 By Staff
November 25th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The process that is going to result in the removal of a designation that skewered the kind of development attracted to the downtown core and that will result in a change in the boundaries of the Urban Growth Centre continues this evening as a virtual public meeting.
A meeting with the same material took place on the 19th during the day. The event this evening is at 7:00 pm – runs for two hours and is well worth your while if you want to understand how changes get made in the city and the Region.
 Where is the growth going to take place? The Burlington MTSA and Urban Growth Centre (UGC) issues are the focus of the meeting which are part of the Regional Official Plan Review.
Whatever decision gets made on the MTSA and UGC from a Burlington perspective will be included in the next version of the Official Plan that is released.
Several questions put forward by the Regional planners drive these virtual meetings:
Did we hear you?
Is this what you are saying?
This listening exercise is an ongoing process.
Questions from the public are a large part of the meeting. During the first session the questions were detailed and the answers given were robust.
Date: Wednesday, November 25, 2020
Time: 7 p.m.
Call 1-855-703-8985 (Toll Free) or 647-374-4685 or 647-558-0588 or join via Zoom Meeting ID: 980 8592 6459 | Passcode: 930488
Related news story:
First virtual meeting on the Regional Official Plan review – an event of critical importance to Burlington
 By Staff
November 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
COVID has changed everything.
 If you think the changes it has made in your life – think for a moment about the changes it has made in the medical community.
The Joseph Brant Hospital talks about the impact the virus has had on their operations:
COVID-19 has changed our lives in immeasurable ways. From physical distancing to face coverings and social bubbles to self-isolation it has been a year unlike any other.
And despite it all, our collective appreciation for your support of Joseph Brant Hospital has been consistent through it all.
We are pleased to share the impact your support has had in our COVID-19 Impact Report.
 By Pepper Parr
November 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Gift of Giving Back – remember those people – the ones who worked with high school students and families to gather tonnes of foods – they filled school gymnasiums year after year – then COVID knocked the wheels off the work they do.
 Well – COVID wasn’t going to stop this crowd – they announced today a Help Us Feed Kids: Holiday Food Drive that will run from December 3rd to December 20th.
 The Barracudas – check in and making sure the weight of the food is put on the scoreboard. They are excited about how they figured out a way to meet what is these days a very different situation.
They are inviting our young Community Champions to help them safely collect non-perishable food items and bring them to the Burlington Centre where they will host a Food Drive Headquarters located by the Food Court.
They are also providing an opportunity for high school students to collect volunteer hours. There is more to this 2020 COVID initiative – additional announcements in the coming days.
 The van was packed – can they do this in 2020? The Gift of Giving Back Website
This page provides detailed information about the Holiday Food Drive as well as how high school students can collect volunteer hours.
While this pandemic has closed the Gift of Giving Back doors it has not prevented them from hosting their usual “November High School Gym Extravaganza”, it will not prevent them from continuing to empower our youth to compassionately give back. “We truly appreciate your support.”
By Staff
November 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Food Bank, which by the way doesn’t get a dime from the city or as much as a nickel from the Regional government which handles social issues, has run into a situation that is new for them.
“We’ve NEVER had to purchase food at this time of year before and now it’s just another new norm,” said Scot Cameron.
The local food drives make a difference.
 Upwards of 30 households a day get a food delivery from the Food Bank “Just looking at our recent stats, and comparing this year’s food donations to the last couple of years. We felt that since we have missed out on all of the annual (larger) food drives that our numbers must be much lower however, in fact, we’ve realized even more donations this year than ever before.
“We just didn’t see it because our supplies have been going out just as fast as we get them in the door. In the past we would see neatly placed and stocked up shelves ready to go around this time of year. And of course we are helping a greater number of people now.
“All of the smaller, local drives have had an immense effect on what we are doing here. You really are making a difference when families need it most. Even if you are just dropping off a bag at your local grocery store or fire hall, it makes a huge difference right now.
