The annual gathering of custom car enthusiasts in Du Quoin, Illinois, scheduled for 2024, represents a significant event for showcasing modified vehicles, often featuring enhanced performance and unique aesthetic modifications. These automotive creations exemplify a distinct segment of car culture, emphasizing personalized expression and mechanical ingenuity.
This event serves as a focal point for the community, attracting participants and spectators from across the country. It provides a platform for builders to display their craftsmanship, fosters camaraderie amongst enthusiasts, and stimulates local economies through tourism and related commerce. Historically, such gatherings have played a vital role in shaping car culture and promoting automotive innovation.
Further exploration will delve into specific aspects of the 2024 event, including featured vehicles, scheduled activities, anticipated attendance figures, and the overall impact on the automotive landscape.
1. Custom Car Showcase
The custom car showcase forms the heart of the Du Quoin, Illinois, event. This exhibition provides a platform for builders and owners to display vehicles embodying a unique blend of mechanical prowess and artistic expression. From classic muscle cars reimagined with modern technology to contemporary vehicles transformed into personalized statements, the showcase represents a diverse spectrum of automotive creativity. The judging and awards process, often a key component, further incentivizes innovation and craftsmanship. For example, a meticulously restored and modified 1969 Chevrolet Camaro might share the stage with a highly customized modern import, each demonstrating unique modifications and reflecting the owner’s distinct vision.
The showcase functions as more than just a static display. It offers opportunities for attendees to engage directly with builders, learn about the intricacies of customization, and gain inspiration for their projects. This exchange of knowledge and passion fuels the continued evolution of car culture. The showcase also provides a dynamic marketplace, connecting builders with potential customers and facilitating the exchange of parts, services, and expertise. The presence of vendors specializing in performance parts, custom paint, and interior modifications enhances this commercial aspect, creating a microcosm of the broader automotive aftermarket industry.
Understanding the centrality of the custom car showcase is essential to appreciating the event’s overall significance. It encapsulates the dedication, skill, and artistry within this segment of car culture. The showcase catalyzes the sharing of knowledge, fosters community growth, and drives the ongoing evolution of automotive personalization. The challenges associated with organizing and managing such a large-scale exhibition of unique vehicles are considerable, yet they are consistently overcome, underscoring the enduring appeal and cultural relevance of custom car showcases.
2. Du Quoin, Illinois Location
The selection of Du Quoin, Illinois, as the venue for the 2024 Street Machine Nationals carries significant implications for the event’s success. Its central location within the United States, combined with existing infrastructure and a history of hosting similar events, contributes to its suitability.
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Geographic Accessibility
Du Quoin’s central location facilitates access for participants and attendees from various regions across the country. Its proximity to major highways and airports simplifies travel logistics, potentially boosting attendance figures. This accessibility broadens the event’s reach, drawing enthusiasts from a wider geographic area than a more isolated location might permit.
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Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Infrastructure
The Du Quoin State Fairgrounds offers pre-existing infrastructure suitable for large-scale automotive events. The availability of ample exhibition space, parking facilities, and on-site amenities streamlines event organization and enhances attendee experience. This established infrastructure reduces logistical challenges and allows organizers to focus on delivering a high-quality event.
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Local Economic Impact
Hosting the Street Machine Nationals generates positive economic impact for Du Quoin and surrounding areas. Influx of visitors stimulates local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments. This injection of revenue benefits the community and reinforces the value of hosting such events.
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Historical Context and Community Engagement
Du Quoin has a history of hosting automotive events, suggesting a degree of local support and familiarity with the logistical requirements. This experience contributes to smoother event execution and fosters a welcoming atmosphere for attendees. Established relationships with local vendors and service providers further enhance operational efficiency. The event can become integrated into the local community, fostering a sense of shared ownership and pride.
