• Young Devyn performs in Atlanta

    Young Devyn To Perform At Believe Music Hall In Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    Brooklyn-born rapper Young Devyn is taking the rap world by storm in more ways than one. The lyrical poet is getting rave reviews across the United States as well as the Caribbean world (more on that later), but the South is starting to peep game as well.

    Young Devyn plays Friday, July 15, 2022 at Believe Music Hall in southwest Atlanta.

    Young Devyn Performing At Believe Music Hall In Atlanta

    Hours before her show, the young rap star sat down with AtlantaFi.com to talk about her journey and where she wants to go from here.

    She said she got into hip-hop after listening to Nicki Minaj.

    “I never really paid attention to punchlines and metaphors, but I went back and listened to her album and that was the first time I heard a metaphor really connect for me,” she said. “And I thought that it was the smartest thing ever. And I always liked being smart and I wanted my music to be smart and I don’t know what she did or how she said it, but it sounded very smart so that’s when I taught myself what punchlines were, metaphors and switching up my flows,” she said.

    Many people may not know it, but Young Devyn, who has Trini roots, had a pretty big career in the Caribbean as a child.

    “I had an extensive career in Soca until I turned 16 years old,” she said. “I was touring in front of 30.000, 40,000 people at ages 8 to 15, but when I turned 16 that’s when I shifted my fan base to rap.”

    She said her Caribbean fan base continues to support her today.

    “I have a very huge Caribbean fan base that people don’t even know about … so it’s dope. It’s a very versatile crowd,” she said.

    Don’t miss Young Devyn performing at Believe Music Hall in Atlanta on Friday, July 15, 2022. Get tickets here.

    Where Is Believe Music Hall Located?

    Believe Music Hall is located at 181 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30312. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    And before we go, here’s Young Devyn’s video for her latest single, Decisions:

    Read more AtlantaFi.com stories:
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  • best French fries in Atlanta

    For National French Fry Day, Try These Atlanta Restaurants

    3 Min Read

    National French Fry Day is a special day when you’re a fan of potatoes. If you’re wondering how to properly celebrate it i.e. find some awesome fries in the city, Atlanta’s restaurants give you quite a few choices.

    These Atlanta Restaurants Have The Best French Fries

    Let’s look at some Atlanta eateries with great fries for National French Fry Day!

    HobNob Neighborhood Tavern

    Hobnob Neighborhood Tavern has the best burgers

    Atlanta Locations:

    • 1221 Ashford Crossing, Atlanta, GA 30346 | (470) 395-7904
    • 804 Town Blvd A1010, Atlanta, GA 30319 | (404) 464-8971
    • 245 18th St, Atlanta, GA 30363

    Here’s what one reviewer says about dining at HobNob: “Wanted something warm and hearty. Glad I came to the right spot.The chicken pot pie was the best I have ever tasted. I also had a taste of the Americana burger which was juicy, flavorful and outstanding.”

    The Varsity

    Atlanta Locations:

    • 61 North Avenue NW, Atlanta, GA 30308 |  (404) 881-1706
    • 6045 Dawson Blvd, Norcross, GA 30093 | (770) 840-8519
    • 2790 Town Center Dr, Kennesaw, GA 30144 | (770) 795-0802

    The Varsity french fries in Atlanta

    Here’s what one customer says about The Varsity’s French Fries: “The fries were crispy! Perfectly seasoned too! Quick and accurate service, and the dogs and pies were delicious as always.”

    Slutty Vegan ATL

    Slutty Vegan Set To Open Edgewood Location In Atlanta

    Atlanta Locations:

    • 1542 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310 | (855) 439-7588
    • 484 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 |  (855) 439-7588
    • 164 N McDonough St, Jonesboro, GA 30236 |  (855) 439-7588
    • 2045 Pleasant Hill Rd, Duluth, GA 30096 | (855) 439-7588

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Slutty Vegan: “Some of the best food I’ve ever had!! I don’t just mean best -vegan- food, but I mean, like all around best. Never knew vegan specific food could taste this good before this. Absolutely delicious food, great place.”

    The Usual

    1777 Peachtree St. NW Atlanta, GA 30309 |  (404) 343-1541

    Wha'ts on the Usual Menu in Atlanta?

    Here’s what one customer says about The Usual. “Great food — think elevated American bar dishes. The service was excellent and I liked the fun atmosphere. We had loaded fries, the house parker rolls, calamari, and the shrimp louie salad. All were very good, although I would skip the calamari next time. For dessert we did the skillet chocolate chip cookie with ice cream – it was delicious. I will definitely go again.”

