The History of Branson - A Mountain Fun Hotspot
Neil Sawford • August 1, 2022
Branson was founded in 1903 by men who envisioned an industrial center in the Ozarks that would take trainloads of logs, lumber, and many other manufactured products. This allows Branson to generate a steady income for many locals.
Today, as many theaters, motels, shopping malls, and restaurants were built throughout the surrounding hills, Branson is experiencing an industrial boom that many residents and visitors alike are now enjoying. Visitors to this now-popular Midwest vacation destination enjoy not only exciting entertainment shows but also other new and exciting attractions as well. The Branson Mountain Coaster is one of the new attractions in the area today that is popular for locals and visitors alike.
Branson had only about 1,200 residents when it was incorporated in April 1912. The idea of making Branson a resort town began immediately after a short period by establishing a commercial ice plant, a soft drink bottling company, a candy factory, and an ice cream factory near the lakeside.
The Commercial, Branson, and Malone were the only hotels in Branson at the time–which Malone renamed the White River Hotel in 1937. These hotels cater to tourists, and nearby establishments and businesses were encouraged to stack logs, lumber, and bricks for residents to make their homes appear more comfortable and durable.
Hobart McCarter, who built the first vacation cabins in Branson - the Sammy Lane Resort - just across the Main Street bridge, established a gasoline business and boat factory on the waterfront to serve passengers up and down the lake. The cabins were built on stilts and anchored with cables to keep them safe from floods.
In 1914, the women of Branson who worked in and helped run family businesses formed a Civic League. They began a decades-long effort to beautify the streets, establish parks, and improve the quality of life in their respective communities.
The league paid off the debt on the old community building and provided the area with the materials needed to construct a new community building in 1936. The town was then provided a well-equipped municipal bathing beach and campground on Lake Taneycomo due to community celebrations.
Lake Taneycomo rose to prominence in the 1930s as a low-cost vacation destination easily accessible by car or train from nearby towns. Visitors attracted by parades, street fairs, community activities, boat races, and enjoyment of the scenic views of the lakes and hills helped Branson businesses survive the Great Depression.
After WWII, many artists, craftsmen, artisans, retired servicemen, and war industry workers returned to Branson, including Steve Miller. In the summer of 1949, he and businessman Joe Todd proposed erecting a large lighted Adoration Scene on Mount Branson's bluff across Lake Taneycomo from downtown Branson. With the unselfish assistance of the local carpenters, the crèche scene's figure that stood 28 feet tall was erected for lighting on the first Sunday in front of thousands of dumbfounded visitors.
Every year since 1953, a large crowd has gathered to witness the lighting. With the addition of the Adoration Parade to the lighting ceremonies, the sponsoring Chamber of Commerce assisted in establishing pet parades, Santa Claus parades, and costume competitions in Branson. Today, the traditions attract crowds of up to 30,000 people.
Table Rock Dam construction began after the first Adoration Parade and lasted until the late 1950s. After the dam's completion in 1959, and the water level returned to its expected average, many Branson residents were relieved that the floods were no longer a threat. Tourism in the area has started to grow in numbers to take a glimpse of the spectacular newly built dam and the big lake, the famous Silver Dollar City, and the Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead & Old Mill Theater.
Resorts near Branson encouraged their guests to go fishing, visit new attractions, or participate in other exciting water activities. Visitors avoid swimming in Lake Taneycomo because it has become too cold to swim in due to being fed by the deep cold waters of Table Rock Lake. Many businesses that had sprouted up around Lake Taneycomo had begun to cater to the growing number of tourists.
When tourism in Branson began to boom in 1960, the Missouri Pacific ceased all passenger service on its White River Line. With so many visitors arriving by car, traffic on the winding U.S. 65 to Springfield frequently slowed travel to Branson. Dynamite crews and earth-moving equipment helped create a new route through the limestone hills between Springfield and Branson to shorten the 75-mile route to 40 miles. The thrilling adventure ride on the Branson mountain coaster could be the next thing visitors will enjoy in the coming years.
Branson residents have worked hard to transform the city into a prosperous industrial city to attract vacationers. Today, many visitors come not only to enjoy world-class entertainment shows and exciting attractions but also to enjoy many entertaining rides, such as the Branson Mountain Coaster.
