Archive for July, 2009
Posted July 31 2009One of my favourite Bible stories is the one about the Good Samaritan. In the parable Jesus reminds us that God’s love is everywhere, and that everyone is our neighbor. Thus we are always able to offer and accept a helping hand, no matter what form that helping hand takes. Mary Baker Eddy adds to the parable by telling us that we need to move away from selfishness to selflessness ensuring our consciousness is filled with love and good. She says that we should strive to be good to and see the good in everyone, writing, “At all times and under all circumstances, overcome evil with good.”
So, what have we done at school to develop these ideas? MANDELA DAY was recently celebrated around the world. It is a day that “celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world, the ability to make an imprint.”
At school we are constantly looking for ways to lend a helping hand to our school mates, local and global community. Consequently, we decided in celebration of a great man to use our hands and commit ourselves to making a positive imprint on the world for 67 minutes. (Mandela has been fighting for a just society for 67 years!).In the belief that every human being can make a positive imprint students have been joining together to transform words into actions. Almost every senior school student has made a pledge of 67 minutes and pinned it to their House Pledge Wall. Huntingtower’s good Samaritans will be making their school, home, community and world a better place over the next few days. Watch out! There’s a lot of good coming your way! Imagine how we would be able to transform the world if each individual dedicated 67 minutes to making a positive imprint?
Debating news
The Year 11 team (Cassie, Claire, Jonathan, Kannika, Sophia and Sonia), under the careful guidance of Mrs Clarke, have remained undefeated and look set for the District Elimination Finals.
The Year 10 Huntingtower 1 Team (Kahli, Ben, Shefali and Sharon) defeated the team on the top of the ladder and may also make the District Finals (fingers crossed).
Year 12 and both Year 9 teams also scored victories.
Best Speakers were awarded to: Shannon Bowen, Kahli Joyce, Clare Higgins and Luke Thiagarajah.
Last week marked the end of what was a very successful debating season at Wesley College, Mount Waverley. Some Grades boasted as many as 30 teams so our results are particularly pleasing. The fact that the Year 11 and Year 10 Huntingtower 1 Teams made it to the top is a wonderful achievement.
The students worked hard throughout the season to support each other and develop their debating skills. It was lovely to see team members come to cheer when they weren’t debating and to observe the team spirit and group dynamic that evolved from the process.
I would like to pass on my special thanks to Mrs Christensen for leading this remarkable team. We are also grateful for the support of Ms Craik, Ms Greiveson, Ms Beal, Mrs Clarke and Mr Clifford who gave up their time so generously to coach and support our teams. I would also like to thank Mrs Ciavarella who so diligently compiled our information folders for us.
We will let you know how our teams go in the finals.
Cosi, the Senior School production, is a must see. The performances from our students are professional and polished. Mr Borbely and his team have worked tirelessly to ensure a polished performance. Book your tickets and come along to see a show that has a little bit of everything in it.
Our Senior Footy team made history this week by making it into the Grand Finals. According to our records this has not been done before and, although we lost, was a remarkable achievement. Congratulations to Mr Brown and his team.
Peter Dry
July 31 2009 | All | No Comments » | 
Posted July 31 2009
Our school is working with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development to allocate a Victorian Student Number (VSN) to each student at the school.
The VSN is a student identification number that is being assigned to all students in government and non-government schools, and students in Vocational Education and Training Institutions. The number, which is unique to each student, will be used as a key identifier on a student’s school records, and will remain with the student throughout his or her education, until reaching the age of 25. The VSN is nine digits long, randomly assigned, and tied to stable information about the student (name, gender, date of birth).
The introduction of the Victorian Student Number will provide the capability to accurately detect patterns of student movement through, and departure from, the Victorian education and training system. It will greatly improve the collection and analysis of timely and accurate data about education in Victoria. The Department collects information to track improvements made to the education system, identify areas that require further improvement, and to analyse trends and identify future needs. The VSN will improve the accuracy, reliability and completeness of this information, providing a better basis for assessing needs and developing policies to meet them.
You will see the VSN appear on student report cards, enrolment confirmations, and exit confirmations.
