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Paul Simon Obituary

SIMON-Paul. The Institute of International Education Board of Trustees and staff deeply mourn the death of our distinguished Trustee, Senator Paul Simon, who was known for the great depth of his honor and integrity throughout his 40 year career in public service and his leadership in public policy. We are grateful to have been touched by his extraordinary vision and commitment. We were honored by his service on our board, and privileged to have been working with him on his most recent initiative, the proposed Abraham Lincoln Study Abroad Fellowship Program. We hope to see this program realized, and to see his legacy include the far reaching benefits that it offers our country and the world. We express our deepest sympathy to the Simon family. Allan Goodman, President Thomas S. Johnson, Chairman

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Dec. 11, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Simon

61 Entries

Darrell Hampsten

August 15, 2005

Here's to a great man! Visit paulsimonmuseum.blogspot.com to learn about Troy's tribute to their "local boy"!

Janice Brower

December 15, 2003

To the family of Sen. Paul Simon,

While I know that I have already sent a message of condolence, I feel that I must add a postscript.

Lincoln College, Lincoln Illinois is the only town and school named for Abraham Lincoln before he became famous. In fact, he christened the town with watermelon juice in August 1853. On June 1, 1969, when I was able to speak to Lt. Gov. Paul Simon, little did I know then that I would be residing in the same dorm (I spoke to him in the lobby ) of Olin-Sang. I resided in the dorm during the 1972-1973 school year. I too, am a graduate of Lincoln College and Illinois State.

I am also in public service. I work for the State of Oklahoma, Department of Corrections.

My position is Library Technician III.

Thank you for allowing me to have my say. God Bless.

Senator Paul Simon and Margarita Sinclair (1992)

Margarita Levasseur

December 14, 2003

I am enclosing a picture that was a favorite of my father's. It hung next to the picture of me and former Senator Alan J. Dixon (D-IL).

In the summer of 1992, I was an intern in Dixon's office. Every week we played softball against different offices in the U.S. Congress. The game between "Al's Pals" and the "Simonizers" was a big one held every year. It was the equivalent of a "cross-town classic." At the game, I introduced myself to Senator Simon. It was a pleasure to meet him! Despite being tired and in a mode to relax and enjoy watching the game, he still took a picture with me. He was very down-to-earth. My deepest sympathies go out to the family of Paul Simon and to the people of Illinois

Jiraph Wirpel

December 13, 2003

Paul Simon's Family,

I want to express my sadness at Paul's death. Growing up on the North Shore in the '50s and '60s, as I did, the daughter of Sander and Estelle, as I was, Paul Smon was always a familiar in my childhood.

My thoughts are with you.

Fr. Ronald Mass

December 12, 2003

I offer my condolences and prayers to the family of Paul Simon. He was without question one of the finest men ever to serve in public office in the state of Illinois. His death is not only a loss to his family but to the people of this state as well.

Charles Caruso

December 12, 2003

I will always remember the legacy of Paul Simon. . .Concern for the least of us. Having been an educator all of my life I had a very secure feeling as long as I knew that a Paul Simon was in Springfield or Washington looking out for the children of our great nation. Mr. Simon was supportive of our schools, children, and teachers. He just seemed to know the right things to do. He was missed when he retired and he will be missed even more now that he is gone at such a young age. Hopefully there will be others who step in and fill the void. Maybe they can even wear a bowtie.

Dr. Charles J. Caruso, Retired Superintendent of Schools

Deerfield, IL

adrene drayton

December 12, 2003

So sorry to hear of Senator Simon's passing. He will be missed! A man truly for the good of the people.

Tony & Bette Spilotro

December 12, 2003

Dear Simon Family,

It was surprising and sad to hear about the passing of our (past) Senator 'Paul'. I was involved with the NALC for many years, and Paul was a 'good friend' to Postal Employees. A fair man, and the genuine article.

My condolences to his family, friends, and all others who knew this man. He and Dave Bybee are probably talking politics now!

Regards from Arizona,

Tony Spilotro

Cindy Higgins

December 12, 2003

I remember seeing you for the first time in my uncle's back yard during a BBQ. You made an impression on me as a young girl that has carried through to my 50's. You were such a fine man with the highest of ideals, your time on earth was too short.

