 By Staff
June 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, on
 A patriotic display like this on Canada Day – perhaps not in Burlington, but pride will swell across the country, even though Edmonton lost the chance to bring the Stanley Cup home. The notice from the city is a little early. They wanted to announce the plans for Canada Day celebrations at Spencer Smith Park that will kick off on July 1 at noon with fun for all ages! Visitors can enjoy a lively Kids Zone, local vendors, delicious food, and live performances throughout the day.
The official opening ceremony kicks off at 4 p.m., followed by a drone light show and a fireworks finale to cap off the night.
Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are needed for the Canada Day event. Various positions are available for anyone 14 years and older. Volunteer positions include set-up, tear down, and event support.
To volunteer, visit burlington.ca/volunteer, click on Festivals and Events to register and apply.
This event is funded by the Government of Canada.
July 1 events at Spencer Smith Park
Canada Day Shuttle and Burlington Transit
Downtown parking is in high demand during Canada Day festivities. Residents are encouraged to consider other transportation options such as cycling, walking, carpooling or taking Burlington Transit.
To accommodate increased volumes of traffic Burlington Transit will operate on a Saturday schedule on Canada Day. Plan your trip and enjoy the festivities with ease by using Google Maps on your favourite transit app.
The City is also offering a free Canada Day shuttle from Burlington Centre Parking Lot Entrance 1 (Old Navy) beginning at noon. The shuttle operates on a continuous loop until 11:30 p.m., transporting guests to and from Downtown Burlington (430 John Street).
By Staff
June 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Exciting changes are underway at Alton Branch of the Burlington Library.
A Maker Station—a brand-new drop-in creative space—starting July 24.
Designed for curious creators of all ages, Maker Station is a self-guided space equipped with a 3D printer, sewing machine, Cricut® cutting machine, and button maker.
How It Works
- Prepare your ideas and design files before you visit. Review the design specifications for the equipment on our website and prepare your design file before you come to the branch.
- Starting July 24, drop in any time during open hours at our Alton Branch. The equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis—no appointment necessary.
- Visit staff at the service desk to get started. You’ll need to sign a waiver, purchase any necessary materials, and receive instructional materials to review.
- Start creating! Print, sew, cut and create using one of the four pieces of equipment in the MakerStation.
The equipment is free to use, but you will need to purchase materials such as filament for the 3D printer, vinyl for the Cricut, and button materials for the button maker. We only charge for materials at cost. For the sewing machine, makers will need to bring their own suitable fabric.
You’re Invited to the Showcase
Want to see it in action? Join us for the MakerStation Showcase on Wednesday, July 23, from 6 to 8pm.
Check out live demos, explore the new equipment, get inspired by creative projects, and take home a small maker project
Whether you’re into crafting, designing, or just trying something new, MakerStation at Alton Branch is the place to make it happen!
 By Staff
June 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The weather is going to be decent.
The breeze off the lake will make it a wonderful day.
And the bands will be on the stages.
Add the great deal on getting to Spencer Smith Park and you have as close to a perfect day as you are likely to get.
Park at the Burlington Centre and take the free bus to Spencer Smith.
By Staff
June 7th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
We think this means summer is here or really close.
Will the ward Councillor be on hand for a photo op?
 By Staff
June 5th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
National Indigenous Peoples Day is a happy, fun-filled free event. The Mayor would like to see all of you there.
All are welcome to join in the festivities.
 The colour and the energy are part of the rich heritage the Indigenous people bring to the community. Location: Spencer Smith Park, west end
Date: Saturday, June 21
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
National Indigenous Peoples Day is a happy, fun-filled free event. All are welcome to join in the festivities.
“National Indigenous Peoples Day, which falls on the longest day of the year, is a vibrant celebration of the strength, artistry, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
This special day is an opportunity for all of us to come together to honour the richness and diversity of cultures that have shaped our land for generations. Burlington is proud to stand in partnership with the Urban Indigenous community to support the Solstice Ceremony celebration, and I encourage everyone to join us at Spencer Smith Park to experience the live music, performances, stories, and shared joy that make this day so meaningful.”
