Southernmost Illinois

Barbecue aficionados have long known the trip to Murphysboro, Illinois, is more than worth it. The small town hosts a barbecue cook-off every year and is perhaps the only town in the country with two Barbecue Hall of Famers. In addition to the BBQ history, experience a booming craft beer movement that is vibrant and exciting.

Beer & BBQ: Murphysboro, BBQ Capital of Illinois

"Praise the Lard." Head to Murphysboro in mid-September for a journey of BBQ sights, smells, & tastes

Each September, Murphysboro draws BBQ experts from around the world to test themselves against the best in barbecue at the annual Praise the Lard Murphysboro BBQ Cook-Off to qualify for a spot in the World Food Championships.

Almost 100 teams compete for the title. The cook-off also features a steak competition, bloody mary contest, a kids' 'que, and a fish fry. After a long day of BBQ, enjoy live music each night.

Whether your're a competitor, judge, volunteer or bbq fan, it's time to schedule your journey to Murphysboro to join this year's barbecue cook-off.

Plan your trip to "Praise the Lard" Murphysboro BBQ Cook-Off

The Murphysboro Annual BBQ Cook-Off

Murphysboro isn’t just the Illinois BBQ capital, it’s also home to the delightfully under-the-radar Big Muddy Brewing. The latter offers the Pumpkin Smasher, made with real pumpkins and savory pumpkin pie spices; the Big Muddy Monster, a cross between an American brown ale and IPA; and the Saluki Dunkeldog, which fuses an American amber with a German dunkel and a hint of chocolate roast. 

The Big Muddy Brewery started strictly as a supplier and, as such, has an industrial feel. As a matter of fact, it's in a Murphysboro industrial park, but they do offer tours and tastings:  Brewery Taproom Hours: 
Friday 4-10pm  Saturday & Sunday 12 - 7pm

They also have a patio area out back and usually have a game of bags (cornhole, toss back, etc.) going when the weather is nice.  You can order food from Pat's Bbq and have it delivered while you enjoy craft beer. 

Big Muddy Brewing

Local craft brew, serving what is made onsite

You'll love the feel of this hometown pub! From the stamped metal ceiling to the old cash register, it has a very comfortable feel to it. Great atmosphere and always friends around, where every brew in Molly’s Pint is made on site.

There is a focus on European style ales and lagers, but Molly's Pint creates a variety of seasonal beers throughout the year. The root beer is a must-try, along with any seasonal brew they have on tap when you stop in.

A fun place to relax and visit.  Game night every Wednesday, music on most weekends, and a 'PintsnPaint' party once a month. 

Molly's Pint Brewpub

Local Libations: all produced within 70 miles of Murphysboro and most within 15 miles of the taproom

Offering local beer, wine, and spirits, Brews Brothers Taproom boasts a dozen beers on tap, a large selection of wine, and authentic moonshine cocktails. 

You'll find indoor and outdoor seating, with live music and an occasional street dance. They don't serve food, so if you haven't already visited a BBQ joint, you can order from one and bring it in! 

A map on the wall shows all the local and regional breweries, distilleries and wineries featured in the Brews Brothers Taproom. Beers from the likes of Murphysboro’s first production brewery since Prohibition, Big Muddy Brewing, Ava’s Scratch Brewing Co., and Carbondale’s Grand River Spirits are also featured prominently, along with a cocktail menu designed specifically for Brews Brothers and this true corn-mash moonshine.

Great wall of old beer cans on display at Brews Brothers Taproom. 

Brews Brothers Taproom

A legend in the barbecue world, pitmaster Mike Mills is in the Barbecue Hall of Fame.

Known as the winningest team in barbecue!

In the early 1990s, Pitmaster Mike Mills was co-captain of the Apple City Barbecue team, one of the most celebrated teams ever on the circuit. He is a four-time World Champion and three-time Grand World Champion at Memphis in May, otherwise known as the Super Bowl of Swine. He is also the 1992 Grand Champion of the Jack Daniel’s World Invitational Barbecue Cooking Contest and he won the Jack Daniel’s Sauce Contest that year as well.