God be with you.

Cindy

Sara Vasquez

December 11, 2003

I was very shock to hear of our former congressman Paul Simon. He will be missed, but remembered. Illinois was not the same without him fighting for our rights at the white house. Thank you and God Bless.

David Kent Coy

December 11, 2003

Illinois has lost a fine gentleman in the death of former Senator Paul Simon. I felt a little safer while he was here, but he has left a lasting impact with the wonderful impressions he made. He will long be remembered.

Consuelo Steed

December 11, 2003

Am a native of Chicago, Illinois and remember when Senator Simon was in a lower office many years ago while growing up. It is sad to hear he has passed away. It will be a loss for the state of Illinois.

patrick loveall

December 11, 2003

You will be greatly missed as you were a very great man in the defense of the average person.

Tariq Sayeed

December 11, 2003

It was sad to learn about the passing away of former Senator Paul Simon. I recall meeting him in 1983 when he was running for the Senate. I was probably the only non-American at that meeting and "Congressman" Simon came over to me and asked me where I was from. When I told him that I was from Pakistan, he grew very excited and told me about his trip to Pakistan in the 1960s and he vividly recalled his meeting with President Ayub Khan of Pakistan. What amazed me most was that while addressing the student body at NIU, DeKalb (where I was a graduate studet at that time) Congressman Simon made it a point to mention about our discussion earlier on. He knew how make others feel important.

I feel that America has lost a very fine gentleman.

Paul Schreivogel

December 11, 2003

I can see it now, Paul sitting in front of Lincoln, throwing a barrage of questions, and carrying an ongoing conversation through the ages. An old International Walther League Executive simply says to have known Paul was an honor.

Erik Walker

December 10, 2003

When I was a college undergraduate and reporter at the Daily Illini in Champaign, I was working one day on a story on TV violence and called Senator Simon's press office to get a comment... I was shocked an hour or so later when I picked up the phone to find that Senator Simon had called me back from the floor of the Senate. He had just finished a busy day but still took time out of his busy schedule to talk to a college reporter. He helped me make my deadline--and earned my respect--with that simple but refreshing gesture from a man that truly cared for his job and his state.

Sean Denoyer

December 10, 2003

As a youth, I had always wish my generation had a leader with courage and vision like that of Bobby Kennedy. Then I met Paul Simon as part of the Boys Nation program in Washington, D.C. and again working on his presidential campaign and his senate campaign while in college. What always impressed me was that he always recognized my face and name. I met Jeanne on those occassions as well; a gracious, smart and engaging politican in her own right-she would have made a great first lady. I will always remember the time he took speaking and meeting with students. There was no more honest, courageous, genuine leader than Paul Simon, and I hope his example will inspire my generation to pick up the mantle and bring an end of cynicism in our government. We will sorely miss you, Paul!

Al Lopez

December 10, 2003

"Rest my Friend", and know that you did make a difference...

Dan Griffiths

December 10, 2003

When Paul Simon lost to Dan Walker in the Governor's race in the 70s, I was upset. A few years later when I learned he was running for Congress I knew the country would benefit from his work. Paul has trully made an impact and how I wish he had become President. He is a model for all of us to follow. He will be missed, but the world is a much better place because of what Paul Simon has accomplished!

Neil Visalvanich

December 10, 2003

Paul Simon became senator two years after I was born, and as a young child I didn't know that he'd become the single politician to have the greatest impact on my life. The distinguished service he brought to my home state had no parallel. His life and his carreer was proof that good men could still serve in our government. He will be sorely missed, and may his memory mold a new generation of people in the image of hardwork, dedication, and honesty that he graced Illinois with. Rest in Peace Senator, your memory and influenece will never wane with the people of Illinois.

Jane Volberding

December 10, 2003

My condolences to the Simon family. Sen Simon was an advocacy role model. In his tenacious,yet unassuming way he fought the good fight. I worked a project called the Long Term Care Campaign in late 80s early 90s. He was a staunch supporter of including long term care coverage in Medicare benefits and creating a single payer system. Given the hub-bub over the latest Medicare "improvement" Sen Simon's vision needs to be rekindled.

Pat Navin

December 10, 2003

I, too, knew Paul Simon. I worked on a number of his campaigns and was fortunate enough to speak with him many times.

