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We’ve got big news

For more than two decades, Firefly Distillery has been part of the Lowcountry story. Today, we are writing the next chapter.

Our current property is under contract to be sold, but make no mistake: Firefly is not closing and is not being sold. We are planning an exciting move to a new venue right here in Charleston where we will continue everything you love, including spirits production, our tasting room, gift shop, private events, and live music.

In fact, we are actively working to stay within the Park Circle community that has embraced us so warmly. And this move gives us the rare opportunity to design a space built from the ground up as a world-class music and hospitality venue, one that can welcome even more shows, more artists, and more unforgettable nights.

Every currently scheduled event through December 2027 remains on the calendar exactly as planned. We still have many months before any transition takes place, and we wanted you to hear this news directly from us.

The future is bright. We cannot wait to share what comes next.

Click HERE for FAQS on the recent announcement.

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By Mark A. Leon

The rapid growth transforming the Summerville and Nexton corridor has attracted another major national retailer.

Home improvement giant The Home Depot has reportedly purchased approximately $11 million worth of land in Berkeley County near the Nexton community, a move that strongly suggests plans for a future store in one of the Lowcountry’s fastest-growing regions.

The property is located along Highway 176, at the center of a development corridor that includes some of South Carolina’s largest and most successful master-planned communities, including Nexton, Cane Bay Plantation, and Carnes Crossroads.

Together, these communities have added thousands of new homes over the past decade, with thousands more planned as population growth continues to accelerate across Berkeley County.

Retail Follows Rooftops

In the development world, major retailers closely monitor residential growth when selecting future locations. New housing construction, increasing population density, and expanding infrastructure often serve as key indicators that an area can support additional commercial investment.

A potential Home Depot location would represent another milestone in the maturation of the Nexton-Summerville corridor, which has evolved from a largely residential expansion area into a major regional economic hub.

Industry experts often point to several benefits that accompany large retail investments:

• Increased convenience for local residents
• New jobs and economic activity
• Support for continued residential development
• Additional retail, restaurant, and service businesses attracted to the surrounding area
• Expanded commercial tax base for local governments

A Strong Vote of Confidence in Berkeley County

While Home Depot has not publicly announced construction plans for the site, the land acquisition itself sends a clear message about the area’s trajectory.

National retailers conduct extensive market analysis before making multimillion-dollar real estate investments. Purchasing land in a high-growth corridor is often viewed as a long-term vote of confidence in future population growth, housing demand, and consumer spending.

For homeowners, prospective buyers, and investors, the transaction is another indication that the Nexton, Cane Bay, and Carnes Crossroads corridor remains one of the most sought-after growth markets in the Charleston region.

As development continues to push northward from Charleston, the Berkeley County corridor is increasingly becoming a destination for both residents and businesses looking to capitalize on one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing areas.

If a Home Depot store ultimately moves forward, it would add yet another major retail anchor to a corridor that shows few signs of slowing down.

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Company’s investment will create 11 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Horse Spot, a premier equestrian technology platform, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s investment will create 11 new jobs. 

Founded in 2022, Horse Spot is designed to modernize and simplify competition management for equestrian events and supports more than 1,800 horse shows, rodeos and fairs annually. The platform allows event organizers to manage an entire show from a single system, including entries, scheduling, payments and results.

Horse Spot is expanding its operation, located at 997 Morrison Drive in Charleston, to deepen its footprint in the Lowcountry and bring its platform to more competitions across the Carolinas.

Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Horse Spot team should visit the company’s careers page.

