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DATAMARK Technologies Earns Top Honors for NG9-1-1 GIS Excellence

DATAMARK Technologies, a leader in interoperable solutions for public safety location services, has received Frost & Sullivan’s 2025 Product Leadership Award for Best Practices in the North American Next Generation Geographic Information Systems (GIS) industry. This prestigious recognition celebrates the innovation and impact of DATAMARK’s flagship offerings, including VEP, a cloud-native SaaS platform that empowers agencies to edit, validate, and aggregate GIS data in alignment with NENA standards and Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) best practices, and the Location Platform, a groundbreaking suite of interoperable solutions that redefines the lifecycle of GIS data from the birth of an address to the moment a 9-1-1 call is placed.

“This recognition from Frost & Sullivan underscores DATAMARK Technologies’ continued leadership in delivering practical, high-impact solutions that meet the evolving needs of public safety agencies,” said Mitch Pinkston, CEO at DATAMARK Technologies. “With a focus on interoperability, data integrity and user experience, our VEP software and Location Platform are helping agencies across the country modernize their GIS infrastructure, reduce errors and improve emergency response outcomes. As the industry moves toward full NG9-1-1 adoption, our team remains a trusted partner in building the systems that communities rely on when it matters most.”

Frost & Sullivan Excellence Awards honor companies that consistently create and apply growth strategies based on a clear understanding of future trends. These companies spot emerging opportunities early and develop solutions that set them apart and support long-term success. This is DATAMARK Technologies’ third product innovation award from Frost & Sullivan and emphasizes the firm’s dedication to facilitating NG9-1-1 through interoperable, innovative and client-centric geospatial solutions.

“A core strength lies in the platform’s ability to drive workflow efficiency.” Said Brent Iadarola, Practice Area Leader at Frost & Sullivan. “Unlike competitors that require additional software for automation, VEP’s built-in capabilities streamline the validation process. The platform’s native automation capabilities enable users to conduct validations on-demand, scheduling them nightly or at custom intervals without restriction, optimizing operations and enhancing data integrity.”

DATAMARK Technologies’ VEP and Location Platform are transforming how local, regional, and statewide agencies respond to emergencies by empowering them with the precision and confidence that only accurate, complete and up-to-date geospatial data can provide. These first-of-their-kind, user-centric solutions streamline complex workflows, enabling faster, smarter 9-1-1 call routing and response. By optimizing the GIS data supply chain with advanced automation, seamless interoperability, and rigorous quality controls, DATAMARK Technologies empowers agencies to save time, reduce 9-1-1 call routing errors, and accelerate their transition to NG9-1-1. The firm’s white-glove approach to client success and user-driven updates ensures their products are consistently aligned with customer needs.

By: Stephanie McCowat

Michael Baker International Promotes Aaron Stover, P.E., S.E., to Director, Major Bridges

Mr. Stover to lead major bridge pursuits, grow top talent and advance Michael Baker’s legacy in landmark bridge work

PITTSBURGH (September 30, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that the firm has promoted Aaron Stover, P.E., S.E. to Director, Major Bridges. In this role, Mr. Stover will spearhead the firm’s strategic approach to pursuing major bridge projects and advancing Michael Baker’s legacy in landmark bridge work. He will broaden industry engagement, support pre-marketing and proposal development and provide technical leadership and quality assurance to ensure the successful delivery of complex bridge projects.

In addition, Mr. Stover will focus on attracting and retaining top-tier talent in complex bridge engineering, cultivating the next generation of major bridge leaders and expanding the firm’s team of Complex Bridge Technical Directors to enhance support for local offices with national-level expertise. Collaborating closely with the firm’s Design-Build practice, Regional Practice Leads and Bridge practice leaders, he will drive operational excellence and lead major bridge pursuits.

“Aaron’s promotion to this new national role reinforces our firm’s commitment to delivering iconic bridge projects as One Michael Baker,” said Tony Hunley, National Practice Lead – Bridge Services at Michael Baker International. “He is respected across Michael Baker and the industry at-large for his deep expertise and strategic vision, which will strengthen our position in complex bridge engineering and inspire the next generation of professionals. I look forward to Aaron’s leadership as our team works together to shape the future of our Bridge practice and elevate our impact on infrastructure nationwide.”

