enewsletter aug2014

BusinessConneCtion

a publication ofthe O’FallonChamber of Commerce

AuGust 2014

o’FAllon ChAmBer reCeives nAtionAl AwArd oF exCellenCe in CommuniCAtions Competition

he O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce their 2014 Membership Directory & Community Profile has won an Award of Excellence in the American Chamber of Commerce Executives’

(ACCE) 2014 Awards for Communications Excellence (ACE) competition. The Membership Directory & Community Profile is

TContinued on pg 11

22nd AnnuAl o’FAllon ChAmBer GolF tournAment

he O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the 22nd Annual Golf Tournament will be held at The Falls Golf Course located at 1170 Turtle Creek,

O’Fallon, MO 63366. This annual event is open to the public and will be held on Monday, September 8, 2014. Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m. followed by shotgun start at 12:00 a.m. Everyone is encouraged to participate in this opportunity to enjoy eighteen holes of golf and all of the extra tournament fun at a great price. For only a $100 per golfer

T

Continued on pg 6

2014

2 | Business ConneCtion | AUGUST 2014

Sponsored by:

Join us for this networking luncheon. Bring lots of business cards and your 1 minute informercial.

don’t forget to register for only $16!

membershipmeeting Tuesday, August 2611:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.SummiT CommuniTy ChurCh927 e terra ln, o’Fallon, mo 63366

rise & shine...to join us for the o’Fallon Chamber’s morning

schmooze, a Free monthly, networking event open to Chamber members. Arrive ready to network

with a pocket full of business cards and a 1 minute infomercial.

Thursday, August 217:30 - 9:00 a.m.

renAud SpiriT CenTer2650 sports Cir, o’Fallon, mo 63368

Tuesday, August 124:30 to 6:30 p.m.GibSon prinTinG

5903 suemandy rd, st. peters, mo 63376

Stay for 5 minutes or 2 hours, whichever fits into your schedule best. our free monthly Business After

hours are a great way to build relationships with many of your fellow Chamber members. Average

attendance at these free events is around 60 Chamber members!

O’Fallon Chamberof Commerce O’Fallon Chamber

of Commerce

AUGUST 2014 | Business ConneCtion | 3

2145 Bryan Valley Commercial DrO’Fallon, MO 63366Phone: 636-240-1818Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement:The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting economic vitality in O’Fallon and the St. Charles County Region while providing members with networking opportunities, education and advocacy in public policy decisions affecting business.

Vision Statement:The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce will be the catalyst for the prosperity of our community as a valued resource for businesses, organizations, and residents.

Officers:Jeff Arneson, JLJ Technology, Chair of the BoardMichael Favazza, Favazza & Associates, 1st Vice ChairMark Crank, Marcos Productions, 2nd Vice ChairBrenda Lowder, Thomas Realty, TreasurerStacee Gilmore, Promotions Pronto, SecretaryAdam Hopper, PNC Bank, Past Chair of the Board

Directors:Harold Bliggenstorfer, Missouri Baptist UniversityHeather Deatz, Community NewsCindy Elking, Quintessential CateringRon Epps, Citizens National BankKim Jimenez, Elm Dental CareCarla, Klaskin, MercyDan Luigs, Insurance StoreBrian Richardson, KFAV 99.9 FMJan Stanczak, Jan’s Travel & CruiseSheles Wallace, Billionaire ThoughtsJohn Weeks, Mass Financial Group

Staff:Erin Williams, President/CEOSara Henderson, Communications DirectorNina DeAngelo, Director of Member Engagement

vol.

