 Rachel Friede Dimond Appointed Director of Community Development
The City of Glendale has appointed Rachel Friede Dimond, AICP, LEED AP, as its new Director of Community Development. Dimond brings more than 20 years of experience in community development, planning, housing, economic development, and municipal leadership.
Celebrating 10 Years of Glendale Tech Week!
Glendale Tech Week returns September 23–26, 2026, for four days of events, conversations, and experiences celebrating its 10th anniversary and showcasing Glendale’s tech and innovation community.
This year’s lineup includes a 10th anniversary opening celebration, tech job fair, Demo Day, and hackathon, along with opportunities to connect with local businesses, explore emerging technologies, discover what’s being built in Glendale, and learn about career opportunities.
Learn more about Glendale Tech Week and how to apply at GlendaleTechWeek.com.
Proposed Water Rates Community Meetings
Glendale Water & Power (GWP) is hosting a series of community meetings this October to discuss proposed water rates, answer questions, and gather public feedback. Community members and staff are invited to participate in person or virtually to learn more about the updates. For full details and virtual registration links, visit GlendaleCA.gov/ProposedWaterRates.
Meeting Details:
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October 7 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Adult Recreation Center, 201 E. Colorado St. Parking available at 120 S. Artsakh Ave.
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October 15 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Sparr Heights Community Center, 1613 Glencoe Way
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October 17 | 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Brand Library & Art Center, 1601 W. Mountain St.
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October 24 | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Virtual via Zoom; registration required
Women’s Equality Day
The City of Glendale invites community members to its Third Annual Women’s Equality Day Celebration on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the historic Alex Theatre Courtyard. This inspiring evening will bring together civic and business community leaders, equity advocates, and residents and business owners for a program centered on education, empowerment, and connection.
Co-sponsored by the Glendale Commission on the Status of Women, the program will also feature live music, food, beverages, refreshments, and networking opportunities. Panelists and additional details will be announced soon.
Event Details: September 30, 2026 6:00 PM Alex Theatre Courtyard 216 N. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA 91203
Glendale Cultural Festival
 The Glendale Cultural Festival is a free, family-friendly celebration of the diverse cultures and international connections that make Glendale unique. The festival will showcase music, dance, food, art, and cultural performances representing Glendale’s Sister Cities in Armenia, the Dominican Republic, Japan, Korea, Mexico, and the Philippines, as well as Artsakh heritage.
The festival gives residents and visitors a chance to come together, experience different traditions, and celebrate Glendale’s diverse community.
Event Details: October 4, 2026 4:00 PM Artsakh Paseo 125 N. Artsakh Ave. Glendale, CA 91206
Emergency Preparedness Month
During an emergency, accurate, timely information can help you make informed decisions and take action when needed. The City of Glendale uses multiple communication channels to share emergency alerts, safety instructions, road closures, evacuation information, and other important updates.
Residents are encouraged to know where to find official City information, keep their contact information current for emergency alerts, and share updates with family members or neighbors who may need assistance.
Armenian Film Festival
The 2026 Armenian Film Festival, presented by Armenian Film Society, will take place September 16–20, bringing filmmakers, industry leaders, special guests, and the community together for five days celebrating Armenian cinema.
The festival kicks off with an opening celebration on the rooftop of The Glenmark, featuring a live DJ and complimentary appetizers, with additional food, hookah, and beverages available for purchase.
Festival Details: September 16–20, 2026
Glendale International Film Festival
The Glendale International Film Festival will take place September 23–28, bringing filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences together for six days of screenings, Q&As, and special events.
The festival will also feature a screening and Q&A for “Dirty Drugs – The Crisis of Addiction and Overdose,” a film submitted by the Glendale Management Association.
