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S WE welcome You Join us in “The Experience”

Who is wew? How did WE get started, what do WE do, read our story!

Top 5 reasons to attend “The Experience” Find out why you should come

P3:Women on a mission Take a look at some of Atlanta’s most passionate women

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The Speaker of the hour Who is Rachael Miller? 10

July 2012 Issue

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Please join us for the 2012 WEw Empowerment Event, The Experience. The theme of “The Experience” is p3:

Pursue your Purpose with Passion. This event, as other events hosted by WEw, is designed with YOU in mind. It

will be life-changing and transformational for some of us as we get to the root cause of why we aren’t living a purpose driven life. For others who are pursuing our

purpose, this event will help take our masterpieces to higher levels of success. One thing is for sure, we all will

be INSPIRED.

In this issue of our online magazine (first edition), we are highlighting women who are in pursuit of their

passion. These are ordinary women with an extraordinary drive to WIN and succeed. Please read their stories and if you can relate to their journey or

want to support their endeavors, please contact them. They are no different from You and if they can do it, so

can You.

“Whatever the mind can conceive, and believe, the mind can achieve.- Napoleon Hill”

If you are ready to take your life the next level and truly

make a difference in our communities and world, join us. Register NOW

www.women-empoweringwomen.com 3

Contributors

Publisher/Editor Khiya Townsend

Design/Art Direction Caneka Hardon

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07 | 22 | 2012

PLAN | PREPARE | EXECUTE www.colormeorganizedtour.com

Rachael Miller

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set of responsibilities. Life became so burdensome that even the words "Mommy I'm hungry" began to sound like finger nails on a chalk board. The never ending chores, home, work, laundry and the basic routine soon got old. I went from a happy mom to an overwhelmed burdened mom. Everywhere I looked, I could see something that needed to be done. With chores, home improvement projects and a demanding schedule, I was zapped. Then, one day I realized I wasn't alone that their were millions of women just like me who needed help, a break, wisdom and their joy restored to make positive life experiences for their children. Out of my inward cry for help rose the passion for change. I began to retrain my thinking, habits and daily routine to exemplify that life that I desired. Motivated to make a complete 180 degree turn, I reached out for help from the experts. Through books, the internet and a gamut of resources, I began my journey to change. After achieving success and eliminating the clutter and lack of order in my home, my mission became obvious. HELP the other millions of women who are still struggling with no organization, procrastination, laziness and clutter chaos." Out of this desire to HELP others, The Color Me Organized Tour was born as a vehicle to help other women eliminate procrastination and get organized to fulfill their purpose

Rachael Miller

Keynote Speaker at “The Experience” 2012 "I've never been a Betty Crocker or took on the role of a Martha Stewart but it wasn't because it wasn't in me.

As a wife and working mother of three I began to feel the overwhelming burden of life. I would experience a full day of work on the job and come home to another

Hear more from her on 7/22/2012 Register Now!

www.women-empoweringwomen.com 10

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest

fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I

to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not

serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all

meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in

everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

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graduated valedictorian of her high school and received her Bachelor of Science degree inbiology, cum laude, from Hampton University in 2000. In May of 2006, she completed her doctorate in biomedical sciences with an emphasis in cancer biology at the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA. She uses her health science background as a health advisor in cancer prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition to impacting lives through cancer prevention efforts, Dr. Larkins is passionate about empowering individuals especially women by assisting with their education, careers and ultimately life's purpose. In 2009, one life changing decision to explore the world of free enterprise expanded this vision, her resources and network. She created the company, Digital4Dreams, LLC, which specializes in strategic planning, mentorship and providing stipends to well deserving college students who are pursuing degrees in the biomedical/health sciences; diversifying and supplementing income; entrepreneurial and business expansion; fundraising and volunteer efforts for non-profit organizations and provides a platform for individuals to network for opportunities, grow spiritually, improve their health and relationships. She lives by and has shared her mantra with the masses: “You are a transformer, there’s more to you than meets the eye”. Dr. Larkins’ mission is to assist thousands with embracing their fruitful transformation process and to master their purpose, peace and pleasure. Investing time to cultivate talents, produces transformed lives and infinite treasures.”