3 is

.8 in

this

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eCommunication Award ..........cover & p 11Golf Tournament ..................... cover & p 6Chairman’s Letter .................................. p 4O’Fallon Ranked Best ........................... p 4Erin Completed Institute ....................... p 5Ribbon Cuttings .................................... p 7New Members ....................................... p 7Member Spotlight ................................. p 8Pick Your Trip Raffle ............................ p 9Calendar of Events ............................. p 10Member Events ................................... p 12Member Anniversaries ........................ p 12Chamber Snapshot .............................. p 13

ChAmBer pArtners

LAWN LANDSCAPESOLUTIONS

& Shannon Norman Law


I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the O’Fallon Chamber members who supported the 30th Annual Firecracker Run

through their time on the committee, as a volunteer or as a sponsor. This was definitely the best event yet! Six months of planning, 139 volunteers, 50+ sponsors and 1940 participants equated to over $46,000 in net profit.

Many times while we are fundraising for the Chamber we are asked where the money is going. Well, simply put, it’s going to our operating budget. Each year the O’Fallon Chamber looks for new programs and

services to implement that we believe will be beneficial to our members and to the community. Successful events like the Firecracker Run ensure that our Chamber can continue to provide those services and features without raising your membership dues to rates that aren’t affordable to our smallest businesses. Basically, these events make sure that all businesses, of every size and budget, can afford the benefits of the O’Fallon Chamber; a Chamber that works continually to see those businesses succeed.

So, thank you to the Firecracker committee and all of the event committees that give their time, talent and treasure to make these events successful and our Chamber strong!

Until next month,Jeff Arneson2014 Chairman of the Board

he City of O’Fallon has been rated one of the best places in Missouri in which to own a home. A recent study conducted by NerdWallet, a consumer literacy/personal

finance website, considered “availability, affordability and growth” in assessing O’Fallon. The organization ranked the City as 5th in the state for homeownership. This is the second time that the website has lauded O’Fallon. Earlier this year, O’Fallon made NerdWallet’s list of best cities for Missouri job seekers, with employers that include CitiMortgage and MasterCard’s St. Louis Operations Center. “For a national organization to once again put our City in the spotlight is not only an honor, it helps residents and potential homeowners to see what O’Fallon has to offer in terms of true livability,” said O’Fallon’s Mayor, Bill Hennessy. “Families come first in our community, and O’Fallon’s latest ranking as one of the top cities in our

T state for homeownership as well as for job seekers is extremely important.” To come up with homeownership rankings, NerdWallet compared 52 communities with populations of more than 15,000. Using U.S. Census data and information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the website looked at homeownership rates, select monthly homeowner costs, monthly household income and population growth. The study found that the O’Fallon area has a homeownership rate of 82.9%, with median monthly homeownership costs of $1,596. NerdWallet aims to help consumers make better financial decisions by providing information on products such as CD rates, checking accounts, credit cards and more. The website has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Reuters. For more information, visit nerdwallet.com/cities.

o’FAllon rAnked As one oF missouri’s Best Cities For homeownership


nstitute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Foundation, is pleased to announce that Erin Williams, President & CEO, of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce, has recently completed her second year at Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. “Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s vice president of Institute for Organization

Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.” Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at five different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such

as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively. Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce dedicated to strengthening America’s long-term competitiveness by addressing developments that affect our nation, our economy, and the global business environment.

erin williAm Completes seCond YeAr At institute For orGAnizAtion mAnAGement

I

28Would you like to join of the groups to build closer business relationships?Contact nina at 636-240-1818 or [email protected]

leads were passed during the month of JuLy by the members our leads groups!


O’FALLON CHAMBER OF COMMERCEO’FALLON CHAMBER OF COMMERCEO’FALLON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

22nd ANNUAL

TOURNAMENTTOURNAMENTTOURNAMENT GolF tournAmentConTinued from Cover

they will receive a bag filled with great donations from O’Fallon Chamber members, 18 holes of spectacular golf with cart and drinks on the course, lunch catered and sponsored by Quintessential Catering, and an awards dinner sponsored by Charter Business. Each player will also receive a dry fit polo shirt with the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce logo on the front and a custom Chillskinz Towel provided by the presenting sponsor Print & Web People.

On course activities planned include the ever popular Cooler of Fun from Delmar Gardens & Garden Villas of O’Fallon plus many more activities.