    Cubanos ATL

    Atlanta Locations:

    • 930 Market Pl Blvd Cumming, GA 30041 | (404) 889-8948
    • 1235 Chattahoochee Ave NW Atlanta, GA, 30318 | (404) 889-8948
    • 6450 Roswell Rd Suite C, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 889-8948
    • 7730 Roswell Rd #400 Dunwoody, GA 30350 | (404) 889-8948

    Cubanos ATL opens in West Midtown Atlanta

    Cubanos ATL has some great fries as well. Here’s what one customer says: “Worth every penny. Menu just right. The right kinda homey vibe. Thank God it is 2 minutes drive for Lunch.”

    Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

    231 Peachtree Street Northwest A-05 The Mall at, Atlanta, GA 30303

    best hot chicken in Atlanta

    Here’s what one customer says about Gus’ Fried Chicken. “Very good chicken and fish. The wait time is painful so order ahead of time. The price per portion will leave some folk hungry but they have great flavor if you have great patience. The staff was super friendly and kept checking in to let us know the food was still cooking.”

    Chai Peking Chinese Restaurant

     2205 Lavista Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329 | (404) 327-7810

    Chai Peking is one of the best Chinese restaurants in Atlanta

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Chai Peking Chinese Restaurant: “My food, Hunan Beef, was good. Although it was not shockingly good, other than its price, it was good. I spent $16 something on a regular Hunan Beef.”

    Final Word

    French fries are some of the best supplemental dishes with a burger. Check out these top burger spots.

    Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • Colman Domingo in The Color Purple -- The Musical filming in Atlanta

    The Color Purple — The Musical Is Casting In Atlanta

    3 Min Read

    The Color Purple – The Musical is holding casting calls for actors and extras in Atlanta. Keep reading to see how to apply for a role.

    The musical is being executive produced by Oprah Winfrey, who starred in an iconic role in the original feature-length film. The production has been filming around Georgia, including in Atlanta, for a few months now.

    Who’s Cast In The Color Purple — The Musical?

    The film packs an all-star cast including Ciara, Fantasia Taylor, Corey Hawkins, Colman Domingo, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Halle Bailey, and H.E.R.

    The Color Purple — The Musical Casting Call: Here Are The Details

    *Warner Bros FEATURE FILM: “The Color Purple-The Musical’
    LOCATION: Atlanta, GA
    **THIS IS A FULLY VACCINATED SET – All background actors must be fully vaccinated with booster
    DATES NEEDED:
    Filming: MONDAY JULY 11 (in Atlanta, GA)
    Rate: $110/10 + overtime if necessary
    *You will be Covid tested and fit upon arrival!
    Role(s): Shug’s Band Members – These roles will be picture picked by the director! Must be able to portray African American male, ages 25-55, knowledge of instruments is a plus but not necessary!
    This is a period piece meaning no fake lashes, nails must be uncolored and natural, no heavy drawn on brows. No visible piercing or tattoos. No hair extensions, dreads, locs, twists, braids. No unnatural hair colors. No modern cuts or fade. Men must be clean shaven!
    TO SUBMIT for this role:
    PLEASE FILL OUT LINK https://forms.gle/h2V2QFcaXCemJ1vX8
    OR send email ASAP to – colorpurplefilm@gmail.com
    with subject line: “BAND”
    Emails must include the following:
    -First & Last Name
    -Phone Number
    -Email Address
    -Recent Color Photo
    -Height, Weight and clothing/shoe sizes
    -Are you fully vaccinated and have a vaccination card?

    Last Word

    Because of the many movie / TV productions, in the works, Atlanta has been called the Hollywood of the South and that’s about right. If you want to be an actor, the city has classes you can take as well as places that provide headshots and more. You can also audition at numerous casting calls to build your movie and TV reel.
     
    The Color Purple is just one of many films filmed in Atlanta. See our Movies Page for more.
     
    Are you interested in becoming an actor in Atlanta? You’re in the right place!   
     

    Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls

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  • The Usual Menu in Atlanta

    New Restaurant Alert: The Usual Opens In Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    Are you ready for The Usual? That’s the name of a relatively new restaurant in Brookwood Hills.

    The eatery is the latest from Chef Nick Leahy, who also helms Nick’s Westside Neighborhood and Bar as well as Chicken Out, a new yard bird concept.

    What Is On The Menu At The Usual?

    Wha'ts on the Usual Menu in Atlanta?

