HL | Milestone Series – Honors Esperanza (Escobar) Teasdale, ACC

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Esperanza (Escobar) Teasdale, ACC

May 15, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Esperanza (Escobar) Teasdale, ACC

Culture • Influence • Legacy

Some careers are defined by the brands they help build. Others are defined by the people they inspire and the legacy they create.

Esperanza Teasdale has done both.

With more than three decades of leadership at PepsiCo and Unilever, Esperanza built strategies that helped shape iconic brands including Pepsi and Propel while guiding relationships with major retailers such as 7-Eleven and Dollar General. Throughout her corporate journey, she earned a reputation for blending business strategy, creativity, and analytics to deliver measurable growth with purpose.

Esperanza Teasdale will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

A highly respected expert in Hispanic marketing, Esperanza has long championed the idea that cultural understanding is not simply a communications strategy it is a business advantage.

Today, as Founder of Mariposa Zenith, Esperanza helps leaders move from reactive to intentional by integrating mindfulness, cultural fluency, and inclusive leadership into how they lead and serve others.

An ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC), certified yoga instructor, and passionate advocate for intentional leadership, she teaches what she calls The Cultural Fluency Advantage and The Mindful Leadership Advantage frameworks designed to help leaders achieve stronger results while leading with clarity, empathy, and purpose.

Milestone Moments

  • Inducted into the American Marketing Association New York Hall of Fame (2025)
  • Named Hispanic Marketer of the Year by the Hispanic Marketing Council (2024)
  • Launched PepsiCo’s Juntos Crecemos initiative to support Hispanic small business growth
  • Recognized as one of People en Español’s 25 Most Powerful Women (2021)
  • Founded Mariposa Zenith in 2025 to help leaders unlock their highest potential

A Legacy of Purpose-Driven Leadership

Esperanza’s professional journey reflects a powerful evolution—from driving growth for some of the world’s most recognized brands to helping leaders cultivate greater awareness, stronger cultures, and more meaningful impact.

Her work reminds us that influence is most powerful when it is intentional.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors A&H Security Services

HL | Milestone Series – Honors A&H Security Services

May 15, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors A&H Security Services

Leadership in Business Growth, Workforce Development and Community Protection

The HL | Milestone Series is proud to recognize A&H Security Services, a Bronx-based company that has become one of New York City’s most respected minority-owned security firms.

Founded in 2020 by Felix Cabreja, the company was built during one of the most challenging periods in New York City’s history. As the COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented demands on public agencies, healthcare providers, shelters, and private businesses, Felix and his leadership team saw an urgent need for a security company that combined operational excellence with a deep understanding of the communities it serves.

That vision led to the creation of A&H Security Services.

A&H Security Services,will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Today, A&H Security Services employs more than 1,100 security professionals and serves over 25 clients across New York City and throughout New York State. The company provides security services to hotels, shelters, healthcare facilities, construction sites, residential properties, and government agencies. According to recent profiles, the organization has continued to grow and is recognized as one of the largest minority-owned security companies in New York City.

As a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), A&H Security Services reflects the entrepreneurial spirit that drives many of New York’s most successful businesses. Operating from its headquarters in the Bronx, the company provides 24/7 service, 365 days a year, delivering both security and peace of mind to organizations across the region.

Milestone Moments

  • Founded A&H Security Services during the COVID-19 pandemic to meet growing security needs across New York City.
  • Built the company to more than 1,100 security officers serving over 25 active clients.
  • Established one of New York City’s fastest-growing minority-owned security firms.
  • Created employment opportunities for hundreds of New Yorkers.
  • Continued a decades-long career in the security industry spanning more than 40 years.

Felix Cabreja’s story is one of resilience, entrepreneurship, and commitment to community. From his early years as an immigrant to building multiple successful businesses, his journey reflects what is possible when experience, vision, and determination come together.

Through A&H Security Services, Felix has created more than a successful company. He has built an organization that protects people, creates jobs, and contributes to the economic vitality of New York City.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Ana Ceppi

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Ana Ceppi

May 15, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Ana Ceppi

Turning Cultural Intelligence into Business Growth

The HL | Milestone Series is proud to recognizeAna Ceppi, CEO and Founder of Multicultural Growth Partners, for her visionary leadership in helping Fortune 500 companies transform cultural understanding into measurable business results.

Through her firm’s proprietary Cultural Elasticity™ framework, Ana works with organizations to unlock the economic value of culture—helping brands build stronger relationships with consumers while driving sustainable growth.

Ana Ceppi will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Over the course of her career, Ana has built innovative business units, launched new market strategies, and consistently delivered results that have influenced how major corporations engage multicultural audiences.