Anyone visiting Branson will discover numerous excellent pizza restaurants to choose from. Whether you're gluten-intolerant, vegetarian, or a meat-lover, you'll find something delicious here! Below are some of the best pizza restaurants in Branson to visit after a thrilling ride on the Branson mo roller coaster. Rocco's New York Style Pizza Rocco's New York Style Pizza serves up metropolitan-style fare like pizza, sandwiches, calzones, and salads in a unique setting. Garlic knots are popular, and specialties such as lasagna and penne Palermo are available. To ensure that customers receive the freshest vegetables available, this pizza shop selects and cuts them throughout the day. The shop also shreds all fresh Mozzarella instead of buying pre-shredded "cheese products" high in preservatives and additives. Mr. G's Chicago Pizza Mr. G's Chicago Pizza has been serving Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas since 1992, and it also serves salads, sandwiches, and pasta portions. Mr. G's, located just around the corner from Historic Downtown Branson, has been a favorite lunch and supper spot for the entire family for more than 20 years. The shop uses traditional Italian or unusual toppings on a deep-dish or thin crust, such as chicken, ranch sauce, or roast beef. This lovely pizza parlor is the ideal place to unwind not only after an exciting Flyaway Zipline Ride but also after a thrilling ride on the Branson Mo roller coaster. Cicis Pizza Cicis Pizza, located at 76 Country Blvd. in Branson, offers pan pizzas, loaded crusts, flatbreads, pasta, salad, soup, and more. At Cicis, you'll find an endless variety of delectable Pizzas. All served hot and fresh right out of the oven. From traditional and pan pizzas to flatbreads and stuffed crust, Cicis Unlimited Pizza Buffet has something for everyone. This pizza restaurant enjoys providing you and your family with new, money-saving discounts on all of your favorite Cicis menu items, such as our delectable Pizza, Pasta, Salads, and Desserts. Choose from any of these deals at any Cicis Unlimited Pizza location, where Carryout, Curbside Pickup, or Contactless Delivery are available. Cicis Pizza is a great place to eat after an exciting adventure ride on the Branson mo roller coaster. Parmesan's Pizzeria Parmesan's Pizzeria serves dine-in, carryout, and delivery in Kimberling City, just outside of Branson. This pizza parlor serves traditional pizza toppings and pineapple, mandarin oranges, BBQ chicken, cilantro, refried beans, Swiss cheese, and even spaghetti and meatballs, which are available on gourmet deluxe pizzas. Parmesan's Pizzeria serves delicious fresh pizza, subs, calzones, salads, and pasta plates. It offers fresh-baked bread, pizza dough, pizza, pasta sauces, and House and Caesar salad dressings. Hook & Ladder Pizza Co. This firehouse-themed pizzeria in nearby Hollister serves hand-tossed pies made to your specifications. The Hook & Ladder Pizza Co. makes all of its crusts and sauces from scratch every day. It has calzones, subs, spaghetti, soups, salads, and daily specials, which are also available. Moreover, they offer takeout as well as online ordering through Uber Eats. They make all of the crusts and sauces from scratch each morning using their secret recipes. The shop uses only the highest quality ingredients to provide an unforgettable pizza experience. The staff is also volunteer firefighters, and they would like to encourage everyone to find out how they can help their local fire department. Pizza by the Chef Just a few miles from Branson, Pizza by the Chef in Branson West serves gourmet pizza, salads, and sandwiches (or a phone call if you prefer delivery). Since 1992, Pizza by the Chef has been serving high-quality pizzas baked in a classic brick-lined deck oven with fresh dough and sauce every day. Hand-tossed pizzas, sandwiches, and salads are made with only the finest ingredients. Pizza dough and sauce are made on-site every day. Each dough is thrown by hand, and the sub rolls are made from scratch every day. The vegetables are never frozen and are always prepared from scratch. Ozark Mountain Pizza Ozark Mountain Pizza will deliver some of Branson's best Italian food right to your door! The Branson West pizzeria specializes in delectable pasta and pizza dishes, both traditional and unique. To tempt your taste buds, salads, sandwiches, meats, and seafood specials are also available at Ozark Mountain Pizza. Ozark Mountain Pizza is your premium pizza destination, offering fresh ingredients, classic recipes, and exceptional service. Traditional pizza toppings are available and a more upscale gourmet menu. With various bargains to choose from, you can treat the entire family to a tasty, cheap, and easy lunch at home or out on the town. After an exciting ride adventure on the Branson mo roller coaster, these top pizza restaurants are some of the best dining spots to hang out with the entire family.