Festival Details: September 23–28, 2026
Glendale Fire Celebrates New Promotees and Hires
 On August 13th, the Glendale Fire Department marked a proud moment as newly promoted Captains, Engineers, Ambulance Operators, and the City’s newest Emergency Services Coordinator were honored during the Promotional and Badge Pinning Ceremony at Fire Station 21. With families pinning badges and leaders reflecting on the department’s commitment to professional service, the event captured both celebration and purpose, recognizing the people who will help guide GFD’s mission.
Back to School Recycling Yes and No!
As the new school year begins, families can take a few simple steps to reduce waste and make more sustainable choices at school and at home.
YES
- Use reusable water bottles and food containers.
- Place food scraps and food-soiled napkins in the green organics container.
- Recycle clean aluminum foil and paper in the blue recycling container.
NO
- Avoid single-use plastic utensils and straws.
- Don’t throw away backpacks or clothing that are still in good condition. Consider donating them to a local charity instead.
Save on Electric Lawn & Garden Equipment
Switch to electric leaf blowers and take advantage of available incentives for commercial and residential customers.
For gardeners and landscapers: Receive up to $1,400 for electric leaf blowers through South Coast AQMD’s Commercial Electric Lawn & Garden Equipment Rebate Program. Rebates are also available for other eligible commercial electric lawn and garden equipment, with incentives up to $15,000.
For residents: South Coast AQMD offers up to $250 for eligible battery-powered leaf blowers and other battery-powered lawn and garden equipment. Glendale Water & Power (GWP) customers may also receive an additional $50 rebate for eligible electric leaf blowers, applied as a credit to their GWP bill.
Electric equipment is cleaner and quieter, and switching helps you comply with the City’s prohibition on gas-powered leaf blowers.
Round 2 Community Survey Closed – Thank You!
 Thank you to everyone who participated in the Open Space and Conservation and Recreation Elements (OSCR) survey. Your feedback will help inform how Glendale plans for parks, recreation, open space, and the protection of natural resources.
The City will now use this input to help refine findings and develop the Draft OSCR Element.
Participants who provided an email address will be entered into the $20 gift card raffle, with winners selected at random and notified by email.
For more information and to sign up for updates, visit GlendaleCA.gov/OSCR or email us at OSCR@GlendaleCA.gov.
Funded by Los Angeles County 2016 Measure A.
Beat the Heat with Some Water Play!
Our free, family-friendly splash pads are the perfect way to beat the heat and spend time outdoors. Bring the kids, pack the sunscreen, and get ready for some splash-tastic fun!
Hours and Schedule:
Pacific Park - 501 S. Pacific Ave. Now – October 2 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, daily
October 3 – November 1 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturdays and Sundays only
Cerritos Park - 3690 San Fernando Rd. Now – October 2 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, daily
October 3 – November 1 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturdays and Sundays only
Fremont Park - 600 Hahn Ave. Now – October 2 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, daily
October 3 – November 1 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturdays and Sundays only
Grass Areas Temporarily Closed at Wilson Mini-Park
Grass areas at the park will remain temporarily closed for maintenance, with work anticipated to be completed by mid-September.
Irrigation system upgrades are underway, followed by grass reseeding and the addition of several new trees throughout the park.
Thank you for your patience as these improvements are completed.
Funded by Los Angeles County 2016 Measure A.
Gentle Giants Art Exhibit
“Gentle Giants,” an art installation by Raphaelle Cohen-Bacry, is on display at the Adams Square Mini Park Historic Gas Station through October 2.
The installation features tall, hand-formed figures alongside smaller bird-like forms, all created from collaged black paper and painted fragments. Together, the pieces create a playful and imaginative environment for visitors of all ages.
Exhibit Details: Now through October 2, 2026 Adams Square Mini Park Historic Gas Station 1020 E. Palmer Ave. Glendale, CA 91205
The installation is sponsored by the Glendale Arts & Culture Commission, funded by the Urban Art Program, and supported by Glendale Library, Arts & Culture, Glendale Community Services & Parks, and the Adams Hill Neighborhood Association.
Adams Square Mini-Park Playground Replacement Project
 Construction on the Adams Square Mini-Park Playground Replacement Project will now begin in mid-September, with completion anticipated by mid-November 2026.