Cash prizes will be awarded for the top two teams in two flights following the tournament.

Don’t miss this opportunity to play an amazing course. Call the Chamber office at 636-240-1818 or go online to www.OFallonChamber.org/Golf to register.

Not a golfer? The Chamber is always looking for volunteers who can help set up, run games and serve drinks. Come spend the day with us on the course as a volunteer, or whatever time you can spare.

A big thank you to the 2014 sponsors: Print & Web People,

Charter Business, Delmar Gardens & Garden Villas of O’Fallon, Quintessential Catering, City of O’Fallon, Country Side Flooring America, CenturyLink, and Vogelsang Pest Management.

Golf Tournament proceeds benefit the mission of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce: The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting economic vitality in O’Fallon and the St. Charles County Region while providing members with networking opportunities, education, and advocacy in public policy decisions affecting business.


The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce and the City of O’Fallon are excited to welcome these new businesses to the community and to help them celebrate with a with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony.

riBBon CuttinG Ceremonies WeLCome To o’fALLon!

upcoming ribbon Cuttings:baile propertiesAugust 19 @ 3:30 p.m.

the egg & i991 Waterbury Falls Dr, O’Fallon, MO 63366

Contract Postal unit WingHaven7776 Winghaven Blvd, O’Fallon, MO 63368

Gardens Villas of o’Fallon Assisted Living7092 S Outer 364, O’Fallon, MO 63368

American StitchedEmbroidery6 Floral Ct O’Fallon MO 63368636-293-5555www.americanstitched.com

DW Auto & Home MobilityMedical Equipment & Supplies802 Midpoint Dr O’Fallon MO 63366636-385-6372www.dwauto.com

Organo GoldWholesale Distributor1390 Feise Rd Dardenne Prairie MO 63301636-699-7146www.mapacoffee.myorganogold.com

Primrose School of O’Fallon at WinghavenEducation: Colleges7778 Winghaven Blvd O’Fallon MO 63368314-452-2133www.Primroseschools.com

new memBers A very SpeCiAL WeLCome!


ell us about yourself:I was born and raised in Springfield, Missouri. In March of 2003, I married

my wife – Sarah. Sarah and I have three children; Ella (8), Jack (7), and Alle (5). I graduated with a degree in Church Ministries from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri. I was a student pastor for 13 years before moving to O’Fallon. As a youth and associate pastor, I annually educated nearly 2,000 students on ways to make healthy relationship decisions as an abstinence educator for the public school system. In addition, I directed a youth camp averaging over 800 students in attendance, and in June of 2010, I started Camp Hope – a camp for homeless and at risk youth. I have loved the Saint Louis area from a young age, and have always dreamed of calling Saint Louis my home.

Tell us about your organization:Grace River Church is a new church in O’Fallon that will begin meeting at John Weldon Elementary School this fall. Grace River has been hosting free movie nights throughout the summer at John Weldon. The final movie night of the summer will be held on Saturday, August 16th at

John Weldon Elementary School at 7:00p.m, where we will be showing Rio 2. In the fall, Grace River will begin hosting preview services once a month, and will begin meeting weekly on January 11th, 2015.

Why a new Church? Don’t we have enough Churches in this area? Less than 15 percent of Saint Charles County claims to attend church regularly. Statistics reflect that the best way to connect people who currently do not regularly attend a church is to simply start a new one. I am passionate about establishing a church that is geared towards welcoming those without a church background, because I, myself, was not raised with church as a priority in my life.

What is the mission/vision of your organization?Grace River Church is a church for people no matter what their background is. Whether you love the church, or have never been to church before, Grace River is the place for you. Grace River Church prides itself on the fact that we embrace the God-given strengths and weaknesses of all individuals and seek ways to better serve the community of which we are a

memBer spotliGhtChriS hiGhfiLL

T part. The church is connected to Converge MidAmerica – a regional church planting organization. The mission of Grace River Church is to love people well, to lead them in a growing relationship with God, and to launch them out to change the world. Grace River Church places its values in areas such as community, generosity, authenticity, service, and excellence.