The convergence of these factors underscores the strategic importance of the Du Quoin location for the 2024 Street Machine Nationals. The city’s geographic accessibility, existing infrastructure, potential for economic impact, and historical context combine to create a favorable environment for a successful event. This location choice contributes significantly to the event’s potential to attract a large and diverse audience, fostering a vibrant celebration of automotive culture.
3. 2024 Event Specifics
The “2024 event specifics” are integral to the identity of the Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin, Illinois, for that year. These specifics differentiate the 2024 iteration from previous and future events. They encompass key details such as scheduled dates, planned activities, featured guests, registration procedures, and any special themes or exhibitions unique to 2024. For instance, the 2024 event might feature a special showcase of electric restomods or celebrate a particular anniversary of a significant muscle car model. These distinctive elements shape the overall experience and draw specific segments of automotive enthusiasts.
The precise dates determine attendee availability and influence logistical planning, such as travel and accommodation arrangements. The planned activities, including autocross competitions, burnout contests, or technical seminars, cater to diverse interests within the automotive community. Featured guests, such as renowned builders or industry personalities, can elevate the event’s profile and draw larger crowds. Changes to registration procedures, such as online pre-registration or tiered pricing structures, directly impact participant experience. Understanding these specifics is crucial for potential attendees to make informed decisions about participation and maximize their engagement with the event.
In summary, the 2024 event specifics provide a framework defining the unique character of that year’s Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin. These details, encompassing dates, activities, guests, and logistical procedures, directly influence attendee experience and overall event success. Accessing and understanding this information is therefore essential for both participants and organizers, enabling informed decision-making and contributing to a successful and engaging event. These specifics contribute to the historical record of the Street Machine Nationals, distinguishing the 2024 gathering within the broader narrative of this ongoing automotive tradition. This understanding underscores the importance of meticulous planning and clear communication of event details to ensure a positive and impactful experience for all involved.
4. Automotive Community Gathering
The Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin, Illinois, serves as a significant automotive community gathering. It provides a focal point for enthusiasts to connect, share knowledge, and celebrate their shared passion for modified vehicles. This communal aspect contributes substantially to the event’s overall impact and longevity.
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Networking and Collaboration
The event fosters networking opportunities among individuals who might not otherwise interact. Builders can connect with potential clients, suppliers, and collaborators. Enthusiasts can exchange technical advice, share build stories, and discover new modifications. For example, an owner struggling with a specific performance issue might find solutions through conversations with experienced builders. This collaborative environment fuels innovation and strengthens the community.
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Shared Identity and Camaraderie
The shared passion for custom vehicles creates a strong sense of camaraderie among attendees. The event validates individual expression within a supportive community. This sense of belonging transcends geographical boundaries and reinforces the social bonds that unite automotive enthusiasts. The event becomes a celebration of shared identity and a source of collective pride.
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Mentorship and Knowledge Transfer
Experienced builders often mentor newcomers, sharing their expertise and fostering the next generation of automotive enthusiasts. This informal knowledge transfer preserves valuable skills and traditions within the community. For example, a veteran builder might offer guidance on engine tuning techniques or bodywork fabrication methods, contributing to the ongoing development of skills and craftsmanship.
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Preservation of Automotive Heritage
By showcasing classic and contemporary vehicles, the event contributes to preserving automotive heritage. The dedication invested in restoring and modifying older vehicles ensures their continued presence within car culture. This preservation extends beyond the vehicles themselves to encompass the skills and knowledge required to maintain and enhance them. This active engagement with automotive history reinforces the communitys connection to the past while embracing the future of modification.
These interconnected facets of community building contribute significantly to the enduring appeal of the Street Machine Nationals. The event transcends its function as a mere showcase of modified vehicles, becoming a vital hub for networking, collaboration, mentorship, and the preservation of automotive heritage. This communal aspect strengthens the bonds within the automotive enthusiast community, ensuring its continued vitality and evolution.