“If you are in need or know of someone who could use our help PLEASE have them email us at info@burlingtonfoodbank.ca or call 905-637-2273 to make arrangements to have food dropped at their door or make arrangements to pick it up through our curb-side pickup option. If you live in Burlington, we are here to help. Don’t struggle – give us a call.
By Staff
November 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Karen Roche has been named the Fire Chief for Burlington.
Chief Roche brings more than 24 years of progressive Fire service experience working in many facets of the emergency services.
 Karen Roche has been named the Fire Chief for Burlington Most recently as Acting Fire Chief and prior to that Deputy Fire chief with the City of Burlington.
Chief Roche was the first woman to be named a Deputy Fire Chief – that was in December of 2o14.
This has afforded Karen a thorough understanding of the challenges of managing modern fire services during times of economic, demographic and community risk-based issues, including her role in the Emergency Control Group (ECG) during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The City of Burlington is committed to promoting access, equality, diversity and human rights through innovative policy, programs and services. Chief Roche is committed to contribute in a meaningful way to this through her appointments to the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC); International Diversity Executive Leadership Program (iDELP) and more recently the joint Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs (CAFC) / International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) appointment to the International Bullying Taskforce.
 By Pepper Parr
November 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
We received a comment recently from a reader that is very disturbing.
We have chosen not to identify the woman but can verify that she is very credible.
Here is what she had to say:
“I had an appointment last week at a nearby medical center. When I arrived, I was told to call the number posted on the door and wait in my car until someone came to find me.
“Once I was escorted inside, my mask was checked, my temperature was taken and I was led to the doctor’s office. In contrast today, I went to Joseph Brant for a scheduled procedure.
“Entering through the north doors, I found people wandering in and out randomly. The question check was quick, no instructions were given as far as hand sanitizer and I was left to wander the hallways to find the location of the unit I was to visit.
“In my opinion, the hospital must do a better job of screening those who are required to visit this facility in these difficult times.”
The Joseph Brant Hospital has a regrettable history of sloppy prevention practices. We thought the lesson had been learned. Time for the hospital Board members to ask some hard and direct questions, and for the Medical Officer of health to visit and underline what this pandemic requires of the medical community.
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
By Staff
November 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Figuring out what to do with the time we have on our hands is going to be a bit of a challenge for some people.
The Burlington Amateur Radio Club sent us a note saying – Hello – we’re here!
They report that there is a surging interest in Amateur Radio all over the world.
 Yathiraj Chintagunta Today’s Amateur Radio is not what their grandfather’s ham radio was all about. The Burlington Amateur Radio Club (BARC) offers an on-line course which became particularly interesting to Yathiraj Chintagunta who was stranded in Dubai unable to return to his home in Mississauga. His “handle” is now VE3GYP.
Amateur radio is a fascinating hobby that frequently becomes essential for people in some parts of the world when there is a disaster and normal forms of communication are not available.
If you’re at all interested get in touch with Rod Clifton, ve3iso@gmail.com • 905-335-0267 or Hugh McCully, Education Director.
 By Pepper Parr
November 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
November is seen as the time when we think more seriously about veterans from the wars we have fought.
 The space to be named Veteran Square Yesterday City Council accepted a request from the Burlington Legion to name the area to the immediate north of City Hall on Brant Street where the Cenotaph is located and forever call the space Veterans Square.
There will be signage on the location with the new name.
Bob Ankrett spoke for the Legion and mentioned something this reporter didn’t know – that there are two Vimy Ridge oak trees on the site.
During the discussion Council talked in terms of using the word veteran to apply to first responders in the future as well
 By Staff
November 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Joseph Brant Hospital is updating its caregiver and support person presence guidelines effective today. The following statement was released by the hospital:
 An architect’s rendering of the new entrance to Joseph Brant Hospital. Joseph Brant Hospital is updating its caregiver and support person presence guidelines effective November 24, 2020, in accordance with the regional approach during COVID-19. Our hospital recognizes that caregivers and support persons are essential partners in care. We continue to perform surgical and out-patient clinical care, including emergency care, and are committed to maintaining a safe environment for staff and visitors.