 By Jeannie Løjstrup
June 4th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
What are your plans for Canada Day 2025? For millions of Canadians and international tourists alike, Burlington is one of the top stops of the year. From beautiful parks to incredible shopping opportunities and everything in between, Burlington has something for just about everyone. Let’s take a look at the best spots to visit in the city leading up to a thrilling Canada Day celebration!
Canada Day 2025
 The holiday was celebrated in a grand way! Formerly known as Dominion Day, Canada Day takes place annually on July 1st and is the national day of Canada. While it’s most widely celebrated by Canadian residents, tourists from all around the world strive to be in the country’s big cities when the event kicks off. Thanks to the vibrant arts community, thriving culinary scene, passionate gaming culture, and general hospitality by the country’s residents, Canada Day has become a highly anticipated celebration both within and outside of the country.
While Burlington and Canada as a whole offers fantastic scenes to explore, there is also the wide array of online entertainment & gaming that one can delve into. From online sports such as the CFL, keeping up to date with the developments leading up to Canada day as well as the expansive gaming market that can be explored through Canadian slots there is no shortage of entertainment to be grasped while venturing throughout Canada.
With that said, there are some truly incredible locales to visit if you can make it to Burlington in person. Let’s take a look at some hot spots to visit this year!
Royal Botanical Gardens
Who says that Canada Day celebrations have to take place in civilization? For thousands of people around the country, spending the day enjoying the beautiful landscape offered by the Canadian wilderness is the perfect way to enjoy it. Whether you’re looking for picturesque bridges or vibrant flowers, the Royal Botanical Gardens is one of the most impressive attractions in Burlington.
Don’t worry if you aren’t exactly an avid hiker – this experience is easy, accessible and adaptable to your abilities.
Burlington Waterfront Trail
Take advantage of the warm weather this year and spend some time at the Burlington Waterfront Trail! This beautiful venue features both stunning waterfront views and modern amenities to create a truly unforgettable experience for visitors. This is a popular stop and might be fairly crowded depending on the time of day you visit, but this doesn’t mean that it’s not worth a stop. Pick an unusual time to visit and beat the crowds or hobnob with locals and tourists alike – the choice is yours.
Mount Nemo Conservation Area
 Mt Nemo – on a good day you can see the CN Tower in Toronto. Owned by Conservation Halton, Mount Nemo Conservation Area is a beautiful park with space for the whole family. This includes friendly four-legged friends, who are welcome to visit with their human companions. If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging than a leisurely walk, then you might consider trying out rock climbing! Enthusiasts frequent the park for some top-tier climbing experiences.
Spencer Smith Park
Are you looking for an excuse to spend some time outside this Canada Day? If so, Spencer Smith Park is one of your best options. Located directly on the water and offering great expanses of green fields, this is the ideal place to gather with family and friends for a picnic.
 Spencer Smith Park – where the lake is your front porch. Mapleview Shopping Centre
If spending time outside in the sun isn’t really your cup of tea, then you’re in luck! Burlington has a whole host of interior experiences. One of our favorites is the Mapleview Shopping Centre. A rare example of a mall that’s thriving in today’s economy, Mapleview offers beautiful facilities with high-end stores and restaurants. With that said, there’s something for just about every budget you can imagine. Whether you want to grab a bite to eat, like wandering around and aimlessly window shopping, or simply want to enjoy some time in an air-conditioned space, Mapleview might be the perfect option for you.
 During tours all the food is made on the premises using recipes from the period of time the Ireland is Farm house was built. Ireland House Museum
Ireland House Museum is a fascinating trip back in time. Following the life of the Ireland family spanning three generations, the home has been painstakingly restored to reflect accurate period-specific décor. Antique furniture, intricate wallpaper and even complex ceiling carvings make this museum a must-see in Burlington this year.
Are you excited to celebrate Canada Day this year? The time is rapidly approaching, so make sure that you plan your day soon so that you can hit the ground running and enjoy every second.
