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Top Radio News
Former Hawaii Public Radio Exec Jose A. Fajardo Dies
RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 20, 2024 |
Jose A. Fajardo, an influential figure in public media, has passed away at age 61 due to complications from ALS, at his home in Honolulu. Fajardo, who served as the President and General Manager of Hawaii Public Radio (HPR) from 2016 to earlier this year, was renowned for his dynamic leadership through significant challenges, including a global pandemic and financial instability in the industry.
Under his stewardship, HPR witnessed significant programming and staffing expansions, ultimately securing a strong financial footing. By the time of his retirement in July 2024, the organization was debt-free and boasted $4 million in reserves along with a $7 million endowment fund.
Meredith Artley, the current President and CEO of HPR, praised Fajardo's inspirational leadership and openness about his ALS diagnosis. "His knowledge, commitment, and love for public radio will inspire us for years to come," Artley remarked. Memorial details will be announced later.
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) also expressed deep sorrow over Fajardo's death. Patricia Harrison, President and CEO of CPB, highlighted Fajardo's career, which began in Texas and spanned various senior roles, including his time at WMFE in Orlando before his tenure at HPR. "Jose led Hawai'i Public Radio to new heights of financial stability and enhanced public service," said Harrison.
Diagnosed with ALS in 2021, Fajardo chose to continue his advocacy for those living with the disease, maintaining a positive outlook and using his platform to raise awareness about ALS. His legacy is remembered as one of resilience, leadership, and enduring inspiration across the public media landscape.
Dinahlynn Biggs Sells Radio Stations to iHeartRadio
RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 20, 2024 |
Radio and music industry stalwart Dinahlynn Biggs, originally from Gary, IN, has announced a transaction involving her network of radio outlets. Biggs has sold her Indianapolis, Atlanta and Pasadena stations to broadcasting giant iHeartRadio. Despite parting ways with these assets, she retains a symbolic 1% ownership, underscoring her ongoing connection to these stations that bear her family's name.
Biggs, known for debuting over 3,500 new artists on her global streaming network, the BIGGS radio network, remains a pivotal figure in the music industry. This sale marks a milestone for Biggs as the stations were offloaded debt-free, symbolizing a strategic and financially sound exit.
Looking forward, Biggs is not slowing down. She currently holds an executive role at Pandora Radio focusing on new artists and is set to join Billboard in 2025. This new venture will continue her lifelong commitment to nurturing new talent in the music industry.
In a significant nod to her roots and ongoing commitments, Biggs will maintain ownership of her Chicago-based station, which operates out of Indianapolis, where she now resides. Biggs Radio Chicago, known for its programming and international reach through its partnership with Biggs Radio Germany, represents an essential part of her portfolio. The station also boasts the taglines "The Soundtrack of America" and "The Voice of a New Generation."
With the consolidation of her radio operations, all team members and interns from the sold stations will transition to the Chicago station by 2025, providing opportunities for new air talent. The Biggs team includes notable figures such as Attorney Nathaniel Lee, AL Greer and Marshall Thompson, among others.
Biggs' career, which began under the mentorship of Vivian Carter of Vee-Jay Records, marks a journey spanning 50 years. As the first Black female radio station owner in Indiana as of 2020, her contributions to the industry have been groundbreaking. Biggs is also a proud graduate of Indiana University and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Order of Eastern Star.
KZIA Hosts Rally Community to Support Humane Society
RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 20, 2024 |
In a display of community spirit and generosity, KZIA (Z102.9)'s afternoon hosts, Destiny Loney and Taylor Martensen, successfully concluded their second annual "Stuff the Waggin'" campaign, benefiting the Cedar Valley Humane Society. Over the course of five weeks, the duo broadcasted their Monday shows live from the back of the station vehicle, rallying their listeners to donate generously to support local animals in need.
The campaign was a massive success, amassing 3,658.5 lbs of dry dog and cat food, 852 cans of wet food, 325 lbs of litter, 141 toys, among other essential supplies. This substantial contribution underscores the community's commitment to animal welfare and the effectiveness of engaging local media for social causes.