If you want to know more about the VSN please see http://www.education.vic.gov.au/management/governance/vsn/overview.htm
July 31 2009 | All and Announcements | No Comments » |
Posted July 31 2009Diary Dates:
Cosi Interval Suppers – 6th to 8th August.
Cupcake Drive – September.
Father’s Day Stall – September Wed 2nd September. Wrapping night Monday 31st August in M1.
Bunnings Sausage Sizzle – 10th October.
Camerata afternoon tea – 11th October.
Huntingtower Fete – Saturday 7th November.
Dad’s Stall
David Fletcher is seeking more helpers for the Dad’s Stall at the Fete. If you think you could help, could you please email David at dgfletch@bigpond.net.au.
Rides at the Fete
The PTA Committee are delighted to bring you a new and exciting ride this year! The Round Up (see picture below) spins the rider around while tipping them up at the same time. We really appreciate the senior school students filling in surveys to let us know they’re keen to have a shot at a thrilling ride. This year, the Round Up will replace the Cha Cha as the major ride and we hope the students (and possibly some brave parents) find it a great alternative, although we do advise not eating too many hot dogs before you get on it! We’ve also booked the ever popular Chair O Plane, proper Dodgem Cars (see other picture), the Giant Slide and a Jumping Castle for the littlies.
Father’s Day Stall
We would love to hear from you if you would like to help out on the upcoming Father’s Day stall. Please email Debbie Jones at mdrc_jones@hotkey.net.au.
PTA Meeting – Monday 20 July
The Committee were delighted to meet with Peter Dry, Tansy Cruttenden and the Class and Fete Reps on a chilly Monday night in the Library. Much fun and laughter was had by all. There was a strong focus on the upcoming Fete(of course) but also some quite animated discussion on the online publication of the Bulletin, with a groundswell of support to returning to paper. Peter has taken all the comments on Board and had promised to revisit how the Bulletin is distributed. A copy of the minutes from the meeting will be distributed to you by your class rep and all feedback would be very much welcome.
July 31 2009 | All and PTA | No Comments » |
Posted July 31 2009WAVERLEY EISTEDDFOD
We are now really looking forward to preparing for the Waverley Eisteddfod. A notice has been posted to all instrumental musicians from Years 7 to 12 and the Junior School notices have been handed out to the students.
The performance times have just been released so please take note of them below – if your student is unable to attend the Eisstedfod please inform me immediately as numbers are crucial in each section (Lynley Bramble BH 9807 8888 AH 9803 7701 or email lbramble@huntingtower.vic.edu.au)
WAVERLEY EISTEDDFOD ENSEMBLE SECTIONS
Saturday 15 August – Huntingtower Performing Arts Centre (Full details are in the notice)
ARRIVAL TIMES
Arrival Time: 8.10am 18 years and under Large Ensemble (8.30am Section)
(Senior Music Classroom) Concert Band
Hungarian String Orchestra
String Orchestra
Arrival Time: 10.25am 21 years and under Small Ensemble (10.45am Section)
(Senior Music Classroom) Mendelssohn Quintet
Christian Ensemble
Arrival Time: 1.20pm 14 years and under Large Ensemble (1.40pm Section)
(Junior School to Music Junior Orchestra
Centre Ensemble Room. Middle School Orchestra
Middle School Orchestra
to Senior Music Classroom)
Arrival Time: 3.40pm 15 years and under Small Ensemble (4.00pm Section)
(Senior Music Classroom) Vivaldi Ensemble
Junior Ensemble
Middle School Trio
A detailed rehearsal schedule is included in the notice so it would be greatly appreciated if parents could ensure that their students attend all rehearsals. Many thanks for your wonderful help.
Please come along and enjoy a whole day (or part thereof!) of magnificent music making from many different orchestras and ensembles participating in the Eisteddfod.
CONGRATULATIONS
- To the talented group of Year 11 and 12 musicians who managed to each prepare 2 solo items only one week into the term and perform beautifully at the Solo Concert last week.
- To the Huntingtower Quintet who played superbly at the Boroondara Eisteddfod Showcase Concert last Sunday and who were awarded a special prize from Thomas’ Music.
SPECIAL DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
- Waverley Eisteddfod Ensemble Sections which usually involve every player from Years 3 to 12 on Saturday 15 August – please keep this date free also.