Construction Timeline: Start: Mid-September 2026 Expected Completion: Mid-November 2026
Funded by Los Angeles County 2016 Measure A.
Central Park Block Project – Construction Begins Early September 2026
Construction at Central Park is set to begin in early September 2026.
The project includes two new playgrounds for children ages 2–5 and 5–12, a splash pad with a recycled water system and underground tank, fitness equipment, a restroom building, a covered amphitheater and stage, several plazas and improved entries, and a great lawn for passive and active recreation. Landscaping will include a net increase of approximately 70 trees and more than 3,000 new shrubs and groundcover plants. The new open space will also accommodate a variety of community events and programming.
Construction is expected to take approximately 24–30 months, with completion projected for late 2028 or early 2029.
Elk Mini-Park Playground Replacement Project
Construction Timeline: Start Date: May 11, 2026 Expected Completion: September 2026
The playground is now expected to be completed by the end of September while the City awaits a required safety component. Once the final components are installed, the playground will undergo the required safety inspection before opening to the public.
Stay tuned for more details about our re‑opening celebration!
Dive Into Summer at Pacific Community Pool
Pacific Community Pool is open year-round. Hours of operation are changing from November-April. Visit GlendaleAquatics.com for current hours of operation, swim lesson times, swim and water polo team information, and general program and registration information.
Registration for summer group and private swim lessons is still available. Please verify your 2026 residency and have a current online MyGlendaleParks.com account before registering. The Glendale Gators swim team and the Glendale Polo Bears water polo team are practicing now. The Fall program will begin in September.
Registration for September group and private swim lessons and teams begins Tuesday, September 1.
Group and private rentals remain available at Pacific Pool.
Visit GlendaleAquatics.com for all the detailed program information. You may also call (818) 937-7433 with any questions.
Details: Registration for September group begins: September 1, 2026
Wander the Wilderness Bus
Skip the drive and enjoy a stress-free trip to nature with our FREE weekend shuttle service. Wander the Wilderness Bus offers easy access to Deukmejian Wilderness Park from convenient neighborhood pick-up locations.
From Fremont Park (new this season!): September 20, 2026
From Pacific Park: September 26, 2026
Whether you’re in the mood for a scenic hike, birdwatching, a relaxing picnic, or a visit to the historic Stone Barn Nature Center, the park has something for everyone!
Buses run every 60 minutes between 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM, so you can plan your visit on your own schedule.
Learn more and view the full schedule at GlendaleCA.gov/WildernessBus.
This program is made possible through funding from Metro, supporting access to outdoor spaces in our community.
Teen Night Out
Teen Night Out (TNO) provides teens with a safe and welcoming space to spend time with friends and enjoy video games, ping pong, karaoke, computer lab access, and light refreshments.
For more information, please contact John Maghaguian at JMaghaguian@GlendaleCA.gov or (818) 937-7247.
Explore more youth and family programs at GlendaleCA.gov/Youth-and-Family. Stay connected by following @MyGlendaleTeens and using #MyGlendaleTeens!
Event Details:
September 11, 18, and 25, 2026 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Pacific Community Center 501 S. Pacific Ave. Glendale, CA 91204
Riverwalk Workday
Spend the morning working next to the Los Angeles River on the city of Glendale’s Riverwalk. We need volunteers to help us remove invasive plants from the landscaped areas along the L.A. River.
Please wear sturdy shoes, protective clothing, and bring water. We’ll provide tools and gloves. Families, individuals, clubs, and students needing community service hours are welcome. In case of rain, this event will be canceled. RSVP required.
Event Details: September 12, 2026 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM Glendale Narrows Riverwalk West Entry 300 Paula Avenue Glendale, CA 91201
Glendale Outdoors! (GO!) Community Program
Explore a new nature theme with an interpretive hike, nature craft, and tour of the Stone Barn Nature Center at Deukmejian Wilderness Park.