Teri learned early on that one must always reach back while pressing forward which has allowed her to excel in her academics, career and community. Her family values, taking advantage of countless opportunities and the mentors she gained growing up in Baltimore, Maryland have molded her into a successful philanthropreneur and health advisor. Dr. Larkins

www.terilarkins.com

Teri L. Larkins

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both dentistry and her country led her to serve in the United States Air Force. During her service she completed a highly competitive residency program and received numerous awards and decorations for outstanding service and professionalism. After serving her country dutifully, she settled in Macon with her family. Dr. Jackson has committed many hours to continuing education to stay on the cutting edge of the latest advancements in dentistry. Dr. Jackson is a member of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, American Dental Association, National Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, and Georgia Dental Society. Dr. Jackson and her husband Chris have four lovely children: Alexis, Amaya, Elijah, and Carter. Dr. Jackson enjoys reading, cooking, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Northside Family Dentistry

Macon, GA

Dr. Jackson is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana and joined the Northside Family Dentistry team in August 2002. Dr. Jackson earned her bachelors degree from Loyola University in New Orleans and completed her doctorate at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Upon graduation, her passion for

Dr. Nicole Jackson http://www.northsidefamilydentistry.com

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“A successful woman is one who can build a firm foundation with the

bricks others have thrown at her”

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all sizes for clients of many diverse backgrounds has given her a competitive edge. She acknowledges that every client is unique and that your event should be a reflection of that uniqueness. Her thought in a bubble has now become a full service team of event professionals, ready and willing to accommodate any client’s event needs

" Just like no two brides are the same, no two weddings should be the same."-Melanie A.

http://www.swankaffairs.com Melanie Alexander

Swank Affairs owner Melanie D. Taylor-Alexander is a native to Macon, Ga. and Clark Atlanta University graduate. She established Swank Affairs in 2005 while planning her own wedding for a guest list of over 300. While planning she recognized the need for a full-time professional wedding planner that provided brides with the personalized service that goes hand in hand with planning a spectacular wedding. Who knew that planning the wedding of her dreams would guide her to her true passion in life. Event designing is her life long passion and this is very evident in her work. Designing events of

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“There is no finish line. It’s a continuous journey and I’m always looking to push my

limits.”

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A woman with vision, value and most of all virtue-Sherane is the owner and founder of Sherane's Vintage Closet (boutique), From Sherane's Closet To Yours (blog/book & workshop series) and co-founder of Prayer in the Closet (bible study). While she wears many fabulous "hats," Sherane's primary focus is to fulfill the following mission; "To adorn ladies & gentlemen with both inner and outer beauty. She uses creativity to teach and illustrate her passion to share the gospel. Sherane has caught the attention of many and as a result, she became the recipient of two ministry awards for having "Most Creative and Attractive" ministry in 2010. How does Sherane make ministry "creative and attractive"? As a graduate of Mass Media Arts from Clark Atlanta University, she uses her past experience with networks such as MTV, BET, CNN, TV One and the WB to illustrate the word of God. In addition, her skills to effectively educate others became honed during her years in graduate school at Clayton State University where she received a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies.

www.SheranesVintageCloset.com www.FromSheranesClosetToYours.BlogSpot.com

Sherane Heron

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confident women. Her creativity and unique ability to think outside the box of stereotypical ideas for Plus Size women has helped ALia J. Create a name for her-self in the Plus-Size fashion arena. She continuously surpasses expectations of customer service and she possesses the ability to style each individual perfectly in accordance to their comfort level, body type and personal style. A true visionary and follower of her dreams Alia J. moved from Long Beach, California to pursue a degree in Psychology at Clark Atlanta University, where she graduated with honors in 2002. Pursing her love of children she worked as a childcare professional for several years before she decided to own and operate her own award winning child care program. Still wanting to realize her dreams in fashion she Created ALia J. International LLC a complete fashion, style and beauty organization geared toward creating innovative and unique fashion outlets for women all across the world. She is the Sole Proprietor of Alia Jahnae Boutique. A trendy online and Pop-Up fashion and accessories boutique, that caters to curvy women. Her motto is living a lifestyle of fashion, beauty and style. She believes her motto is something all women are capable of living no matter what size. She is also a personal wardrobe stylist where she heals not just the wardrobe but the person from within. Making the Inside and Outside pretty as a picture.

Alia

Jahnae

Boutique A new comer to the fashion scene and already making her mark, boutique owner and stylist Alia J. is providing clothing for a new breed of stylish, fashion forward,

Alia Jahnae Facebook: Alia Jahnae Boutique

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OhBabyChic was conceived with love for the modern, stylish, urban chic mom on the go. After several years of struggling with Infertility, I decided to follow my passion and create a collection of baby gear accessories. In creating OhBabyChic, it has allowed me a platform to advocate the efforts of Infertility Awareness & Support as well as charitable giving for women and children.