5. Performance Modifications
Performance modifications represent a core element of the Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin, Illinois, 2024. These enhancements, designed to increase horsepower, improve handling, or optimize other performance characteristics, are frequently showcased and celebrated at the event. The connection between performance modifications and the Street Machine Nationals is multifaceted, reflecting the culture’s emphasis on pushing the boundaries of automotive capability. A classic example is the prevalence of engine swaps, where a more powerful engine from a different vehicle is installed. This modification directly impacts horsepower and torque, often dramatically increasing performance. Similarly, upgraded suspension components, such as high-performance shocks and sway bars, enhance handling and cornering ability. These modifications are not merely cosmetic; they reflect a dedication to maximizing performance and driving experience.
The importance of performance modifications extends beyond individual vehicles. They drive innovation within the automotive aftermarket industry. The demand for performance parts fuels the development of new technologies and specialized components. The Street Machine Nationals provides a platform for manufacturers and vendors to showcase these advancements, connecting them directly with potential customers. For example, a company specializing in forced induction systems might exhibit a new supercharger designed for a specific engine platform. This direct interaction facilitates knowledge sharing and accelerates the adoption of new technologies within the enthusiast community. This understanding translates into practical applications, informing purchasing decisions, inspiring build projects, and contributing to the ongoing evolution of performance tuning.
In summary, performance modifications are integral to the essence of the Street Machine Nationals. They represent a tangible expression of the dedication to enhancing automotive capability. These modifications, ranging from engine swaps to suspension upgrades, drive innovation within the aftermarket industry and provide a focal point for knowledge sharing within the community. The event serves as a catalyst for this ongoing evolution, showcasing the latest advancements and fostering connections between builders, manufacturers, and enthusiasts. The challenges associated with integrating performance modifications seamlessly and reliably are significant, demanding specialized knowledge and meticulous execution. However, overcoming these challenges yields tangible rewards in terms of enhanced performance and driving experience, reinforcing the importance of this aspect of automotive culture.
6. Aesthetic Enhancements
Aesthetic enhancements constitute a defining characteristic of vehicles showcased at the Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin, Illinois, 2024. These modifications, ranging from custom paint jobs and bodywork to interior alterations and unique lighting, transform vehicles into personalized expressions of individual style and artistic vision. They differentiate these vehicles from standard factory models and underscore the importance of visual appeal within this segment of car culture. Understanding the role of aesthetic enhancements provides essential context for appreciating the event’s broader significance.
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Custom Paint and Bodywork
Custom paint schemes, often featuring intricate designs, airbrushing, or multi-layered finishes, dramatically alter a vehicle’s visual impact. Body modifications, such as widened fenders, shaved door handles, or custom spoilers, further contribute to a unique aesthetic. A vehicle might feature a vibrant, airbrushed mural depicting a fantasy scene, or a classic muscle car might receive a modern, two-tone paint job with subtle pinstriping. These modifications reflect the owner’s personality and artistic preferences, transforming the vehicle into a moving canvas.
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Interior Modifications
Interior enhancements, encompassing custom upholstery, upgraded seating, and personalized dashboards, create a cohesive visual experience within the vehicle. These modifications often complement the exterior aesthetic, reflecting a unified design philosophy. For example, a vehicle with a racing-inspired exterior might feature sport seats, racing harnesses, and a roll cage, while a luxury-oriented build might showcase premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and custom-designed gauges. These details elevate the interior beyond its functional purpose, transforming it into an extension of the vehicle’s overall aesthetic statement.
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Wheel and Tire Combinations
The selection of wheels and tires significantly impacts a vehicle’s stance and overall visual appeal. Large-diameter wheels with low-profile tires create an aggressive look, while classic designs evoke a sense of nostalgia. The choice of finish, from chrome to matte black, further contributes to the vehicle’s overall aesthetic. A classic muscle car might be fitted with period-correct wheels and white-letter tires, while a modern sports car might showcase lightweight alloy wheels with high-performance tires. These choices reflect specific stylistic preferences and often enhance performance characteristics.