Seasonal Splendor: Experiencing Branson's Year Round Charm
Best Branson Outdoor Activities Not only is Branson well-known for its top-notch live performances, but it is also well-known for its abundance of outdoor activities. Summer fun activities on land and in the water are always popular among visitors enjoying a fantastic vacation in the Ozarks. An exciting adventure ride on the mountain coaster in Branson is another beautiful way to experience outdoor activities. The following lists are some of the best outdoor activities in Branson that are waiting to be explored. Adventure ride on a mountain coaster. Riders can experience uphill and downhill gravity rides on this exhilarating adventure ride with the mountain coaster in Branson. Every coaster aficionado enjoys riding the Mountain Coaster at Branson Mountain Adventure Park. Each rider is seated separately in a different cart to ensure a safe journey. Like traditional roller coasters, a chain raises the carts to the top. At the mountain's peak, carts are let loose to begin their descent as they weave in and out of the hills for an exhilarating and one-of-a-kind ride excursion. Take a thrilling water ride with the Branson Jet Boat. Anyone will undoubtedly adore a terrific Branson Jet Boat trip on Lake Taneycomo's clean waters. After an exciting adventure ride on the Branson mountain coaster, a thrilling river ride on a jet boat is the ideal outdoor activity. On a fascinating jet boat tour on Lake Taneycomo, you may see the famed Ozark forests and cliffs, the lake's beautiful waters, and the local fauna. As the jet boat cruises along the lake, you can take in the stunning view and water splashes as it navigates the crystal-clear waters. Take a boating adventure at State Park Marina. If you want a beautiful park and love various outdoor activities, head to the State Park Marina in Branson. You may rent a boat at State Park Marina for wave runners, water skiing, tubing, parasailing, scuba diving, and even guided fishing expeditions on Table Rock Lake. Everything you need for a day on the lake, including fuel, bait and tackle, clothing, refreshments, and even sunscreen, is available at the boathouse at the marina. At State Park Marina, you may hire slide boats, ski boats, wake boats, pontoons, and even bass boats. In Table Rock Lake's gorgeous waters, those feeling daring can engage a WaveRunner or go scuba diving. You may also go parasailing and lake cruising on the sailing catamaran Spirit of America. Swim at Moonshine Beach. If you want to immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Table Rock Lake following a boating adventure at State Park Marina, go to Moonshine Beach. The entire family will enjoy swimming, picnicking, and camping at the beach. A great place to take in breathtaking views of the stunning surroundings on the lakeside is this sandy beach, which is found at the northern end of Table Rock Lake. Shepherd of the Hills and the Dewey Short Visitors Center are in Branson, each less than five minutes drive from the beach. Explore golf courses. One of the most fantastic golf venues in America is Branson. View the brand-new, just-opened courses that feature designs by Ben Crenshaw, Gary Player, Bill Coore, and Tiger Woods. You can choose from various top-notch golf courses in Branson, such as Mountain Top Course, Branson Hills Golf Club, Holiday Hills Golf Resort, and more. As you tee off, take in the expansive views of the Ozark Mountains, valleys, and undulating hills. Take a hike. There are many ways to get the whole family to enjoy outdoor activities in Branson, as it offers more than 200 miles of publicly accessible trails. All that's left to do is choose which of the several trails of varying lengths and degrees of difficulty is best for you and your team. Here in Branson, you'll find some of the most breathtaking locations to enjoy nature. View Dogwood Canyon, Ruth, Paul Henning Conservation Area, Lakeside Forrest Wilderness Area, and many more places here. Branson's Promised Land Zoo is the "#1 Animal Adventure" in Branson and a fantastic place to get up close and personal with animals from all over the world. The 75 acres of the natural Ozarks scenery can be explored in various ways, including the 2-mile drive-through safari, guided tram tour, VIP animal encounters, bottle feeding, and more! Some of the best outdoor activities, including exciting water adventures and a thrilling ride on the mountain coaster in Branson , abound during the summer season, and many vacationers come to this vacation paradise to enjoy them.