Free bus transportation is available from Pacific Park Community Center, departing at 8:30 AM and returning at 12:30 PM. Water and snacks will be provided. Participants may also meet at the park. RSVP is required.
Event Details: September 12, 2026 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Deukmejian Wilderness Park 3429 Markridge Road Glendale, CA 91214
Bus transportation is funded by Metro.
Mental Health Series: Health, Wellness, and Wholeness
Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being with this informative four-month series designed to support health, wellness, and wholeness. Each month will explore an important aspect of mental health, providing helpful information, practical tools, and opportunities to learn and ask questions.
Topics will include Health, Wellness & Wholeness, Depression & Anxiety, Managing Your Medication, and Grief & Loss. Whether you are looking to better understand your own well-being or support someone you care about, this series offers valuable insight and resources to help you navigate life’s challenges.
To RSVP or learn more, email CSPCares@GlendaleCA.gov or call (818) 548-3775.
Event Details: September 15, 2026 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Adult Recreation Center 201 E. Colorado St. Glendale, CA 91205
Parent's Night Out
Drop off the kids and enjoy a night out while they enjoy pizza, fun, friends, and a movie at Sparr Heights Community Center. Participants are encouraged to bring pajamas, a blanket, and a pillow.
The cost is $20 per child for children ages 6–12.
For more information, please call (818) 548-2187.
Event Details: September 18, 2026 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sparr Heights Community Center 1613 Glencoe Way Glendale, CA 91208
Maple Inclusive Play Day
Maple Inclusive Play Day (MIP Day) is a monthly community gathering where children of all abilities can play, connect, and enjoy activities together.
Held on the third Saturday of each month at Maple Park, MIP Day features the park’s Shane’s Inspiration inclusive playground, along with accessible crafts and activities designed with inclusion in mind.
Event Details: September 19, 2026 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Third Saturday of every month Maple Park (Shane’s Inspiration Playground) 820 E. Maple Ave. Glendale, CA 91205
Wilderness Workday
Help with trail repairs, brush clearing, and the removal of invasive plants at Deukmejian Wilderness Park. Please wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing, and bring water. Tools and gloves will be provided.
Families, individuals, clubs, and students seeking community service hours are welcome. RSVP is required. The event will be canceled in case of rain.
Event Details: September 19, 2026 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM Deukmejian Wilderness Park 3429 Markridge Road Glendale, CA 91214
Giant Rummage Sale
Looking for great deals and a chance to support local charities? The National Charity League (NCL), Glendale Chapter, is hosting a Giant Rummage Sale at Pacific Community Center.
The sale will feature a wide selection of gently used items, including bicycles and other sports equipment, household goods, furniture, electronics, musical instruments, and more. It’s an opportunity to find unique items and affordable essentials while supporting local causes.
All proceeds will benefit philanthropies supported by the National Charity League, helping organizations continue their work in the community.
Event Details: September 19, 2026 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Pacific Community Center 501 S. Pacific Ave. Glendale, CA 91204
Pasadena Humane - Fall in Love Adoption Event
Cozy up with a new best friend during the Fall in Love Adoption Event! From September 22–29, adoption fees for all dogs will be just $50, thanks to sponsorship from MetLife.
This fall, make your favorite memories even sweeter by opening your heart and home to a dog ready to fill your days with unconditional love. The perfect pup to share walks, cuddles, and crisp fall days with may be waiting for you!
Event Details: September 22–29, 2026
LA Regional Food Bank
The LA Regional Food Bank will distribute food to seniors 60 and older at the Adult Recreation Center. This program helps provide nutritious food to eligible older adults in our community, ensuring they have access to essential groceries. Participants must meet income guidelines and bring a valid ID. Don’t miss this opportunity to receive food assistance and support your health.
For more information, please call (818) 548-3775.