Why would you recommend the O’Fallon Chamber?The Chamber has been the best way to network and learn the needs of the community. Grace River Church is a proud member of the Chamber and loves working hand in hand with other community organizations.

401 Church St, o’fallon, mo 63366www.graceriver.cc

636-357-1558


CanCun all-InClusIve5-Night Stay at Adults-Only All-Inclusive Hyatt Zilara Cancun Resort with Airfare for 2

Suggested Retail Value: Up to $9,148

This Experience Includes:• 5-night stay in standard king or double junior suite for 2 at the adults-only all-inclusive Hyatt Zilara Cancun Resort• Round-trip coach class airfare from the 48 contiguous U.S. to Cancun, Mexico• Winspire booking & concierge service

sCottsdale ChampIonshIp Golf RoundRound of Golf on TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course or Champions Course, Cart Rental, Fairmont Scottsdale (Arizona) 4-Night Stay with Airfare for 2


This Experience Includes:• 4-night stay in a standard Fairmont room at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess• Daily breakfast for 2• Round of golf for 2 including greens fee, cart, and practice balls at the TPC Scottsdale Stadium* Course or the Champions Course• Round-trip coach class airfare for 2 from within the 48 contiguous U.S. to Phoenix, AZ• Winspire booking & concierge service

dIsney WoRld ResoRtfamIly adventuRe Disney Gift Card ($525) Redeemable for Admission & More, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress 4-Night Stay with Airfare for 2


This Experience Includes:• $525 Disney gift card redeemable for admission, food, souvenirs and more• 4-night stay in a standard guest room at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress• Round-trip coach class airfare for 2 from within the 48 contiguous U.S. to Orlando, FL• Winspire booking & concierge service

sIp & soaR thRouGh napa valley Hot Air Balloon Ride, Winery Tours & Tastings, Chauffeur, Meritage Resort and Spa 3-Night Stay with Airfare for 2

Suggested Retail Value: Priceless

This Experience Includes:• Hot Air Balloon ride for 2 over Napa Valley, including Champagne breakfast• Private tour and wine tasting for 2 at Fontanella Family Winery in Napa• Cave tour and barrel tasting for 2 at Del Dotto Estate Winery and Caves in St. Helena• 6 consecutive hours of chauffeured luxury sedan service • 3-night stay in a standard guest room at the Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa Valley• Round-trip coach class airfare for 2 from within the 48 contiguous U.S. to San Francisco or Oakland, CA• Winspire booking & concierge service

Want to get away now?Visit the Chamber directory for travel agent listings.

The O’Fallon Chamber will be raffling off the chance to win a vacation

package on September 8th at the Chamber Golf Tournament!

Pick Your

Trip RafflePick Your

Trip Raffle $50 per ticket

Only 150 tickets

available!*

Buy tickets online at www.ofallonChamber.org

Proceeds to benefit the

mission of the

Raffle is open to the public. Need not be present to win. *The Chamber must sell at least 75 tickets in order for the trip to be won. Money will be refunded if goal is not met.


August 7, 2014New Member BriefingO’Fallon Chamber Office2145 Bryan Valley Commercial DrO’Fallon, MO 633663:30 - 5:00 PM

Trivia Night Committee MeetingChamber Office2145 Bryan Valley Commercial DrO’Fallon, MO 633668:00 - 9:00 AM

August 8, 2014Leads 2 Success Leads GroupWebster University in Winghaven2299 Technology Dr, Ste 300O’Fallon, MO 6336812:00 - 1:30 PM

August 11, 2014O’Fallon Elite Leads GroupSummit Community Church927 E Terra LnO’Fallon, MO 6336612:00 - 1:15 PM