- Huntingtower Camerata Gala Concert
Sunday 11 October at 2.30pm. There will be many more details to come but once again all players (Years Prep to 12) and choristers (Years 3 to 12) are involved in this very important event.
MUSIC DATES – TERM III 2009
- Senior Play
Tuesday 4 August Matinee – Performing Arts Centre at 1.00pm
Thursday 6 August Perfoming Arts Centre at 7.30pm
Friday 7 August Performing Arts Centre at 7.30pm
Saturday 8 August Performing Arts Centre at 7.30pm
- Waverley Eisteddfod (Ensemble Section – Junior/Middle School/Senior Orchestra, Concert Band) Saturday 15 August 9.00am – 5.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Waverley Eisteddfod (Choral Sections – Senior Chamber Choir)
Friday 21 August – Performing Arts Centre
- Year 8 Solo Concert - Thursday 27 August 7.00pm Orchestral Room
- Year 9 Solo Concert – Thursday 3 September 7.00pm Orchestral Room
- Junior Musical
Thursday 10 September 6.00pm – Performing Arts Centre
Friday 11 September 6.00pm – Performing Arts Centre
- Yernga Retirement Village Concert – Thursday 17 September 1.30pm
- VCE Solo/Group Recitals – During the Holiday TBA
TERM IV 2009
- Camerata Gala Concert Rehearsals (Senior Orchestra only)
Saturday 3 October 2.00pm – 5.00pm Performing Arts Centre
Sunday 4 October 2.00pm – 5.00pm Performing Arts Centre
Monday 5 October 7.00pm – 10.00pm Performing Arts Centre
Friday 9 October 7.00pm – 10.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Camerata Gala Concert
Sunday 11 October 2.30pm Performimg Arts Centre
- Year 7 Solo Concert – Thursday 22 October 7.00pm Orchestral Room
- Year 10 Solo Concert – Tuesday 27 October Orchestral Room
- Junior Wind and Friends Concert - Thursday 5 November 6.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Huntingtower Fete (Senior/Middle School Orchestras, Concert Band)
Saturday 7 November 10.30am – 12.00 noon
- Little Symphony and Little Choir Concert
Thursday 19 November 6.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Junior Speech Night - Friday 27 November 6.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Senior Orchestra Break-up Tea and Speech Night Rehearsal
Sunday 29 November 5.00pm – 8.00pm
- Senior Speech Night
Saturday 5 December 2.30pm Robert Blackwood Hall
July 31 2009 | All and Music | No Comments » |
Posted July 31 2009As done in the past, the Huntingtower Heat Basketball Club is in the process of organising tickets for club members to attend some Melbourne Tigers home games for the forth coming season. Individual ticket prices are $27 per adult and $ 15 per child per game. Should you be interested in purchasing seats for 10 home games, you will gain membership benefits (Cap, badge, Key ring, posters, and stickers). Seating will be in the gold section (sides of the court). Please contact Russell Jenkin on 0431 105 072 to make bookings or direct any queries you might have.
Melbourne Tigers Basketball Clinics for August -September
The next series of Basketball Clinics are due to start on Wednesday 19 August. The clinics are for Under 10 – Under 12 Players. Our coach, Yusuf Qaafow works on specific ball handling skills and corrects individual player’s technique. He also shows our young players the drills that can be practised at home without a basketball ring! Yusuf, will also happily demonstrate a slam dunk! Have you photo taken with Yusuf and get his autograph – for you might just see him on TV or in an NBL match in the near future! Application forms can down loaded and are also available from the Huntingtower office, the HT Heat web site, Ms Savage in the HT Senior Gym or from Mrs Jenkin in the HT Junior School.
The attachment is the application form for the clinics.
Basketball Clinics August September 2009
July 31 2009 | All and Announcements | No Comments » |
Posted July 31 2009It is possible that there are parents at the school who would like to extend their family and do not know that there are children waiting for a permanent home.
Any help you are able to give would be greatly appreciated as the need for homes for is urgent.