QUOTES

“We grew up in the saddle and built careers in tech, finance and design. When we landed in Charleston and found a community that understood both worlds, we knew this was where Horse Spot was meant to be built.” -Horse Spot CEO and Technical Co-Founder Christopher Lenard

“We are proud to see a technology company like Horse Spot deepening its commitment to our state. This announcement is a testament to the strength of South Carolina’s skilled workforce, and we look forward to supporting Horse Spot’s latest chapter in Charleston County.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Congratulations to Horse Spot and Charleston County on this expansion that will bring 11 new job opportunities to the local community. We are proud to see the company continuing to grow, thrive and build its legacy in South Carolina’s Lowcountry.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Horse Spot’s expansion marks an exciting new chapter for Charleston County. By combining advanced technology with equestrian sport, their investment supports an industry that has been a longstanding tradition our community. We look forward to Horse Spot’s continued momentum and growth.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Joe Boykin

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Horse Spot is expanding its operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s investment will create 11 new jobs.
• Horse Spot is a premier equestrian technology platform.
• The company is located at 997 Morrison Drive in Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Horse Spot team should visit the company’s careers page.

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By Mark A. Leon

The City of Charleston has approved $7.66 million in funding for fiscal year operations supporting parks, recreation, arts, and transportation initiatives across the city. The budget also allocates an additional $1.74 million toward workforce housing programs, reinforcing the city’s commitment to expanding affordable housing opportunities for residents.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the approved funding by agency, fund, program, and event.

Operating Expenditures

• Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau (30%) $3,472,500
• DASH Shuttle (Free) $788,255
• To General Fund (5%) $603,750
• IAAM 2014 $5M Bond -Transfer to IAAM Fund $400,116
• IAAM 2018 $7.5M Bond – Transfer to IAAM Fund $616,616
• SC Aquarium Maintenance Fund $500,000
• Visitor Center Operations (including maintenance and repairs) $261,034
• Brittlebank Park Boardwalk $50,000
• Wragg Square Wall Repairs $65,000
• Waterfront Park Hardscape Renovation $150,000
• City of Charleston Cultural Festivals Fund (Piccolo, MOJA, CFM, etc) $750,000

Operating Expenditures Subtotal 7,657,271

Workforce Housing Expenditures – $1,740,000

Max 15% of Revenue for Workforce Housing Workforce Housing Expenditures

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By Mark A. Leon

The City of Charleston has approved $2.5 million in arts funding for 2026, providing critical support to the organizations, festivals, and cultural institutions that help shape the region’s creative landscape. A total of 29 recipients were awarded grants to support operations, programming, and community engagement efforts throughout the coming year. Below is a complete list of every organization and event receiving City arts funding for 2026.

2026 Approved Budget – Arts Grants-in-Aid

• Carolina Art Association (Gibbes Museum) $235,000
• Charleston Area Sports Commission $20,000
• Charleston Golf Inc. $15,000
• Charleston Literary Festival (Charleston to Charleston, Inc.) $20,000
• Charleston Museum $240,000
• Charleston Opera Theater $5,000
• Charleston Parks Conservancy $20,000
• Charleston Stage Company $80,000
• Charleston Symphony Orchestra $200,000
• Charleston Wine & Food Festival $140,000
• Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry $80,000
• Company Company $7,500
• Cooper River Bridge Run $150,000
• CRW Events (Charleston Race Week at Patriot’s Point) $20,000
• Drayton Hall Preservation Trust $75,000
• Engaging Creative Minds $20,000
• Halsey Institute $25,000
• Historic Charleston Foundation $75,000
• Jazz Artists of Charleston (Charleston Jazz) $80,000
• Lowcountry AIDS Services $5,000
• Lowcountry Jazz Festival (Closing the Gap in Health Care Inc.) $70,000
• Preservation Society of Charleston $15,000
• Pure Theatre $7,500
• SC250 Charleston, Inc. $100,000
• South Carolina Aquarium $215,000
• South Carolina Historical Society $10,000
• Southeastern Wildlife Exposition $275,000
• Spoleto Festival $275,000
• YALLFest $20,000

Grants Subtotal $2,500,000

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Source: City of Charleston, SC

Join us this summer for a Free Dental Day that provides no‑cost dental care to uninsured and underinsured adults and youth through a large, temporary clinic staffed by volunteer dentists, hygienists, and support teams. Hosted annually, this multi‑day event offers exams, cleanings, extractions, and restorative care while connecting patients to ongoing resources in their communities.