You'll find a wide variety of smoked meats on 17th Street's menu, from brisket and sausage to turkey and chicken. They're all worth your time. Any first visit requires an order of baby back ribs. Crusted with a complex spice rub the restaurant dubs "magic dust" and lightly drizzled with a thin sauce, the ribs are tender, smoky and, most of all, juicy — much closer to the texture of a well-marbled steak than, say, a long-braised pot roast. Each morsel of meat exudes a rich pork flavor with a hint of applewood smoke (the preferred wood of 17th Street).

A close second to the ribs is the chopped pork. Notice it's not "pulled." Instead of cooking the pork until stringy, the pork shoulder is left juicier and then chopped to bits with a cleaver. While the menu's regular chopped pork sandwich is a winner anytime,  visit on a Sunday and you're in real luck. Once a week, 17th Street smokes a whole hog, and the impossibly juicy meat tastes like concentrated pork essence. It's hard to imagine barbecue getting any better than this. Make sure to visit on a Sunday for lunch, and don't be late. By 3 p.m., the meat is usually gone.

17th Street BBQ

BBQ doesn't get any better than this; you don't want to miss this place!

Pat Burke has won more barbecue titles and championships than any living person. He formed Apple City Barbecue in 1989 with his friend and fellow Hall of Fame member, Mike Mills, and the team immediately excelled. They won a trophy at their first barbecue contest and went on to become one of the most celebrated teams ever on the barbecue circuit. Pat’s pitmaster skills span more than 25 years with Apple City Barbecue and his family team, Tower Rock BBQ. 


Patty Welten, Pat Burke’s daughter and manager of Pat’s BBQ said the pulled pork, the beef brisket and the pork steak are the biggest sellers.

All orders are prepared at a hot table in front of you, so you know where it comes from. Everything is made fresh and nothing is frozen. From the pork shoulder, to salmon during Lent, green beans, mac and cheese or corned beef, everything is smoked.

“If it’s coming out of here, it’s coming with smoke on it,” says Patty. “We have a tiny oven for potatoes and cobblers, and everything else runs through the smoker.”

The ribs are moist with just the right amount of smoke, and they are fall-off-the-bone tender. The pulled pork and beef brisket are moist and delicious, and if you order the rib tips, just dig in with your hands, they are a bit messy with a wonderful tangy sweet flavor. Try several sides you will love them all. The grilled green beans are some of the best, and the smoked mac and cheese took on just the right amount of smoke without overpowering the creamy goodness.

Pat’s BBQ is on far north 14th Street at the corner of Industrial Park. They are open Tuesday through Saturday, and be sure to bring cash. They don’t take cards, but an ATM is on the premises.

Pat's BBQ and Catering

Things to do in Shawnee Forest Country of Southernmost Illinois

With its breathtaking natural beauty and unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation, a trip to Giant City State Park is sure to delight visitors of all ages. From camping and horseback riding to fishing and rappelling, it's an outdoor lover's paradise. Visitors will marvel at the many hiking trails. Especially popular is the Giant City Nature Trail, home of the "Giant City Streets" - huge bluffs of sandstone formed 12,000 years ago.

Makanda, Gateway to Giant City and Outdoor Adventure

Explore the Shawnee National Forest and enjoy the largest, most diverse natural treasure in Illinois. Major highways head to southern Illinois where you will find some of the most beautiful scenery in the midwest, if you are willing to explore the backroads!  This adventure is just the 'tip of the rock formation' to get you started in Shawnee Forest Country!

Hike Near Harrisburg: Gateway to Shawnee National Forest

Hidden away in Southern Illinois is one of nature's masterpieces. Stroll the boardwalks, hike or take a canoe or kayak through  the mysterious Cache River Wetlands, one of only 15 "Wetlands of International Importance."

The Cache River Wetlands: Illinois' Hidden Bayou

No need to stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to!    These Waterfall sites are best when there has been a lot of rain in the area.  So, don't be afraid of getting a little wet, just be prepared and be careful!

Go Chasing Waterfalls – Shawnee Forest Country

Take a driving/walking/sampling tour of the Eastern side of the Shawnee National Forest.