Click here to view Human Services Newsletter
Regards
Graham Rebbeck
Adoption and Permanent Care
Eastern Metropolitan Region
Department of Human Services
July 31 2009 | All and Announcements | No Comments » |
Posted July 17 2009I love the start of each term. There’s freshness, newness and a real sense of energy. Yes, we all love our holidays. They give us a chance to reflect, relax and, importantly, rejuvenate ourselves. However, the start of term brings the expectation of an even better one than before as we all have a natural desire to improve. And this term, I am particularly looking forward to taking on the role of Acting Principal.
I was fortunate enough to be able to spend my holidays in Cambridge, USA attending a leadership institute at Harvard University. The lectures were interesting and gave me insight into current research and best practice. The people I met were clearly passionate about their roles as educators and willing to share ideas around improving schools. It was comforting to know that Huntingtower is ahead of the game in so many areas. The best practice that we are aiming for and implementing is truly regarded as best practice.
While I was there, though, I could not help but be inspired by the history of the area. Rich in revolutionary thought and inspiring leaders, the area provides a fertile ground to contemplate the notion of revolutionary or transformative thinking.
This, of course is the land of George Washington, Paul Revere, Jefferson and others.
Of course, being in the USA on the 4th of July simply added to the richness of the experience. While soaking up the atmosphere around the Boston Common (where, you may like to know, children were publically punished for not listening to their parents, and women for talking back to their husbands- those were the days!), I began to think about this notion of independence and what it means for us now.
The revolutionaries were people who dared to think differently; who refused to be bound by unjust governments, and unfair laws. Thankfully, unlike the Americans of the 1700’s, we enjoy political freedoms here in Australia but so much of humanity even in the 21st century still has a yearning to be free. But it isn’t only oppression of a political nature that keeps our lives in captivity. What freedoms do we yearn for? What mental choices do we make that allow us to enjoy liberty? Do we feel bound by financial issues, poor health, and pain, feeling sad or lonely, overwhelmed by work, have limiting thoughts about others, or are we worried about relationships and so on?
Jesus came to show us all that everlasting freedom from mental bondage is a real possibility. In fact he said it was our birthright. On freedom, he said, “Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” His work was for us to see that we have a divine right to be free as sons and daughters of God. God, who is also infinite Love, is forever caring for us as we care for our own children or loved ones. We were created by God (think for a moment of the implications of that!). We are the outcome of God’s love. We have been created to fully express God’s love. What is the result of God’s love for us? It is that we could never experience a moment when we are lacking or in need of anything. God’s abundant love simply doesn’t allow for that.
I would love for you all to be independent of limiting negative thoughts. In fact, you can be independent of stress, of lack of confidence, of any negative thinking. Like your beautiful children, you too have unlimited potential and are loved by God. You can be the best parent, friend, partner, business man or women you want to be. You can be joyful, content and healthy because you are already the full expression of God.
I know that this will be another wonderful term filled with growth and opportunity.
Peter Dry
July 17 2009 | All and Principals Message | No Comments » |
Posted July 17 2009Diary Dates:
PTA Term 3 Meeting – Monday 20th of July.
Cosi Interval Suppers – 6th to 8th August.
Cupcake Drive – September.
Father’s Day Stall – September (date to be confirmed).
Bunnings Sausage Sizzle – 10th October.
Camerata afternoon tea – 11th October.
Huntingtower Fete – Saturday 7th November.
PTA Meeting – Monday 20 July
Just a reminder that the next PTA meeting is on Monday the 20th of July in the Library at 7.30pm. All parents and teachers most welcome.
Fete News – from Debbie Jones who is currently looking after the Pantry Stall
Does anyone have some spare fruit growing? Please call me on 9885 1048 to arrange collection. I can also make a kit for you to make preserves for the school, with jars, labels and decorations if you don’t have any. Remember we have to register your produce, so I will need name, date, etc. for the books before the fete day. Would you like to learn how, but don’t know where to start? Yes, call me again – glad to help.
We are desperate for small glass jars and bottles. Please leave these at the office asap.
Don’t want to help, but still want to contribute? Please leave monetary donations towards sugar, vinegar, dried fruit, etc. at the office for the Pantry Stall.
AND…if anyone in the school community would love to manage the preserves stall or make Christmas cakes, please call me. Again, a plea to the Year 11 parents to come forward as this is your stall and we would love for you to help out.
So where does the money go?
