Dan Ryan Is Featured In Voyageatl!!

March 22, 2019
Dan Ryan Is Featured In Voyageatl!!

MEET DAN RYAN OF TEAM RYAN AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE & REPAIR IN BUFORD

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dan Ryan.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Dan. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.

The initial catalyst to starting Team Ryan Automotive Service & Repair was when I realized that I couldn’t change the direction of the ship I was on, so I decided to build my own ship. The ship I’m referring to is the large corporation where I spent 18 years as a technician. While the large corporation model has many benefits, I had aspirations that I realized only ownership could fulfill. There was so much room for a better experience for both technicians and customers. Simply put, I knew the community deserved better and I decided to take matters into my own hands.

After many dinnertime conversations with my wife, we decided to begin the pursuit of opening our own service and repair shop in the spring of 2013. We started by going to Small Business Association classes, then wrote a business plan that enabled us to acquire a loan to start our business. Then we researched suitable areas for our endeavor, found the right property, negotiated and closed on a building, built out that property, acquired the necessary equipment, created a marketing, financial and growth plan, and opened doors in the spring of 2015.


We will cross the threshold of four years in business April of 2019. I am extremely proud of what we have built but I feel like our full potential has still yet to be realized.


Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?

Starting a business is never a small task. The only easy thing about running a small business like Team Ryan Automotive is that we sleep well at night knowing we have performed to the best of our abilities making honest recommendations to our customers. We keep their safety top of mind while respecting that each has the prerogative to make their own decisions.


One of the largest challenges was the transition I had to make from being a full-time technician to a full-time business owner. This meant that I would need to take on many responsibilities that I wasn’t immediately familiar with. Even with two decades of industry experience, there have been huge challenges as I learn new skills such as service writing, managing people, leadership, managing vendor relationships, customer relations, contract negotiation, and parts procurement to name a few. I faced these challenges head-on by persevering through difficulties, identifying areas for improvement, seeking out training and specific advice from experts. I’ve learned that challenges do not completely go away after four years of business ownership; they just evolve and grow with you and your business. Coming to terms with this has been a challenge in itself. Continuing to experience challenges and obstacles does not equal failure. It is quite the opposite actually. I have learned to be thankful for the hardships in front of me, they are different and usually larger than the previous ones. This means I am growing as a person and we are growing as a business. That sounds like success to me.


Team Ryan Automotive Service & Repair – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?

Our mission as a business is to serve the community by providing honest vehicle care while empowering our customers to make the best decision for their situation. We explain the diagnosis of each vehicle in easy to understand language while showing our customers where the problem is and carefully illustrating our recommendations. Using digital inspections that include actual pictures of their vehicle that can easily be texted or emailed to our customers really help with this transparency. We also frequently take our customers into the shop where their car is on a lift to point out any issues that need attention so that people can see with their own eyes. It is a real-life version of show and tell! Our philosophy of providing exemplary customer service demands that we understand and serve the needs of each individual customer. We empower customers by presenting the vehicle issues in a down-to-earth way allowing for a no-pressure environment in which they can direct us on what they want to be completed. This practical approach keeps our shop focused on what’s most important, the customer.


We are here to be the local experts in quality auto service and repair, whether that is an oil service, vehicle inspections or diagnostics, brake service, engine or transmission replacement and so much more.

It is our personal drive towards social responsibility that motivates us to do our part in protecting the environment and support the community with our skills at a fair price. We take pride in offering an approach to customer service that is based on integrity and trust. While we certainly have the expertise and proven ability to diagnose and repair vehicles, what really sets us apart is how well we take care of the customers in our community. Our business is founded on treating people right and fixing their vehicle right the first time.

I was honored to be recognized in Georgia Trend Magazine’s 40 under 40 in 2018. We have been voted Best of Gwinnett every year we have been in business since 2015. The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce has recognized us with their Small Business Rising Star Award. Team Ryan Automotive has been featured in both our local Suwanee Magazine and a national trade magazine Ratchet & Wrench. As an alumni of Gwinnett Technical College, I am invested in giving back to the community as a member of the Automotive Program Advisory Board and also a donor to the Scholarship Committee. Through this, I am able to provide real-world information and updates of the industry to the faculty and students. This year I was honored to be featured in their Alumni Scholarship video which highlighted successful graduates.