Shawnee  Forest - Eastern Loop Tour

The southern tip of Illinois is one of the most established wine regions in the Midwest, featuring award-winning wineries along a 40-mile trail through the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is composed of eleven unique wineries, each offering their own individual style and winemaking techniques that make your journey a pleasant adventure through the hills of southern Illinois.

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Well, what to we have beer?  Fancy a pint, a stein or a mug?  Explore your options in craft breweries in Shawnee Forest Country of Southernmost Illinois. Hop to it, and explore the tastes of the region.

Southern Illinois Beer Here!

Take a 188 mile scenic drive along the Ohio River Scenic Byway in southern Illinois.  Stop at sites with rich historic heritage and enjoy the spectacular Shawnee National Forest, and the beautiful Ohio River. The scenic drive meanders along the Ohio River in Southernmost Illinois.  The Byway winds from the Wabash Bridge at the Indiana border south along the Ohio River before it reaches the Mississippi River at Cairo.  A unique travel experience awaits you along the byway’s 188 miles.

Ohio River Scenic Byway - Shawnee Forest Country

Stop and smell the roses, or in this case, the zinnias, sunflowers, lavender and peonies and enjoy the summer and fall harvests along the way!

Flowers, Farms and Fun!

Small town fun with some pretty unique finds and great places for #SuperSelfie Stops!

Metropolis, IL - #SuperSelfie places to visit

History buffs will love a visit to Old Shawneetown!

Walk down the sidewalks and see parts of old foundations of buildings that no longer stand. See the old hitching posts along Main Street that are still waiting for horses to be tied up. You will also see landmarks where General John A Logan was married as well as the first newspaper in the state, also located on Main Street.  Old Shawneetown is no ordinary town, the town is saturated in the history of its flood waters, historic politicians, banking history, and many other stories that have never been told.

Travel down to Old Shawneetown

Explore all of our guides 

Things to do

A must-see location featured on the Illinois quarter.

Garden of the Gods Recreation area

Hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and a life-size bronze statue of the Shawnee Chief Tecumseh

Glen O Jones Lake and Tecumseh Statue

Deep inside the Shawnee National forest, southeast of Harrisburg, you'll come face-to-face with this face

Stone Face Trail

A favorite for photographers, this fall is 35 feet from top to bottom, but in beautiful surroundings.

Burden Falls Wilderness

Explore the wonders of Shawnee Forest Country

The Great Outdoors 

Uncork the good life at Von Jakob Winery & Brewery, Southern Illinois' only Winery and Brewery

Von Jakob Winery & Brewery

House-brewed beers served with tavern eats & growlers to go at this historic St. Nicholas Hotel spot.

St. Nicholas Brewing Company

Come experience beer in the woods at one of the world’s greatest places to drink beer outside

Scratch Brewing Company

A winery and cidery on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Owl Creek Vineyard

Family-owned vineyard and winery offers the unique flavors of Southern Illinois wine

Alto Vineyards

The romance of Italy in the hills of Southern Illinois

Blue Sky Vineyard

Specializing in wine made from locally grown fruits

Pomona Winery

Local culinary gems 

Food & Drink 

U-pick lavender farm offers several varieties from late May to early June.

Shawnee Hills Lavender Farm

Metropolis is nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, a wealth of fun and exciting things to do.

Metropolis: Home of Illinois' first park

13,000 Cherokees crossed the Ohio River at Golconda by ferry as part of the 'Trail of Tears' to Oklahoma

Golconda: River Crossing point-Trail of Tears

Outstanding peony farm grows 10 different varieties on 12 acres.  Blooms and flowers in April to May.

Peony Hill Farm

Open daily, mid June to October 31, family fun activities on the farm, flower fields and fresh produce

Rendleman Orchards

A Fun And Fuzzy Adventure. Get up close and personal with these adorable creatures

Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch

Saddle up for trail rides with experienced wranglers through private trails

Giant City Stables

Come learn about our tupelo-cypress swamps, hardwood forests, limestone glades and sandstone bluff.