There is no formal registration required. Walk-ins are welcome and encouraged for this event.

• Where: CHARLESTON AREA CONVENTION CENTER | 5001 Coliseum Dr · North Charleston, SC 29418
• When: July 9-10, 2026 / July 17-18, 2026
• Want to Volunteer? – Click HERE for Patient Registration Day / Click HERE for Dental Day / Click HERE for Set Up and Tear Down
• Interested in Sponsorship? Click HERE.
• Official Event Website

Details

X-RAY AND REGISTRATION DATES

July 9th or July 10th from 9am-5pm

TREATMENT DATES 

July 17th and July 18th from 8am-5pm

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Charleston, SC(For Immediate Release) — PURE Theatre is proud to announce its 24th season, featuring five mainstage productions, including two Southeast Regional Premieres and two World Premieres. Additional offerings include the World Premiere Summer Slam production of Red Shirts and the Second Annual PURE Theatre Playwrights Festival. Performances in the 2026-2027 season will take place at the Cannon Street Arts Center and virtually through PURE Live, the company’s live-streaming program.

“A friend recently asked me how, after all of these seasons, I remain so energized by the work,” says PURE Co-founder and Executive Artistic Director Sharon Graci. “And the answer is easy: because the work is hard, the artistic bar is high, and the stories are brilliant. I really do have the best job. I get to make art with people I love, in a city we are all devoted to, for audiences who have become like family. How could I not be thrilled?”

“I spent a long time with these plays. I always do. It takes a great deal for a script to earn a place in a PURE season, and every one of these playwrights has written something I simply could not shake.

Some made me laugh out loud. Some broke my heart. Some left me unsettled for days. They all challenged me.

They don’t share a point of view or a style, and in fact, they disagree with one another in fascinating ways. But what they have in common is that I couldn’t stop thinking about them.

That’s the kind of theatre I love. Theatre that stays with you long after the lights come up. Theatre that sparks conversation. Theatre that reminds us how complicated, funny, frightening, and extraordinary it is to be human.

I cannot wait to share these stories with our audience.”

PURE SUMMER SLAM: RED SHIRTS

A World Premiere by Rodney Lee Rogers. Directed by Sharon Graci.

July 16-August 1, 2026

PURE’s Summer Slam production is an annual preseason event that keeps the company producing during the summer months. This year’s Summer Slam will feature the world premiere of Red Shirts by PURE Co-founder Rodney Lee Rogers.

From PURE Theatre Co-Founders Sharon Graci and Rodney Lee Rogers, building on twenty-four years of uncompromising storytelling, comes their most dangerous collaboration yet: a new Southern noir anthology for the theatre.

In this inaugural production, three stories take the stage. A stuntman who has spent his life taking hits meant for someone else. A musician still waiting for the end of the world. A man in the Charleston marsh country who discovers that some debts are older than the people who owe them.

These are the red shirts. The expendables. The people nobody expects to survive the story. Until they do.

CHURCH WARS

A World Premiere by Fred Thompson. Directed by Sharon Graci.

August 27-September 19, 2026

Season 24 officially kicks off in August 2026 with Church Wars, a world premiere play by Fred Thompson.

When a struggling church discovers a way to save itself, everyone agrees it’s a blessing. Until the selection committee gets involved.

What begins as a fundraiser quickly becomes a fight over whose recipe makes the cut and whose gets left out. Which, as it turns out, is the same thing as fighting over everything else.

From the creator of PURE audience favorite Atwater comes a mockumentary comedy in the tradition of Christopher Guest, where the stakes are absurd, the people are sincere, and nobody is nearly as reasonable as they think they are.

Church Wars will coincide with the Second Annual Playwrights Festival, a weekend of storytelling, workshops, conversations, and celebration featuring playwrights from Season 24, including Rodney Lee Rogers, Fred Thompson, Maggie Kearnan, Josh Tobiessen, and the welcome return of York Walker, whose play Covenant opened Season 23.