Milestone Moments

  • Founded Multicultural Growth Partners to help companies convert cultural insights into measurable business growth.
  • Generated a business unit that contributed 36% of total sales.
  • Produced $65 million in net new revenue over a two-year period.
  • Delivered five consecutive years of double-digit brand growth.
  • Launched healthcare and financial services practices at Univision.
  • Established a multicultural practice at NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises that elevated the strategic value of Hispanic audiences.
  • Developed specialty services at American Express tailored to Hispanic and Latin American cardmembers.
  • Serves on the board of HACE.
  • Serves as Senior Advisor to Finhabits.

Ana’s career has been defined by a simple but powerful principle: when organizations truly understand culture, they create stronger connections, more relevant products, and better business outcomes.

From media and communications to financial services, she has repeatedly built what did not yet exist developing strategies and platforms that helped organizations recognize the value and influence of multicultural consumers.

Her leadership continues to shape the way companies think about growth, innovation, and the role of culture in business success.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Classico Building Maintenance

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Classico Building Maintenance

May 15, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Classico Building Maintenance

Building New York City While Creating Opportunity Through Entrepreneurial Leadership

For more than two decades, Maria D. Rios has built a company that reflects the power of vision, perseverance, and operational excellence.

As President and CEO of Classico Building Maintenance, Maria has grown the firm into one of New York State’s most successful Minority Women Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (MWDBEs), delivering custodial building maintenance, construction cleaning, and trade labor services to some of the region’s most significant public and private development projects.

Classico Building Maintenance,will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Maria Rios’ milestone is defined by building a company that has helped shape New York City’s skyline while creating opportunities for workers, partners, and communities throughout the region.

Maria Rios, Classico Building Maintenance Inc.

From iconic infrastructure projects to mixed-use developments, Classico has contributed to some of New York City’s most recognizable projects, including Moynihan Train Hall, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, Yankee Stadium, John F. Kennedy International Airport Terminal 8, and LaGuardia Airport.

Under Maria’s leadership, Classico has earned long-standing relationships with major developers, construction managers, and government agencies. The company has provided mechanical maintenance services for more than nine years at Bronx Terminal Market, supported the redevelopment of JFK Terminal 8, and delivered multi-year services for La Central.

Maria’s accomplishments have been recognized by the Bronx Borough President, the New York State Comptroller, chambers of commerce, and industry organizations. She is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and other executive development initiatives that helped strengthen her entrepreneurial journey.

Milestone Moments

  • President and CEO of Classico Building Maintenance, one of New York’s leading MWDBE firms.
  • Delivered services on landmark projects including Moynihan Train Hall, JFK Terminal 8, and LaGuardia Airport.
  • Built long-term partnerships with top developers, contractors, and public agencies.
  • Completed the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program.
  • Recognized by government, business, and community organizations for entrepreneurial achievement.
  • Created a company that continues to generate jobs and economic opportunity throughout New York City.

Maria D. Rios’ leadership reflects the power of entrepreneurship, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. Her work demonstrates that business success and community impact can go hand in hand.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Saraciea J. Fennell

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Saraciea J. Fennell

May 14, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Saraciea J. Fennell

Building Community Through Storytelling, Books, and Literary Advocacy

Saraciea J. Fennell has transformed her love of books and storytelling into a powerful movement that celebrates culture, elevates underrepresented voices, and creates opportunities for writers and readers throughout the Bronx and beyond.

A Brooklyn-born, Bronx-raised Black Honduran American writer, editor, and publicist, Saraciea is the founder of The Bronx is Reading and Honduran Garifuna Writers. Through her work, she has created spaces where Black and Latine stories are not only shared, but championed.

Saraciea J. Fennell will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Her milestone is defined by creating platforms that expand access to literature, foster cultural pride, and help emerging writers find their path to publication.

Through The Bronx Book Festival, now celebrating its ninth year, Saraciea has helped distribute more than 6,000 free books to members of the Bronx community while connecting aspiring writers with editors, agents, and publishing professionals. Those efforts have already helped several Bronx writers secure book deals with major publishers.

As an award-winning editor, Saraciea has shaped nationally recognized anthologies including The Black Girl Survives in This One and Wild Tongues Can’t Be Tamed. Her writing and editorial work has appeared in LatinaMediaCo, Refinery29, Mitú, and The Washington Post.

Her work continues to demonstrate that storytelling is more than an art form—it is a tool for representation, empowerment, and lasting community impact.

Milestone Moments

  • Award-winning writer, editor, and publicist
  • Founder of The Bronx is Reading and The Bronx Book Festival
  • Celebrating nine years of the Bronx Book Festival
  • Helped provide more than 6,000 free books to the Bronx community
  • Connected emerging writers with publishing professionals, leading to multiple major publishing deals
  • Editor of The Black Girl Survives in This One and Wild Tongues Can’t Be Tamed

Saraciea J. Fennell’s leadership reflects the power of storytelling to build community, amplify voices, and create opportunities for future generations.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Diana Caba

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Diana Caba

May 13, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Diana Caba

Advancing Economic Opportunity Through Community-Centered Leadership

Diana Caba is helping shape the future of economic opportunity for Latino and historically excluded communities across the United States.