Mr. Stover has been with Michael Baker since 1999, including the last five years as Regional Practice Lead – Bridge for the firm’s Great Lakes Region. He has been the Structures Task Lead or Project Manager for over a dozen major long-span bridges and has driven the pursuit and successful execution of major bridge projects across the country. Notably, Mr. Stover is currently the Project Manager for the US-51 Cairo Bridge over the Ohio River project to complete the final design of the 900-foot network tied arch bridge and approaches connecting Wickliffe, Kentucky, and Cairo, Illinois. When completed, this bridge will be the longest single-span network tied arch bridge in the U.S. He is also leading the Michael Baker team for the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project, serving as the Quality Assurance Manager for the design of the new companion bridge crossing the Ohio River between Cincinnati, Ohio, and Covington, Kentucky.

Mr. Stover holds a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He was named a Michael Baker International Chairman’s Award winner in 2021.

About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering, consulting and technology services spanning three distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Integrated Design and Advisory (IDA) and GovTech. The firm’s Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For 85 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations – like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).

The company has more than 5,100 employees across more than 90 office locations. Michael Baker’s Wolf Pack is committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while evolving its business to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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Michael Baker International Welcomes Mike Salmon as Regional Practice Lead – Design-Build

Mr. Salmon to strengthen strategic partnerships, support project pursuits and advance innovative infrastructure delivery throughout the firm

PITTSBURGH (September 29, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that the firm has welcomed Mike Salmon as Regional Practice Lead – Design-Build. In this role, Mr. Salmon will collaborate with the firm’s Operations teams to promote Michael Baker’s Design-Build capabilities, build winning teams for project pursuits and engage with contractors and owners to position the firm for success.

“Michael Baker has a long-standing commitment to innovation and collaboration in the Design-Build space, delivering tailored solutions that solve complex infrastructure challenges, accelerate project completion and drive cost savings,” said Eric Ostfeld, President, Design-Build Services at Michael Baker International. “Mike brings deep experience delivering mega projects for public and private clients to his new role, and his leadership will be key to advancing our Design-Build practice. I look forward to partnering with Mike as we position Michael Baker for continued growth and reinforce our reputation for excellence in alternative delivery methods.”

Mr. Salmon is a Design-Build leader with more than 30 years of experience managing $500M+ alternative delivery and infrastructure projects. He is an expert in RFQ/RFP strategy, risk management, project pricing and proposal development. Mr. Salmon joins Michael Baker after nearly 15 years with Graham Contracting, Ltd., where he was District Manager in Colorado. Earlier in his career, he was a Project Manager / Design-Build Construction Manager with Tri-State Construction in Washington.

Mr. Salmon holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Sciences from Washington State University.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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Strengthens Northeast Leadership with Expanded Office Executive Roles

Lydia Grose will assume broader oversight as Philadelphia Area Office Executive; Ralph Eberhardt, P.E., to add role of Office Executive in Fort Washington to responsibilities

PITTSBURGH (August 22, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that the firm has strengthened its Northeast leadership with a duo of expanded Office Executive roles. Lydia Grose will assume broader oversight as Philadelphia Area Office Executive while continuing to serve as the Office Executive in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Ralph Eberhardt, P.E., will add the role of Office Executive in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, to his responsibilities as Office Executive in Allentown, Pennsylvania. In these roles, Ms. Grose and Mr. Eberhardt will continue to lead strategic growth and operational excellence across their respective offices, guiding multidisciplinary teams and strengthening client relationships while fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.

“Lydia and Ralph bring deep regional expertise and proven leadership to their expanded Office Executive roles,” said Magdy Hagag, P.E., Northeast Regional Director at Michael Baker International. “As we continue to work across offices and disciplines to solve complex infrastructure challenges as One Michael Baker, their leadership will be pivotal in driving innovation, aligning teams with strategic priorities and deepening our relationships with our clients and the communities we serve. I look forward to Lydia and Ralph’s continued success and the active role that they will play in shaping the future of our operations in the region.”

Ms. Grose is focused on promoting Michael Baker’s vision for delivering client solutions in architecture, engineering, planning, environmental, water resources and program and construction management throughout the Philadelphia region. Prior to joining Michael Baker in 2019, Ms. Grose spent 30 years as a key member of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), where she most recently served as Director of Engineering and Design. She managed and directed project teams and served as the direct interface with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the City of Philadelphia and numerous other government agencies, municipal offices, utilities and private enterprises throughout the five-county region served by SEPTA. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and Construction Technology from Temple University.