THE ANTIQUITIES

A Southeast Regional Premiere by Jordan Harrison. Directed by Sharon Graci.

October 22-November 14, 2026

Next comes The Antiquities, a “brilliantly imagined drama” (The Wall Street Journal) by Jordan Harrison.

At the Museum of Late Human Antiquities, curators work to reconstruct a vanished civilization from the fragments it left behind. Piece by piece, they begin to tell the story of us.

As glimpses of ordinary life come into focus, first loves, family dinners, scientific breakthroughs, impossible ambitions, a larger picture begins to emerge.

So does something else.

Funny, haunting, and unexpectedly moving, The Antiquities invites us to see ourselves from a distance and wonder what future generations might make of the story we’re telling right now.

HERE THERE ARE BLUEBERRIES

by Moisés Kaufman and Amanda Gronich. Directed by Rodney Lee Rogers.

January 28-February 20, 2027

Winter 2027 brings Here There Are Blueberries by Moisés Kaufman and Amanda Gronich.

Called “the greatest detective story ever told” (Los Angeles Times), Here There Are Blueberries begins with the arrival of a photo album at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Inside are snapshots of ordinary life. Friends laughing together. Young women enjoying a day in the sun. Moments of leisure. Moments of joy.

The photographs were taken at Auschwitz.

As archivists begin to investigate the album’s origins, a remarkable true story unfolds. The deeper they look, the more difficult the questions become. Not only about the past, but about ourselves.

LIKE FLIES

A Southeast Regional Premiere by Maggie Kearnan. Directed by Sharon Graci.

March 4-27, 2027

March 2027 ushers in Like Flies by Maggie Kearnan.

In a small, tightly bound community, the women have found a way to keep themselves safe.

They share it quietly. Pass it hand to hand. And never speak of it beyond their circle.

For a while, it works.

But safety has a way of changing people. As whispers spread and loyalties begin to fracture, what began as protection takes on a darker shape.

Because once you decide who deserves to be spared, you also decide who doesn’t.

Fresh from its world premiere at Portland Stage, Like Flies arrives at PURE Theatre for its Southeast Regional Premiere.

BAT CITY

A World Premiere Co-Production with Warehouse Theatre by Josh Tobiessen. Directed by Caroline Jane Davis.

April 22-May 15, 2027

Season 24 concludes with the rolling world premiere of Bat City by Josh Tobiessen, produced in partnership with Warehouse Theatre in Greenville.

In Austin, where everyone seems to be one good idea away from becoming somebody, Amy, Charlie, and Liz are trying to figure out what comes next.

Amy is convinced her big break is just around the corner. Charlie already had his and would rather not discuss it. Liz blew up her entire life in search of something better and is still waiting for it to arrive.

They spend their nights working at a restaurant, closing down the bar, making plans, and promising themselves that change is coming.

Then one night, a terrible idea starts to sound like a very good one.

Josh Tobiessen gives us a comedy that is fast, funny, and just a little bit dangerous.

Bat City is a World Premiere co-production of PURE Theatre and Warehouse Theatre.

The Season 24 Flex Pass is on sale now and offers audiences access to one of the most compelling seasons in PURE Theatre’s history. The pass includes five flexible tickets for the mainstage season, concierge ticketing services, first invitations to all PURE events, and discounts on additional ticket purchases, including the Summer Slam. The Flex Pass also includes access to PURE’s Dining Benefits Program, in partnership with the Charleston Arts Festival, which offers patrons discounts and specials at favorite local restaurants throughout the season.

Flex Passes start at $212, a savings of more than 15 percent off the cost of purchasing five individual tickets at the average single-ticket price. In recognition of their service to the community, current and retired K-12 educators are eligible for a specially priced Educator Flex Pass for $100 by contacting PURE.