The updates are as follows:
• Approved caregiver and support person(s) may visit on consecutive days as opposed to the even and odd room number stipulations that were previously in effect
• Patients may change the name(s) of designated caregiver or support person(s) after 14 days if required
Please note that along with these updates, the following visitor limitations remain in effect:
• In-patients: Up to two caregivers/support persons (18+) identified by the patient may visit during visiting hours (9 a.m. to 8 p.m.). Only one caregiver/support person will be permitted on site at any given time and designated caregivers must ensure this by coordinating their visits.
• Ambulatory Care (out-patients): Only the patient should be attending an outpatient appointment due to the need to maintain physical distancing. If the patient is frail or very ill and requires assistance, one family member/caregiver is permitted. Attending caregivers/support persons need to be approved in advance by clinic staff.
• Emergency & Urgent Care: Visitors are not permitted except under exceptional circumstances. Please see our website for the most up-to-date information.
• Patients who are pregnant/in labour/postpartum: Labouring women may be accompanied by a single care partner during labour, birth and postpartum. The care partner can stay overnight with in and out privileges. Visitors are not permitted.
Before planning your visit, please carefully review our hospital’s visitor policy on our website to help provide the safest possible hospital experience. All visitors must wear a mask at all times and consumption of food is not permitted in patient rooms. Any food brought in for a patient must be individually packaged and not shared.
Whenever possible, we encourage patients to connect with their loved ones by telephone and video. Telephone and WiFi are free for patients and iPads are available to help keep them connected.
For more information, please visit the hospital’s COVID-19 information on their website.
By Staff
November 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
It was a resolution passed at regional Council where it was agreed that each municipal council would agree ro pass the resolution as well – which got us to:
Whereas on July 15, 2020 Halton Regional Council approved Report MO 15-20 – Smoking and Vaping in Public Places and enacted Halton Region By-law 40-20, to Prohibit Smoking and Vaping in Public Places within the Regional Municipality of Halton; and
Whereas pursuant to the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, Section 115, (5) when a smoking in public places by-law from an upper tier municipality is passed, a majority of councils of all its lower municipalities must pass a resolution giving their consent, representing a majority of all electors in the upper tier municipality;
Therefore, be it resolved that the Council for the Corporation of the City of Burlington consents to the passage and implementation of Halton Region By-law 40-20, to Prohibit Smoking and Vaping in Public Places within the Regional Municipality of Halton.
No mention in the resolution as to how this will be enforced and if there are fines involved.
 By Staff
November 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The very popular Tim Horton’s Free Skate program lost the donut maker’s sponsorship and, due to Covid rules, rink time was limited to 10 people on an ice pad for an hour, was what residents were looking at.
 Tim Horton’s advised the city today that they would now sponsor the 65 skate sessions. Expect the number of sessions to increase now that the sponsorship is back in place.
The Tim Horton’s people were concerned with the number of people who would be on the ice pad at the same time. With that issue resolved they were back at the table.
This Covid world has everything changing often.
You will have to register for one of those time slots. They will be spread around the different rinks in the city
 By Staff
November 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The core mandate of Conservation Authorities across the province is being threatened by an item that was included in a Budget Bill, Budget bill issues do not require public comment. The changes will be debated in the Legislature only.
Ward 3 Councillor Rory Nisan and Mayor Meed Ward sent a memorandum to their Council colleagues.
It is worth a wider audience.
The attached resolution is in response to changes made by the provincial government to the Conservation Authorities Act and Planning Act.
Despite not being related to budget issues, it has been added into the budget bill. As a result, there is no requirement for public comment. Nevertheless, we must make our voice heard.There are numerous unacceptable changes. In summary:
Developers will now be able to bypass conservation authorities
 Escarpment is a large part of what defines the city. The permitting process ensures development does not occur in flood hazard areas and that our creeks, valleys and wetlands are not adversely impacted. Permits will be allowed to be approved by the province directly rather than through conservation authorities.