 By Staff
June 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford YMCA welcomed new Board leadership to guide the organization into its next chapter.
The Board of Directors has elected Paul Gibel as its new Chair for a two-year term (May 2025–May 2027).
Joining Paul in leadership are Marie-Claude Evangelista and Yohana Otite, who will serve as Co Vice-Chairs of the Board. Both bring significant professional and lived experience to the YMCA’s governance team.
 (from the left): Manny Figueiredo, President & CEO of YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford; Alyssa Lai, Past Board Chair; and Paul Gibel, newly elected Board Chair. Paul brings a wealth of experience in finance, governance, and community leadership to the role. A retired partner with Doane Grant Thornton in Hamilton, Paul has deep roots in the region and a long-standing commitment to service. He previously served as Chair of the Hamilton Community Foundation and President of the Rotary Club of Hamilton. He is also a past member of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
For the past several years, Paul has chaired the YMCA’s Audit/Enterprise Risk Management/Endowment Fund Committee, while also serving on the Board Development and CEO Performance Appraisal Committees. He recently concluded a two-year term as Vice-Chair.
 During the 169th Annual General Meeting, we also took the time to celebrate the impact made and to recognize the outstanding leadership of Alyssa Lai, whose term as Board Chair concludes this spring.
Marie-Claude Evangelista and Yohana Otite, who will serve as Co Vice-Chairs of the Board. Both bring significant professional and lived experience to the YMCA’s governance team.
Marie-Claude (MC) Evangelista, C. Dir. is Vice-President at Fairstone Bank. A Burlington resident with a strong record in operational excellence, risk management, and community involvement, she has served on the YMCA’s Audit/Enterprise Risk Management/Endowment Fund Committee.
Yohana Otite, currently the Human Rights and Equity Advisor (HREA) at the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board, brings experience in strategic leadership in the non-profit and education sectors, focused on promoting human rights, equity and inclusion. She has served on the YMCA’s Board Development and CEO Performance Appraisal Committees.
 By Pepper Parr
June 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Ray River, our contributing editor, has been writing for the Gazette for more than ten years.
A postgraduate economist, an ardent environmentalist Ray is also a playwright.
 He is currently working on a new two-act play which will open August 21st for a two week run in Hamilton at the Staircase Theatre – folks have been asking for information The LINK for ticket information.
Ray is both directing and performing in the play he wrote: “Never the 51st State.
“The play is an inspiring story of love and valor — of generations defending the freedom of Canada and Ukraine — confronting the dangers of sleeping next to an awakening elephant and a hungry bear”.
The leading female actor came to Canada in the wake of the 2022 Russian invasion of her homeland. Her husband is currently fighting in the army over there.
The play runs for about two hours; there is an intermission with a Q&A period at the end.
The Staircase Theatre is an intimate venue which seats just over 60 guests – so an advanced booking is highly recommended. This link below will take you to the Eventbrite ticket site where you can find out more and purchase an advance ticket.
The is a strong Ukrainian streak in Ray’s cultural DNA.
By Pepper Parr
May 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The 2025 Bay Area Economic Summit takes place in Burlington on Thursday, June 5 at the Pearle Hotel & Spa.
Single-day event running from 7:45 – 11:15 a.m.
The event is a partnership with the Burlington Chamber, Burlington Economic Development and Hamilton Economic Development, uniting Hamilton and Burlington leaders to tackle economic challenges and opportunities.
Featuring expert discussions, strategies, and networking, this year’s theme focuses on driving regional progress through sustainability, transportation and supply chain investment. Hamilton and Burlington leaders will tackle economic challenges and opportunities. Expert discussions, strategies, and networking, this year’s theme focuses on driving regional progress through sustainability and A.I.
This year’s theme, Catalyst for Growth: Housing, Sustainability & Supply Chain, explores issues that sit at the intersection of policy and business. These topics are more than policy discussions; they’re real -world factors that influence how companies scale, build talent pipelines, and navigate complex supply chains.