Patrons and ticket buyers should visit PURE Theatre’s website at puretheatre.org for additional information about Season 24. Information on purchasing season Flex Passes and individual tickets is also available on PURE’s website, social media platforms, and through PURE Theatre’s box office at 843-723-4444, Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

ABOUT PURE THEATRE

Founded in 2003, PURE Theatre is Charleston’s award-winning professional theatre company, now in its 24th season. Built around a resident ensemble of actors, directors, and designers, PURE produces bold contemporary plays, often Southeastern and regional premieres, that bring the most current voices in American theatre to Charleston. Known for its quality, intimacy, and consistency, PURE offers audiences a boutique cultural experience that complements the city’s historic and culinary landscape. Grounded by a five-play mainstage season, PURE also produces educational and touring programs, strengthening South Carolina’s arts ecology and contributing to its reputation as a world-class cultural destination.

PURE’s staff includes Sharon Graci (Co-founder and Artistic Director), Rodney Lee Rogers (Co-founder and Producing Director), David Mandel (Associate Artistic Director), Joy Vandervort-Cobb (Associate Artistic Director), Tippy Trombly (Patron Experience and Marketing Manager), and Isabella Gardner (Patron Experiences & Marketing Associate).

Serving on PURE Theatre’s board of directors are Stephanie Hunt (President), Brad Erickson (Vice Chair), James M. Ward, CPA (Treasurer), Michael Culler, Amy Gaffney, David Smalls, Liza Elsner, Bea Wray, and Josh Wilhoit.

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By Mark A. Leon

Terra Mia Italian Takeout is officially open on James Island! June 2, 2026 marked the official launch of this new take out option.

Located at 1740 Signal Point Rd (Building 2, Unit 250), Charleston, SC 29412, this spot is perfect for a convenient, high-quality night in. 

 How to Order

Whether you want to drive by for a quick pick-up or have it delivered straight to your couch, Terra Mia has you covered:

 Phone (Pick-up): Call 854-253-6513

 Official Website

Delivery: Available on Uber Eats and DoorDash via their DoorDash Store Page.

Terra Mia features a scratch-made menu highlighting rich flavors and classic Italian staples: 

• Fresh Pasta Dishes: From rich Spaghetti alla Bolognese and creamy Fettuccini Alfredo to savory Gnocchi alla Sorrentina and Nonna’s Baked Ziti. 
• Seafood Specialties: Spaghetti white wine clams and Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare. 
• Hearty Paninis: Hot, toasted Italian sandwiches like Meatball or Sausage served with a side of French fries or a fresh salad.

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• George Washington’s War Tent – College of Charleston – June 13-14, 2026
• Celebrating American Independence with A Colonial Fair – Colonial Kids’ Experience with Tim Lowry – Wando Mount Pleasant Library – June 20, 2026
• Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness concert: Concert featuring diverse Revolutionary-era cultural traditions – Sunrise Presbyterian Church – June 20, 2026
• Cole Swindell and Lee Brice – Summer of Revolution, powered by SC250 Charleston – Credit One Stadium – June 20, 2026
• Declaring Independence in Charleston: Text and Context Lecture: Lecture on Charleston’s Declaration of Independence – The Charleston Museum – June 23, 2026
• Every Inch a Gentleman A Revolutionary-Era Dinner with Storyteller Tim Lowry: Lecture on the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. There are two seatings for this event: 6:30 and 7:00 PM – Circa 1886 – June 25, 2026
• Revolutionary Ideas: A Conversation with Rick Atkinson: Join us at the Dock Street Theater for an evening with Pulitzer Prize-winning author Rick Atkinson as he discusses his book The Fate of the Day about the middle years of the Revolution and Charleston’s role. Moderated by Carl Borick from the Charleston Museum – Dock Street Theatre – June 26, 2026
• Carolina Day Commemoration at White Point Garden (Palmetto Society): Church service, parade, and ceremony for Carolina Day – White Point Garden – June 27, 2026
• SC250 CORA Parade of Sail: Celebrate Carolina Day from the water with the SC250 CORA Parade of Sail, a special harbor procession honoring the Battle of Sullivan’s Island and Charleston’s maritime history – Celebrate Carolina Day from the water with the SC250 CORA Parade of Sail, a special harbor procession honoring the Battle of Sullivan’s Island and Charleston’s maritime history.  Presented in partnership with the Charleston Ocean Racing Association, boats will follow a designated route through Charleston Harbor decorated with SC250 pennants and visible to spectators along the waterfront. Additional details, including viewing locations and access information, coming soon.
• SC250 – Carolina Day RiverDogs Baseball Game and Drone Show – Joe Riley Stadium – June 28, 2026
• Independence Celebration Family Fun Event at HWH: Family Independence celebration at Heyward-Washington House – July 3, 2026
• Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence: Historical reenactors and community leaders perform a public reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of the Old Exchange, free and open to the public – Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon – July 4, 2026 (9 AM)
• Waterfront Independence Day Celebration: A waterfront Independence Day celebration featuring family-friendly, patriotic programming and a coordinated, peninsula-wide fireworks display – Waterfront Park – July 4, 2026 – 4:00 PM