    Word on the street is that The Usual has a mean Crispy Spicy Chicken Sandwich, which we will be trying soon. Customers can also expect the following items on the menu:

    • Crispy Slow Roasted Cox’s Farm Pot Belly
    • Chicken Schnitzel
    • Pan-Roasted Ga Trout
    • The Usual Burger (Grass-fed Georgia beef, Spicy Cheddar, Lettuce, Fried Shallots, Comeback Sauce on a Brioche Bun)
    • Crispy Catfish Sandwich and much more.

    As for beverages, you can’t go wrong the The Arya Spritz, The Usual Old Fashioned and The Dragon Lady, which features lemongrass-infused gin.

    You also do not want to miss Tequila Tuesday or Wine Wednesday, which features special pours of vino and more.

    The eatery opens at 5 p.m. each day and typically closes at 10 p.m. but stays open an hour longer on Saturdays and closes an hour earlier on Sundays.

    Where Is The Usual Located?

    The Usual is located at 1777 Peachtree St. NW Atlanta, GA 30309 on the ground floor of The Arya Peachtree complex in Atlanta’s Brookwood Hills neighborhood. Here is a map to help you find it.

    Final Word

    The Usual is more than the usual when you think about it. And that’s what Atlanta dining is all about.

    Do you love a good restaurant? Check out the new places to eat. Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit a craft brewery in the city 

      Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:

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  • How to straighten your hair without heat

    How To Straighten Your Hair With And Without Heat

    4 Min Read

    If you have curly hair, you know the struggle it can be to achieve straight hair. Thankfully, flat irons and straighteners can do the job.

    In this article, we’ll explain how to curl your hair with a flat iron. We’ve listed some really simple steps so that you can follow along.

    Should You Straighten Your Hair Wet Or Dry?

    Some people may get away with straightening their hair while it’s wet, but after a while there is the risk of damaging your locks. For the best results, straighten your hair when it’s dry.

    The moisture trapped within your follicles can hasten heat damage when straightening, and you don’t want to do that.

    OK, let’s go over the steps for straightening your hair without heat first, then we’ll consider he steps for straightening your hair with heat.

    How To Straighten Your Hair Without Heat

    If you don’t want to use heat on your hair, it’s understandable; heat can damage your hair. The good news is that you can naturally straighten your hair as well.

    Depending on the grade of hair you have you may be able to apply a hot towel on your head and comb it straighten. To naturally straighten your hair in other ways, here are some products you can use:

    Keratherapy Keratin Infused Daily Smoothing Cream (6.8 oz)

    Buy Now

    MIZANI 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner

    Buy Now

    Honey Miracle Hair Mask (12 Oz)

    Buy Now

    Keratin-Infused Anti-Frizz Moisturizing Hair Mask

    Buy Now

    Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Shine Pomade

    Buy Now

    How To Straightener Your Hair With Heat

    You’ll need a flat iron to straighten your hair with heat. Once you’ve plugged in your flat iron, and positioned yourself in front of a mirror, you’re ready to go.

    Grab A Small Section Of Your Hair

    With your hand, grab some strands of hair — about 1 to 2 inches across should be enough — and pull it out, elevating it away from your head.

    The reason you’ll want to pull it away from your head is because the flat iron is really hot! With the other hand, grab your flat iron.

    Clamp Your Hair With the Flat Iron And Stroke Down

    Now you’ll want to do is clamp your hair as close to the scalp without actually touching it. While you’re positioned the flat iron with your hair in between, stroke your hair in a downward motion.

    Because of the heat, you should be able to do this one time and achieve the desired results: Straight hair.

    Grab another small section of hair and follow the same steps.

    Here’s a video to help you see how it’s done:

    Some safety tips that you need to follow:

    • Set it to the lowest temperature first. If you don’t get your hair straight, then adjust the setting hotter.
    • Don’t keep your flat iron plugged up if you’re done with it.
    • When applying the heat to your hair, don’t let the flat iron stay on one section of your hair for no longer than a second or so. You don’t want to damage your hair. 

    Last Word

    Aside from using some rollers or a flat iron, some petroleum-free, mineral oil-free pomade can definitely straighten your hair. With every product, you’re going to have to see how it works with your particular hair type and if it works for you.

    Once you decide on a hair product, be mindful of how long it lasts and how many times a week you have to use it.

    More Hair Stories:

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  • Usher Tiny Desk

    Usher’s Vocals Thrill On NPR’s Tiny Desk

    3 Min Read

    Many a fan has questioned the vocal abilities of Atlanta’s R&B king, Usher Raymond. Over the last few years especially, he’s had to take comparisons from artists with much less experience, range, and let’s face it, dancing ability. 

    But Usher put all that to rest with the recent release of his Tiny Desk performance on NPR. Singing several of his hits in a small library, the team at NPR was able to get the best out of the “Superstar” singer.