Tanyika Gordon Facebook: OhBabyChic

http://www.ohbabychic.com/

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Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up their

sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don’t turn up at all.

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Natashia, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana and a 25 year resident of Georgia, is the proprietor of Ordered Steps Personalized Gifts. Ordered Steps is a home based business located in Jonesboro, Georgia that was started in 2007. Natashia formed the business out of a need to create and also to make supplemental income. Because of her creativity and quality of service, Natashia has turned her passion into a profitable business. She is the proud wife of Shawn Lewis and the mother of Gavin, 22 and Shawnise 21.

Natashia Lewis Facebook: Ordered Steps

myorderedsteps@gmail.com

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“Devote yourself to an idea. Go make it happen. Struggle on it. Overcome your fears. Smile. Don’t

forget: this is your dream.”

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Erica went on to earn a business degree from Clark Atlanta University and graduated in 2004. Still a foodie at heart, she realized something was missing; cooking great food. She entered a video recipe contest in 2010 out of curiosity to see if she could win that was sponsored by Lea & Perrins and the Food Network. It was only a few weeks later she found out she was a finalist and ultimately won. This contest was again confirmation that she had a true God given talent and that was satisfying the people around her with impeccable meals. And out of that experience, FAB FOOD ATL was born. Fab Food is a modern catering concept that was birthed out of the necessity to combine great food and modern presentation to those who have discriminating taste. Fab Food’s mission is providing high quality food by using the freshest, local ingredients around. By stating true to those fundamental, Erica has been able to build an awesome clientele and live out her dream! Erica has recently expanded her brand into a food product line called Southern Culture in addition to food writing. Southern Culture launched December 4, 2011 and is in stores as of 3/1/2012. She is a true testament that following your dreams will lead you all the way to the stars!

Erica Barrett Contact her :

Born in Mobile, AL, Erica grew up in a large family where creating delicious meals was essential. Intrigued by watching her grandmother and other adults prepare meals, Erica immersed herself at the tender age of 9 in learning the fundamentals of cooking. It wasn't until the age of 13, that Erica realized she was on to something. She prepared Sunday dinner for all of her family and dinner was a hit. The iconic meal consisted of Fried Pork chops, Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes and Thin Green Beans, which is still her favorite meal today. After that Sunday dinner, Erica was known as the go-to girl in the family for great recipes and warm home-cooked southern meals.

ebarrett@southernculturefoods.com www.southernculturefoods.com

twitter: @socufoods facebook.com/socufoods

As a Native New Orleanian, I’ve learned to embrace my heritage and wear it with pride no matter where I go. I also had the unforgettable experience of working with my dad all my life. Throughout his many business endeavors, I was right there by his side. When he had the fortunate opportunity to become part owner of his own candy store right outside of New Orleans in Metairie, La., I seized the moment to be there! Working at Sugar Dolls Candy Store opened the doors to learning all sorts of secret recipes of which I still use today. So when I moved to Atlanta in 1999 after graduating college from Xavier University of Louisiana, I yearned to bring some Crescent City flava to the Peach State!

In 2001, I was affected by a job layoff. After diligently searching for another job, it dawned on me that I have a talent that needs to be unleashed. Thereafter, Chay J’s New Orleans Candies was born! With the initial help of my Dad coaching me from miles away, along with my mom and brother who live in Atlanta, I sold my homemade products to local businesses in the Atlanta area. Nervous and scared, my brother Jason “J” helped me sell my products on the weekends until I gained confidence to go out on my own. After I returned to work in 2002, my very supportive co-workers kept me in business. In December 2008, I lost my job again. At that time, I knew that I should put my apron on for good. The rest is history in the making… Unfortunately in August 2006, my father lost his battle with prostate cancer. It was his dream to nationally distribute his wonderful confections, especially the Creole Pretzels, while creating smiles along the way. His dream is now my dream as I work to make the dream a reality. His spirit lives on in me as I continue to keep his legacy alive. I am extremely proud and excited to have an opportunity to share my dad’s recipes with you as well as some of my own creations. My mission is to please the most discerning palette by creating the most memorable culinary experience!