Destiny Loney, reflecting on the personal impact of the initiative, shared, "After I adopted my cat, Mochi, from Cedar Valley Humane Society, the importance of donations to such organizations became even more apparent to me. It feels like a full circle moment getting to give back to them!"
Her co-host, Taylor Martensen, echoed her sentiments, noting, "It was a really amazing experience coming together with our community of listeners for such a great cause. We couldn't have pulled it off without their help!"
Z102.9 Program Director Brian Davis praised the hosts' dedication and the community's enthusiastic response. "Destiny and Taylor truly have a heart for animals and worked so hard to bring our community together for a great cause. We are very proud of them and grateful to the people of Cedar Rapids for stepping up to help," he said.
The "Stuff the Waggin'" campaign not only highlighted the ongoing needs of the Cedar Valley Humane Society but also showcased the power of local radio in fostering community involvement and support for vital causes.
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Hot 98.3 Brings Holiday Cheer to a Deserving GA Family
RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 20, 2024 |
On December 20th, WGCO (Hot 98.3 FM) in Savannah, GA conducted its 4th Annual "Jared and Katie's Breaking and Entering Christmas" event, bringing unexpected joy to a family facing hardship in Southeast Georgia. Since early November, Hot 98.3 invited listeners to nominate families impacted by recent storms or other life-changing events.
The initiative received a record number of entries this year. Morning hosts Jared Pike and Katie Tesh reviewed each nomination before selecting a family of five from Hinesville, who tragically lost their five-year-old daughter earlier this year.
This year's selected family, which recently moved to Liberty County, was experiencing their first Christmas without their daughter. Recognizing their need for support, the radio team, including Jared Pike, Katie Tesh, Matt Wells, Jason Goodman and Josie Cothran, collaborated with the family's grandmother to organize a heartwarming surprise.
The radio crew "broke into" the family's home, a term endearingly used for their surprise visits, and delivered an array of gifts. The family was gifted a trip on Allegiant Airlines, clothing, toys, games for the children, and hundreds of dollars in gift cards, aiming to provide some comfort during a difficult time.
DBC Radio Operations Manager and Hot 98.3 Program Director Nathan James commented on the event, "Jared and Katie in the Morning have a unique connection with their listeners. They bring positivity and excitement, and they truly brought an impactful and emotional story to life during their broadcast from the recipient's home."
98.5 KTIS Christmas Blessing Bring Hopes to Twin Cities
RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 20, 2024 |
The Christmas spirit shines brightly in Minneapolos-St. Paul, as 98.5 KTIS celebrates the third year of its Christmas Blessing initiative, a program designed to offer hope and encouragement to those in need during the holiday season. This annual tradition, embraced by KTIS listeners, involves nominating individuals or families from the community who are facing challenging circumstances.
This year, the initiative reached 11 deserving recipients across the Twin Cities, each facing their own unique hardships, from health crises to the difficulties of single parenting.
KTIS Station Manager Matt Deane expressed his gratitude for the community's support and the anonymous donor who made the blessings possible. "Christmas Blessing has become a wonderful tradition at 98.5 KTIS. We're grateful to be able to meet significant needs during Christmas for people who have endured particularly tough years," said Deane.
Among the recipients was Sedrick, a new single father grieving the loss of his wife. This season marks his first Christmas alone with his daughters. "It's going to be hard, but I think with the help of God anything is possible. I'm just going to keep fighting the fight and do right by my girls," Sedrick shared, reflecting the resilience and faith that typify the KTIS community.
The Christmas Blessing initiative is more than just a holiday charity; it's a demonstration of communal solidarity and God's enduring love, bringing light to families like Sedrick's during their darkest times.
For more stories of impact and hope, visit Sedrick's Story.
WECQ Rebrands to ''92.1 The Bone'' in Fort Walton Beach
RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 19, 2024 |
JVC Broadcasting has announced the transformation of WECQ-FM (Rock 92.1) to "92.1 The Bone" with new calls WBON-FM in Fort Walton Beach, FL, effective at 10am on Friday. The newly rebranded station promises to cater to rock enthusiasts across the Florida Panhandle with a broader and deeper range of rock music spanning six decades.