The Cache River Wetlands Center

Hike Wildcat Bluff for the soaring views, natural beauty, and up-close-and-personal bird watching.

Wildcat Bluff

One of the most beautiful recreation areas the Shawnee National Forest has to offer.

Bell Smith Springs

Enjoy the breeze zipping through the trees!

Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour

Over the river and through the woods to the cypress swamp we go.

Heron Pond Trail

For more than 100 years, this park has been known as an outstanding natural scenic spot.

Bork’s Waterfall at Ferne Clyffe State Park

An abundance of waterfalls, But this area is rugged and requires very special attention

Bulge Hole Ecological Area

A wilderness with many trails, bluffs and sights worth exploring

Burden Falls

Looking for ATV/OHV trails?  Williams Hill Pass is the place for you!

Williams Hill Pass

Find the best experiences near you

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Plan your spring break family fun in Chicago! Check it out on the Choose Chicago channel on Vamonde.

Choose Chicago

Plan a family getaway the kids won't soon forget!

Spring Break Family Fun

Explore some of the locations of the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s with this VAMONDE adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues."

Chicago History Museum

Explore some of the locations of the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s with this VAMONDE adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues." Southern black migrants brought the blues to Chicago, where the music helped them forge connections and transform an unfamiliar, often inhospitable city into a new home. The music was also transformed—electrified and amplified to compete with urban noise. The photography of Raeburn Flerlage captures the streets, clubs, homes, and studios where a community of musicians defined the Chicago blues sound.

AMPLIFIED: Chicago Blues

From a 20th century resurgence that rivaled the Harlem Renaissance, to spectacular displays of Victorian Era architecture, this South Side neighborhood is responsible for tremendous cultural and social advances that are not to be missed.

The heart and soul of Chicago lies in its 77 vibrant neighborhoods, and going beyond the loop (Chicago’s downtown business district) will give you a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the skyscraper district. As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to explore the local hotspots in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. Discover why Bronzeville is more than just an artsy pocket on the South Side.

Bronzeville and Beyond

"How can I possibly be expected to handle school on a day like this?" We've all been there, even if we're not Ferris Bueller. After your mornings stretch, you look outside at the shining sun, soft breeze, and then wonder, "How can anyone expect me to handle work on a day like this?" So take the day off! While you're at it, follow in Ferris Bueller's footsteps too as Choose Chicago takes you through the film locations that made Ferris Bueller's Day Off such a wonderful adventure (but make sure Ed Rooney isn't on your tail).

It’s Ferris Bueller's Day Off! Take a day to explore the city, but don't get caught by the incredulous Principal Rooney! Kick it like a couple of wise-cracking high school kids at The Art Institute of Chicago and peer down from over 100 stories in the air with the Skydeck at Willis Tower. (Cover photo from @thiswashollywood via Instagram)

Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Chicago’s legendary Second City comedy troupe and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to create the quintessential Old Town experience. Join us as we explore the historic neighborhood and discover its many claims to fame.

As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to create the quintessential Old Town experience. Discover why this neighborhood has been home to immigrant families, gays, hippies and young professionals alike over the years.

Quintessential Old Town

The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company team up with Choose Chicago to how you why even 120 years after the Columbian Exposition, Hyde Park is still a profound point of historical and social importance in Chicago.

The heart and soul of Chicago lies in its 77 vibrant neighborhoods, and going beyond the loop (Chicago’s downtown business district) will give you a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the skyscraper district. As part of the Beyond the Loop video series, The Second City and Goose Island Beer Company have teamed up with Choose Chicago to explore the local hotspots in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. Join us as we show you why even 120 years after the Columbian Exposition, Hyde Park is still a profound point of historical and social importance in Chicago.

Hyde Park: Obama's Neighborhood

The Budget Savvy Travelers

Temperatures are rising and the days are getting longer. This is a sure sign that schools will soon be out for summer vacation. Families looking for fun, affordable ways to keep kids busy during hot days will appreciate this guide that shares some great ways to cool off around Chicago—most are even free.