Channon Powell www.chayjs.com 32

Born and raised in Miami, FL, La’Keitha Daniels is the product of Cecil and Patricia Daniels, both educators in the Dade County School System. From a young age, she was set on a path to greatness with education being the guiding light. She attended Clark Atlanta University where she majored in Mass Media Arts with a concentration in Public Relations. After college, she moved to New Orleans, Louisiana to study law at Tulane Law School, where she graduated with her Juris Doctorate in 2003. After graduation, La’Keitha went into private practice with the law firm of Nelson Mullins, in midtown Atlanta, where she practiced Pharmaceutical and Medical Device litigation for four years.

La’Keitha Daniels Facebook: Sweet Justice

She then left the firm and went in-house at Harland Clarke Corp. as their Corporate Counsel, eventually becoming the Senior Attorney in their Atlanta office. After leaving Harland Clarke, she joined Concessions International, a family and minority-owned company and a leading airport concessionaire, with operations in Atlanta, Detroit, Denver, Miami, Columbia, Seattle, Portland, and St. Thomas. At many points in her life, La’Keitha sought to expand her horizons and redefine herself. She is the former Principal of The Results Group, LLC, a legal and consulting firm that provided advice and counsel to small businesses, political candidates, and a host of other clients. But her most recent endeavor and greatest accomplishment yet was opening her bakery, Sweet Justice. When the economy was at its lowest and even lawyers were being laid off, La’Keitha found herself out of a job, and followed one of her passions and opened “Sweet Justice”, a bakery serving traditional and gourmet cakes and cupcakes. Delivered and sold all across the Atlanta area, she recently got the opportunity to retail her cupcakes at the Coffee Loft on Peters Street in Downtown Atlanta. Serving the community has always been the cornerstone of La’Keitha’s life. She is Past President of the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys, a voluntary bar association that touts 600 members. She has received numerous awards including the Atlanta Business League’s 2010 list of “Atlanta’s Top 100 Black Women of Influence”, Community Champion by Mothers Against Drunk Driving for 2009, and Georgia Trend’s Top 40 Under Forty for 2008. She is on a host of community boards and participates in many non-profit organizations and volunteer service projects including her personal favorite, Project Open Hand. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., La’Keitha uses her free time to spend time with friends and loved ones, catch up on reality TV and plan her next big adventure.

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Many persons have the wrong idea of what constitutes happiness. It is

not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a

worthy purpose.

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Angelica first got her creative juices to flow when her and her siblings would move all of the furniture in the living room and create plays and dance routines. Once complete, they would put on a show for family, friends and neighbors. "I think that time in my life was the best experience for me! When your young, your mind sours into so many places and you have a huge imagination. During that time in your life, your ideas are always great! I have never lost that feeling and knew that that was something I wanted to do.....CREATE!" After graduating from Georgia State University with a degree in Theatre, Angelica ventured into her field by acting, dancing and writing with local theatre companies, churches and artists. She would then become a leader within the performing arts community by being the Senior Program Coordinator for A.R.C.H (Artists Raising the Consciousness of Humanity) a performing arts initiative for Communities in Schools of Atlanta and Drama teacher & Artistic Director for the Just Believe Theatre Company of South Cobb High School. She most recently wrote, produced, choreographed and starred in the hit theatrical/dance production I Tune Into Love. In addition to running WAREhouse Creative Company, Angelica is the drama teacher at Sandtown Middle School and the Media Production Assistant at Oasis Family Life Church. With so many experiences under her belt she is now putting them all into WAREhouse Creative Company. WAREhouse Creative Company not only creates but inspires.

Angelica is the Creative Director for WAREHouse Creative Company. WARE House Creative Company brings your vision to life by providing choreography, directing, playwriting and producing services for any event including but not limited to concerts, videos, weddings, fashion shows, films and theatrical productions.

Angelica Ware Contact her : ware.angelica@gmail.com

WAREhouse Creative Company

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Robin May

Robin May …Honest! Transparent! Relevant! Empowering! These are just a few of the words that describe this dynamic speaker. Focused on empowering people to live life according to the way God creatively crafted them, Robin May is an impactful & engaging presenter. As a much-sought after speaker, Robin is able to energize her audience in a transparent, lively and engaging way. Robin is a 1997 honors graduate of Clark Atlanta University where she majored in mathematics. After graduating from CAU, Robin worked for three years and eventually began serving in full time ministry for seven years. Because of her passion to empower people to live the fullness of their life, Robin returned to Clark Atlanta