Official SC 250 Events Website

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$70 million investment will create 45 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Red Metals, a next-generation copper manufacturer, today announced it is establishing its first copper manufacturing operation in Charleston County. The company’s $70 million investment is expected to create at least 45 new jobs.

Copper is a critical input for electrical infrastructure, data centers, electrification, advanced manufacturing and defense applications. S&P Global projects global copper demand will nearly double by 2035, driven by electrification, renewable energy, electric vehicles and digital infrastructure.

Red Metals is building a new domestic supply chain for copper products by converting copper raw materials directly into finished goods through an integrated refining and manufacturing process. The company’s Charleston County facility will serve as its first production operation.

Located at 4500 Leeds Ave. in North Charleston, the company’s 42,000-square-foot facility will manufacture high-conductivity copper rod used in wire, cable and other electrical applications. The operation is designed to strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity and deliver essential copper products with shorter lead times and reduced supply chain complexity.

Operations are expected to come online in the fourth quarter of 2026. Engineers, operators and other entrepreneurial builders interested in joining the Red Metals team should visit redmetals.com to learn more.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.

QUOTES

“Red Metals is building a modern domestic supply of copper products at a time when reliable industrial infrastructure has never been more critical. Charleston County gives us the foundation to scale a new model for copper refining and manufacturing, in close proximity to both the sources of supply and the industries that depend on it. We’re excited to invest in the region, create high-quality jobs and help support the next generation of American manufacturing, energy and defense.” -Red Metals Founder and CEO Jackson Switzer

“We are proud to welcome Red Metals to South Carolina and further strengthen our state’s manufacturing industry. With the addition of 45 jobs in Charleston County, this investment marks another win for our state and our workforce.” -Gov. Henry McMaster  

“Congratulations to Red Metals on establishing its first operations in Charleston County. The company’s investment of $70 million reflects the strength of South Carolina’s economy and workforce.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Red Metals’ decision to bring its copper manufacturing to Charleston County delivers a significant advantage for several of our key industries that rely on this essential material. Aside from strengthening the supply chain for neighboring businesses, this investment also brings high-quality jobs to advance our workforce as it continues to grow.” -Charleston County Chairman Joe Boykin

“We’re pleased to welcome Red Metals to the Charleston region. Their investment reflects the continued momentum we’re seeing across Charleston and the strength of our regional partnerships. We appreciate their commitment to our community and look forward to supporting their success as they grow here.” -Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chairman Will Russell

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Red Metals is establishing its first copper manufacturing operation in Charleston County.
• The company’s $70 million investment is expected to create at least 45 new jobs.
• Red Metals is a next-generation copper manufacturer building a new domestic supply chain for finished copper products.
• The company will be located at 4500 Leeds Ave. in North Charleston, S.C.
• Engineers, operators and other entrepreneurial builders interested in joining the Red Metals team should visit redmetals.com to learn more.

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