Event Details: September 22, 2026 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Adult Recreation Center 201 E Colorado St Glendale, CA 91205
Discover Business Accessibility
Learn more about accessibility requirements for businesses at a free online workshop for Glendale small business owners, architects, contractors, and designers. Sponsored by the City of Glendale Building & Safety, the workshop will be presented by Certified Access Specialist John Caprarelli, P.E., CASp, and will cover accessibility laws and other considerations for businesses.
Event Details: September 23, 2026 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM Online
Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
AI Regulations and Applications in California
The City of Glendale is teaming up with the California Employers Association for Glendale Tech Week’s 10th anniversary to discuss AI in the workplace. Learn what businesses should know about California’s evolving AI rules, how AI can be used in the workplace, and how to navigate some of the challenges that come with it.
Event Details: September 23, 2026 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Location to be announced
Youth & Family Services Teen Night Out Presents: “Let’s go to college!”

Join the Youth & Family Services Section for “Let’s go to college!”, an informative evening hosted by Glendale Community College. Teens will have an opportunity to learn more about college and explore their path toward higher education.
For questions or more information, please contact John Maghaguian at JMaghaguian@GlendaleCA.gov or (818) 937-7247.
Event Details: September 25, 2026 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Pacific Community Center 501 S. Pacific Ave. Glendale, CA 91204
Classic Films Under the Stars
The fourth season of Classic Films Under the Stars continues with a free outdoor screening of The Quiet Man on the lawn of the historic Doctors House in Brand Park. Presented by The Alex Film Society, Brand Associates, The Glendale Historical Society, and the Northwest Glendale Homeowners Association, the series brings Hollywood classics to Glendale under the night sky.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the final screening of the season.
Event Details: September 26, 2026 Gates open at 6:00 PM | Movie begins at sundown Brand Park – Doctors House Lawn 1601 W. Mountain St. Glendale, CA 91201
Supported by Glendale Community Services & Parks, the Arts and Culture Commission, and G & C Properties.
Jewel City Concert Series – Free Concerts this Fall
 The Jewel City Concert Series returns this fall with five consecutive Saturdays of free live music at Artsakh Paseo in Glendale’s Downtown Arts & Entertainment District. From September 26 through October 24, performances begin at 5:00 PM each Saturday and feature a mix of musical styles.
Concert Lineup:
- September 26 – String Harmonies | Armenian
- October 3 – The Prairie Moons | Western Swing/Honky-Tonk
- October 10 – Voz Bohemia | Bolero
- October 17 – YOUNGTONES | Soul/Retro-Pop
- October 24 – Rootful | Reggae, Latin and Funk
All performances are free and open to the public. Attendees are welcome to bring their own chairs, as seating is not provided. Performances run approximately 60 minutes without intermission.
Event Details: Saturdays, September 26 – October 24, 2026 5:00 PM Artsakh Paseo 127 Artsakh Ave. Glendale, CA 91206
Presented by the City of Glendale Library, Arts & Culture Department, and sponsored by the Arts & Culture Commission through funding from the Urban Art Program.
47th Annual Montrose Oktoberfest
The 47th Annual Montrose Oktoberfest returns to the heart of Montrose with a full day of food, live music, dancing, rides, games, and family-friendly activities along Honolulu Avenue.
Presented by the Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce and supported by Babaians Law Firm, the annual event brings families, friends, neighbors, and visitors together for a community tradition featuring Oktoberfest favorites, live entertainment, the Stein Holding Contest, a Ferris wheel, and more.
Event Details: October 3, 2026 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM 2200–2400 blocks of Honolulu Ave. Glendale, CA 91020
Community Health Fair
USC Verdugo Hills Hospital is hosting a free Community Health Fair featuring health services, educational resources, and activities for the whole family.
The event will include free flu vaccines, health screenings, educational resources, kids’ activities, and on-site food vendors.
Event Details: Saturday, October 3, 2026 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM USC Verdugo Hills Hospital
Verdugo Jobs Center
The Verdugo Jobs Center (VJC) is here to help you reach your career goals. Whether you’re looking for your first job, your next opportunity, or a new career, VJC offers a variety of services to support your job search.
