Team - Johnson Nathan Strohe

Nadine Abell

Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I joined JNS for their wonderful work environment, quality projects and knowledgeable staff, but mostly because they let you bring your dog to work!

What is a little-known fact about you?
I have been sewing since I was 9 years old. My favorite things to make are baby quilts. Once I received 4 awards at the Colorado State Fair including Best-in-Show for a landscape quilt I made of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Eat the broken cookies first – they have less calories.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
A National Geographic photographer / world traveler, textile designer or a professional panda hugger.

What is your background?
I am a Colorado native, I attended University of Colorado in Boulder for undergrad and Denver for grad school. I have a Master of Architecture and a Master of Science in Historic Preservation. I have over 9 years of experience in architecture and construction. Before joining JNS I worked on high-end residential remodels and additions.

Lizzie

Ager

Interior Designer

Lizzie Ager

Interior Designer

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I was drawn to JNS for their emphasis on the conceptual design process, their integrated architecture and interior design teams, and for their portfolio of cutting-edge design work that maintains a strong connection to the history and culture of their project sites. It is a great opportunity to contribute to the projects that are transforming Denver’s urban landscape!

What is a little-known fact about you?
I used to work as a professional singer and musician.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The strong connection to nature, even in the middle of Denver, and how friendly everyone is here.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
A signer and music producer.

What is your background?
I graduated with Honors from the University of Colorado’s School of Architecture and Planning. I later moved to Los Angeles, where I gained experience in restaurant, high-end multifamily, and creative workspace interior design. I recently moved back to Colorado, and am excited to begin the next chapter of my design career with JNS.

Jovina

Amor

Associate Principal

Jovina Amor

Associate Principal

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
Because of our consistent efforts to design each project to not only enhance the built environment but to be ‘unique’.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
While growing up my mum always told me “Reach for the sky and then you will reach the tree tops” (I grew up in an area surrounded by very tall trees).

What is a little-known fact about you?
I love dancing!

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
Very depressed! I have wanted to be an architect from as far back as I can remember.

What is your background?
My focus is conceptual and feasibility design for projects. My broad skillset ranges from initial design concepts through design development and construction documentation. Since joining JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE, I’ve been involved in important projects such as 24 Walnut, Block 32 at RiNo, Alexan FlatIrons, Glacier Club, Bradburn Village, and The Douglas.

Ryan

Brown

Architect

Ryan Brown

Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
Architecture is about design, beauty, creativity and functionality – I saw the opportunity at JNS to explore what architecture means to me and how it should evolve naturally through holistic design and collaboration.

What is best advice you have been given?
Anything my mom says – yes, I love my Mom.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
Mountains, beer, snow, weather, outdoors – there is no California vs. Colorado debate…

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
A chef! I’m a sucker for a fantastic meal, all the more rewarding if I made it.

What is your background?
I grew up in Fresno, CA playing soccer. This was my life and eventually led me to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where I earned my degree in Architecture and Sustainable Design. Since then I have become a licensed Architect and moved east to pursue a career in a booming city. I come from a large construction background and have many years of practical construction experience. I have managed multiple projects both domestically and internationally, ranging in scope from private residences to large scale master planning.

Benjamin

Compton

Intern Architect

Benjamin Compton

Intern Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I wanted to work in an urban setting that paid great attention to all details of Architectural Design, while also following its buildings/projects from conceptual design to construction completion.

Architecture is…
the blending of a practical function with appealing aesthetics.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
While at the University of Kansas School of Architecture, a professor told me “you’re not only working on the current project; you’re also doing work for the next one.”

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
My favorite thing about Colorado is the climate and various activities that take place outdoors. There is something for everyone to participate in.

What is your background?
I grew up in the Kansas City area before enlisting in the United States Army Reserves, serving 13 years and counting. After returning from a deployment to Southwest Asia, I began to pursue a degree in Architectural Design at the University of Kansas, where I earned my Master of Architecture in 2013. I spent a month touring Southeast Asia and my final year of education in France, attending Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture Paris-Val de Seine, where I was awarded an internship at Atelier Jean Nouvel, working on a competition for a new mixed-use office tower in Philadelphia, PA. After graduating, I moved to Denver to work at JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE.