Best Places to Cool Off in Chicago

Craving a getaway, but short on vacation time or extra travel funds? Why not consider embarking on a culinary adventure? Chicago is a great city to experience the world through food! There are over 100 different neighborhoods in the city, each with its own unique flavors and traditions to share. Chicago has always celebrated a diverse array of people, cultures, and cuisines. Therefore, it's not surprising that Chicago consistently ranks high in top foodie destinations in the United States. For those of us that can’t book a plane ticket to satisfy our travel “craving,” taking a culinary adventure is truly the next best thing. Chicago offers a great opportunity to be carried away to a dreamy, distant place–if only through our palates alone.

Traveling the World Through Food | Chicago

Haley Guidry

Only have a short time to visit Chicago? No problem! With this guide, you can fit it all in - in just a weekend!

Spending a Weekend in Chicago

Looking for some free activities to explore in Chicago? You'll be surprised to learn that there are many things to do around the city that are absolutely free of charge!

6 Chicago Hidden Gems to Explore For Free

Wrigley Field holds the very identity of the Chicago Cubs. But Wrigley isn’t the only spot that embodies the spirit of the Cubbies. Lakeview is home to so many rich businesses that are full of North side pride!

Lakeview Chamber of Commerce

Wrigleyville isn’t the only haven for fans of the Chicago Cubs. Take an adventure “Beyond Wrigley” into West Lakeview to explore some of the neighborhood icons and local businesses that are full of Cubbies pride!

Beyond Wrigley

Glessner House

Glessner House -

An architectural treasure in Chicago

Glessner House - An architectural treasure in Chicago

Welcome to the Chicago Cultural Center, a landmark home of the arts.

The People's Palace

CAC Open House

Chicago has long been a laboratory for architectural innovation and experimentation. Let the Chicago Architecture Center lead you through the stories behind some of the city’s most significant skyscrapers. Come on an adventure to unlock the secrets of 10 iconic Chicago Buildings.

Cover photo courtesy of Jessica Cabe

10 Iconic Chicago Buildings

Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

An Adventure through all the Best Spots in the City

Must Visit Attractions in Chicago

Chicago has one of the most iconic skylines in the world. This insider guide shows you the best vantage points to capture a memorable photo of the skyline of Chicago. Best of all? These are all places that you can visit that are all free of charge.

Where to Find Chicago's Best Skyline Views for Free

Start on Chicago's South Side and travel back in time as you explore visit the homes of some of the most influential LGBTQ+ people in the city's vibrant history. Make your way through Washington Park and Woodlawn moving north towards Rogers Park.

Learn about Chicago's vibrant LGBTQ+ history on this cultural excursion through various parts of the City. This tour covers the historic markers and residences of some of Chicago's top LGBTQ+ luminaries. Find out how they left their marks from Washington Park and Woodlawn all the way up north to Rogers Park.

Explore Gay Chicago History: LGBTQ+ Landmarks Tour

Around every corner of The Magnificent Mile lie surprising pieces that make up the rich history of downtown Chicago.

The Magnificent Mile

Around every corner of The Magnificent Mile lie surprising pieces that make up the rich history of downtown Chicago. Unexpected turn-of-the-century ballrooms, lavish chandeliers, stained glass fit for royalty, atlases of the Renaissance, former mansions of America's elite, eclectic bars, iconic burger joints, classic cocktails, and unbeatable views make up our guide to the top hidden gems around the district.

The Magnificent Mile's Hidden Gems

Chicago is a city built of neighborhoods and cultures and Chinatown is the prime example. Just south of Chicago's Loop, Chinatown is bustling with people, traditional cuisine, and of course culture.

Chicago is a city built of neighborhoods and cultures and Chinatown is the prime example. Just south of Chicago's Loop, Chinatown is bustling with people, traditional cuisine, and of course culture. Hop on the Red Line, a bus, or even a water taxi and discover one of Chicago's most unique neighborhoods.

Chicago's Chinatown

This adventure, based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "Remembering Dr. King: 1929–1968," invites you to explore some of the locations Dr. King frequented in Chicago.