August 12, 2014Business After HoursGibson Printing5903 Suemandy RdSt. Peters, MO 633764:30 - 7:00 PM

August 13, 2014Masters of Business Leads GroupWebster University WingHaven Campus2299 Technology DriveO’Fallon, MO 6336612:00 - 1:00 PM

August 15, 2014Lunch n’ LegislatorsRendezvous Cafe & Wine Bar217 South MainO’Fallon, MO 6336612:00 - 1:00 PM

August 18, 2014Golf Committee MeetingO’Fallon Chamber Office2145 Bryan Valley Commercial DriveO’Fallon, MO 6336612:00 - 1:00 PM

ChAmBer CAlendAr AuGust 2014

August 19, 2014O’Fallon Chamber Board of Directors MeetingO’Fallon Chamber of Commerce2145 Bryan Valley Commercial DrO’Fallon, MO 6336612:00 - 1:00 PM

August 21, 2014Tech/Comm MeetingSpencer Road Library Branch427 Spencer RdSt. Peters, MO 6337612:00 - 1:00 PM

August 21, 2014Morning SchmoozeRenaud Spirit Center2650 Sports CirO’Fallon, MO 633687:30 - 9:00 AM

August 22, 2014Leads 2 Success Leads GroupWebster University in Winghaven2299 Technology Dr, Ste 300O’Fallon, MO 6336812:00 - 1:30 PM

August 25, 2014O’Fallon Elite Leads GroupSummit Community Church927 E Terra LnO’Fallon, MO 6336612:00 - 1:15 PM

August 26, 2014General Membership LuncheonSummit Community Church927 E Terra LnO’Fallon, MO 6336611:30 AM - 1:00 PM

August 27, 2014Masters of Business Leads GroupWebster University WingHaven Campus2299 Technology DriveO’Fallon, MO 6336612:00 - 1:00 PM

August 28, 2014O’Fallon Young Professionals MeetingO’Fallon Chamber2145 Bryan Valley Commercial DrO’Fallon, MO 6336612:00 - 1:00 PM


AwArdConTinued from Coverdesigned by the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce Communications Director, Sara Henderson, who also sells the advertising and oversees the distribution of 10,000 copies of the publication. “We are so proud to receive this award. Sara is an extremely talented designer who works tirelessly on this publication; this award is a wonderful way to recognize her work,” said Erin Williams, O’Fallon Chamber President/CEO. The annual ACE competition recognizes outstanding communications efforts by chambers of commerce across the country. This year’s competition drew 163 entries in four categories: 1. Advertising and Marketing, including print, web, TV, radio and outdoor ad projects, membership brochures and promotions for events, awards and products 2. Campaigns, usually a complex, multi-media promotion for advocacy, a local event, economic development, chamber image enhancement, a membership drive, or other activities. 3. Electronic, including blogs, mobile apps, mobile

sites, social media campaigns, videos, e-newsletters and websites. 4. Publications, including annual reports, community guides, directories, magazines and newsletters. Entries were divided into two classes based on budget size, over $1 Million in revenue and under $1 Million in revenue, and were judged by industry professionals. The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce has an annual budget of $235,000. Celebrating its 30th year, the ACE program continues to be the vehicle for the chamber community to highlight outstanding initiatives by honoring best practices in chamber communications. Established in 1914, the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (www.acce.org) is the only national association serving the professional development needs of chamber professionals throughout the United States and Canada. Representing more than 7,000 individuals, ACCE enhances the knowledge, leadership skills, and management effectiveness of chamber executives through education, trend analysis, benchmarking, and network development. ACCE supports and develops chamber professionals to lead businesses and their communities.

Presented by

FridayOctOber 24@ 7:00 p.m.

doors open @ 6:00 p.m.

Trigg banquet Center300 o’Fallon plz

o’Fallon, mo 63366

TRIVIANIGHT

Take Me Out

to the Ballgame

O’Fallon

Chamber

PRESENTED BY

[email protected]

www.ofallonChamber.org/Trivia


Congratulations and thank you to the following companies who as of July 2014 have been O’Fallon Chamber members for...