Market Manager John Griffo explained that The Bone aims to replicate the success of their other variety brand, 102.1 The Wave, by offering an "extremely unpredictable, yet oddly familiar" music selection.
Programmer Matt Stone highlighted that the station would feature thousands of songs, including tracks that have never been played on radio before. "92.1 The Bone will be a unique and fresh approach to rock radio on the Panhandle," Stone said.
To mark its launch, The Bone will play 9000 consecutive songs, underscoring its commitment to providing an extensive playlist without repetition. The station will feature tracks from iconic rock bands, promising more than just the hits and encouraging listeners to rediscover deeper cuts.
Operation Manager Woofy Ramone predicted that the station's selection would lead to many surprising moments for listeners. "There are going to be plenty of 'I can't believe they're playing that' moments on 92.1 The Bone," Ramone said.
Starting January, the on-air team will be led by market veteran Woofy Ramone, with appearances by Theo and Stone joining the lineup in the new year.
''Talkline'' Host Hoppy Kercheval Announces Retirement
RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 19, 2024 |
After nearly five decades as a cornerstone of West Virginia radio, Hoppy Kercheval is set to retire from his role as the host of MetroNews "Talkline" at the end of this year. Kercheval, the only host in the history of the show, expressed confidence in his successors, Dave Wilson and T.J. Meadows, who will take over the program starting January 6.
"It is hard to step away from the show that has meant so much to me, but I have confidence in Dave and T.J.," Kercheval remarked. "They are professionals who share my passion for bringing relevant and compelling stories to our state."
Dave Wilson, a St. Mary's native and a Marshall University alumnus, has frequently filled in for Kercheval and is the current host of "Talk of the Town" in Morgantown. T.J. Meadows, residing in Teays Valley and formerly the director of federal policy at American Electric Power, has also served as a guest host on "Talkline."
Despite stepping down from the daily rigors of hosting, Kercheval will continue to be involved with WVRC Media. He will provide weekly commentary, participate in special projects, and remain a contributor to the "3 Guys Before the Game" podcast, ensuring his voice and expertise are still part of the media landscape.
WVRC Media President and CEO George Pelletier expressed enthusiasm about the future of "Talkline," stating, "We are excited to have two seasoned veterans to assist us in the next chapter of Talkline."
NEW 102.7 FM's Karen Carson Collects Over 11,000 Toys
RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 19, 2024 |
Audacy's WNEW (NEW 102.7) in New York, through its annual "Karen Carson's 10,000 Toys for Girls & Boys," has surpassed its ambitious goal of collecting 10,000 toys by gathering a total of 11,017 toys this holiday season. The initiative, which benefits Children's Aid NYC, aims to bring holiday cheer to foster children across New York City.
The charity drive, led by the "Karen Carson in the Morning" team, including co-hosts Karen Carson, Johnny Mingione and Anthony Malerba, took place from November 18 to December 13. The morning show crew tirelessly encouraged their listeners to contribute, accepting donations online and via text.
A highlight of this year's drive was on December 5, when Johnny Mingione overcame his fear of heights by broadcasting live from the Dream Wheel at the American Dream mall. This daring stunt propelled the campaign past its midpoint, reaching 5,000 toys.
Carson expressed her gratitude towards the community's overwhelming support: "To exceed the toy collection goal that was doubled from last year's is truly admirable. I'm in awe of our compassionate listeners and dedicated staff who are willing to help out the local community," Carson said. "Every child deserves to feel seen, and our partnership with Children's Aid NYC will create that feeling."
Children's Aid NYC, which has been supporting vulnerable children in New York City since 1853 through various programs and services, will ensure the toys reach the children just in time for the holidays.