Tom

Current

Partner

Tom Current

Partner

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I love my job because of the people I get to work with on a daily basis. We have a great team that is always striving to achieve more than what we think may be possible. We have a diverse team and each person brings something unique to the table and I love those moments when someone brings an idea to the forefront that I never would have thought of myself. I truly feel like we all work for each other and not just for a boss or shareholders, and this allows us to grow not only as team members, but as people.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
It’s not an advice per se, but a quote that has always stuck with me: “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” – Harry S. Truman

What is a little-known fact about you?
My first and lasting ambition has always been to own my own fishing retreat/resort on a lake in the Northwoods…. maybe someday!

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The Broncos, of course!

What is your background?
I have overseen business management for JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE for nine years and I’m responsible for all business operations of the firm including accounting, human resources and information technology. I also play an important role mentoring staff, as well as managing facilities and infrastructure needs for JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE. I am involved in many disciplines with an integrative approach that helps with the firm’s efficiency, trajectory and growth.

Lauren

DeFilippo

Graphic Designer

Lauren DeFilippo

Graphic Designer

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I have always been interested in hospitality design. After graduating from design school, I landed an internship at AvroKo and was constantly inspired by the work they were doing. I’m thrilled to be joining the talented JNS team at such an exciting time in our growing city.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The mountains! Since moving here, I’ve climbed a 14er, become a more skilled skier and explored some of the most beautiful places. I still pinch myself that we have so much at our fingertips living in Denver.

What is a little-known fact about you?
Only my closest friends know that I used to be a jazz singer. I studied music in college and performed with a band at local bars and small music venues. I still sing occasionally, but it’s been a goal of mine to get back into making it a more regular thing.

If I weren’t a Graphic Designer I would be…
Anthony Bourdain’s side kick.

What is your background?
I grew up in a small town on the Connecticut shoreline, but always dreamed of living in the mountains. After attending design school at Parsons and working for several years in NYC, I moved to Denver in 2013 and started a branding agency with a focus on food and hospitality. I have eight years of experience working as a graphic designer and photographer and am excited about exploring and expanding my skillset at JNS.

Janet

Farias

Administrative Assistant

Janet Farias

Administrative Assistant

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE is a creative, dedicated, hardworking and mission-driven atmosphere. I have the pleasure to work with an elite team! The leadership understands that relationships are critical to working together and they make sure to engage and collaborate with each one of us. They also make sure we know how much they appreciate us. Not only do they value their employees, but they also care very much for every one of our clients. The great work of JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE speaks for itself. With a wonderful team comes wonderful projects!

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
My high school teacher once told me to never give up what I want most for what I want now.

What is a little-known fact about you?
I can’t cook! Probably the worst cook on the planet…

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The unpredictable weather. We get the best of everything, the sunshine, rain, snow, and wind – sometimes all on the same day!

What is your background?
I was born in California and moved to Colorado at the beginning of middle school, where I continued the rest of my studies. After graduating from high school in 2006, I took nursing and criminal justice classes at Arapahoe Community College. Shortly after, I began working at an emergency call center. In August of 2014, I took the position of Administrative Assistant at JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE.

Kay

Galligan

Associate

Kay Galligan

Associate

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
We receive constant encouragement throughout the office to keep up with the high quality in design and drawing sets. Our office has a nice environment, where we all care about each other. This is a huge part of a healthy working environment that dictates the quality of our daily lives.

What is a little-known fact about you?
I hold a first-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. I also play the classical piano, started when I was 5 years old.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The beauty of the nature. The sunset view over the Rocky Mountains that I witness every evening on my commute from Denver to Boulder is exceptional.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
A wood furniture artisan.

What is your background?
I was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, and came to the U.S. as an international student at the University of Colorado – Boulder and obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. About 10 years later, in the midst of raising two kids, I started my graduate studies in Architecture and obtained my Master of Architecture degree from the University of Colorado – Denver with honors. Since graduating in 2005, I’ve been working for a couple of architectural firms in Denver, specializing mostly in ski resort and residential projects, but have also worked on projects such as a children’s discovery museum, elementary school, and specialty factory.

Jim

Johnson

Founding Partner

Jim Johnson

Founding Partner

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I founded the firm as JG Johnson Architects in 1993.