He was, and will remain, one of my heroes.

He was intelligent, compassionate, honest, full of integrity and one hell of a nice person, as was his late, wonderful wife, Jeanne.

He had friends of every political stripe, because there was never any posturing with Paul. He was a man of pricniples and a man of ideals. He ran decent campaigns, never resorting to smear politics. He spoke kindly of even his fiercest opponents.

I loved the guy. I will miss him deeply. But I also am glad that I had an opportunity to know him.

He was a giant.

Christina Kaye

December 10, 2003

I saw him on the street maybe two years after he left office, to mine and my friends' dismay. I must admit to chiding him for leaving public office, and him smiling and taking it in stride. Some of us at that time thought he was getting out because the game was getting so cynical and vindictive; Daniel P. Moynihan got out around the same time and we thought it quite ominous they both were leaving. At any rate, we lost a very good one, but I do have faith that somehow more decent people will step up to continue the work.

Brad Brondsema

December 10, 2003

One description can be applied to Senator Simon: One-of-a-kind. As a student at SIUC it was not uncommon to see Senator Simon walking around campus talking to students. The service he provided to this university can't be measured. He truly cared about people and lived up to the ideals of what a public servant should be — honest, courageous, and full of integrity. He will be greatly missed but not forgotten.

DAVID BEN RUIZ

December 10, 2003

I'D LIKE TO TAKE THE TIME TO EXPRESS MY HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO THE SIMON FAMILY FOR THEIR LOSS.

AS A REPUBLICAN I AS WELL WILL SURELY MISS THE CANDOR OF PAUL SIMON WHOM TO MANY HAS SHOWN THAT THERE ARE SOME POLITICIANS THAT ARE TRULY LOYAL AND DEVOTED TO PUBLIC SERVICE AS HE WAS HIMSELF. IN ESSENCE HE NOT ONLY BROUGHT HOPE TO MANY IN CHANGE FOR THE PEOPLE,BUT HE GAVE US ALL FAITH IN THIS DEMOCRATIC FORM OF GOVERNMENT THAT WILL ALWAYS LAST THROUGH OUT MANY GENERATIONS TO COME.

HE WAS A REAL LIFE ANGEL AND HE WAS A DEMOCRAT THAT WOULD ALWAYS HAVE THIS REPUBLICAN' VOTE ANYTIME.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE MR.SIMON AND THANK YOU FOR THE MEMORIES.

theresa jack

December 10, 2003

As a inner city kid growing up in the '70's , I became aware of a man who stood for compassion and understanding for kids like myself. I followed the man as he continued to be that voice that cared. He was a man that I believed he truly wanted the people of this state and country to enjoy the best this country has to offer. He was that voice and will truly be missed.

May God bless his family during this time.

BJ Fischer

December 10, 2003

Senator Simon will be greatly missed. He was running for President when I was beginning my interest in politics in 1988, and I grew to have great admiration for his intelligence, passion, and common touch. He spoke here a couple years ago, and I had the chance to talk to him and have him autograph one of his books for me. He was generous and kind with his time. He defined for me what it meant to be an American, a Statesman and a Democrat. Condolences to his family--his life was never to be forgotten.

Janice Brower

December 10, 2003

My heartfelt condolences go out to the Sen. Simon family.

I first heard Sen. Simon speak at an assembly at Luther South High School in Chicago in 1968, when he was a State Representative. I graduated from Luther South in 1970 and am proud to be a Lutheran. I had the pleasure of speaking to him in 1969 when Sen. Simon and Governor Ogilvie, as Lt. Gov and Governor respectfully, were at the Lincoln College Commencement, June 1, 1969. Sen. Simon signed my program "Best Wishes Janice" Paul Simon 6-1-69. My brother graduated from Lincoln College that day. I am proud to have been able to vote for him when he ran for governor and in 1984, when he ran for the U.S. Senate. I may not live in Illinois anymore, but, still have an interest in what is happening in the state. Illinois, you have lost your # 1 citizen and I can take comfort in knowing that I once resided in that great state.

May God comfort the family members in their time of sorrow. Goodbye Sen. Simon.