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Lemonada Partners with ''Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso''
RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 19, 2024 |
Lemonada Media has announced a new partnership with the podcast "Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso." Under the agreement, Lemonada will handle ad sales and distribution for the series, which will start releasing episodes under the Lemonada banner starting January 5th. "Talk Easy," hosted by Sam Fragoso, is a weekly series that delves into intimate and thoughtful conversations with a diverse range of guests, including filmmakers, actors, writers and politicians.
The podcast, celebrated for its insightful approach since its launch in 2016, has been a pivotal platform for voices across arts, culture and politics. Notable guests have included luminaries such as Gloria Steinem, Cate Blanchett, and Joaquin Phoenix.
Sam Fragoso expressed his enthusiasm about joining Lemonada, noting the network's reputation for quality storytelling. "As we approach our ninth year, I couldn't imagine a better home for us," Fragoso stated, commending Lemonada's leadership under Jessica Cordova Kramer and Stephanie Wittels Wachs.
Lemonada Media CEO Jessica Cordova Kramer praised "Talk Easy" for its profound impact on listeners. "Sam Fragoso's thoughtful interviews are a jewel in the podcasting world, embodying the deep, meaningful conversations that transform how we understand each other," she said.
"Talk Easy" is executive produced by Karoline Ribak and Janicza Bravo, with the new partnership facilitated by Josh Lindgren at CAA.
Lotus to Acquire KFBG in San Diego from Local Media
RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |
Lotus Communications Corp. is set to acquire KFBG-FM (100.7 Big FM) in San Diego currently owned by Local Media San Diego (LMSD). An application for the transfer has been filed with the FCC, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Adults Hits outlet at 100.7 MHz, which was once "B100" and later "Star 100.7." Financial terms of the deal were not immediately disclosed. The deal marks Lotus' re-entry into San Diego after previously owning 94.1 KFSD in the 1990s.
Local Media San Diego, under the leadership of Gregg Wolfson and Norm McKee, has been a staple in the local media landscape, owning a total of four stations in the area. The decision to sell KFBG-FM comes as part of a strategic realignment of LMSD's assets. It will continue to operate its three stations licensed in Mexico including CHR XHITZ-FM (Z90.3), Alternative XETRA-FM (91X) and Rhythmic AC XHRM-FM (Magic 92.5).
On the buying end, Lotus Communications Corp., led by Howard Kalmenson and Jim Kalmenson, is expanding its already substantial footprint in the U.S. With 46 stations across Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada and Washington, the addition of KFBG-FM will bolster its presence in Southern California.
KFBG-FM is known for its 26 kW signal strength and a height above average terrain (HAAT) of 686 feet, putting a city grade signal as far north a Oceanside and south to Chula Vista.
The transaction is being brokered by KALIL & CO., INC.
KIRO Newsradio Appoints Frank Lenzi as News Director
RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |
Frank Lenzi, a seasoned journalist with nearly three decades of experience, is named News Director at KIRO Newsradio in Seattle. Lenzi transitions to KIRO from KNWN (formerly KOMO Newsradio), where he most recently held the positions of Program Director and News Director over a tenure of 16 years. He succeeds Charlie Harger, who will become the host of "Seattle's Morning News" on KIRO in January.
Throughout his career, Lenzi has managed significant news events, including the 2009 Lakewood Police shooting, the fatal KOMO TV helicopter crash in 2014, and the police dispersal actions during the 2020 Seattle CHOP Zone protests. His background in journalism includes roles such as morning editor and managing editor.
Bonneville Seattle Senior Vice President and Market Manager Cathy Cangiano expressed enthusiasm about Lenzi's appointment, noting, "Frank's proven leadership and dedication to journalistic excellence are what make him the ideal leader for our news team. We are excited about the innovative ideas and fresh perspectives he will introduce at KIRO."
KIRO Newsradio Program Director Bryan Buckalew also praised Lenzi's dedication to connecting with and informing the Seattle community. "His deep commitment to quality journalism is what stands him apart. I am confident that Frank will be a vital asset to our team," Buckalew said.
Lenzi stated, "Joining KIRO Newsradio, a pillar of radio journalism, is a significant honor. I look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence KIRO is known for and am excited to cover the vibrant and historically rich Seattle scene."