A Journey Through Branson: Discovering Hidden Gems
Branson on a Budget: Affordable Thrills in the Ozarks
Hits the Shops After You Leave the Mountain Many of us enjoy shopping, especially when we're on vacation in Branson, so we usually look for the most popular venues whenever we travel to new regions. With favorites like Branson Craft Mall, Grand Village Shops, Tanger Outlets, Branson Landing, and more, we always make ourselves ready to visit the best spots in Branson. These are the shops that most thrill seekers want to visit following a thrilling ride on the roller coasters in Branson MO . Branson Craft Mall The Branson Craft Mall is an indoor, air-conditioned, heated shopping facility dedicated to the amazing artisans of the craft world, with over 200 vendors from all over the country. It sells clothing, quilts, leather goods, jewelry, baskets, rugs, and other items. The Pickin Porch Grill, which serves the best food in town, is located in this shopping area. Branson Craft Mall is the place to go if you're seeking artisan things. This retail center has 200 booths selling anything from stained glass to ceramics to house décor. If you're craving sweet treats, Branson Fudge Company is a must-visit at this shopping center. It is the best shopping spot after a thrilling ride on the roller coasters in Branson MO. Grand Village Shops Want to experience great shopping filled with unique businesses and boutique shops? Look no further than the Grand Village Shops. This lovely shopping location is where you can find great bargains on specialty items such as unusual fashion garments, jewelry, fine arts, and men's and ladies accessories. You will also discover the right Christmas decor and gifts here, so keep this location in mind when the holidays arrive. The Grand Village Shops, located in the heart of Branson's entertainment district, is a 24-hour shopping mall. It has numerous unique businesses with an old-town Charleston atmosphere, making it an ideal destination to spend the day. The architecture and design are impressive on their own, but the natural allure of this mall is its diverse selection of stores and restaurants. Tanger Outlets If you're looking for a good deal in Branson, go to the Tanger Outlet Mall, which offers additional shopping options. Tanger Outlet Mall, beautifully situated on Highway 76 Strip, offers many shopping options; whether you're seeking an item from Izo, Under Armour, or Toys R Us Express, this mall has everything you need. The mall also offers a variety of amenities, such as parking and restaurant options. Tanger Outlets in Branson is a fantastic shopping destination with over 70 shops and eateries. Tanger Outlets has everything you're looking for, from designer accessories to name-brand clothing. If you're looking for a fashionable wardrobe, you've come to the correct spot. Here you'll find an incredible assortment of well-known brands such as Loft, American Eagle, Oakley, Eddie Bauer, Gap, Old Navy, and many more. Branson Landing Branson Landing, known as the Midwest's shoppers' paradise, is one of the most popular shopping locations, offering practically everything you need for your home. This fantastic shopping location is home to Belk Department Store, which sells a wide range of men's and ladies' accessories, and Bass Pro Shop, which sells everything for your outdoor excursions. Father Time Clock and Collectibles, which offers a large selection of modern and traditional clocks and other interesting timepieces, is also located in this shopping complex. This shopping spot is also home to Five and Dime General Store which sells a range of gifts, souvenirs, and collectibles. The Branson Landing retail center has a variety of popular businesses and restaurants, as well as live events and fountain shows. The complex is ideal for an entertaining pub crawl, scavenger hunt, or progressive meal. Guy Fieri's namesake restaurant has a shop in Branson Landing that opened in 2020. Dick's 5 & 10 Dicks 5 & 10 is a vast and sprawling business that sells many things, including antique confectionery, retro toys, and vintage-chic home decor. Dick's 5 & 10 has been a Branson icon for the last five decades. As you approach the store, you will be transported back in time, as this shopping destination contains one-of-a-kind collections spanning generations, vintage toys, hobby supplies, household things, sewing materials, an aisle of the quirky and amusing, and so much more. The shop is a terrific location to spend time browsing the aisles filled with everything from board games and toys to knitting supplies, souvenirs, and sunglasses. The Shoppes at Branson Meadows This one-of-a-kind commercial district includes a movie theater, an interactive escape room, and other attractions. It's ideal for visiting with family and friends, with plenty of nearby parking and walking choices. Take advantage of shopping in Branson Meadows to uncover more affordable local products, chic home goods, and unique apparel. With over 15 retail outlets, a superb restaurant, and a fantastic movie theater, it is simple to spend a fun day at Branson Meadows. After a thrilling ride on the roller coasters in Branson MO , many thrill seekers want to visit the shops to eat, shop, and have fun.