Keith Bakken

December 10, 2003

My sincerest condolences to the family of former Senator Paul Simon. I have some wonderful memories of Mr. Simon. He was the commencement speaker at my college graduation at North Park College in Chicago in 1985. He was an inspirational speaker calling on us to strive for moral and professional excellence in our lives. I still remember that speech despite it being over 17 years ago! I also met him two years ago at an event where we he was a keynote speaker. He and I talked about Africa. He was a strong advocate for literacy, economic justice and education in Africa. I was proud to have him as our Senator from Illinois. He was one of the few Senators who was NOT an attorney! He was a wonderful educator and a prince of a human being. I feel the loss personally. Peace to his memory.

Dr. Ernie Moore

December 10, 2003

My condolences to the family and many friends of Senator Simon. At the age of 16 he gave me my first writing job at the Roodhouse Record. I will always treasure the kindness and encouragement he showed to a kid from the wrong side of the tracks with great dreams.

Raul Nobre Martins

December 10, 2003

As a Brazilian who lived in Chicago for fifteen years, I never voted in an American election but did follow the political process just like a local voter. In my recollection of these years, Senator Simon remains in my memory as an example of a politician who made me wish I could actually go to the polls and vote.

It was always very refreshing and inspiring to see a politician who was courageous enough to always vote his conscience. His death is surely a major loss even for those who never voted for him. May God bless him and his family.

GENE&LINDA FREDERICK

December 10, 2003

OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU .

Joseph Martan

December 10, 2003

Sir Winston Churchill once observed that the difference between a politician and a statesman was that a politican was only interested in the next election while a statesman was interested in the welfare of the country. These days, we have far too many politicians - and far too few statemen. Senator Simon may have been in politics for five decades - but he demonstrated that he was a statesman first and only afterwards a politician. You didn't have to agree with his political stance to still appreciate that he was concerned with the condition and future of both this state and this nation. To the Simon family - take comfort in the knowledge that he will be remembered as a role model of how a member of the political class should be. The nation has lost a statesman - he will be missed.

Carole Hetfleisch-Capsalis

December 10, 2003

As an intern in D.C., I have warm memories of having the honor of being a ringer on the Simon softball team and befriending many of his staff. It is an understatement to say that Paul Simon was a good and honorable man. Sen. Simon represented the very best of our great state of Illinois. I will wear my graying bow tie campaign pin with pride! He will be sorely missed on earth and welcomed into heaven. God Bless Paul Simon and his family, friends, and staffers in their grief.

Aaron Meis

December 10, 2003

I was an intern in Senator Simon's office in Washington, D.C., in 1993. The entire office was a reflection of the Senator's personality - warm, generous, funny, but serious about doing the people's work. We were always encouraged to call him "Paul", even though we were "only" interns, at a time when other interns had to address their bosses as "sir" or "senator." I also remember leaving the building one evening, and Senator Simon invited another intern and me onto the "senators only" elevator, which he took down to the garage to drive himself home, while other senators had drivers and bodyguards. Everything about the Senator was of, for, and about the people he served, and he is still my inspiration for believing that public service is a noble calling. He will be missed.

Mary Kay Starzynski

December 10, 2003

Thank you for your thoughtful tribute to Senator Paul Simon. He was an extraordinary man. I met him years ago when I was a junior staffer in the Capitol Hill office of his colleague and friend Senator Alan Dixon. Extending his hand to me, he introduced himself simply as "Paul." My position then afforded me the opportunity to meet many high profile people, but very rarely anyone as decent and sincere as Senator Simon. Illinois, we have lost a true champion. Let us mourn him now, but let us not wait long to truly honor him through our own renewed commitment to public service.

James McDowell

December 10, 2003

I first began corresponding with then State Rep. Paul Simon when I was in junior high school. Our mail and later personal relationship continued through his service in Washington and as director of the Public Policy Institute at SIU. Although months, sometimes years, would pass between our renewing acquaintances, he always remembered me--even though I might pop up in unexpected places. All the words testifying to his honesty, integrity, humility, and understanding of people are true, but they are inadequate.

Tom Steimle

December 10, 2003

There are very few politicians who I would want to break bread with..but Paul Simon would have been one. It was refreshing to see a legislator that really understood what a legislator was supposed to be.. Paul..you'll be missed by the little people

Andrea Goldberg

December 10, 2003

My thoughts and prayers are with the Simon Family at this difficult time.