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Lighting Modifications
Custom lighting, including undercarriage lighting, LED accents, and modified headlights or taillights, adds a distinctive visual element, particularly at night. These modifications can range from subtle accents to dramatic displays, further enhancing the vehicle’s personalized aesthetic. For example, a vehicle might feature neon underglow lighting synchronized with the audio system, creating a dynamic visual spectacle. Alternatively, custom-designed headlights and taillights can modernize a classic vehicle’s appearance while improving visibility and safety.
These aesthetic enhancements, while diverse in their specific forms, collectively contribute to the unique visual identity of the vehicles displayed at the Street Machine Nationals. They demonstrate the dedication and artistry within this segment of car culture, transforming automobiles from mere transportation into personalized works of art. These modifications reflect a broader cultural trend of personalization and self-expression, using the automobile as a medium to communicate individual style and preferences. The Street Machine Nationals provides a platform to celebrate this creativity and showcase the diverse range of aesthetic possibilities within the world of automotive modification.
7. Economic Impact
The Street Machine Nationals held in Du Quoin, Illinois, in 2024 generates substantial economic activity, impacting local businesses and the broader regional economy. This impact stems from various revenue streams associated with the event, including tourism, hospitality, and automotive-related commerce. Understanding this economic impact is crucial for assessing the event’s overall value and justifying continued investment in its organization and infrastructure.
The influx of attendees, exhibitors, and vendors generates significant revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments. Attendees require lodging, meals, and often purchase souvenirs or other goods during their stay. Exhibitors invest in booth space, transportation, and marketing materials. Vendors benefit from direct sales of automotive parts, accessories, and services. This concentrated spending creates a ripple effect throughout the local economy. For example, increased hotel occupancy benefits not only the hotels themselves but also their suppliers, such as laundry services and food providers. Similarly, increased restaurant patronage benefits local farmers and food distributors. Quantifying this economic impact, perhaps through surveys or analysis of sales tax revenue, can provide concrete evidence of the event’s financial contribution to the community.
Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the Street Machine Nationals also contributes to longer-term economic development. The event enhances Du Quoin’s reputation as a destination for automotive enthusiasts, potentially attracting future events and tourism. The increased visibility can also attract businesses related to the automotive aftermarket industry, creating new employment opportunities and fostering economic diversification. Moreover, successful execution of the event can strengthen community pride and encourage further investment in local infrastructure. However, managing the logistical challenges associated with a large-scale event requires careful planning and coordination with local authorities and businesses. Addressing potential issues like traffic congestion, waste management, and security concerns is crucial for maximizing the positive economic impact while minimizing disruption to the community. A clear understanding of these economic implications allows organizers, local businesses, and government entities to work collaboratively towards maximizing the event’s benefits for the community and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
8. Cultural Influence
The Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin, Illinois, 2024 exerts a notable cultural influence, extending beyond the immediate automotive enthusiast community. This influence manifests in various forms, shaping perceptions of automotive customization, influencing popular culture, and reflecting broader societal trends. Examining these cultural ramifications provides a deeper understanding of the event’s significance and its impact on the broader cultural landscape.
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Automotive Customization Trends
The event acts as a barometer of current trends in automotive customization. The showcased vehicles reflect evolving aesthetics, technological advancements, and stylistic preferences within the community. For example, the prevalence of specific modifications, such as restomodding classic cars with modern electric powertrains, reveals shifting values and technological adoption within the automotive enthusiast culture. These trends, often originating within niche communities, can influence mainstream automotive design and consumer preferences.
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Popular Culture Representation
Custom car culture, as represented at the Street Machine Nationals, frequently appears in popular culture, including films, television, and music. This representation can shape public perception of automotive enthusiasts and influence broader automotive trends. For instance, the depiction of modified vehicles in action movies can glamorize performance modifications and contribute to their popularity. Similarly, the presence of custom cars in music videos can associate specific vehicle styles with particular musical genres or subcultures. This interplay between automotive culture and popular media creates a feedback loop, influencing both the enthusiast community and broader societal perceptions.