Meet with a case manager who can guide you through career exploration, help with immediate job placement, or connect you with opportunities to build your skills and prepare for a new career.
Contact VJC at (818) 937-8000, or visit us online at VerdugoWorks.com to start the process.
You are invited to GYA's 33rd Annual Luncheon & Award Ceremony!
The Glendale Youth Alliance (GYA) will celebrate 33 years of supporting local youth at its Annual Luncheon & Award Ceremony. Last year, GYA served more than 400 young people facing housing insecurity, financial hardship, and other barriers to success.
This year’s honorees include Burbank Animal Shelter, Robert Messler, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles, Taguhi Sogomonyan, Matthew Binder, and Glendale Water & Power, recognized for their support of youth and the community.
To RSVP, please visit our website GlendaleYouthAlliance.com, or call 818-937-8021, or email ADuzdabanyan@GlendaleCA.gov.
Event Details: October 21, 2026 Vertigo Event Venue 400 W. Glenoaks Blvd. Glendale, CA 91202
11th Annual Brain Health Forum
The 11th Annual Brain Health Forum, hosted by USC Verdugo Hills Hospital in collaboration with the USC Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, will offer a free online opportunity to learn more about brain health and cognitive wellness.
The educational forum will cover memory, brain health, cognitive wellness, and the latest information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, including ways to recognize early signs of cognitive decline.
Event Details: November 14, 2026 9:00 AM – 12:15 PM Zoom Webinar
15th Annual Glendale Health Festival
The Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS) will host the 15th Annual Glendale Health Festival, bringing together healthcare providers, wellness organizations, community resources, and residents for a day focused on health education, preventive care, and community wellness.
Attendees will have an opportunity to connect with healthcare and wellness organizations and learn about resources available to support their health and well-being.
Event Details: November 14, 2026 9:00 AM Pacific Community Center 501 S. Pacific Ave. Glendale, CA 91204
Get Your Business on the Visit Glendale App
If your business is not yet on the Visit Glendale App, now is a great time to get listed. Adding your business is free and can help connect you with local residents and visitors.
Visitors will be looking for places to dine, shop, and explore throughout Glendale. A listing on the Visit Glendale App makes it easier for them to discover your business and what you have to offer.
To get started, download the app and select the “Biz Submission” option or click here.
Scheduling a Bulky Item Pickup for Summer Move-Outs
Getting rid of old furniture, appliances, or other bulky items? Glendale residents can schedule a bulky item pickup; see the requirements below!
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Property Type:
- 1 to 4 Units: Service is requested directly through the City at GlendaleRecycles.com or by calling (818) 548-3916.
- 5+ Units (Apartments & Condos): Service is requested through the property manager to coordinate service with the property’s designated commercial waste hauler.
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Items Must Be Placed on Public Property: All materials must be set out on public property (such as the curb or parkway) for collection. Items left on private property (porches, driveways, or side yards) will not be picked up.
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Accepted Items Only:
- Appliances: Air conditioners, dishwashers, dryers, small freezers, stoves, toilets, etc.
- Electronics: Coffee makers, computer monitors, lamps, microwaves, printers, etc.
- Furniture: Bookshelves, chairs, desks, and mattresses/box springs (must be wrapped in plastic or sealed in a mattress bag).
- Glass Cabinets: Accepted only if the glass is completely shrink-wrapped or protected with cardboard. (Note: The City cannot collect loose or bulk glass, such as window panes or construction debris).
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Pickup Must Be Scheduled 3 Business Days in Advance: Requests must be made at least 3 business days before the regular scheduled collection day.
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Unaccepted Items: If an item isn't eligible for City pickup, residents can donate it to a local donation center or nonprofit at earth911.com.
Stay Connected!
   
This is an official publication of the City of Glendale, distributed by the Communications Office. For inquiries, please contact City Connection Editor at Communications@GlendaleCA.gov or (818) 548-4844 Opt.1.
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