Architecture is…
A combination of pragmatism and beauty tailored to its specific context and program. It is experiential and helps transform the built environment into meaningful and authentic places. Architecture creates value – financial, social, environmental and for the human experience.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Stay focused on your mission and goals. Live by the Golden Rule. Work with your mind instead of your back. Quality is more important than quantity. All quotes from my father, who also learned in WWII: “if it is difficult we do it immediately; if it is impossible we do it 15 minutes later”.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
I grew up here and have friends and family in Colorado. My children are here. I have been a hardcore skier for over 50 years.

What is a little-known fact about you?
I was once disqualified from a competitive fundraising ski race for going too fast!

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
A beer and liquor salesman. It is recession-proof and more steady than architecture. Happy or sad, rich or poor, people drink!

Sarah

Linback

Associate

Sarah Linback

Associate

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
The team at JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE works hard to create lasting and beautiful architecture. We care deeply about what we do but are always working towards ways we can improve.

Architecture is…
the design of space that people inhabit.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The people. I’ve met so many wonderful people since I moved here.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
A math teacher.

What is your background?
I graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Architecture. After graduation I moved to New York and worked for a small firm that focused on small-scale renovations in the city. Afterward I moved to Denver and worked for a firm for about 5 years that focused on military work. I started working at JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE in 2011 and have worked on numerous multifamily projects mostly with Trammell Crow Residential. I am a licensed architect in Colorado and am LEED Accredited and CDT Certified.

Kelsey

McCarrel

Interior Designer

Kelsey McCarrel

Interior Designer

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE is a one-of-a-kind design firm, perfectly placed in the heart of Denver. The energy of the city can be seen in the creativity and atmosphere here at the company. I am truly inspired not only by the individual beauty created here, but also the idea of establishing a story behind each and every project. This design approach offers special meaning to everything JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE creates, if that’s embracing the history and character of an older building or celebrating the life and culture of an area. There is a seamless connection in everything we do.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Just get out there and do it! Sometimes it is best to quit questioning yourself and just jump in it, even unknowing of the outcome. You will be surprised by what you can accomplish.

What is a little-known fact about you?
Growing up in Asia I have experienced things the typical person my age has not experienced. To name a few… I have ridden an elephant through the jungles of Thailand, stood face-to-face with the deadly Komodo Dragon on Indonesia’s Komodo Island, witnessed a family of six on what Americans consider a scooter and helped save endangered coral species off the island of Sulawesi.

If I weren’t an Interior Designer I would be…
a graphic designer or furniture designer. I am inspired by all things design.

What is your background?
I was born in Casper, Wyoming; however, at a young age my family’s lives were transplanted into the country of Indonesia. I spent a majority of my adolescence living and traveling abroad while attending an international school in the capital city of Jakarta. After graduating high school I returned to the US and studied at the University of Idaho, receiving a degree in Interior Design, coupled with minors in both Architecture and Art. As a fresh college graduate, I started my professional journey here at JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE and couldn’t be happier.

Liz

McDonald

Principal

Liz McDonald

Principal

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE is an extraordinary place to work. The firm offers so many opportunities for growth and learning. The sky is truly the limit. Though the firm continues to grow, we’ve been able to maintain the close-knit family feel, which is one of the reasons I was drawn to the firm in the first place. We care about each other, as well as the work we do.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Be kind, work hard, stay humble, smile often, stay loyal, keep honest, travel when possible, never stop learning, always be thankful and love.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The mountains! Hiking, camping, skiing in the mountains is what brought me to this state. We are so fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the country.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
a teacher.

What is your background?
I have over nine years of experience in the architecture field. I have been involved with multiple project types over my career including single & multi-family residential projects, hotels and airports. I truly enjoy the entire design process, seeing a project from inception through design and construction. I’m a detail-oriented person and one of my strengths is to balance a project’s big picture goals along with the nitty-gritty details. Besides projects, I also lead the firm’s internal mentorship program.

Nicole

Nathan

Partner

Nicole Nathan

Partner

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
When I started at JGJA 12 years ago, I envisioned it as a stepping stone in my future career. I realized years later that this stepping stone was my career. I found I could guide my own path, have an impact and share the experience with amazing partners. I have learned more than I ever imagined.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Never apologize for doing something you love.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
My favorite thing about Colorado is family, sunshine, mountains and snow!

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
a private detective, ala Charlie’s Angels, or maybe a barista.

What is your background?
I am a fourth generation Colorado native. I did my undergrad at CU Boulder and received my Master’s degree from the University of Illinois. Early on, I learned an appreciation for design from my mother, an interior designer, and my aunts – an artist and a flight attendant. They showed me that design is everywhere from the canvas, to the place setting, to our cities.