All funds raised through PTA activities this year will be put towards the building of the new aquatic centre. I’m sure you’ll be pleased to see our kids enjoying themselves in the pool in the near future!
Molly Dene’s Pie Drive
Thank you to all the parents and friends who purchased the delicious Molly Dene’s pies to warm up winter. Approximately $400 was raised for the school.
Cupcake Drive
The PTA Committee are keen to try out a new product for our fundraising drives. We were lucky enough to sample some delicious Sticky Date cupcakes at our last meeting (courtesy of Sugar and Spice Cupcakes) and were thoroughly impressed. We will have them available at our Cosi Interval Suppers for sampling before launching a Cupcake Drive in September.
Fete – Holiday Homes?
Carol Jones would be delighted to hear from any parents that would be willing to donate their holiday home for a “weekend getaway” for the Silent Auction. Weekends away always attract strong bidding. If you are keen to help, please contact caroljones_22@hotmail.com.
July 17 2009 | All and PTA | No Comments » |
Posted July 17 2009There have been a significant number of very important events and performances for our musicians since the last Bulletin and we have a very exciting term to look forward to.
CONGRATULATIONS to all the following for the wonderful recent events or events to come.
- To Anne-Marie Johnson (Class of 2008) who has received a Premier’s Award for her outstanding result in VCE Music Solo Performance. The award will be presented at a special ceremony next week. Anne-Marie, who also received a Premier’s Award for Indonesian in 2008, is studying music in Sydney.
- To Claire Maier (Class of 2008) who has received a Premier’s Award for Food Technology. Although Claire did not study VCE Music she was an advanced pianist and percussion player for many years in all the Huntingtower orchestras.
- To the players in the Huntingtower Quintet who have been chosen to perform at the Boroondara Eisteddfod Showcase Concert after an “outstanding” performance at the Eisteddfod. The Showcase Concert is on Saturday 25 July at 2.00pm at the Hawthorn Town Hall.
- To Sarah Robinson and Ethan Yuen who received High Distinctions at the recent AMEB exams and to all our Huntingtower students who all received wonderful results.
- To Liam Oborne who has reached the finals of the Geelong Advertiser competition and will perform in Costra Hall in Geelong in August.
- To Ethan Yuen who won 2nd prize in the 12 years and under solo section and Honourable Mention in the 10 years and under solo section at the recent Ringwood Eisteddfod.
- To Sarah Bunting, Elliot Kitchingman and Eloise Verbeek who performed at the opening of the AISV Art Exhibition in Shell House at the end of last term. Many favourable compliments were received and their playing was greatly appreciated.
- To the 19 Huntingtower students who were chosen to attend the State Music Camp which was held at Caulfield Grammar, Caulfield during the first week of the school holidays. Two hundred students attended from all over Melbourne and Victoria and a very exciting concert (4 orchestras performing) was held at Robert Blackwood Hall at the conclusion of the camp.
- To the performers who played so beautifully at the Holiday Solo Concert. It is always wonderful to hear students from all year levels perform at these concerts and it is a chance for multiple works to be performed in preparation for exams and Eisteddfods. We wish all the students well in their forthcoming performances.
WAVERLEY EISTEDDFOD
We are now really looking forward to preparing for the Waverley Eisteddfod. A notice has been posted to all instrumental musicians from Years 7 to 12 and the Junior School notices have been handed out to the students.
The performance times have just been released so please take note of them below – if your student is unable to attend the Eisteddfod please inform me immediately as numbers are crucial in each section (Lynley Bramble BH 9807 88888 AH 9803 7701 or email lbramble@huntingtower.vic.edu.au)
WAVERLEY EISTEDDFOD ENSEMBLE SECTIONS
Saturday 15 August – Huntingtower Performing Arts Centre (Full details are in the notice)
ARRIVAL TIMES
Arrival Time: 8.10am 18y and under Large Ensemble (8.30am Section)
(Senior Music Classroom) Concert Band
Hungarian String Orchestra
String Orchestra
Arrival Time: 10.25am 21y and under Small Ensemble (10.45am Section)
(Senior Music Classroom) Mendelssohn Quintet
Christian Ensemble
Arrival Time: 1.20pm 14y and under Large Ensemble (1.40pm Section)
(Junior School to Music Junior Orchestra
Centre Ensemble Room. Middle School Orchestra
Middle School Orchestra
to Senior Music Classroom)
Arrival Time: 3.40pm 15y and under Small Ensemble (4.00pm Section)
(Senior Music Classroom) Vivaldi Ensemble
Junior Ensemble
Middle School Trio
A detailed rehearsal schedule is included in the notice so it would be greatly appreciated if parents could ensure that their students attend all rehearsals. Many thanks for your wonderful help.