ESPN New York Reveals Local Radio Weekday Lineup
RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |
ESPN has announced a significant overhaul of its weekday schedule for WHSQ (880 ESPN New York), launching an all-local lineup that will feature 13 consecutive hours of studio programming daily, starting from 6am to 7pm ET, effective January 6.
The morning segment will be anchored by the "DiPietro & Rothenberg" show, which will air from 6-10am Monday through Friday. Following this, Chris Carlin and former New York Jets linebacker Bart Scott will host a new program from 10am to 1pm weekdays. Scott, noted for his dynamic presence during Jets games, teams up with Carlin, an Emmy award-winning host with a strong New York media presence spanning over a decade.
The schedule continues with Michael Kay, a long-time staple of ESPN New York and the iconic voice of the New York Yankees, who has also signed a multi-year contract with ESPN. Kay will occupy the 1-3pm slot with "The Michael Kay Show," maintaining his role as the Yankees' broadcaster on YES Network.
The programming day will conclude with "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" from 3-7pm, featuring Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg. This new show promises a diverse blend of sports insights and cultural commentary, capitalizing on La Greca's tenure with the New York Rangers, Hahn's analysis for the New York Knicks, and Rosenberg's vibrant entertainment background.
David Roberts, ESPN's Executive Vice President, highlighted the lineup's significance, stating, "This historic lineup underscores our commitment to delivering engaging, locally focused content to New York sports fans." He emphasized the blend of established and fresh programs designed to capture the essence of New York sports.
In addition to the weekday schedule, Dan Graca will continue hosting "The Dan Graca Show" in the late-night slot, complementing the prime-time games broadcast on the station.
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Entries Are Open for 2025 Edward R. Murrow Awards
RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |
The Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) is now welcoming entries for the 2025 Edward R. Murrow Awards, a honor that celebrates the highest standards of broadcast and digital journalism. Entries for this prestigious award must be submitted by 5pm ET on February 13, 2025.
Established in 1971, the Edward R. Murrow Awards have recognized journalists and news organizations that excel in upholding the RTDNA Code of Ethics, demonstrating significant technical expertise, and serving the community through impactful journalism. Named after the legendary broadcaster Edward R. Murrow, the awards underscore the profound influence and integrity of professional journalism.
Eligible participants include news stations, networks, syndication and program services, and digital news organizations. The competition is open to both professional and student journalists, encouraging them to submit work that showcases exceptional reporting and storytelling.
Submissions must be works that were initially broadcast or published online between January 1 and December 31 of the preceding year. It is important to note that the awards are bestowed upon organizations, not individuals, in recognition of collaborative media excellence.
Entries submitted after the official deadline will incur a late fee of $50 per entry, with the final cut-off at midnight ET on February 13. For more details on the submission process and to enter, participants should visit the RTDNA website.
FOX Sports Radio Celebrates 20 Years of Covino & Rich
RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |
This past weekend marked a milestone for FOX Sports Radio personalities Steve Covino and Rich Davis as they celebrated 20 years of their partnership on the airwaves. The duo, known for their weekday show "Covino & Rich," have entertained audiences with their unique blend of sports commentary and entertainment since their program's inception.
The show, which airs weekdays from 5-7pm ET, is broadcast on over 300 stations and has seen substantial growth. According to the latest Nielsen Audio ratings, "Covino & Rich" experienced a 47% increase in listenership among adults aged 25-54 in the spring of 2024, and a 22% increase in the fall of 2023 compared to the previous year.
Davis commented on their success, saying, "We feel like we're doing our best work at FOX Sports Radio and still getting better. Despite 20 years together and my teams winning zero championships, I hope to have more to brag about in the next 20. Somehow, we still really enjoy each other's company."
Covino added, "Twenty years might as well be 120 years in this industry, so it's hard to believe we're celebrating this milestone and somehow still the youngest in the game. We genuinely love what we do. We stay true to ourselves and have had a blast every step of the way. We consider our listeners as friends, so with their support and the amazing team at FOX Sports Radio, we know the best is yet to come."