As Vice President for Community and Economic Development at Hispanic Federation, Diana leads one of the organization’s most significant and far-reaching portfolios over $100 million in investments focused on digital equity, financial capability, workforce development, immigrant inclusion, and community resilience.

Diana Caba will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Her milestone is defined by turning community-rooted insights into large-scale solutions that create measurable results.

With more than two decades of experience in social impact and public policy, Diana has built a reputation as a strategic leader who bridges philanthropy, government, and private sector partnerships to advance equitable economic development. Her work has helped communities access technology, strengthen small businesses, improve financial stability, and build pathways to upward mobility.

Since joining Hispanic Federation in 2014, Diana has played a key role in expanding the organization’s national impact. In her current leadership role, she sets strategy, establishes performance metrics, oversees compliance and reporting, and mentors senior staff responsible for implementing high-impact initiatives across multiple regions.

Milestone Moments

  • Leads a $100+ million multi-year investment portfolio focused on community and economic development.
  • Oversees initiatives spanning digital equity, workforce development, financial capability, and immigrant inclusion.
  • Builds strategic partnerships with federal and state agencies, national foundations, and private sector leaders.
  • Develops measurement frameworks to track impact and support continuous learning.
  • Serves as a trusted advisor in national discussions on technology and economic policy.
  • Has dedicated more than 20 years to advancing economic opportunity for underserved communities.

Diana Caba’s leadership reflects the power of combining policy expertise, strategic partnerships, and a deep commitment to community impact. Her work continues to expand access to the resources, tools, and opportunities families need to thrive.

Through her vision and execution, Diana is helping ensure that economic growth reaches the communities that have historically been left out of the conversation.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors The Brinn Group

HL | Milestone Series – Honors The Brinn Group

May 12, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors The Brinn Group

Building the Relationships That Move Communities Forward

For more than three decades, The Brinn Group has helped organizations navigate the complex intersection of business, government, and community engagement across the New York metropolitan area.

Led by Fernando Brinn, the firm has earned a reputation for bringing together the right stakeholders to move important projects forward—whether supporting a real estate development, expanding a business initiative, or helping nonprofit organizations strengthen their impact.

The Brinn Group will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Fernando Brinn’s milestone is defined by his ability to build trust, create meaningful partnerships, and guide clients through the public affairs and community relations process with credibility and strategic insight.

Fernando L. Brinn

The Brinn Group specializes in:

  • Community and stakeholder engagement
  • Government and public affairs strategy
  • Coalition building
  • Grassroots advocacy
  • Strategic communications
  • Business development consulting

From neighborhood-based nonprofits to major corporate and development projects, the firm provides clients with the relationships and strategic guidance needed to achieve results while maintaining strong community ties.

Throughout his career, Fernando Brinn has demonstrated that influence is built on relationships, credibility, and a genuine understanding of how communities and institutions work together.

As CEO of The Brinn Group, he continues to help shape projects and initiatives that contribute to economic development and long-term community growth throughout New York City and beyond.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Elizabeth C. Yeampierre

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Elizabeth C. Yeampierre

May 12, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Elizabeth C. Yeampierre

Advancing Climate Justice and Community-Led Solutions

Elizabeth C. Yeampierre has spent her career ensuring that frontline communities have a voice in shaping environmental policy and climate solutions.

As Executive Director of UPROSE, Brooklyn’s oldest Latino community-based organization, she has led transformative efforts to address environmental inequities while advocating for community-driven economic development, renewable energy, and climate resilience.

Elizabeth C. Yeampierre will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Her milestone is defined by a lifetime commitment to environmental and climate justice elevating the voices of historically underserved communities and helping ensure they are represented in policy discussions at the local, national, and global levels.

A nationally respected attorney and advocate, Yeampierre made history as the first Latina to serve as Chair of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Environmental Justice Advisory Council. In that role, she helped shape federal conversations on environmental justice and equitable climate policy.

She also founded the NYC Climate Justice Youth Summit, creating a platform that empowers young people to engage directly in the climate movement and become the next generation of leaders.

Through her work with UPROSE and her broader advocacy, Elizabeth C. Yeampierre continues to demonstrate that effective leadership begins with listening to the community and building solutions rooted in justice, sustainability, and long-term impact.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAWBO NYC

HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAWBO NYC

May 9, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAWBO NYC

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs and Expanding Economic Opportunity

For nearly five decades, the National Association of Women Business Owners has served as one of the nation’s most influential advocates for women entrepreneurs. Its New York City chapter, NAWBO NYC, continues that legacy by supporting women business owners across one of the most competitive and dynamic markets in the world.