Terry Caddo, president of the Burlington Chamber, reports that 200 + people have registered. The location can hold 225 – we’d like to fill the place,” said Caddo.
The Pearle is the smartest destination the city has.
 Mike Moffatt, Founding Director at Missing Middle Initiative. Dr. Mike Moffatt, Founding Director at Missing Middle Initiative, Professor and Economist, is the keynote speaker. He will tell anyone who will listen that if you don’t get housing right, nothing works out. Moffatt has become the leading thinker on how the country’s housing needs can be worked out and where the government can play a leading role.
Moffatt is worth listening to.
By Pepper Parr
May 27th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The BPL Book Sale was a great day, with 910 eager shoppers visiting Central Branch on Saturday, May 24.
While they didn’t have an exact count of the number of items available, thye were able to say that “we sold 185 boxfuls of books, DVDs, CDs, and magazines, which generated net proceeds of $3,600.
The funds raised will support Library initiatives and building the collection.
 Books, DVDs, CDs, and magazines ready for the annual BPL Book Sale.
 By Pepper Parr
May 26th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Every time I get something from the city’s communications people that has the word “vibrant” in it – my knees begin to wobble and I reach for my dictionary.
Vibrant: lively, energetic, and full of life.
 This is what it’s all about. People sitting outside and enjoying the Sound of Music. Vibrant? Naw! I’m not buying it. Sound of Music isn’t vibrant – it is a wonderful, laid-back occasion when you get to listen to music you’d never heard before.
Nevertheless, the city is going to craft a new Culture Plan to guide the next decade (2026–2036) of arts and culture growth. This plan will help shape the future of Burlington’s arts and culture programs, services and investments. The Culture Plan will contribute to a future that is vibrant, inclusive and rooted in Burlington’s community.
The City is inviting residents and artists to get involved in the creation of its new Culture Plan.
Public Engagement
The City will be offering many ways for residents and the Arts and Culture community to share their ideas for Burlington’s arts and culture future. Over the next six months, staff will be connecting with residents, artists, cultural professionals, organizations and communities across Burlington.
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
1 to 2:30 p.m.
In-person sessions – Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
6 to 8:30 p.m.
or
 Tents set up in Civic Square during a cultural event. Wednesday, June 25, 2025
11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
RSVP to participate in a Culture Jam Workshop
Event booths and pop-up
Over the summer, staff will be visiting busy parks, festivals and events to hear directly from residents. There will also be self-directed activities in public spaces such as libraries and community centres.
Residents can subscribe for updates at getinvolvedburlington.ca/cultureplan to get updates as information is added to the page.
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 By Staff
May 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
This is an early notice. A Drawn from Clay: A Ceramic Collage Workshop is being offered Saturday, June 21, 1–4 pm at the Lee-Chin Family Gallery
$50 | $45 FOR MEMBERS
 Breanna Shanahan. Here is how the Gallery describes the event.
Let the AGB’s collection inspire you in this hands-on drawing and collage workshop in the Lee-Chin Family Gallery.
Participants are invited to draw in response to the many unique ceramics on view in A Curve, Not a Line, then learn how to cut and combine their drawings to tell new stories through collage under the guidance of artist and educator Breanna Shanahan.
Register today–spaces are limited. Register HERE
By Staff
May 21st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON’
An error in the date in the original story has been corrected. The mistake wasn’t ours.
Families, students, staff and community members are invited to attend an upcoming session as part of the Director’s Panel Series.
 The Indigenous community in Canada is much much more than a culture with colourful dances – it is a deep part of what Canada is today. Each session in this series explores issues and themes impacting students and education today. Sessions are led by Director of Education Curtis Ennis and Human Rights & Equity Advisor Pardeep Nagra.
Panelists featured in the Director’s Panel series may also include HDSB students, parents/guardians and subject-matter experts.
The upcoming session in the series will be:
Indigenous Rights and Education: A Shared Responsibility Monday, May 21 from 6 – 7 p.m.