RESULT: less protections for the community and environment, and increased risk to public safety.
Parks could be threatened
Under the new legislation the ministry could set fees or other limits on non-mandatory programs and services.
RESULT: Conservation Halton’s ability to provide important recreational, educational, and employment opportunities that allow our community to interact with conservation will be significantly diminished. All of these opportunities are provided at no cost to taxpayers and benefit all recreation users in the area.
Governance of Conservation Halton will be undermined, potentially politicizing the body
The changes demand that board members represent their municipalities rather than acting in the best interests of Conservation Halton (against all board best practices).
 RESULT: Conservation Halton could be politicized as board members would be expected to promote their municipalities’ interests which sometimes conflict with the best interest of Conservation Halton. The directors carry out their fiduciary responsibilities, guide strategy, approve policies in support of our provincial and municipal responsibilities and track performance. They ensure CH makes decisions with integrity, based solely on our responsibilities and remains apolitical, yet innovative and solution oriented. That could all be lost as we will be obliged to act otherwise according to the draft legislation.
Hamstringing science and conservation protections
The legislation creates new workarounds to undermine conservation authorities.
 This is the rural Burlington residents want to keep – walking trails and quiet countryside. RESULT: Independent science-based decisions in the interest of the community will be significantly limited; our wetlands, valleys, and water will be at risk; the ability to remedy violations that put our environment and communities in danger will be minimized.
Conservation Halton’s mission is to help protect the natural environment, from lake to escarpment, for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future residents. Supporting our natural heritage benefits human, ecological, and economic health. We inherited our natural spaces from the generations before us and will pass them on to our children and future generations.
Our duty as stewards is what continues to inspire us to use science to study and inform us about climate change impacts to our communities and mitigation strategies. Make no mistake, all of this is at risk through this legislation.
 By Staff
November 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON,, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service has made a number of arrests in relation to a stolen property investigation in Burlington.
 Since August of 2020, various LCBO and Metro grocery stores throughout the City of Burlington and the Town of Oakville have been targeted by thieves.
The Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau began investigating the individuals responsible for stealing alcohol from these locations. Investigation revealed that the stolen alcohol was then sold for profit.
Investigation by the Burlington Risk Mitigation Team and Street Crime Unit has led to charges against the following individuals;
Victor KARANIKOLOV (42 years old from Mississauga)
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking Over $5000
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking Under $5000
- Trafficking Contraband Tobacco
Cory MOWERS (50 years old from Mississauga)
- Trafficking Property Obtained by Crime
- Theft Under $5000 (3 counts)
- Fail to Comply Release Order
Suzanne GRIMES (42 years old from Mississauga)
- Trafficking Property Obtained by Crime
- Theft Under $5000 (2 counts)
- Fail to Comply Release Order
On November 20th 2020, Halton Police executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Mississauga. As a result; the following items were seized:
- Approximately $50,000 in stolen property (electronics, alcohol, personal care products, tools, clothing)
- Anti-Theft Alarm Tags
- 43 cartons of contraband cigarettes
- 2 sets of magnetic keys used to remove alarm tags
- 2 cellular telephones
- 1 laptop
- $2570.00 cash
Mowers was held pending a court appearance in Milton.
Karanikolov and Grimes have been released from custody on an undertaking.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Acting Detective Kelly Blore of the 3 District Risk Mitigation Team at 905-825-4747 ext. 2306.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
Please be reminded that all persons charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
began investigating the individuals responsible for stealing alcohol from these locations.
Investigation revealed that the stolen alcohol was then sold for profit.