    NPR made sure to roll out the red carpet for Usher and his team, showcasing him as the climax to an entire month of black music.

    Here Are The Songs Usher Sung On NPR’s Tiny Desk

    SET LIST

    • “You Make Me Wanna…”
    • “Superstar”
    • “U Don’t Have to Call”
    • “Nice & Slow”
    • “Confessions Part II”
    • “My Way”

    MUSICIANS

    • Usher: vocals
    • Eric Bellinger: vocals
    • Vedo: vocals
    • Dmitry Gorodetsky: bass
    • Lemar Guillary: trombone
    • Brandyn Phillips: trumpet
    • Jay Flat: saxophone
    • Darek Cobbs: keys
    • Erick Walls: guitar
    • Ryan Carr: drums

    Usher looked like he enjoyed the mini-concert as much as the fans, often grinning while hitting his sweet falsetto notes.

    On social media, fans were shocked to be reconnected to many of the lyrics they had evidently grown up listening to.

    And as for a Verzuz contest, fans were quick to point out that Usher would do away with the competition.

    NPR has been doing Tiny Desk concerts since 2008, but they have recently exploded in popularity thanks to the platform releasing new episodes of the video series.

    Watch Usher’s Tiny Desk Performance

    Usher’s concert is not the first time an Atlanta artist did his thing on NPR. If you remember, Big Boi from Outkast also rocked out on his Tiny Desk performance.

    Final Word

    Atlanta is the home of a lot of great music and great artists. From the So So Def roster to the R&B empire built by Laface, good music has long been a hallmark of the ATL.

     

    If you like to have a good time on the dance floor or while listening to music, Atlanta has something for everyone. Check out the top live music venues around the city as well as best comedy clubs.
     
    If you’re into spoken word, you’ll love these poetry spots in Atlanta. Don’t forget to hit up the top clubs in Atlanta throughout the week end weekend.
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  • L.O.A. opens at Interlock in Atlanta

    Rooftop L.O.A. Opens In West Midtown Atlanta

    4 Min Read

    We told you about it in late winter and it’s here: Rooftop L.O.A. has opened for business, according to a news release from the venue.

    The luxe rooftop bar and restaurant is located atop The Interlock development in West Midtown Atlanta.

    Rooftop L.O.A. Opens In West Midtown

    The eatery’s name, Rooftop L.O.A., stands for Leave of Absence, and is a nod to the carefree environment that will put you in the mind of a getaway when you visit.

    “It’s even more than we imagined it would be,” Slater Hospitality Co-Founder + Chief Creative Officer, Mandy Slater, said in the news release, referring to the opening of Rooftop L.O.A. “It’s a joy seeing people on the rooftop – swimming in the Pool, enjoying a spritz under the sun, ordering caviar with their friends in a cabana, and beaming at the sunsets from the Grove terrace. Guests are really soaking it up and immersing themselves in everything L.O.A. offers.”

    The establishment takes up 38,000-square feet and is a full-service restaurant complete with rooftop pool bar with cabanas, lounge and more.

    The Grove

    One of the main features is the Grove, a garden-inspired outdoor bar and 150-person covered event pavilion. The secluded space’s pavilion is great for private events and more. The Grove opens at 5 p.m. every day.

    The Pool

    Another top amenity of Rooftop L.O.A. is the pool. Complete a cabana, lounge chairs and stadium, the pool is the perfect place to beat the heat in Atlanta.

    Pool hours are as follows:

    • Sunday – Wednesday | 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
    • Thursday – Saturday | 11 a.m. – 12 a.m. or later.

    “The Pool at Rooftop L.O.A. is a huge part of what makes this concept unique to Atlanta,” said Slater Hospitality Founder + CCO, Mandy Slater. “A pool that is detached from a hotel or a residence creates a special offering that doesn’t exist currently. We can’t wait to welcome guests and offer a truly world-class experience – a slice of paradise where guests can escape, unwind, be taken care of, and detach from the day-to-day.”

    The Pool and indoor pool bar accommodate more 200 people with sun loungers and private cabanas, food and beverage service, and a rotation of events and programming.

    What’s On The Menu At Rooftop L.O.A.?

    L.O.A. menu at Interlock
    Photo credit: Slater Hospitality

    The menu is executed by Chef Joseph Trevino, and will feature coastal European cuisine with open-fire cooking for dinner, brunch, and late-night bites.

    Among the tasty delights are foie gras bratwurst and shrimp tacos, plus an ancient grains bowl. And the venue has a unique twist on popsicles —  “Whim-sicles,” which can come with mango paleta, Pina Colada with dark chocolate and the Blueberry gel squeeze shot.