A Baptist minister and champion of nonviolent activism, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential figures of the civil rights movement. He spent considerable time in Chicago protesting racial discrimination, particularly in housing and education.
This VAMONDE adventure is based on the Chicago History Museum exhibition, "Remembering Dr. King: 1929-1968," and invites you to explore in person some of the locations King frequented in the city and to consider how Dr. King’s work remains relevant today, 50 years after his assassination.

Martin Luther King Jr. in Chicago

Join Julia Bachrach, former Chicago Park District historian, on a journey through Humboldt Park to learn more about the role the 150-year-old park served as key experimental grounds for Jens Jensen's Prairie style of landscape architecture.

Julia Bachrach

Established 150 years ago, Humboldt Park can be thought of as a living landmark with layers of history that reflect contributions by important landscape designers, architects, and artists. The most noteworthy, Danish immigrant Jens Jensen (1860 – 1951), revered the indigenous scenery of the Midwest and created the Prairie style of landscape architecture. Humboldt Park provided important grounds for his process of experimentation. Jensen went on to design estates for prominent businessmen such as Julius Rosenwald, Harold Florsheim, and Henry Ford. Join Julia Bachrach, former Chicago Park District historian and author of "The City in a Garden: A History of Chicago’s Parks," on a journey to learn more about how Humboldt Park served as Jens Jensen’s Experimental Grounds.

Humboldt Park: Jens Jensen’s Experimental Grounds

The Art Institute of Chicago is no stranger to "best museums” list, but beyond Michigan Avenue there are many amazing galleries displaying works from heavy hitters like Keith Haring and Hebru Brantley. Get inspired by these galleries and their collections

Chicago Scene

Chicago is home to countless world renowned cultural institutions. The Art Institute of Chicago is no stranger to "best museums” list, but beyond Michigan Avenue there are many amazing galleries displaying works from heavy hitters like Keith Haring and Hebru Brantley. There’s something for everyone at these galleries, whether you’re simply an appreciator of art or a seasoned collector.

Art Galleries: Beyond The Museum Campus

Not your everyday Chicago adventure, these unique outings go inside, behind-the-scenes, and even underground to show off a different side of the city.

VAMONDE

From the lair of a notorious Chicago gangster to the infectious groove of a legendary blues club, this adventure will have you socializing, singing, and exploring the city all day (and night!) long. Personally curated by the Vamonde team (a group of foodies, architecture buffs, music fanatics and bar-hopping explorers) this adventure will provide you with the incredible stories and secrets behind some of Chicago’s notorious and renowned spots. Did we mention gingerbread cookies at the Waldorf Astoria?

A Chicago Insider’s Adventure

Join the American Writers Museum on a journey through Chicago's neighborhoods to learn the fascinating stories of some of the city's literary landmarks.

American Writers Museum

Join the American Writers Museum on a journey through Chicago's neighborhoods to learn the fascinating stories of some of the city's literary landmarks. A special adventure created in honor of the 2017 American Library Association Annual Exhibition and Conference.

Chicago Literary Landmarks Hunt

Photojournalist Paul Natkin captures his love for music through the lens of his camera and has worked with the biggest names in music during his 40-year career. Paul speaks with blues experts to help you explore Chicago’s blues scene past and present.

Paul Natkin

Photojournalist Paul Natkin captures his love for music through the lens of his camera and has worked with the biggest names in music during his 40-year career. In this adventure,  Paul goes beyond the Chicago Blues Festival to speak with blues experts to help you explore Chicago’s blues scene past and present.

Beyond the Blues

Choose Chicago® is the official destination marketing organization for Chicago, Illinois. When you’re in Chicago, you’re home. With the countless experiences there are to have here, you're absolutely welcome to do any and all of them.

Beer & BBQ: Murphysboro, BBQ Capital of Illinois

The Murphysboro Annual BBQ Cook-Off

The Murphysboro Annual BBQ Cook-Off

Big Muddy Brewing

Big Muddy Brewing

Molly's Pint Brewpub

Molly's Pint Brewpub

Brews Brothers Taproom

Brews Brothers Taproom

17th Street BBQ

17th Street BBQ

Pat's BBQ and Catering

Pat's BBQ and Catering

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