I saw Sen. Simon about 2 weeks ago in the Tribune Building, he got on the elevator and the doors closed before I could get there. I was disappointed because I have always been a big supporter of Sen. Simon and his political position. I wanted to shake his hand and thank him personally for his good work on behalf of Illinois.

I had great respect for him and his integrity.

He will be greatly missed, he was truely one of the good guys!

Joan Love

December 10, 2003

My condolences to the Simon family and the people of Illinois for we have lost a champion of the people. Once I visited Makanda and reflected on the legacy of Senator Simon. Like Abraham Lincoln before him, Senator Simon was a true statesman. May God Bless his family during this sad time.

Sarah Brow

December 10, 2003

As a current student at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, I can say that Paul Simon will be missed here on campus and around town. He was a great man and will never be forgotten.

Jacqueline Williams

December 10, 2003

It was my privilege and great luck to be a member of Paul Simon's House and Senate staffs in Washington, D.C. Anyone who ever wrote him a letter was sure to receive a response of thanks from Paul Simon, so he always got the last word. I always wanted to tease him about having to get the last word, especially because I was the one who typed many of those letters. Now I get to have the last word. Thank you, Paul. My deepest condolences to Martin, Julie, Sheila, Perry, Patti, Art Simon, the grandkids and all current and former Simon staffers.

David Olien

December 10, 2003

Condolences to the family of one of the greatest elected officials in Illinois history. Those of us in the Higher Education community have lost a friend and advocate. Thank you Sen. Simon for being the man you were. I was never prouder to be an Illinoisan than when I was priviledged to vote for Paul Simon once for Governor and twice for United States Senator. Paul Simon represented the best in Illinois and the nation.

Janet Taylor

December 10, 2003

To the Simon family,

I join with you in celebrating the life of Senator Simon. He showed me that it is possible to maintain your integrity in the political world. I pray that his legacy will continue to inspire people to enter politics and work for justice.

Don Gehan

December 10, 2003

I was a young exec who had just transferred to Chicago when I entered a Loop office building elevator in 1986. A deep, cheerful voice behind me asked, "And how are you this morning, Sir?" I turned around and saw a smiling, bow-tied gentleman who reminded me of my college English professor. He asked me about my work and how I liked the city. When I asked him what he did, he replied simply, "I work for the people of Illinois." He smiled and wished me well as he departed. I felt truly foolish when another rider then informed me who that gracious elevator passenger was.

Jenny Kuttenberg

December 10, 2003

To the family of Senator Paul Simon:

Senator Simon will always be a hero to me for not being afraid to wear the "label" of being liberal when so many thought it was a bad thing to be. He wore it proudly, for it meant caring for those less fortunate and wanting government to take care of them. The Democratic party of today would do well to look to Senator Simon as a role model for the future-do not compromise your integretity and ethics in the quest for public office. The state of Illinois was very fortunate to have had you as its voice in Washington. You will be greatly missed.

James Poulsen

December 10, 2003

Our prayers go out to the family and friends of Paul Simon. He was such a good and kind man. In an era of flash and false feelings he stood as a giant for what he believed it is so sad to have him gone when we need him more than ever. May god bless his family and friends.

Linda Mathy

December 10, 2003

I first met Paul Simon in 1956 - I was 10. My grandfather was one of his early supporters and was anxious for my father to meet this man. I just happened to be with my father at the time, so I got to meet him, too. What impressed me about Paul Simon continued to impress me throughout his entire life. When I was introduced to him, he asked me how old I was, what grade I was in and what I liked about school. And he really listened to my answers to his questions. And that is the way he treated everyone. He always really wanted to know what you had to say and he always listened to you very carefully. It made you feel like you were the most important person to him at that moment - and you were. If more people (not just politicans) were like Paul Simon, just imagine what a wonderful, caring place this world would be.

My condolences to Patty, Sheila and Martin and their families. The people of this country share in your grief.

Susan King

December 10, 2003

To the family of Senator Paul Simon, my deepest condolences. I am deeply saddened by his death. What a wonderful and good man he was. He stood for everything that was good and right about government. After leaving the Senate he went on to do wonderful work for the state and people of Illinois, always with the belief that there is no higher calling in this life than that of public service. I am so proud to know he was ours.