SPECIAL DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
- Waverley Eisteddfod Ensemble Sections which usually involve every player from Years 3 to 12 on Saturday 15 August – please keep this date free also.
- Huntingtower Camerata Gala Concert
Sunday 11 October at 2.30pm. There will be many more details to come but once again all players (Years Prep to 12) and choristers (Years 3 to 12) are involved in this very important event.
MUSIC DATES – TERM III 2009
- Years 10, 11, 12 Solo Concert – Tuesday 21 July 7.00pm Orchestral Room
- Senior Play
Tuesday 4 August Matinee – Performing Arts Centre at 1.00pm
Thursday 6 August Performing Arts Centre at 7.30pm
Friday 7 August Performing Arts Centre at 7.30pm
Saturday 8 August Performing Arts Centre at 7.30pm
- Waverley Eisteddfod (Ensemble Sections – Junior/Middle School/Senior Orchestras, Concert Band) – Saturday 15 August 9.00am – 5.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Waverley Eisteddfod (Choral Sections – Senior Choirs)
Friday 21 August – Performing Arts Centre
- Year 8 Solo Concert – Thursday 27 August 7.00pm Orchestral Room
- Year 9 Solo Concert – Thursday 3 September 7.00pm Orchestral Room
- Junior Musical
Thursday 10 September 6.00pm – Performing Arts Centre
Friday 11 September 6.00pm – Performing Arts Centre
- Yernga Retirement Village Concert – Thursday 17 September 1.30pm
- VCE Solo/Group Recitals – During the Holidays TBA
TERM IV 2009
- Camerata Gala Concert Rehearsals (Senior Orchestra only)
Saturday 3 October 2.00pm – 5.00pm Performing Arts Centre
Sunday 4 October 2.00pm – 5.00pm Performing Arts Centre
Monday 5 October 7.00pm – 10.00pm Performing Arts Centre
Friday 9 October 7.00pm – 10.00pm or Saturday 11 October 2.00pm – 5.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Camerata Gala Concert
Sunday 11 October 2.30pm Performing Arts Centre
- Year 7 Solo Concert – Thursday 22 October 7.00pm Orchestral Room
- Year 10 Solo Concert – Tuesday 27 October Orchestrl Room
- Junior Wind and Friends Concert – Thursday 5 November 6.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Huntingtower Fete (Senior/Middle School Orchestras, Concert Band)
Saturday 7 November 10.30am – 12.00 noon
- Little Symphony and Little Choir Concert
Thursday 19 November 6.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Junior Speech Night – Friday 27 November 6.00pm Performing Arts Centre
- Senior Orchestra Break-up Tea and Speech Night Rehearsal
Sunday 29 November 5.00pm – 8.00pm
- Senior Speech Night
Saturday 5 December 2.30pm Robert Blackwood Hall
July 17 2009 | All and Music | No Comments » |
Posted July 17 2009The EMA is a strategy that provides assistance to low-income families by helping with the costs associated with the education of their children. Applications will close on 7 August 2009.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for receipt of the EMA, the claimant must:
- Be a parent or guardian of a primary or secondary school sutdent up to the age of sixteen; and
- Be an eligible beneficiary of a Centrelink pension, allowance or benefit within the meaning of the State Concessions Act 2004 or be a Veterans Affairs (TPI) pensioner or be a foster parent; and
- Submit their application to the school by the due date (7 August 2009).
The eligibility criteria must be met as at the first day of Term 3 (14 July 2009) for the second instalment.
Any applications based on Centrelink payments that are not income tested (eg Carer Allowance, Mobility Allowance and Remote Area Allowance) are not eligible unless the claimant, in their own name, complies with the second dot point above.
July 17 2009 | All and Announcements | No Comments » |
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