Mr. Eberhardt has worked for Michael Baker for more than 25 years, serving in roles of increasing responsibility throughout his tenure. He has experience working on diverse projects including construction services, bridge, highway, transit, railroad and airport projects and has led Michael Baker’s Lehigh Valley presence since 2003. Prior to joining Michael Baker, Mr. Eberhardt was a Project Manager for IA Construction Corporation and a Project Manager/Estimator for Nyleve Bridge Corporation. He earned an Associate of Science degree in Surveying, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Penn State University, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Lehigh University.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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Michael Baker International Appoints Eric Frary, P.E., as Parent Office Executive for Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin Locations

Industry veteran brings more than 35 years of experience to new role

PITTSBURGH (August 21, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that the firm has appointed Eric Frary, P.E., as Parent Office Executive for its Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin locations. In this role, Mr. Frary will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across four Michael Baker offices within the Great Lakes Region—ensuring alignment with company goals, spearheading team innovation and talent development and advancing excellence in project delivery as One Michael Baker. He will also focus on driving growth in new and existing markets and expanding the firm’s impact across the region.

“Eric is a respected and established leader within Michael Baker and our industry at-large. He has a proven track record of growth, which stems from his unwavering focus on building strong teams, mentoring emerging leaders and cultivating lasting client relationships. His commitment to operational excellence has elevated both project delivery and our workforce’s performance,” said Daniel Filer, Executive Vice President – Operations at Michael Baker International. “Over nearly three decades, Eric has fostered a culture of camaraderie, which has strengthened collaboration and workshare and reinforces our One Michael Baker approach to serving our clients with excellence. I look forward to Eric continuing to exemplify this high standard with our clients and colleagues in his new role.”

Mr. Frary has 35 years of experience in operational excellence, financial planning and forecasting, talent management, client care and project management. He joined Michael Baker in 1997 and most recently served as Office Executive for Philadelphia Area Operations, where for 28 years, he successfully led its growth from a five-person startup project office in Horsham, Pennsylvania, to a three-office, 100+ person multidisciplinary consultancy.

Mr. Frary holds a Master of Engineering degree in Environmental Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Lehigh University. In 2024, he was honored with the American Council of Engineering Companies of Pennsylvania (ACEC/PA) Distinguished Award of Merit for his contributions in advancing the consulting engineering profession and support to ACEC/PA.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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Michael Baker International Welcomes Jennifer Wood, P.E., as Regional Practice Lead for Bridge and Transportation in the Western Region

Ms. Wood to drive strategic growth and client engagement across 24 offices in 10 states

PITTSBURGH (August 11, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that the firm has welcomed Jennifer Wood, P.E., as Regional Practice Lead for Bridge and Transportation in the Western Region. In this role, Ms. Wood will drive the firm’s strategic growth and client engagement in the Western Region, which includes 24 offices across 10 states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah and Washington. She will achieve this by collaborating across the company’s geographies and practices to engage clients and contractors as One Michael Baker through the full lifecycle of transportation projects. Additionally, she will lead business development for bridge and transportation projects by identifying and capturing new opportunities, winning major pursuits and ensuring that the firm delivers operational excellence and quality.

“For more than 85 years, Michael Baker has helped to shape America’s transportation networks by partnering with our clients to realize safety and mobility improvements within the communities we serve,” said Tony Hunley, National Practice Lead – Bridge Services at Michael Baker International. “Jennifer is highly regarded in our industry and will strengthen our commitment to excellence throughout Michael Baker’s Western Region as Regional Practice Lead for Bridge and Transportation. She has deep experience leading major infrastructure pursuits, and her ability to craft and execute complex win strategies—through creative pre-positioning, strategic partnerships and strong client engagement—makes her a powerful force in driving growth across the Western Region. Jennifer understands how to align business development with operations to win work in highly competitive markets.”

Ms. Wood joins Michael Baker with 28 years of experience in the transportation industry, including all phases of traditional and alternative project delivery, from planning through final design and construction. She most recently worked at Parsons, where she led Capture for Major Projects across the western U.S. Previously, she was the Business Development Director for Parsons’ Mountain/Desert Region. Earlier in her career as a member of AECOM, Ms. Wood was Colorado Bridge and Structures Manager, where she stood up and led the combined AECOM Bridge and Structures team after its integration with URS. At David Evans and Associates, she led business development and project management for major projects that spanned Colorado, Washington and Idaho.