Sindhuri

Patllola

Intern Architect

Sindhuri Patllola

Intern Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
In order to push my career to next level I had to choose a firm where there is empowerment, recognition and a strong network of talented professionals.

What is a little-known fact about you?
I recently started learning to box.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
Camping and hiking in the Rocky Mountains!

What is your background?
I was born and brought up in Hyderabad, India, and received my Bachelor of Architecture from Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University. I have three years of experience in multi-family housing, hospitality, commercial and educational design. I moved to Albuquerque in 2015 to pursue a Master of Architecture from University of New Mexico and am a licensed architect in India.

Damian

Rozkuszka

Architect

Damian Rozkuszka

Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I was captivated by the enthusiasm and energy I saw coming from JNS. The office is positively contributing to Denver and beyond with quality design, a dedication to craft and detail and truly creative solutions to the presented challenges.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The incredibly easy access to world class outdoor adventures!

Architecture is…
a beautiful synthesis of art, place, technology and happy accidents.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
a chef, I love to try new food and experiment with recipes.

What is your background?
I was born in Poland, grow up in Chicago and have had the opportunities to work in Chicago, Milwaukee, New York and now in wonderful Denver. I graduated with my BSAS and M.Arch from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee in 2013 & 2015. During my education I had the opportunity to study abroad for a semester in France & Italy and a summer trekking across Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden and Finland. These experiences shaped my architectural and personal outlooks and instilled a love of travel and discovery. I have about 3 years of experience with multi-family and private residential projects.

Tobias

Strohe

Partner

Tobias Strohe

Partner

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
A diverse group of talented and motivated individuals who work hard and have fun doing so.

Architecture is…
in my blood. I’m a second-generation Architect and “caught the bug” when I was 10 or 11 years old tagging along with my dad to his office.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Don’t read about and listen too much to starchitects, find your own path.

What is a little-known fact about you?
I am also a trained cabinetmaker and designed and built furniture. I am working on my private pilot license.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
My wife, who was born and raised here.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
an interpreter.

What is your background?
I was born and raised in Germany; went to school in Germany and Austria (Dresden and Vienna Universities of Technology). My first project, while working on my Master’s degree, was the renovation and adaptive reuse of a multiple building historic winery into a hotel, private residence, orangery, and event building. I moved to Colorado in late 1998 and started working at JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE in early 1999.

Jen

Tennigkeit

Architect

Jen Tennigkeit

Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
Because it is a diverse and energetic firm, devoted to their clients, projects and employees.

What is a little-known fact about you?
I don’t like when my foods touch. My mom even sent me to school with divider plates.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
One minute you can be in downtown Denver and two hours later you can be lost on the side of a mountain.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
an astronaut.

What is your background?
I graduated in 2015 with a Master of Architecture from Kansas State University. I was privileged enough to be immersed in modern architecture during a semester abroad at the Bauhaus in Germany. As a native Coloradan, I returned home on breaks to intern in aviation architecture. Influenced by efficiency and technology, I spent my final year at school researching and developing sustainable building elements, through the use of energy simulation and prototypes. Upon graduation, I was awarded the Henry Adams AIA School Medal and Certificate of Merit.

Cassie

Turbow

Associate

Cassie Turbow

Associate

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE values design and understands how it impacts the individual, the neighborhood and the community. We design with integrity and through collaboration, creating great projects for our clients.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Be careful what you draw, they just might build it that way.

What is a little-known fact about you?
My mom has not used my given name since kindergarten. She only calls me Casserole.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
I can ride my bike to work all year round.

What is your background?
I have 10 years of experience in urban design and architecture. My focus is on multifamily residential, urban infill, and transit-oriented development. I pride myself on understanding and orchestrating the full scope of each project, from site context, to the most critical building detail.

Heather

Vasquez Johnson

Associate

Heather Vasquez Johnson

Associate

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I’ve always loved hotel design, and I want to be a part of creating vibrant, exciting spaces. Working with such a talented, diverse and welcoming team is a great bonus!

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself is just to slow down and breathe.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The almost-daily sunshine and blue sky… it always brightens my day.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
a set designer for theater and movies.