This will be a virtual event with the livestream linked on the HDSB website (hdsb.ca).
Registration is not required.
Indigenous Rights and Education: A Shared Responsibility will explore the ways in which the HDSB promotes Indigenous Rights through education for students and staff that advances knowledge of true history, responsibilities and reconciliation, while amplifying Indigenous voices and addressing systemic barriers to support the achievement of Indigenous students. Panelists will discuss the shared responsibility and commitment to Indigenous Rights as outlined in the HDSB’s 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan. Joining the session as panelists will be members of the HDSB’s Indigenous Rights and Education Department.
Those interested in attending the event are invited to submit a question to the panel before the session through this Google Form.
 Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. “When it comes to reconciliation, we all have a shared responsibility to continue listening, learning and reflecting on the truths and voices of Indigenous communities,” says Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. “This session provides an important opportunity for our students, staff, families and community members to deepen our understanding of the true history and current realities of Indigenous Peoples. It also serves as a platform to amplify Indigenous voices, engage in meaningful dialogue and commit to actions that uphold Indigenous Rights and advance reconciliation through education.”
 By Pepper Parr
May 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Are photo ops the bread and butter of political life in Burlington?
 Sometimes, there is a genuine public benefit.
Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns has made the photo op both an art and a science. She frequently outdoes the Mayor and THAT is saying something
One that caught our attention recently was Kearns and a bingo card – a huge bingo card.
What was all that we wondered – so we asked.
The Bingo games that take place at the Polish Hall donate a portion of their revenue to local charities.
Excited? Lisa Kearns was – did any of her cards win?
She didn’t say
 These are the organizations that benefit from the Bingo Games played regularly at the Polish Hall.
 By Staff
May 16th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Gotta SING, Gotta DANCE! is an exciting tribute to the art of staying young, showcasing music, comedy and dance.
It’s a lavish production featuring a brand new lineup of upbeat and fast-paced entertainment presented by the inspiring talents of the Burlington Footnotes.
Tue Jun 17, 2025 at 2pm & 7pm
Tickets HERE
By Staff
May 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Every community has groups of people who perform: singers, musicians, choirs – they practice for hours and take great joy from what they do.
 Alexander Cappellazzo Tenor Soloist On Saturday, May 10th.
The Burlington Civic Chorale will perform at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church.
Giacomo Puccini was an Italian composer known primarily for his operas. Regarded as the greatest and most successful proponent of Italian opera after Verdi, he was descended from a long line of composers, stemming from the late Baroque era.
By Staff
May 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
SPECIAL EXHIBITION | GAME CHANGERS
JOSEPH BRANT MUSEUM | OPENS MAY 10!
Get your game on!
In this upcoming special exhibition, visitors will discover how innovation has shaped the video game industry. Game Changers is a fascinating journey, exploring the past and examining how the intersection of audio, storytelling, graphics, and gameplay creates the immersive environment of current video gaming systems.
 The exhibit was designed for people to react with. The video game evolution story is depicted from memorable Pong to the photorealistic, immersive games of today.
Visitors can step inside a game and become a character or try operating a supersized Nintendo controller, play Tetris on a giant Game Boy, and test their knowledge of retro video game music.
 The experience is immediate. The exhibition showcases original concept art, storyboards, level designs, and scripts of some of the most influential games ever created, including audio clips from industry experts explaining the game development of some of the most loved games. Guests can test their skills with games that have significantly changed the gaming experience, including Pac-Man, Super Mario Bros., Tetris, Angry Birds, Space Invaders, Flower, and Adventure. “Playing through this exhibition brought back a lot of childhood memories. I think families and visitors of all ages will enjoy the nostalgia!”. – Lynna Nguyen, Acting Curator.
Game Changers is a travelling exhibition created by the Canada Science and Technology Museum.
The exhibition is on view at Joseph Brant Museum from May 10 – September 13, 2025. The Museum is open Tuesdays – Saturdays, 10am to 4pm.