Ned Mitchell

December 10, 2003

Sincere condolences to the family of a great statesman. He was always ready to help us in Sesser, Illinois and was a great source of wisdom in rehabilitation of our historic Opera House.

Deborah Berry

December 10, 2003

Senator Simon has been a icon for many years, especially to those of us who hail from the region he loved so dearly. What a legacy he leaves, to be remembered for "genuineness with dignity," in this day of partisan politics and philosophical cynicism. A true southern Illinois statesman whose intellect and input will be missed.

Gail Meisner

December 10, 2003

To the Family of Senator Paul Simon,

It is often not easy to be a liberal on social issues in the State of Illinois. Paul Simon, with his honesty, integrity, and caring about all made that a little easier.

His personal integrity is a model for all. My husband likes to quote that Paul Simon would not take even an ink pen from another so that he would not be beholden to any special interest. Many in politics should learn a lesson from him.

We will miss his leadership and voice for the people. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you, his family. He will be truly missed!

Steve Larson

December 10, 2003

I was very sad to hear of Senator Simon's passing.

He served graciously as my U.S. Congressman from southern Illinois when I lived in Carbondale. He served honestly and effectively as my U.S. Senator after I returned back to the Chicago area.

I finally got to meet him when I was on business in Carbondale in 1999. I forgot to thank him for all his years of service.

Thank you and God bless you, Mr. Simon.

Caryn Chemers

December 10, 2003

To the family of Paul Simon:

As a divorced single parent I wrote Senator Simon many years ago for assistance in obtaining deliquent child support payments - he and his staff helped me and I will be forever grateful. When my son was quite young I took him to a town meeting in Rolling Meadows. Senator Simon spoke eloquently and left a lasting positive impression on my son and myself. Illinois is a sadder place without him. He will be truly missed for his honesty, integrity, and endearing attitude -- may he rest in peace and may you be comforted in the knowledge that he leaves a legacy in my heart and the heart of many ....

Heather Matesic

December 10, 2003

I lived in Iowa back when Sen Simon was in office and I had always admired how he stood for people who were a little down on their luck. The nation lost a very good man today. May he rest in peace.

Matt Klusas

December 10, 2003

After attending Southern Illinois University in Carbondale for the 1999 academic year, I first met Senator Simon at Illinois State University on December 13, 2002, less than one year ago. It was a great honor and privilege to meet a true legend in Illinois politics.

When I told him I was from Frankfort, Illinois, Senator Simon started telling me all about the area. His knowledge of Illinois was unmatched and probably will not be repeated for some time to come. No matter what political party you subscribe to, Senator Simon was a representative that every Illinois resident could be proud of.

To his family and friends, my deepest sympathies. Illinois lost a great man today.

JEAN SLIFER

December 10, 2003

If only 1/3 of our current Congress could be clones of Paul Simon, what a better place our country would be. Sen. Simon's passing has left a void which may never be filled.

Lynda McCann

December 10, 2003

While I was a student at Wright College and later UIUC in the 1980's, I interacted for a few years with Sen. Simon and his wonderful wife, Jeanne, while lobbying on student financial aid issues. He was always gracious and welcoming and when we lobbied in Washington DC, he always made time for us to meet with him and his staff. He was (and continues to be) an inspiring leader. His refusal to be less than genuine encourages us to continue to do our best on a day to day basis. Thank you for your continued efforts on behalf of all citizens, Sen. Simon.

Dave Vargas

December 9, 2003

Thank You Senator Simon,

for your uncanny wit and down to earth style, we'll miss you.

You made it ok to be liberal.

Donna Ford

December 9, 2003

It is sad to hear that we have lost another of our great leaders...one who truly cared about his representative populus.

The "little people" of Illinois were always utmost in importance to you, Mr. Simon. I will always remember your visit to our little gas station and how thoughtful and kind you were to a common working person. Thank you for representing me while I was a citizen of the great State of Illinois.

Susan Harvey

December 9, 2003

As a foreign language teacher, I appreciate Paul Simon's support for the study of foreign languages and cultures over the years.

Merci! ¡Gracias! Danke!

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