What is your background?
I’m a graduate of Syracuse University and I have over 10 years of experience in architecture, working locally in the Denver area. I have a detail-oriented approach to design, with a strong understanding of building construction and codes. My experience has made me particularly adept at managing large, complex projects, including projects with multiple review agencies and historic designations. I was recently appointed by the Mayor’s office to serve a 3-year term on the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission.

Radek

Wakulik

Architect

Radek Wakulik

Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I joined JNS because of the unique designs the team has been able to produce – the kind of projects that always kept on pushing for great aesthetics and function, that kind of work that always kept me wondering who the architect of those projects was.

Architecture is…
When well executed, like a well sounding symphony, it’s success is measured when all parts come together. Not only are we designing it, balancing it to be aesthetically pleasing and functional, but we are doing it with the audience in mind.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
The endless backcountry playground. And you can’t beat mountains that go so well with phenomenal weather.

If I weren’t an Architect I would be…
My eighth grade year book said that I was going to be a musician/music producer but now I think it would be an alpine climbing or ski mountaineering guide.

What is your background?
I was born and raised in Poland, moved to New Jersey as a teen, and finished my education in New York City, where I received my degree in Architecture. After some experience on the East Coast I decided to move to Colorado and in addition to my love of design, I tried to pursue my ever-growing love for the outdoors and alpine sports.

Anne

Warner

Architect

Anne Warner

Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE is a well-run firm that cares about its employees and its impact on the built environment. The partners trust their staff and encourage their professional growth, which is something that distinguishes the leadership at this firm. This, along with the firm’s high quality of work and the respect and friendship of my many bright colleagues, led me to JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE, and have kept me happy here for over five years.

Architecture is…
a very fulfilling profession – your ideas and designs get to be experienced by others and influence their lives, and hopefully, you leave an impact on the earth even after your time on it has passed.

What is a little-known fact about you?
Even though I’m a third-generation American, I am 100% Croatian.

If I weren’t an Architect I would…
have probably liked to run a restaurant.

What is your background?
I’m a licensed architect with over nine years of experience in firms from Chicago to Denver. Before that, I interned for three summers with a leading historic preservation firm in San Francisco. My work at JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE has mostly been focused in the hospitality field. I have also assisted with the interior design of the hotel at the Metro State Hospitality Learning Center and was the Project Architect of the recently completed Oceanside Springhill Suites hotel. I pride myself on my high quality of work and integrity.

Blaire

Weiser

Senior Interior Designer

Blaire Weiser

Senior Interior Designer

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
My hospitality background drew me to JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE. I really admired the precision they executed in their work, while still remaining beautiful and current.

What is a little-known fact about you?
I am a certified sailing, canoe and kayak instructor.

What is your favorite thing about Colorado?
EVERYTHING! The people, the culture, the progression, and most of all taking long hikes in the mountains with my dog.

If I weren’t an Interior Designer I would be…
a singer/songwriter… if I could get over my stage fright.

What is your background?
The hospitality industry is in my blood. Growing up with the family development business, I knew I was destined for design work so I could create one-of-a-kind, memorable projects. I have over five years of experience working in Miami and Denver and my designs are influenced and inspired by each location’s distinct sense of place. My passion lies in the hospitality and restaurant design field, but I have also worked on over a dozen high-profile residential and commercial spaces.

Kevin

White

Intern Architect

Kevin White

Intern Architect

Why did you join JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE?
I joined JNS because the firm creates innovative, energetic designs using a comprehensive set of problem-solving skills, which has produced an array of memorable, prominent buildings over the years.

Architecture…
provides a pathway to bring concepts from our creative imagination to the reality of our built world. It’s exciting to be designing the future.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
There are opportunities in every situation.

What is your favorite thing to do in Colorado?
Snowboarding during the winter is my absolute favorite thing about Colorado.

What is your background?
I grew up in Denver and went to school at CU Boulder, where I earned a Bachelor degree in Environmental Design. I have also earned a Master of Architecture at CU Denver. After college, I lived in Vail, CO for a winter before moving to San Francisco to work at Axis Architecture + Design, focusing on educational & hospitality designs. Because I missed the snow too much, I moved back to Colorado. Finding the complexities of multi-family & hospitality architecture most intriguing, I joined the JOHNSON NATHAN STROHE team in January 2014 to work in a collaborative and creative environment. My extensive computer design skills allow for efficient BIM modeling and project coordination. When I’m not navigating through complex computer models, I can be found snowboarding in the powder and trees.

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