Auto repair is not usually known as environmentally friendly. We take pride in our environmental practices and have been recognized as Community Crusaders by Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful. Additionally, we are involved with other environmental organizations such as Elachee Nature and Science Center, and the National Parks Conservation Association. Further community involvement includes the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, North Gwinnett Kiwanis Club and multiple sponsorships of the youth sports programs in our community. Being recognized and able to contribute to our community in all these different ways makes us feel extremely proud.

To achieve growth and maintain stability we stay extremely focused on the customer experience. We serve a diverse community of all age ranges and understand that one communication method does not work for all. Adjusting our communication style to each customer is critical to establishing a true connection with that person. Team Ryan’s success is directly tied to having the right employees. For that reason, we are constantly looking for ways to create a stable and positive environment in which to work. As our business has grown over the last four years, we’ve gained stability through our continued focus towards treating people right. This goes for both customers and employees.

We plan to be a fixture in the community for the next few decades, and each day we work towards this by building long term trust rather than pushing for the short-term gains.


Too many of us grew up only seeing one kind of boss or leader in the media. The lack of representation for other groups reinforced harmful stereotypes and acted as a self-fulfilling prophecy, but would our opinion of what a leader looks like be different if the media did a better job at representing the true diversity of leadership in America?

A true leader is measured by how they treat people. This means all people, no one is above or below another person, we are all simply people. Leadership is about making a positive difference in others and making sure that impact lasts when you are not around. These qualities are not isolated to a single stereotype or education level. In fact, I find the best leaders are those that have the perspective of having nothing and working hard for everything they have earned. We cannot control what the media decides to show or not show us. We can control how it impacts us and how we respond to it. Each and every one of us has the ability to rise above the stereotypes, we just need to make the choice and do the work. Auto repair shops have the stereotype of being dirty, greasy, dishonest, and sometimes even rude or deceitful. Team Ryan Automotive made the choice four years ago to do the work and change the industry one repair at a time.


Where do you see your industry going over the next 5-10 years? Any big shifts, changes, trends, etc?

Automotive technology and design have progressed and changed more in the last ten years than in the last forty years prior to that. I think we will see an even larger advancement in technology over the next ten years. To say vehicles are no longer easy to work on is an understatement. The amount of dedication and training required to be a true professional in this industry is growing exponentially. Those that are dedicated to continued education and training will rise to the top and be masters of this trade. Everyone else will be gradually left behind fixing the cars of yesteryear clinging to a disappearing number of cars they are qualified to repair. Team Ryan Automotive has already invested in over 50 hours of technician classroom training in 2019 with another 21 hours scheduled in the near future. In my humble opinion, the repair shops willing to do this are the repair shops of the future.


Contact Info:

Address: 2959 S. Waterworks Road, Buford GA 30518

Website: https://www.teamryanautomotive.com/

Phone: 678.820.3794

Email: contact@teamryanautomotive.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamryanauto/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teamryanauto/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/teamryanauto