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Reflection of Broader Societal Trends
The event reflects broader societal trends related to personalization, self-expression, and technological innovation. The emphasis on customizing vehicles to reflect individual tastes aligns with a broader cultural emphasis on individuality and self-expression. Similarly, the adoption of new technologies within automotive modification reflects broader societal trends towards technological advancement and innovation. For instance, the increasing prevalence of 3D printing in creating custom car parts mirrors the growing adoption of additive manufacturing technologies across various industries. This connection between automotive culture and broader societal trends highlights the event’s relevance beyond the immediate automotive community.
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Community Building and Social Cohesion
The Street Machine Nationals fosters community among automotive enthusiasts, providing a platform for shared experiences and social interaction. This sense of community can transcend social and economic barriers, uniting individuals through their shared passion for modified vehicles. This contributes to social cohesion and strengthens the bonds within the enthusiast community. The event provides a space for individuals to connect with like-minded people, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity. This social aspect of the event is particularly important in an increasingly digital world, providing opportunities for face-to-face interaction and community building.
These interconnected cultural influences demonstrate that the Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin, Illinois, 2024 is more than just an automotive exhibition. It serves as a significant cultural event, shaping trends, influencing popular culture, reflecting societal values, and fostering community. Understanding these cultural ramifications provides a more nuanced perspective on the event’s overall significance and its lasting impact on the broader cultural landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section addresses common inquiries regarding the Street Machine Nationals scheduled for Du Quoin, Illinois, in 2024. The provided information aims to offer clarity and facilitate informed decision-making for potential attendees and participants.
Question 1: What are the specific dates for the 2024 Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin?
Event dates are typically finalized and publicized closer to the event year. Consulting the official Street Machine Nationals website or contacting event organizers directly will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the 2024 schedule.
Question 2: Where can one find information regarding registration procedures and associated fees for vehicle exhibition?
Specific registration details, including procedures, deadlines, and associated fees, are generally available on the official event website. This resource typically provides comprehensive instructions and contact information for addressing registration-related inquiries.
Question 3: What types of accommodations are available near the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds?
A range of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and campgrounds, are typically available in Du Quoin and surrounding areas. Consulting online travel resources or contacting the local visitor’s bureau can provide information regarding availability and pricing. Booking accommodations well in advance is often recommended, especially during peak event season.
Question 4: Are there opportunities for vendors to participate in the 2024 Street Machine Nationals?
Information regarding vendor opportunities, including application procedures, booth fees, and relevant regulations, is typically available through the official event website or by contacting event organizers directly. Vendor participation often requires pre-registration and adherence to specific guidelines.
Question 5: What activities and events are planned beyond the vehicle exhibition?
Scheduled activities, such as autocross competitions, burnout contests, live music performances, or technical seminars, are usually detailed on the official event website closer to the event date. The specific program can vary from year to year, offering diverse entertainment and engagement opportunities for attendees.
Question 6: What transportation options are available for reaching the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds?
The Du Quoin State Fairgrounds is generally accessible by car, with ample on-site parking typically available. Information regarding public transportation options, including bus routes or shuttle services, can often be found on the event website or through local transportation authorities.
Reviewing these frequently asked questions provides a preliminary understanding of key logistical aspects related to the 2024 Street Machine Nationals. Consulting the official event website and contacting organizers directly will offer the most accurate and comprehensive information as the event date approaches.
Further sections will explore specific facets of the event in greater detail, providing a comprehensive overview of the Street Machine Nationals experience.
Tips for Attending the Street Machine Nationals
Careful planning enhances the experience of attending the Street Machine Nationals. The following tips offer practical guidance for maximizing enjoyment and minimizing potential challenges.
