use plastics and protecting our ocean. Join us in showing our ocean friendly businesses some much deserved love and appreciation!
Crystal Cove Art Classes
Our Great Plein Air Art Experience art classes invite you to take part in Crystal Cove's living history by spending a relaxing day capturing the beauty of the Cove on canvas with the help of Crystal Cove plein air artist, Debbie Morines. These five-hour classes from 9am – 2pm will take you through the process of creating your first plein air painting from beginning to end. For a full list of upcoming events, visit CrystalCove.org/Events.
Resources at OC Public Libraries
 Sorsha is one of the smartest dogs at the shelter! This 4-year-old German Shepherd is sweet, affectionate, and always eager to learn. She picks up new commands quickly and responds beautifully to treats and positive reinforcement.
Sorsha loves a good game of fetch, working on puzzle toys for mental enrichment, and showing off her growing list of tricks! She already knows sit, shake, down, leave it, touch, and stay, and she’s ready to learn even more with her future family!
While Sorsha prefers to be the only pet in the home, she has more than enough love and personality to fill your heart. If you’re ready to meet your new best friend, come foster-to-adopt Sorsha (A1910882) from OC Animal Care today!
Meet Pet of the Week, Blue!
Blue is a 7-year-old, 80-pound Pit Bull with a gentle heart and a thoughtful spirit. This handsome tan-and-white boy came to OC Animal Care on July 30, from Santa Ana, and he’s been quietly hoping for a fresh start ever since.
Blue is an independent soul who appreciates peaceful walks where he can explore at his own pace, and afterward, nothing makes him happier than cozy cuddle time.
If you’re ready to foster-to-adopt Blue, or adopt him outright, call OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID A1875970 or see www.ocpetinfo.com/adopt. Adoption fees are waived for dogs over 25 pounds!
Support Our Local Museums
Book Your Whale-Watching Tour & Watch Marine Life in the Wild!
See giant blue whales, finback whales, gray whales and many more in their natural habitat while whale watching in Newport Beach and Dana Point! Visit www.newportwhales.com, www.danawharf.com, and Captain Dave's to make your reservations.
Metrolink Weekends - Ride for $10!
Avoid traffic and enjoy Metrolink! Metrolink Weekends offers $10 round-trip fares, and youth 17 and under ride free. Enter our weekly drawings for a chance to win a pair of Metrolink tickets or for the monthly grand prize: a $100 gift card plus two Metrolink tickets. For more information and to enter, visit metrolinkdaycations.com.
OC Workforce One-Stop: OPEN NOW!
Ready Set OC offers no-cost employment training for Orange County youth ages 14-24. To find out more information, call the OC Business and Economic Recovery Call Center at (714) 480-6500 or text (657) 210-1295. Email info@readysetoc.com
Bulky Item Disposal
Are you an Orange County resident trying to dispose of bulky items like old refrigerators and appliances but not sure how? For information on local haulers and recycling coordinators visit OCLandfills.com/quick-links.
BenefitsCal
Orange County officially switched over to a new benefits enrollment portal called BenefitsCal. Households interested in applying for benefits assistance can now create an account at www.BenefitsCal.com and submit their application or link their old MyBenefitsCalWIN case to their account. For more information about BenefitsCal, including new features and capabilities, click here.
 
Alert OC
Sign up for AlertOC to get notified in case of emergency in Orange County. The mass notification system is designed to keep Orange County residents and businesses informed in the event of a time-sensitive emergency. YOU MUST OPT IN TO RECEIVE ALERTS. Register today at this link!
Committee Appointments
If you have questions or comments that you'd like to share, in relation to the committees below, please email me at Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com
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