Ms. Wood earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado. She is actively engaged in the industry with Move Colorado, Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) Colorado and the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Colorado.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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Michael Baker International Names Hratch (Rich) Pakhchanian, P.E., Regional Operations Lead – Bridge

Mr. Pakhchanian to oversee the design, maintenance, inspection and operational efficiency of bridge infrastructure throughout the firm’s Mid-Atlantic Region

PITTSBURGH (August 5, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that Hratch (Rich) Pakhchanian, P.E., has joined the firm as Regional Operations Lead – Bridge. In this role, Mr. Pakhchanian will oversee the design, maintenance, inspection and operational efficiency of bridge infrastructure throughout the firm’s Mid-Atlantic Region, which consists of 13 offices throughout Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Working in close collaboration with project managers, engineers, and construction teams, Mr. Pakhchanian will ensure that all bridge projects meet the highest standards for safety, compliance and timely delivery. He will also play a key role in strengthening coordination with local agencies and stakeholders, addressing operational challenges and advancing innovative solutions that enhance the longevity and performance of critical bridge assets.

“Rich brings deep expertise in bridge engineering, construction and operations management to his new role—experience that will be instrumental in advancing infrastructure initiatives across the Mid-Atlantic Region,” said John Walsh, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director at Michael Baker International. “With 42 years in bridge design, inspection and safety—including complex structures, rehabilitations, movable bridges and tunnels—Rich will strengthen our Bridge Practice team with his invaluable insight and proven track record of operational excellence. His leadership in national and regional bridge programs will expand our capabilities, foster innovation and help us deliver safe, resilient infrastructure for our clients.”

Mr. Pakhchanian’s extensive experience has spanned a wide range of structural engineering with an emphasis on complex bridge design and inspection concepts and procedures. Prior to joining Michael Baker, Mr. Pakhchanian spent more than four decades with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), most recently serving as Branch Chief for the Office of Bridges and Structures at Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division (EFLHD). In this role, he led four major programs—Bridge Design, Inspection, Management and National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) Compliance Reviews for Federal Agencies (Bridge Safety) and supervised a team of 28 employees. He also served as Discipline Champion for the entire Office of Bridges and Structures for the Federal Land Highway (FLH) Offices. Earlier in his career, Mr. Pakhchanian was a Project Engineer for the U.S. Coast Guard.

Mr. Pakhchanian earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Maryland and a Master of Science degree in Structural Engineering from The George Washington University.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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Michael Baker International Names Ankur Singh Office Executive – Detroit

PITTSBURGH (July 29, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that Ankur Singh has joined the firm as Office Executive – Detroit. In this role, Mr. Singh will lead operations in the Detroit, Michigan, metro area, deepening client engagement, expanding services and fostering an inclusive culture of continuous learning and collaboration. Additionally, he will drive strategic growth and a commitment to excellence as One Michael Baker by collaborating with leaders across practices, markets and office locations to strengthen the firm’s ability to deliver as a full-service engineering, consulting and advisory firm.

“Ankur brings to his new role a wealth of experience in managing complex, large-scale design-build projects that demand innovative thinking across all phases. This deep expertise will be instrumental to guiding strategic initiatives, fostering a high-performing team and delivering impactful results as he leads the Detroit office,” said Paul Gluck, Great Lakes Regional Director at Michael Baker International. “Throughout the region and industry, Ankur is admired for his ability to inspire teams, navigate complex challenges and communicate with clarity and agility to stakeholders and colleagues alike. We’re excited to welcome his fresh perspective and strategic mindset, which will play a key role in strengthening our operations and advancing our success.”

Mr. Singh most recently was a Project Manager at Traylor Brothers, Inc., where he was part of the Kiewit Massman Traylor team working on the I-10 Mobile River Bridge preconstruction phase. Previously, he served as a Project Manager at Fluor Corporation, where he contributed to major infrastructure initiatives. Throughout his tenure, he assumed progressively greater responsibilities across numerous high-profile projects. He also was an Associate Structural Engineer at Parsons earlier in his career.