Tip 1: Secure Accommodations in Advance
Lodging availability in Du Quoin and surrounding areas can become limited during event weekends. Reserving accommodations well in advance is highly recommended to secure preferred lodging options and potentially benefit from early booking discounts. Exploring various accommodation types, from hotels to campgrounds, allows attendees to select options aligning with individual preferences and budgets.
Tip 2: Plan Transportation Logistics
Developing a clear transportation plan streamlines arrival and departure processes. Attendees driving personal vehicles should familiarize themselves with parking procedures and potential traffic congestion around the event venue. Exploring alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing services or public transportation, may offer convenient alternatives, especially for navigating crowded areas. Having a backup transportation plan is always advisable.
Tip 3: Review the Event Schedule and Map
Consulting the official event schedule and map allows attendees to prioritize activities and navigate the event grounds efficiently. Familiarizing oneself with the layout of vendor booths, exhibition areas, and entertainment stages facilitates a more organized and enjoyable experience. This pre-event planning allows attendees to maximize their time and ensure they don’t miss desired activities or exhibits.
Tip 4: Pack Appropriately for Varying Weather Conditions
Outdoor events are susceptible to changing weather patterns. Checking the weather forecast and packing accordingly ensures comfort and preparedness. Essential items might include sunscreen, rain gear, comfortable footwear, and layered clothing suitable for fluctuating temperatures. Being prepared for unexpected weather changes contributes to a more enjoyable and stress-free event experience.
Tip 5: Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Maintaining proper hydration and nutrition is crucial, especially during extended periods outdoors. Bringing refillable water bottles and consuming regular meals or snacks helps prevent fatigue and ensures optimal energy levels throughout the event. Familiarizing oneself with on-site food and beverage options allows attendees to plan meals and budget accordingly.
Tip 6: Protect Valuables and Personal Belongings
Large crowds present opportunities for theft or loss of personal items. Implementing measures to protect valuables, such as utilizing secure bags or keeping important documents in a safe location, minimizes potential risks. Maintaining awareness of surroundings and securing personal belongings contributes to a more secure and worry-free event experience.
Tip 7: Capture Memories Responsibly
Taking photographs and videos commemorates the event experience. However, respecting the privacy of others and adhering to any event-specific guidelines regarding photography or videography is essential. Obtaining permission before photographing or recording individuals ensures a respectful and considerate environment for all attendees.
Tip 8: Engage with the Automotive Community
The Street Machine Nationals provides unique opportunities to engage with fellow automotive enthusiasts. Taking the time to converse with vehicle owners, builders, and vendors fosters a sense of community and allows attendees to learn more about the intricacies of automotive customization. Participating in discussions, asking questions, and sharing experiences enhances the overall event experience and strengthens connections within the automotive community.
Implementing these practical tips contributes to a more enjoyable, efficient, and memorable experience at the Street Machine Nationals. Advance planning and thoughtful preparation allow attendees to fully appreciate the event’s unique offerings and engage more effectively with the automotive community.
The following conclusion synthesizes the key takeaways discussed throughout this exploration of the Street Machine Nationals in Du Quoin, Illinois, 2024.
Conclusion
The Street Machine Nationals, scheduled for Du Quoin, Illinois, in 2024, represents a significant convergence of automotive enthusiasts, builders, and industry professionals. This analysis has explored various facets of the event, highlighting its importance as a showcase for custom vehicles, a hub for community engagement, and a driver of economic activity. From performance modifications and aesthetic enhancements to the cultural influence and historical context, the event embodies a unique blend of technical skill, artistic expression, and communal passion. The geographic advantages of the Du Quoin location, combined with the established infrastructure of the fairgrounds, contribute to the event’s potential for success.
The Street Machine Nationals serves as a vital platform for preserving automotive heritage while simultaneously driving innovation within the custom car industry. The event’s capacity to inspire future generations of builders and enthusiasts, to foster economic growth within host communities, and to reflect evolving trends within automotive culture underscores its enduring relevance. Continued support and participation are essential for ensuring the event’s long-term vitality and its positive impact on the automotive landscape.