    There is also a brunch menu available at the pool on Saturday and Sunday. Brunch menu items include a French pastry selection and Gougere Benedict with prosciutto cotto and hollandaise, and plenty more.

    Where Is The Rooftop L.O.A. Located?

    The Rooftop L,O.A. is located on the roof of The Interlock in West Midtown, Rooftop L.O.A. The Interlock’s address is 1115 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    What Are The Hours Of Rooftop L.O.A.?

    Rooftop L.O.A. is open Monday through Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., reservations are highly encouraged and can be made at rooftoploa.com/reservations.

    Final Word

    The entire rooftop, including The Grove, is 21+

    If Rooftop L.O.A. is any indication, a lot of the fun in the sun in Atlanta will be had in the air! Here are some other awesome rooftop bars.

    More Food  & Drink Coverage:

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  • Sneakers

    Sneaker Con Atlanta Invades The City

    2 Min Read
    If you’re a sneaker head, this is the ultimate weekend for you. Sneaker Con Atlanta is a two-day event that will showcase some of the best athletic shoes you’ll ever see.
     
    The event is being called, “The Greatest Sneaker Show on Earth,” and it just may be. 

    Sneaker Con Atlanta Returns To The City

    Sneaker Con Atlanta

    The event is expected thousands of people to come to the Georgia Convention Center in downtown Atlanta.
     
    Sneakerheads will get countless opportunities to buy, sell, trade, win tons of prizes, participate in auctions. Did we mention you’ll get a rare chance to buy the hottest shoes out for a good price?

    How To Get Tickets

    Tickets to Sneaker Con will run you between $30 and $50 depending on if you’re interested in admission for one day or two. Get tickets here.
     
    Location:
    Georgia International Convention Center 2000 Convention Center Concourse, College Park, GA 30337
     
    Date & Time:
    Saturday, June 25 and Sunday, 26, 2022
    Hours12:00 – 7:00 PM

    While it’s warm, take advantage of the outdoors. Don’t miss these awesome festivals.

    The fun is just starting. Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit a craft brewery in the city   

    Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

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  • Wagamama takeout service in Atlanta

    Wagamama Launches Online Ordering Service In Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    We told you that Wagamama was set to open its first Georgia location in the near future. Now, the Asian-inspired eatery has launched its online takeout and delivery service.

    That means right now, you can choose among a wide variety of cooked-to-order dishes from Takeout.Wagamama.us.

    Wagamama Launches Online Takeout/Delivery Service

    The restaurant fulfills its online orders at its new location at West Atlanta’s Star Metals District complex.

    What’s On Wagamama’s Takeout Menu?

    Wagamama Korean chicken wings

    Wagamama has several tasty dishes to choose from on its online menu. All meals are made to order, however, when it comes to online ordering, you can’t modify your meals, not even for allergies.

    Check out the full Wagamama menu, which features some great noodle dishes, ramens, shareables and fresh juices.

    Where Is Wagamama Located?

    Wagamama in West Midtown is located in Star Metals Residences at 1050 Howell Mill Road. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    Last Word

    Wagamama isn’t the only place with great takeout/delivery service. Check out our best spots for takeout in Atlanta.

    And if you’re on the West side, don’t sleep on Delilah’s Everyday Soul, which is located in Chattahoochee Food Works.

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • Virgil's Gullah Kitchen opens in Midtown

    Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen Opens In Midtown Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen has opened its newest location in Midtown Atlanta. We told you about their plans last fall and they have come to reality.

    The popular eatery that features lowcountry fare has done a soft opening in the space formerly occupied by 4 Rivers Smokehouse.

    Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen Opens Its Doors in Midtown

    On social media, the eatery posted this: “Com Ya! Our SOFT Opening starts at our NEW West Midtown location this Wed-Friday, June 22nd-24th, from 5-10PM for Dine-in + Takeout, Kitchen Only! Tag ya dinner crew!”

    For now, all we know is that Virgil’s plans to open early in the year, but no firm date has been released yet.

    Where Is Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen Located In Midtown Atlanta?

    Virgil’s is located at 822 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318.

    Atlanta is having a restaurant renaissance. Hot chicken is the rage in Atlanta’s dining scene right now. But so are chicken and waffles.

    Fast-casual is also the dining trend du jour around metro Atlanta restaurants. The concept involves mixing the quick accessibility of fast food with the casual dining experience. Food in Atlanta is also adapting to the various tastes of the migrants that come here to live.

    Read more: 20+ Essential Soul Food Restaurants In Atlanta

    The city has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.

    Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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