Mr. Singh earned a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Southern California, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Nagpur University (India). He is a Board Member of the American Society of Engineers of Indian Origin and a Head Coach for First Robotics’ First Tech Challenge Team.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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Michael Baker International Names Shara Castillo RA, AIA, Vice President and Integrated Design and Advisory – Architecture Design Principal

Ms. Castillo to drive architecture design excellence, strategic growth and transformational development across practices, markets and offices

PITTSBURGH (July 18, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that Shara Castillo, RA, AIA, has joined the firm as Vice President and Architecture Design Principal within the Integrated Design and Advisory business vertical, which includes the firm’s Architecture, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (MEP), Structural Engineering and Fire Protection Engineering, Telecommunications, Cybersecurity, Commissioning, Cost Management and Planning services. In this role, Ms. Castillo will collaborate closely with leaders across practices, markets and office locations to provide architecture design leadership that delivers creative, high-impact architectural solutions and uniformly high design and production standards, while also driving operational excellence. Additionally, she will help drive client and industry engagement and expand Michael Baker’s presence in federal, aviation, transit and public sector projects, as well as private sector markets including corporate, industrial, manufacturing, defense, aerospace, higher education, life sciences, energy transition and healthcare.

“At Michael Baker, we seamlessly integrate architecture with planning, design and engineering to address our clients’ challenges from every angle as One Michael Baker,” said Pankaj Duggal, President, Integrated Design and Advisory at Michael Baker International. “Shara’s leadership will be instrumental in advancing our mission of delivering holistic, sustainable and innovative architecture design solutions that balance image and cost, performance, aesthetics and technology. With her strong focus on client engagement and design excellence, Shara will ensure we elevate our presence across both public and private markets.”

Ms. Castillo has more than 20 years of architecture industry experience leading complex, large-scale and innovative architecture projects in technology, data centers, healthcare, industrial, manufacturing and institutional markets. Prior to joining Michael Baker, she served as Head of Architecture and Permitting for Tesla, Inc., where she directed over 11 million square feet of infrastructure projects, including data centers, manufacturing expansions, new vehicle programs, support facilities and workplace development initiatives. She also collaborated with cross-functional teams representing manufacturing, engineering and product development to ensure the seamless execution of design solutions. Ms. Castillo previously spent nearly 15 years as an Architect and Principal with the premier architecture firm Zimmer Gunsul Frasca (ZGF).

Ms. Castillo earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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Michael Baker International Names Anthony (Tony) Marcello Office Executive – Denver

PITTSBURGH (July 17, 2025) – Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, consulting and technology services, today announced that Anthony (Tony) Marcello has joined the firm as Office Executive – Denver. In this role, Mr. Marcello will oversee daily operations for the Denver, Colorado, office, deepening client and industry engagement, driving new business development, expanding the office’s services, elevating project execution and fostering an inclusive culture of continuous learning and collaboration. Additionally, he will lead Denver’s growth strategy and commitment to excellence as One Michael Baker by collaborating with leaders across practices, markets and office locations so that the firm can best serve its clients as a full-service engineering, consulting and advisory firm.

“Tony brings an incredible blend of energy, technical expertise and deep regional insight to Michael Baker,” said Trudi Lim, Western Regional Director at Michael Baker International. “With more than 40 years of experience and strong relationships across Colorado, Utah and the broader Western Region, Tony is uniquely positioned to drive strategic growth and expand our firm’s capabilities in key areas such as design-build. His leadership will be instrumental in strengthening collaboration across practices and geographies and advancing our mission to deliver innovative infrastructure solutions.”

Mr. Marcello brings more than four decades of experience to his role as Office Executive, including a track record of working with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and other key municipal and state agencies in the Western Region delivering large, complex highway and interchange reconstruction projects, as well as partnering for large design and construction projects. He joins Michael Baker from Parsons Corporation, where he was Vice President and Colorado/Utah Mobility Solutions Manager. Other roles in his career include Vice President and Colorado Roads and Highways Group Lead for David Evans and Associates, Inc.; Associate Vice President and Denver Group Director for HNTB Corporation; and various Discipline Manager, Design Manager and Project Manager roles with other firms.

Mr. Marcello holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Colorado State University. He is also active with the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) and Move Colorado, an organization that advocates for the increase of financial resources to support Colorado’s transportation system.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

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