Investigation by the Burlington Risk Mitigation Team and Street Crime Unit has led to charges against the following individuals;
Victor KARANIKOLOV (42 years old from Mississauga)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking Over $5000
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking Under $5000
• Trafficking Contraband Tobacco
Cory MOWERS (50 years old from Mississauga)
• Trafficking Property Obtained by Crime
• Theft Under $5000 (3 counts)
• Fail to Comply Release Order
Suzanne GRIMES (42 years old from Mississauga)
• Trafficking Property Obtained by Crime
• Theft Under $5000 (2 counts)
• Fail to Comply Release Order
On November 20th 2020, Halton Police executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Mississauga. As a result; the following items were seized:
• Approximately $50,000 in stolen property (electronics, alcohol, personal care products, tools, clothing)
• Anti-Theft Alarm Tags
• 43 cartons of contraband cigarettes
• 2 sets of magnetic keys used to remove alarm tags
• 2 cellular telephones
• 1 laptop
• $2570.00 cash
Mowers was held pending a court appearance in Milton.
Karanikolov and Grimes have been released from custody on an undertaking.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Acting Detective Kelly Blore of the 3 District Risk Mitigation Team at 905-825-4747 ext. 2306.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
Please be reminded that all persons charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Staff
November 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
There is beauty within all that snow.
The small path of red – the Canadian flag – waiting for a whiff of wind to flutter.
Getting outside, making a snow man with immediate family and the people in your bubble is Staying Safe.
 By Staff
November 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
That almost balmy weather we all enjoyed has been replaced by the winter that is part of our DNA.
At the same time parts of the city are lit up to help celebrate a Festive Season that will soon be upon us.
 Locomotive at Freeman station – waiting for a caboose to be attached. Photo by Allan Harrington
Freeman Station has a Lit Loco on display at their site on Fairview. This creation has about 4,000 lamps with chasers to give it a sense of movement.
Grand Trunk is spelled out in letters for the Grand Trunk Railway who built the Burlington Junction Station in 1906.
Friends of Freeman Station is run by volunteers and relies on donations.
If the group can capture a total of $500 in donations on line by November 27 2020, a lit up red caboose will be installed along with the existing Locomotive and Coal Car.
 BTTB sentries standing guard at Spencer Smith Park. Lakeshore Road at Brant now has the Burlington Teen Tour Band back on duty as sentries at Spencer Smith Park. Great for an early evening get out for some fresh air event. This is the 25th Festival of Lights.
Running now through to January 8, 2021 – it’s FREE and visitors can walk among the displays.
The Freeman lights and those at Spencer Smith are all the result of volunteer efforts.
Royal Botanical Gardens opened up their winter wonderland with the Hendrie Garden bursting with lights.
The Royal Botanical Gardens colourful outdoor stroll along the the pathway tells us how plants like mistletoe and ivy are part of the yule season, along with cinnamon and mint giving us festive flavours.
Not just plants, but local winter animals are part of the whole nature package.
 Hendrie Garden at the RBG – a winter wonderland.  It isn’t all outdoors at the RBG. A big TV projection screen TV outside shows a short movie with a “Mouse” but it’s NOT Mickey.
Wednesdays to Sundays, Nov 18 to Dec 23. Additional Dates: Dec 27-30, Jan 2, 3 5 to 10 p.m
Admission fee for non-members, and everyone must wear a mask and maintain social distancing
By Pepper Parr
November 20th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The news that there was a Covid19 outbreak in part of the Joseph Brant Hospital earlier this week has resulted in some people cancelling their medical procedures.
The hospital Chief of Staff, Dr. Ian Preyra, said in a video message that the hospital is doing everything possible to keep everyone safe.
Some patients are starting to cancel or delay their medical procedures, which can pose a serious risk to their health. The hospital “would like to assure our community that our hospital is still safe to visit and we continue to perform surgical and out-patient clinical care, including urgent, life-saving procedures and other emergency care.”
There was no word on the condition of those who contracted Covid19.
Related news story:
Covid19 outbreak at hospital
 By Staff
November 20th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington spends quite a bit of money on public art.