By Staff
May 4th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Saturday, May 10th from 1 – 5 pm The Art Gallery of Burlington will be holding a Block Party ( a first for them if memory is serving us correctly) on Saturday, May 10th from 1 – 5 pm
They describe the event as an exciting celebration of art, culture, and community. There will be delicious treats or sip from featured food vendors, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the AGB!
The Block Party is generously sponsored by SB Partners and Cintas Canada.
- Free family art activities
- Public Opening Reception for our Spring Exhibitions
- Music by DJ Cheffy
- Free Garden Starter Seed Packs, courtesy of OSC Seeds
- Featured Food Vendors: Bardō Brant St., Peach Coffee Co., Raw Roots, Sunshine Doughnuts
 Art by the students at St. Mark Catholic Elementary School on display at the AGB
 By Pepper Parr
May 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Mayor Meed Ward, along with Councillors Nisan and Galbraith, sitting on the Burlington bench in Apeldoorn during the 80 anniversary of the liberation of Holland in WWII A Gazette reader spotted an Instagram photograph of Mayor Meed Ward along with Councillors Nisan and Galbraith, which surprised her.
The City had advised the Gazette that
Members of the official Burlington delegation visiting Apeldoorn are:
- Mayor Marianne Meed Ward
- Rory Nisan, Ward 3 Councillor and Council Liaison on the Mundialization Committee
- Hassaan Basit, Chief Administrative Officer
- Samantha Yew, City Clerk/Director of Legislative Services
- Hasan Raza, Chair, Mundialization Committee (volunteer)
- Anne Koopman, Chair, Apeldoorn Sub-committee (volunteer)
Was Galbraith added at the last minute or did he choose to spend his own money for the trip?
Both Galbraith and Nisan, along with the Mayor, were part of the group that represented Burlington in Itabashi, Japan.
By Staff
April 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington’s Mundialization Committee is inviting the community to take part in two free events to celebrate our city’s friendships with its twin cities — Apeldoorn, the Netherlands and Itabashi, Japan.
The events will mark two significant milestones — 20 years of twinning with Apeldoorn, and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Apeldoorn by Canadian soldiers at the end of the Second World War.
 Burlington Teen Tour Band at a previous event in Apeldoorn. The Burlington delegation to Apeldoorn will take place from Friday, May 2 to Tuesday, May 6; it will include representatives from the Mundialization Committee, Mayor Meed Ward, and senior City staff — the media release did not include the names of the full delegation – we will dig that out for you.
The focus is reported to be on commemorative events and ceremonies marking the liberation of the Netherlands and the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. The delegation will join a remembrance ceremony at the Canadian war cemetery and take part in a silent walk to Oranjepark on May 4, followed by the Freedom Parade on May 5.
Canada Netherlands Friendship Day will take place at LaSalle Park Pavilion, 50 North Shore Blvd. E. – Saturday, May 24 – 10 – 11:30 a.m. – Event – 11:30 a.m. – Reception
Open to the public, the event will mark the 20th anniversary of Burlington’s twinning with Apeldoorn — a friendship rooted in a shared history, remembrance and the promotion of peace.
Features of the event include:
- Welcome messages from Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, Mr. Harman Idema, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Elizabeth Witmer, former Deputy Premier and Past Chair, WSIB
- Performances by the Burlington Teen Tour Band and Enchorus Children’s Choir
- A special exhibit of artwork created by Burlington and Apeldoorn elementary school students
The Itabashi, Japan relationship events will take place Saturday, May 10, 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.
 The Sakura Festival will take place at the Performing Arts Centre in the Family Lobby.
The spring arrival of the Japanese cherry blossoms at Spencer Smith Park always highlight Burlington’s 36-year friendship with our twin city, Itabashi, Japan.
Features of this event include:
- Performances by Burlington’s Do Kon Daiko Japanese drumming group and internationally renowned taiko group Nagata Shachu
- Karate, aikido and iaido demonstrations
- Suzuran odori (traditional dance) performances
- Yosakoi dance by Sakuramai Toronto
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