By Dan Ryan August 15, 2025
Make Safety a Priority with Tire Maintenance from Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming As the school year kicks off and traffic increases around Buford and Cumming , your vehicle’s tires become more important than ever. Whether you are driving through busy school zones, sitting in carpool lines, or commuting long distances every day, the condition of your tires directly affects your safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance on the road. At Team Ryan Automotive, we help Georgia drivers stay ahead of seasonal driving demands by focusing on the components that matter most. Your tires are your only point of contact with the road, making them essential for control, traction, and braking in all driving conditions. Before the school year ramps up, make sure your tires are ready for everything the road throws your way. Why Tire Maintenance Is Essential During the School Season Back-to-school driving typically involves more stop-and-go traffic, tighter turns in crowded parking lots, and more time spent behind the wheel overall. Many drivers also carry additional passengers or gear during this time, which increases the load placed on their tires. Without regular maintenance, tires can wear unevenly, lose air pressure, or fail unexpectedly. Driving with worn or underinflated tires makes it harder to steer, lengthens stopping distance, and increases your risk of a blowout. That risk is even greater when you are rushing through morning traffic or navigating wet roads during fall storms. Tire maintenance helps prevent these issues and gives you peace of mind as you drive your family to school, practice, or appointments. How to Inspect Your Tires at Home Even before visiting an auto shop, there are a few quick checks you can do yourself to assess the condition of your tires . Start by walking around your vehicle and checking the following: Tread Depth: Use the penny test to measure tread depth. Insert a penny into the tire groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low, and it is time to replace the tire. Sidewall Condition: Look for cracks, bulges, or cuts in the sidewall. These can indicate structural damage that may lead to a blowout. Tire Pressure: Use a tire gauge to measure air pressure and compare it to the recommended levels listed in your owner’s manual or on the driver-side door sticker. Be sure to check the tires when they are cold, not after driving. Tire Wear Pattern: Uneven tread wear can point to alignment issues or improper inflation. If the wear is more severe on one edge or in the center, bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection. Professional Tire Services You Should Schedule While home checks are helpful, they are not a substitute for a thorough inspection by a certified technician. At Team Ryan Automotive, our tire services go beyond basic checks, ensuring every aspect of your tire system performs properly. We recommend the following services before the school year starts: Tire Rotation: Rotating your tires regularly helps ensure they wear evenly and last longer. Different positions on the vehicle experience different types of wear, so rotating them every 5,000 to 7,500 miles helps even this out. Wheel Alignment : If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel is off-center, it could be a sign of misalignment. Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear, reduce handling, and shorten tire lifespan. We use precise alignment tools to correct the issue and protect your tires. Tire Balancing : If you feel vibration while driving at higher speeds, your tires may be out of balance. Tire balancing ensures that weight is distributed evenly around the wheel, helping to prevent excessive wear and suspension damage. Flat Repair: If you have a slow leak or have recently run over a nail, our team can often repair the tire and restore it to full function. We always inspect the tire thoroughly to ensure the damage is repairable and safe. Tire Replacement : If your tread is worn out or the sidewall is damaged, we offer high-quality replacement tires from top brands. Our technicians will help you choose the right tire for your vehicle, driving habits, and budget. Why Tire Pressure Is a Big Deal in Georgia Weather Georgia’s weather can fluctuate, especially as summer transitions into fall. These temperature changes affect your tire pressure more than you might expect. For every 10-degree change in temperature, your tire pressure can fluctuate by one to two pounds per square inch. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and increase heat buildup, which can cause premature tire wear or even failure. Overinflated tires reduce traction and can make your ride less comfortable. Maintaining tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended level enhances your gas mileage, prolongs tire life, and ensures your vehicle remains stable during sudden stops or turns. At Team Ryan Automotive, we check and adjust tire pressure as part of every inspection and service. We want your tires to perform their best, regardless of the temperature outside. Tread Depth and School Zone Safety Stopping distance is critical when driving in school zones. Children can appear suddenly, other vehicles may stop without warning, and speed limits are significantly reduced. Worn-out tires cannot grip the road effectively, especially in wet conditions, and that compromises your ability to brake quickly. Tires with deep, healthy tread offer better traction on wet pavement and allow for more responsive braking. If your tread depth is low, especially as rainstorms