They want to refresh and add to the jury list they have to help with the judging of what merits funding.
 The placing of public art in the city: Most people don’t understand why the sculpture, a modernistic interpretation of orchids was installed in the middle of a busy road.  Public Art: Plains Road at Waterdown Road If you love art and your community, help make your mark on the City of Burlington’s Public Art program by participating on a public art jury. The City is looking for local artists, creative professionals and residents to evaluate public art applications throughout the year.
No experience is necessary! Each jury is made up of a mix of arts professionals and residents that represent a broad cross-section of the community.
If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out a brief online application form at Burlington.ca/publicart or fill out the online application directly by clicking here.
By Staff
November 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Your help is needed!
November 22nd 11am-1pm
Burlington Food Bank one day Neighbourhood Covid-19:FOOD DRIVE at 21 locations & counting!
Covid-safe Porch Drop off of non-perishable food, gift card or monetary donations at any of the neighbourhood porch drop offs to help support the many in our community who are in need.
If you think you can help – and be part of this event be in touch with either:
Chania Allen chania@razmataz.ca or Lisa Kearns <Lisa.Kearns@burlington.ca>
In April, this event brought in 2.2 TONS of food and over $1000 in donations. Let’s try to do even better in preparation for the holidays.
Covid-safe Porch Drop off of non-perishable food, gift card or monetary donations at any of the neighbourhood porch drop offs to help support the many in our community who are in need.
Here are the current Top Ten Most Needed Items:
(will update as required)
Canned Meat (Ham, Turkey, Chicken)
Rice (1kg or 2kg sizes)
Peanut Butter
Nut Free school lunch snacks
Canned Tomatoes
Shampoo, Deodorant, Toothpaste and Toothbrushes
Hot Cereal (Oatmeal/Porridge Single Servings)
Canned Fruit
Large Soup (Ready To Eat)
Condiments (Ketchup, Mustard, Sauces)
 Your help is needed! November 22nd 11am-1pm – Burlington Food Bank one day Neighbourhood Covid-19:FOOD DRIVE at 21 locations & counting!
At the same time: If you are in need or know of someone who could use our help PLEASE have them email us at info@burlingtonfoodbank.ca or call 905-637-2273 to make arrangements to have food dropped at their door or make arrangements to pick it up through our curb-side pickup option. If you live in Burlington, we are here to help. Don’t struggle – give us a call.
By Staff
November 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Was it raw greed or just plain dumb responses? Something in the order of $1.3 million was involved.
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) Regional Fraud Unit has completed a three year investigation into a Ponzi scheme operating in the region that defrauded victims out of approximately 1.3 million dollars.
Victims of this fraud transferred money believing that they were investing in a legitimate stock market investment program.
Victims initially received small returns from funds obtained by new investors. This type of fraud is commonly referred to as a ‘Ponzi Scheme’. Money invested by victims was then used for the personal and financial gain of the accused.
Police have arrested and charged Francesco Perre (AKA Frank Perre), 56 years of age of Burlington.
Perre has been charged with six counts of fraud over $5000 and misappropriation of funds. He is scheduled to appear in court in Milton on December 23, 2020.
Police believe there may be additional victims of this fraud and would encourage them to contact Detective Constable Garry Hans of the Regional Fraud Unit at 905 825 4747 ext. 8742.
The HRPS encourages members of the public to conduct due diligence prior to making investments and to be wary of investments that sound too good to be true.
By Staff
November 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Different development news: a two tower project that isn’t in the downtown core and isn’t on Brant Street.
 The proposed development would consist of a mixed-use development consisting of two 20-storey residential towers, with commercial and office space provided on the first two storeys. A total of 2,982.4 square metres of commercial space is proposed and a total of 390 residential units.
Location is 5041 Fairvew, east of Appleby Line.
There will be the now required pre-application virtual meeting on December 3rd, 2020 at 7 pm.
We will provide the links few days before.
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