and in 2008 obtained her master's degree in the field of professional counseling. Robin is the author of “Before You Take His Name” which gives women 14 questions they should ask prior to saying “I Do”. She has also recently released, “The 30 – Day Intentional Intimacy Project * For Married Women!” which takes women on a 30-Day journey to maintain or re-ignite the spark in their romance! Robin currently serves as a professional counselor, servicing individuals, couples and families. She also is strategically helping people to transform their lives as a certified REAL! & RELEVANT! Relationship and Life Coach. She challenges her clients to learn how to live their lives to the fullest by first challenging them to look in the mirror and get honest with themselves. Robin’s life-changing advice was recently shared in Essence Magazine and she is the featured "Life Coach" on Praise 102.5 on the KD.Bowe Show. Robin is the founder of the social networking site: www.ibelieveinmarriage.com where individuals and couples gather to discuss, learn and encourage one another about building a healthy relationship. She is also the founder of "Friends with Vision", another powerful networking organization for women who believe in living their lives with purpose and on purpose! Robin is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and a member of the 2007 class of Leadership Georgia. Although Robin is extremely proud of her accomplishments, her most treasured role is being the wife to Lee May and mother to her young daughters, Ryann Kimberly and Reagan Leanne.

www.robinmayspeaks.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/RobinMMay

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“Enthusiasm is one of the most powerful engines of success. When you do a thing, do it with all your might. Put your whole soul into it. Stamp it with your own personality. Be active, be energetic and faithful, and you will accomplish your object. Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm."

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relocating clients internationally Sherri Amour s primary philosophy is to treat each client as she would want to be treated. Her core values include honesty, integrity, trust, openness in communication and striving for excellence. She gives personal care and attention to her clients. Sherri Amour is dedicated to fully understanding and then meeting or exceeding her clients expectations in every aspect of their real estate experience. Having spent nearly eight years as a real estate investor, top producing realtor and real estate appraiser, Sherri Amour is no stranger to providing excellent customer service while assisting buyers and sellers with one of the most significant investments they will make in their lifetime. Prior to starting her Real Estate endeavors, Sherri Amour served four honorable years in the United States Army as an Automated Aviation Logistics Specialist and also an Executive Secretary for over 13 years working for amazing federal government agencies including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and the U. S. Postal Service (USPS). When Sherri Amour is not spending time with her loving family she enjoys worshiping and praising the creator, furthering her real estate market knowledge, reading inspirational and self help books, giving back to the less fortunate, travelling, boating and lurking news websites and fashion blogs. She was born and raised in New Orleans, LA (Westbank), and relocated to Atlanta, GA. Sherri is destined and determined to turn her local real estate business into a national and/or global household name as she plans to open up her own real estate agency in New Orleans, LA and she is also in the process of introducing a patent invention to the world. Sherri Amour

Facebook: Sherri Amour-Realtor sherriamour@yahoo.com

Sherri is an Associate Real Estate Broker with Solid Source Realty, Inc. and also a Real Estate Investor and Real Estate Appraiser with Sherri Amour, LLC. Passionate about real estate and its possibilities, Sherri Amour offers a wide range of services from studying property listings to become familiar with properties for sale; reviewing trade journals and attending staff and association meetings to keep informed of market conditions, property values, and legislation which would affect the real estate industry; Interviews prospective clients to solicit listings; accompanies prospects to property site; quote purchase price; and describes features and discuss conditions of sale or terms of lease to ensure her clients are getting the best information and service. From the very beginning Sherri specialized in working diligently with first time home buyers and finding diamond in the rough investment properties. She has extensive experience assisting local, national first time home buyers, sellers and investors, including

“F or a home you'll adore call Sherri Amour ”

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I started my Traci Lynn Fashion Jewelry business 3 years ago. This opportunity has given me a wealth of income. I sell high-quality, affordable jewelry that is fashionably distinct and made of the finest quality materials. Through this business I’ve been able to help other women feel and look good about themselves. I do home shows, private showings and vendor events all around the metropolitan areas of Atlanta and abroad. I love sharing the opportunities of this company with others to encourage them to create their own business, balance their lives, and achieve financial independence by doing something they love! In addition to my jewelry business, I am also a freelance makeup artist and esthetician. My purpose and passion is to spread opportunities of wealth by making people feel good inside and out.

Website: www.tracilynnjewelry.net/giannahaney Email: tlfjewelry.haney@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/giannaMUA Twitter: @GiannaMUA

Phone: 404-877-2477 41

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