Branson Unveiled: Exploring the Heart of the Ozarks
Branson Nature Parks to Visit After Your Mountain Coaster Fun Visiting beautiful nature parks in Branson during the autumn season is one of the most wonderful things to do with the whole family, as you can see amazing autumn colors in every corner. Autumn season is a great time to enjoy exciting outdoor activities at some beautiful nature parks in Branson, such as Table Rock State Park, Busiek State Forest, Roaring River State Park, Trout Hatchery State Park, Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area, and Mark Twain Natural Forest, and Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. These places are a must-see after a thrilling adventure ride with the mountain coaster in Branson . Table Rock State Park is a beautiful playground to enjoy great outdoor fun activities at any time of the year. On the shoreline of Table Rock Lake lies two campgrounds that offer basic, electric, and water campsites. In addition, this park features a woodsy oak and hickory setting, a marina nearby, and is great for boating and many other water sports adventures. You will find the walking trail at the park that displays a good example of Ozarks woodland and meadows. In addition, the park features Table Rock Lakeshore Trail that runs along the shoreline of Table Rock Lake from the State Park Marina and the Dewey Short Visitor Center. This trail features a paved road which makes the place popular for walkers and wheelchairs. Busiek State Forest is one of Branson’s beautiful nature parks to visit after you have enjoyed a thrilling adventure ride with the mountain coaster in Branson. Located just a short 20-minute drive north of Branson on Hwy 65, the park offers free admission and parking. The park was built in 1986 by the Missouri Department of Conservation after purchasing over 740 acres of land from Dr. Paul Busiek. The activities that you can enjoy in this forested area include hiking, bird watching, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and target shooting. This outdoor enthusiast’s paradise features public restrooms, campsites, and picnic areas. Overall, the park covers mountainous terrain, with panoramic views of the Ozark valleys, beautiful wildlife, and lush streams. Roaring River State Park, located 35 miles west of Branson, is known for its premier trout fishing. The park has a deep blue spring where you can enjoy feeding or watching fish in the spring pool or take a tour of the trout hatchery. The park also features a shaded picnic area, a swimming pool, and a store. Roaring River State Parks also boasts about 187 campsites ranging from basic to electric hookup. Located at the bottom of the Table Rock Dam off Hwy 165, Trout Hatchery State Park in Branson is free to visit, and it provides an educational and fun experience for the whole family. You’ll get to enjoy the scenic park trails, a museum-like visitor center, trout fishing, and a picturesque view of Table Rock Dam. The park also features a woodsy stroll through underbrush and trees. Considered the best-kept secret of Branson, Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area is a popular tourist spot in the Ozarks where you can enjoy a self-guided nature tour and enjoy some leisurely walk. In the conservation area, you will find benches scattered throughout the park in shady areas where hikers can rent. Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area is home to some five terrific trails that include Dewey Bald, Glade Exploration, Streamside, Shane’s Shortcut, and Homesteaders that course through the heavily- forested areas of the vast land. Mark Twain National Forest is another great place to enjoy nature as it is a land of limestone mountains of surprising steepness, clear-rushing streams perfect for canoeing, and a diversity of plants. This nature park is home to a bald eagle, armadillos, the roadrunner, wild turkey, white-tailed deer, and black bears. Mark Twain National Forest is popular for hunters, trappers, fishers, wildlife photographers, and observers. Visitors to this place can enjoy the beauty of nature while at the same time spending a great bonding moment with their families or friends. Another beautiful nature park to visit after enjoying a breathtaking ride with the mountain coaster in Branson is the Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Lampe. The park is about a 40-minute drive from downtown Branson. Dogwood Canyon offers many things for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, mountain biking, or even horseback riding. Overall, Dogwood Canyon covers an area of about 10,000 acres, so there’s plenty of room for every adventurer to roam around and relax. No matter what fun activity you choose, you are sure to enjoy the park’s beautiful natural scenery, waterfalls, stone bridges, and crystal clear waters filled with brown and rainbow trout. Many outdoor enthusiasts have in their mind always to visit beautiful nature parks where they want to relax, unwind and enjoy the great surroundings after a thrilling adventure ride with the mountain coaster in Branson.