The duo originally teamed up on December 15, 2004, on Maxim Radio on Sirius Satellite Radio. They joined FOX Sports Radio in September, 2021 as part of the network's weekend football lineup and were promoted to their current weekday slot a year later.
In addition to their radio show, Covino and Rich launched an original video series and podcast in September 2023 called "Overpromised with Covino & Rich." This new venture takes audiences through the hottest headlines and trends that didn't make it onto their daily radio show. The series is available on FOX Sports Radio's YouTube page, with the podcast accessible on iHeartRadio and other platforms.
Pillar Media Names Chad Mondragon Director of Discipleship
RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |
Pillar Media appoints Chad Mondragon as Director of Discipleship, overseeing its five stations in Denver, including WAWZ (Star 99.1), WAKW (Star 93.3), KSRC (Star 101.5), KFCO (The New Flo 107.1) and KPOF (AM910). Prior to joining Pillar Media, Mondragon served at Hope Media Group for five years as Senior Director of Ministry Innovation. He'll be based from the Cincinnati office of Star 93.3.
Mondragon will focus on spearheading spiritual growth strategies through digital content across all platforms. Collaborating with both the programming and digital teams, his role is to forge content that is not only intentional and transformational but also geared towards deepening listeners' relationships with Jesus Christ.
Pillar Media Executive Director Art Garza expressed enthusiasm about Mondragon's appointment. "Chad brings a combination of rich media experience and a profound dedication to the Gospel, setting the stage for innovative content that promises to significantly enhance our listeners' spiritual journeys," he stated.
On his new role, Mondragon shared his vision. "My commitment is to help individuals grow closer to Jesus and each other, particularly those who feel detached from the Church. I am eager to leverage this platform to inspire faith and foster a vibrant, Christ-centered community."
Mondragon's appointment is effective immediately, and he is expected to roll out several initiatives aimed at enhancing the spiritual content of Pillar Media's broadcasting network in the coming months.
Eagle Media/Hutchinson KS OM Pat James has Died
RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |
Pat James, the Operations Manager for Eagle Media in Hutchinson, KS and the morning host on KHUT (Country 102.9), died at his home in Maize on Tuesday. He leaves behind a significant legacy in the Country music radio industry, highlighted by his time co-hosting the "Cornbread & Pat James" morning show at KFDI in Wichita from 1999 to 2004, and at WIL-FM in St. Louis from 2004 to 2011.
Before his tenure in Hutchinson, which began in 2017, James had already made his mark with two wins for Medium and Major Market Personality of the Year at the CMA awards and received four ACM nominations, two of which were during his time at KHUT in 2017 and 2024.
Market Manager Matt Althouse reflected on James's impact, stating, "Pat's legacy in country radio is assured. More than that, he was a devoted father and family man, whose presence his listeners will miss every day on their radio, but we will miss just as much in our building. He was the consummate professional. Our thoughts continue to be with his family."
Pat James is survived by his wife Tracy and two daughters, Allison and Abby. His contributions to country radio and his community are remembered fondly by colleagues and listeners alike.
iHeartMedia Tampa Bay Adds FOX Sports Radio to WDAE
RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |
iHeartMedia Tampa Bay adds several FOX Sports Radio programs to the weekday and weekend lineup at 95.3 WDAE - Tampa Bay's Sports Radio, effective Monday, December 23.
WDAE's weekday lineup, which already features "The Dan Patrick Show" and "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," will now also broadcast FOX Sports Radio from 7pm to 6am ET, which includes "The Odd Couple with Kelvin Washington & Rob Parker," "The Jason Smith Show with Mike Harmon" and "The Ben Maller Show." Additionally, WDAE will broadcast FOX Sports Radio around the clock on weekends.
"We are thrilled to announce the further expansion of FOX Sports Radio programming to our lineup, which features the best sports content and personalities, both local and national," said WDAE Program Director Nick Wize. "We believe this expansion will provide our audience with even more engaging and insightful sports talk, continuing WDAE's legacy as the ultimate meeting spot for the Tampa Bay sports fan."
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