1 Year• Daydream Pet Services• Farmhouse Sandwiches• Managed Computer Services• Mike Elam, St. Charles County Councilman

2 Years• Country Side Carpets Flooring America• Edward Jones • Firestone Complete Auto Care• Mid Rivers Promos

3 Years• American Plumbing Solutions• MassMutual St. Louis - John Weeks

• Midtown Home Improvements, Inc.• Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt• Our Lady’s Inn• Quality Roofing & Contracting

4 Years• Alpha Real Estate Group, LLC• Boardwalk Family Dental• Jackman Insurance Group, LLC• State Farm Insurance Agency- Ron Schmidt

5 Years• Jerry Kelly Heating & Cooling

memBer AnniversAriesThAnk you!

7 Years• West County Day School

8 Years• Chiropractic Wellness Connection

10 Years• Berry Company• Craven & Associates• Public Water Supply District No. 2

13 Years• Delmar Gardens of O’Fallon

14 Years• Alliance Credit Union• Vantage Credit Union• Wade Stables, P.C.

16 Years• Country Club Car Wash

17 Years• Economic Development Center of St. Charles County

19 Years• CenturyLink

24 Years• Mick’s Exterminating

25 Years• Coldwell Banker Gundaker - Hwy K

Keep up to date with events from your fellow members. Check out www.ofallonchamber.org for more member news and events.

memBer eventsneWS from our memberS

August 6, 2014WingHaven Merchants Monthly MeetingMidwest Bank Centre12:00 - 1:00 PM

Lunch & LectureTrue Health Chiropractic12:00 - 1:00 PM

August 7, 2014O’Fallon Rotary Club BreakfastHoly Cross Lutheran Church7:30 - 9:00 AM

August 11, 2014Desserts & DiscussionsTrue Health Chiropractic6:00 - 7:00 PM

August 13, 2014Lunch & LectureTrue Health Chiropractic12:00 - 1:00 PM

August 14, 2014O’Fallon Rotary Club BreakfastHoly Cross Lutheran Church7:30 - 9:00 AM

August 16, 2014Movie in the Park: RioJohn Weldon Elementary7:00 - 10:00 PM

Summer Block Party Sales ExtravaganzaWeatherby Landing10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

August 18, 2014Networking @ The RailThe Brass Rail4:30 - 6:30 PM

Desserts & DiscussionsTrue Health Chiropractic6:00 PM - 7:00 PM


August 23, 2014Open House JamMozingo Music2:00 - 4:00 PM

August 24, 2014

11th Annual Golf TournamentBear Creek Golf Club11:30 AM - 7:00 PM

August 25, 2014Desserts & DiscussionsTrue Health Chiropractic6:00 - 7:00 PM


August 28, 2014Dine Out to End Alzheimer’sBob Evans Restaurant6:00 AM - 10:00 PM


Check out our members in action at this month’s O’Fallon Chamber events!

ChAmBer snApshotCheeSe!

interested in Advertising in theo’Fallon Chamber of Commerce

Business ConneCtion?Call sara @ 636-240-1818or [email protected]

eCertifyelectronic Certificates of Origin

Companies searching for savings and efficiency gains use eCertify, the user-friendly online solution that transforms the costly, time-consuming paper-based process for stamping and signing of Certificates of Origin into a streamlined electronic system.

Exporters and freight forwarders save time and money using eCertify

Benefits include:» Saves money – cut courier costs» Save time – eliminate paper-based processes» Fast turnaround times » Increased compliance and record keeping

The process is easy… register online using your chamber’s website and start saving time and money today!

www.OFallonChamber.org/eCertify

2145 Bryan Valley Commerical DrO’Fallon, MO 63366

[email protected]

Stamped.Signed.Certifi ed.Returned.Fast!

enewsletter aug2014

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