Looking For Fun Adventures Close to Thunder Ridge Arena?
Branson Jets Boats is open for tours for those looking to enjoy a relaxing river ride on the lake. This thrilling river trip is available from May to October 2025. The jet boat will travel on a fourteen-mile round trip down and up Lake Taneycomo, departing from their Branson Landing dock. Your tour guide will tell the history of the lake, local legends, and breathtaking natural beauty. After a thrilling water adventure with the Branson Jet Boat, the roller coasters in Branson, MO, maybe the next activity you should try. This fascinating river tour will provide you with an unforgettable lake adventure like no other. You will enjoy an incredible combination of spectacular natural scenery, full 360 spinouts, and water splashes as the jet rip the calm waters of Lake Taneycomo. With the guided Jet boat tours, you will get to experience all the fun that the Ozarks have to offer from a distinctive vantage point unlike any other water adventure in the Branson area. You can take a seat near the front, where there will be more splashes, or near the back, where you will be a little dryer. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to sit on the outside of a row, and all front-row passengers must be at least 48′′ tall. The beginning of the fall season is an excellent time to go on a thrill ride that will provide you with the ultimate adrenaline rush while also providing spectacular views of Lake Taneycomo. The jet boats will whiz around, delivering high-speed thrills that will leave you wanting more. The journey areas will provide breathtaking views by land and river. The jet boat is designed to transport passengers of all shapes and sizes, with industry-leading comfort and safety features prioritized for passengers. You'll appreciate fully padded seats and form-fitting life jackets that keep you snug and safe without making you squeezed like a sardine in a can. The jet boat captain is one of the best in the business, with extensive marine experience. This fantastic jet boat ride on Lake Taneycomo is one of Branson's newest attractions, perfect for the whole family to enjoy this fall 2022. Branson Jet Boats is a new water adventure on the lake that provides visitors with an unforgettable water ride experience on Lake Taneycomo's crystal clear waters. This jet-powered boat will take a journey up and down the lake, allowing you to take in the many spectacular sceneries that the lake has to offer. Unlike the roller coasters in Branson MO, you're limited to the fun offered at the park. The jet boat adventure will take you on an exciting ride on beautiful Lake Taneycomo in Taney County, Missouri. Lake Taneycomo was formed when the White River dam was built in 1913. The lake's water characteristics vary depending on how much water flows through the dam; it can be calm or fast-moving, so guests will always have a slightly different water adventure each time they visit. This thrilling water journey on the lake provides the entire family with a one-of-a-kind water adventure in which everyone gets excited when the cool waters splash on their faces. Once onboard, the knowledgeable tour guide and experienced captain will get you ready to begin your lake adventure, pulling out into the main channel of Lake Taneycomo for an excellent jet boat adventure up and down in one of the most beautiful lakes in the Ozark region. As the jet boat ride adventure begins, you'll get a spectacular view of the Branson Landing waterfront as you leave the area and then race down the lake, seeing fascinating wooded hills on the lakeside, beautiful scenery, and unique wildlife. This exciting water adventure with the jetboat lasts approximately one hour. While cruising the lake, the captain will provide a brief history of Lake Taneycomo, including information about local scenery and wildlife and other stories about the area. You can't help but marvel at the spectacular view as the captain continues to narrate. After you've had a thrilling water adventure with the jet boat, you might want to try an exhilarating ride adventure with the roller coasters in Branson, MO. The ride you can experience with the mountain coaster differs from traditional roller coasters. The mountain coaster carts are specially designed to give riders control of their ride through a patented braking system. Riders can choose to slow down and enjoy a more leisurely ride down the coaster track, or they can use gravity to their full advantage for the fastest and most exciting ride possible. Whether you are a fan of roller coasters or want to enjoy a thrilling ride down the hill, you will not be disappointed. The thrilling ride with the roller coasters in Branson MO , and the fascinating water adventure ride with the jet boat offer an engaging adventure that will ultimately get your adrenaline pumping.
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