become more frequent, it is time to replace your tires. Driving through Buford and Cumming school zones with proper tread and pressure ensures you can stop when it matters most. What Makes Team Ryan Automotive Different When you visit Team Ryan Automotive in Buford or Cumming, you are not just getting a tire service. You are getting a partner who prioritizes your safety, explains your options clearly, and never pressures you into repairs you do not need. Our technicians are ASE certified and trained to work with all makes and models. Whether you drive a compact sedan, an SUV, or a family van, we have the tools and knowledge to care for your tires the right way. We believe in proactive service, not reactive repairs. Our goal is to help you stay ahead of issues before they become emergencies. That is why we encourage all drivers to include tire maintenance in their back-to-school car care routine. Schedule Your Tire Inspection Before the School Year Gets Busy The back-to-school season brings increased mileage, tighter schedules, and more road risks. Do not let worn or underperforming tires put your family’s safety in jeopardy. Let Team Ryan Automotive in Buford or Cumming inspect your tires and make sure they are ready for everything this season demands. Our tire services are fast, affordable, and focused on keeping your vehicle road ready. Whether you need a simple rotation or a full set of new tires, we are here to help. Call or schedule online today . Drive smarter, safer, and more confidently this school year with help from the tire experts at Team Ryan Automotive.
By Dan Ryan August 11, 2025
How to Prevent Common Back-to-School Breakdowns with Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming Back-to-school season brings early mornings, packed schedules, and an increase in daily driving. Whether you are taking your kids to school, commuting to work, or handling multiple pick-ups and drop-offs, your vehicle needs to be reliable, efficient, and safe. The last thing any driver wants is to deal with a breakdown during the morning rush or be stuck on the side of the road when school traffic is at its peak. At Team Ryan Automotive, serving Buford and Cumming , we help drivers prepare for the demands of the new school year with inspections and preventive maintenance designed to catch problems before they interrupt your schedule. If you want to avoid unexpected car trouble during the busiest time of year, now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is ready. Why Breakdowns Are More Common During Back-to-School Season As summer ends, driving habits change. Vehicles that were used lightly during summer vacations or sat idle in the heat now return to daily commutes, stop-and-go traffic, and regular use. Increased mileage, rising temperatures, and heavy loads can quickly reveal issues that have been developing quietly for months. Some of the most common problems we see at the start of the school year include dead batteries, overheating engines, tire blowouts, brake failures, and electrical malfunctions. These are often the result of worn-out parts, low fluid levels, or lack of maintenance. The good news is that most of these breakdowns are completely preventable with a timely inspection and a few smart service choices. Dead Battery One of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns is a dead or weak battery. After months of exposure to summer heat, many batteries are already strained before the start of the school year. Once temperatures cool down and early morning startups become the norm, a worn-out battery may not have enough power left to crank the engine. To avoid getting stranded, schedule a battery test at Team Ryan Automotive. Our technicians will check your battery’s voltage, charge capacity, and overall health. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of failure, we can help you choose the correct replacement before it lets you down. Overheating Engine Stop-and-go traffic, long idling times in school pickup lines, and forgotten maintenance can all cause your engine to overheat. Many drivers ignore the warning signs until it is too late, leading to costly repairs. Prevent overheating by having your cooling system inspected. This includes checking the radiator, thermostat, hoses, coolant levels, and water pump. We recommend flushing and replacing coolant based on the TRA Maintenance schedule . Our technicians in Buford and Cumming can test your system for leaks and ensure everything is circulating properly. Tire Trouble Tires that are underinflated, worn out, or damaged are more likely to cause problems during the back-to-school rush. You are more likely to drive over curbs, potholes, and parking lot debris when you are navigating crowded school areas, which increases your risk of tire issues. Before school starts, inspect your tires for tread depth, sidewall damage, and proper air pressure. Uneven wear may indicate alignment problems, which can reduce handling and accelerate tire deterioration. Team Ryan Automotive offers free tire inspections and pressure checks at both locations, so you can drive with peace of mind. Brake Failure Brakes that are noisy, soft, or slow to respond are a serious safety risk, especially in school zones where quick stops are often required. The increased stop-and-go driving during the school year puts even more strain on your braking system. We recommend having your brakes checked for pad thickness, rotor wear, and fluid condition. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibration when braking, do not delay. Our technicians can identify the issue and recommend service that restores safety and performance. Warning Lights on the Dashboard Dashboard warning lights often appear at the worst times. Whether it is your check engine light, ABS light, or low tire pressure alert, these signals should never be ignored. A small sensor issue can become a major mechanical failure if left unchecked. If a warning light comes on, bring your car to Team Ryan Automotive. We use advanced diagnostic tools to read fault codes and pinpoint the exact issue, saving you time and guesswork. Our team will explain what needs attention and what can wait, so you can make informed decisions that fit your schedule and budget. Poor Visibility Clear visibility is essential for safe driving, especially during early morning or late afternoon commutes. Headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers must function properly in all weather conditions. Check all exterior lights to make sure they are working and replace any that are dim or burned out. Inspect your wiper blades for streaking or skipping. If they are worn out, we can install new blades quickly during your visit. Do not forget to top off windshield washer fluid to keep your view clear on rainy or foggy mornings. HVAC System Performance Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system should be ready for fluctuating weather as well as for keeping passengers comfortable during daily drives. A well-maintained HVAC system also plays a role in defrosting your windshield and maintaining safe visibility. If your AC is blowing warm air or your defrost is slow to respond, schedule an inspection. Our team will check the cabin air filter, blower motor, refrigerant level, and AC compressor to ensure consistent and reliable performance. Suspension and Steering Issues Rough rides and poor handling can make back-to-school driving stressful and unsafe. Worn suspension components may not absorb road impact correctly, causing instability during turns and braking. Have your shocks, struts, and steering components inspected if you notice clunking noises, pulling to one side, or excessive bouncing. Team Ryan Automotive performs complete suspension diagnostics to restore ride quality and handling precision. The Importance of Preventive Maintenance Preventive maintenance is the smartest investment you can make in your vehicle. A small service today could prevent a major repair tomorrow. At Team Ryan Automotive, we provide complete vehicle inspections designed to prepare your car for the season ahead. Our back-to-school readiness services include: Battery testing Cooling system inspection Brake inspection and fluid check Tire pressure and tread evaluation Oil and filter change Wiper and light check HVAC system test Diagnostic scan for warning lights Our goal is to help Buford and Cumming drivers start the school year with confidence, not car trouble. Schedule Your Inspection with Team Ryan Automotive There is no better time to schedule a complete inspection than right now. Before the school bell rings and your calendar fills up, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a back-to-school checkup. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to make sure your vehicle is ready for the morning commute, the after-school rush, and every mile in between. With convenient locations in Buford and Cumming , flexible appointment times, and honest service you can trust, we make it easy to stay on top of maintenance. Call or schedule online today . Keep your family safe, your schedule on track, and your car in peak condition this school year with help from Team Ryan Automotive.
By Dan Ryan August 8, 2025
How to Prevent Common Back-to-School Breakdowns with Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming Back-to-school season brings early mornings, packed schedules, and an increase in daily driving. Whether you are taking your kids to school, commuting to work, or handling multiple pick-ups and drop-offs, your vehicle needs to be reliable, efficient, and safe. The last thing any driver wants is to deal with a breakdown during the morning rush or be stuck on the side of the road when school traffic is at its peak. At Team Ryan Automotive, serving Buford and Cumming , we help drivers prepare for the demands of the new school year with inspections and preventive maintenance designed to catch problems before they interrupt your schedule. If you want to avoid unexpected car trouble during the busiest time of year, now is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is ready. Why Breakdowns Are More Common During Back-to-School Season As summer ends, driving habits change. Vehicles that were used lightly during summer vacations or sat idle in the heat now return to daily commutes, stop-and-go traffic, and regular use. Increased mileage, rising temperatures, and heavy loads can quickly reveal issues that have been developing quietly for months. Some of the most common problems we see at the start of the school year include dead batteries, overheating engines, tire blowouts, brake failures, and electrical malfunctions. These are often the result of worn-out parts, low fluid levels, or lack of maintenance. The good news is that most of these breakdowns are completely preventable with a timely inspection and a few smart service choices. Dead Battery One of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns is a dead or weak battery. After months of exposure to summer heat, many batteries are already strained before the start of the school year. Once temperatures cool down and early morning startups become the norm, a worn-out battery may not have enough power left to crank the engine. To avoid getting stranded, schedule a battery test at Team Ryan Automotive. Our technicians will check your battery’s voltage, charge capacity, and overall health. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of failure, we can help you choose the correct replacement before it lets you down. Overheating Engine Stop-and-go traffic, long idling times in school pickup lines, and forgotten maintenance can all cause your engine to overheat. Many drivers ignore the warning signs until it is too late, leading to costly repairs. Prevent overheating by having your cooling system inspected. This includes checking the radiator, thermostat, hoses, coolant levels, and water pump. We recommend flushing and replacing coolant based on the TRA Maintenance schedule . Our technicians in Buford and Cumming can test your system for leaks and ensure everything is circulating properly. Tire Trouble Tires that are underinflated, worn out, or damaged are more likely to cause problems during the back-to-school rush. You are more likely to drive over curbs, potholes, and parking lot debris when you are navigating crowded school areas, which increases your risk of tire issues. Before school starts, inspect your tires for tread depth, sidewall damage, and proper air pressure. Uneven wear may indicate alignment problems, which can reduce handling and accelerate tire deterioration. Team Ryan Automotive offers free tire inspections and pressure checks at both locations, so you can drive with peace of mind. Brake Failure Brakes that are noisy, soft, or slow to respond are a serious safety risk, especially in school zones where quick stops are often required. The increased stop-and-go driving during the school year puts even more strain on your braking system. We recommend having your brakes checked for pad thickness, rotor wear, and fluid condition. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibration when braking, do not delay. Our technicians can identify the issue and recommend service that restores safety and performance. Warning Lights on the Dashboard Dashboard warning lights often appear at the worst times. Whether it is your check engine light, ABS light, or low tire pressure alert, these signals should never be ignored. A small sensor issue can become a major mechanical failure if left unchecked. If a warning light comes on, bring your car to Team Ryan Automotive. We use advanced diagnostic tools to read fault codes and pinpoint the exact issue, saving you time and guesswork. Our team will explain what needs attention and what can wait, so you can make informed decisions that fit your schedule and budget. Poor Visibility Clear visibility is essential for safe driving, especially during early morning or late afternoon commutes. Headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers must function properly in all weather conditions. Check all exterior lights to make sure they are working and replace any that are dim or burned out. Inspect your wiper blades for streaking or skipping. If they are worn out, we can install new blades quickly during your visit. Do not forget to top off windshield washer fluid to keep your view clear on rainy or foggy mornings. HVAC System Performance Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system should be ready for fluctuating weather as well as for keeping passengers comfortable during daily drives. A well-maintained HVAC system also plays a role in defrosting your windshield and maintaining safe visibility. If your AC is blowing warm air or your defrost is slow to respond, schedule an inspection. Our team will check the cabin air filter, blower motor, refrigerant level, and AC compressor to ensure consistent and reliable performance. Suspension and Steering Issues Rough rides and poor handling can make back-to-school driving stressful and unsafe. Worn suspension components may not absorb road impact correctly, causing instability during turns and braking. Have your shocks, struts, and steering components inspected if you notice clunking noises, pulling to one side, or excessive bouncing. Team Ryan Automotive performs complete suspension diagnostics to restore ride quality and handling precision. The Importance of Preventive Maintenance Preventive maintenance is the smartest investment you can make in your vehicle. A small service today could prevent a major repair tomorrow. At Team Ryan Automotive, we provide complete vehicle inspections designed to prepare your car for the season ahead. Our back-to-school readiness services include: Battery testing Cooling system inspection Brake inspection and fluid check Tire pressure and tread evaluation Oil and filter change Wiper and light check HVAC system test Diagnostic scan for warning lights Our goal is to help Buford and Cumming drivers start the school year with confidence, not car trouble. Schedule Your Inspection with Team Ryan Automotive There is no better time to schedule a complete inspection than right now. Before the school bell rings and your calendar fills up, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a back-to-school checkup. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to make sure your vehicle is ready for the morning commute, the after-school rush, and every mile in between. With convenient locations in Buford and Cumming , flexible appointment times, and honest service you can trust, we make it easy to stay on top of maintenance. Call or schedule online today . Keep your family safe, your schedule on track, and your car in peak condition this school year with help from Team Ryan Automotive.
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