NAWBO NYC’s milestone is defined by its unwavering commitment to helping women entrepreneurs build stronger companies, expand their networks, and gain access to the resources needed to grow and thrive.

NAWBO NYC will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — New York, taking place on May 20, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details & RSVP: https://bit.ly/4bApDkE

Through educational programming, strategic networking, mentorship, and public policy advocacy, the organization provides women business owners with practical tools and meaningful connections. Its members represent a wide range of industries, including professional services, technology, finance, healthcare, creative industries, and consumer businesses.

Beyond individual business success, NAWBO NYC plays a critical role in advancing the broader conversation around women’s economic leadership. The organization creates opportunities for members to connect with corporate partners, government agencies, and fellow entrepreneurs while championing policies that foster entrepreneurship and economic inclusion.

In a city defined by innovation, resilience, and ambition, NAWBO NYC continues to provide a powerful platform where women entrepreneurs can learn, collaborate, and lead.

At the 2026 HL | Milestone Series – New York, we are proud to recognize NAWBO NYC for its enduring contribution to entrepreneurship and for helping shape a stronger and more inclusive business community.

Milestone Highlights

  • Supports women business owners through education, mentorship, and strategic networking.
  • Connects entrepreneurs with corporate partners, procurement opportunities, and community resources.
  • Advocates for policies that strengthen women-owned businesses.
  • Builds a collaborative community of accomplished women entrepreneurs across New York City.
  • Helps expand economic opportunity through leadership and business development.

Website: NAWBO NYC

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

Tracy M. Serrano-Ruiz | Interim Chief Executive Officer – LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes

Tracy M. Serrano-Ruiz | Interim Chief Executive Officer – LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes

May 8, 2026 | Culture and Influence, Women and Leadership

by Richard Sandoval, for HL and Inland Valley Living

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes Announces Leadership Transition and Renewed Focus on Long-Term Sustainability

In the heart of downtown Los Angeles, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes has long served as a place where history, culture, and community come together to celebrate the stories and contributions of Mexicans, Mexican Americans, and Latinos.

Now, the institution is entering a new chapter.

LA Plaza recently announced a leadership transition and a series of operational steps designed to strengthen the organization’s long-term sustainability while reaffirming its commitment to serving the community through high-quality cultural programming and educational initiatives.

Tracy Serrano-Ruiz – Interim Chief Executive Officer, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes

Strengthening the Foundation for the Future

According to the organization, the Board of Directors has undertaken a thoughtful review of operations and expenses to ensure that resources are aligned with LA Plaza’s institutional priorities.

These actions include leadership changes, organizational adjustments, and measures intended to stabilize operations while maintaining focus on the museum and cultural center’s mission.

“These decisions were made with great care and a deep sense of responsibility to the institution and the community we serve,” said Board Chair Robert Villaseñor. “Our focus is on ensuring that LA Plaza remains a vibrant, sustainable cultural anchor for Los Angeles for years to come.”

For organizations dedicated to preserving culture and history, moments like these are critical. Strong governance and thoughtful planning help ensure that institutions not only weather periods of change, but emerge better positioned to serve future generations.

Tracy M. Serrano-Ruiz Named Interim CEO

As part of the transition, the Board has appointed Tracy M. Serrano-Ruiz as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Serrano-Ruiz has served as Chief of Staff and is widely respected for her role in strengthening internal operations, governance, and mission delivery over the years.

“The Board has full confidence in Tracy’s leadership during this time,” Villaseñor said. “She brings deep institutional knowledge, a strong commitment to our mission, and the steady leadership needed to guide LA Plaza forward.”

Serrano-Ruiz expressed both gratitude and optimism as she assumes her new role.

“I am honored to step into this position and continue serving an institution that means so much to our community,” she said. “LA Plaza holds a vital place in preserving and sharing our stories, and I look forward to collaborating with our staff, Board, and partners to build on that legacy and a strong future.”

A Cultural Anchor for Los Angeles

Since opening in 2011, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes has become one of Southern California’s most important institutions dedicated to exploring and celebrating the history and culture of Mexicans, Mexican Americans, and Latinos.

Located near Olvera Street, LA Plaza serves as a dynamic space for exhibitions, performances, educational programming, and community dialogue.

Its work reflects the enduring influence of Latino culture on the history and identity of Los Angeles and the nation.

Moving Forward with Clarity and Purpose

With new leadership in place and operational changes underway, LA Plaza says it is well-positioned to move forward with renewed focus and stability.

For the broader community, the announcement underscores the importance of sustaining institutions that preserve culture, tell authentic stories, and create spaces where future generations can better understand the richness of their heritage.

As Los Angeles continues to evolve, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes remains a vital cultural resource one committed to honoring the past while shaping a stronger future.

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