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Old Colony Elder Services Appoints New Nursing Services Manager

BROCKTON, PLYMOUTH AND RAYNHAM, MA… Patricia Clabough, a resident of Raynham MA, has been promoted to Nursing Services Manager at Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts.
 
In her new role as Nursing Services Manager, Clabough will provide clinical oversight to OCES’ nursing team. Partnering with OCES’ management team, Clabough will implement quality measures and conduct reviews, as well as oversee contractual obligations and ensure compliance with all applicable EOEA, MassHealth, and other funding source regulations. She will also act as a liaison to community health agencies, hospitals and physicians.
 
In 2016, Clabough graduated from Massasoit Community College’s Nursing program with an Associate of Science degree; she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from UMass Boston in 2018. 
 
Clabough began her full-time nursing career at OCES in 2017 in the Personal Care Department and was later promoted to the Home Care Department where her responsibilities included Home Care assessments. She was promoted to Home Care RN Supervisor overseeing the Transitions Department, which involved determining clinical eligibility for home care programs/waivers, prior to her most recent promotion to Nursing Services Manager. Clabough also serves on OCES’ Ethics Committee. 
 
Clabough’s experience prior to OCES includes working as a Staff Registered Nurse at Bridgewater State Hospital in Bridgewater, MA, and as a Staff Registered Nurse on the long-term care and subacute floor managing patients with comorbidities at Webster Park Rehabilitation in Rockland, MA.
 
Before relocating to Raynham, Clabough was a resident of Brockton for 30 years and attended Brockton High School. In her free time, Clabough enjoys spending time at the field watching her young son play sports, volunteering at his school, and enjoying the beach on a warm sunny day. 
 
About OCES
Celebrating 50 Years of Care and Collaboration and recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing, OCES is a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 23 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. 
 
Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit ocesma.org.

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Smell the Success. $3 Million Funding Boost Propels French Florist Franchise Expansion.

French Florist, a leading name in the floral industry known for its luxury designs and premium quality, is excited to announce a $3 million investment to expand its franchise operations across the United States. The funding, secured from a group of strategic investors, will be utilized to accelerate the company’s growth, and bring its signature flower arrangements to new markets.

“We are thrilled to have secured this significant funding, which will allow us to scale our business and share the French Florist experience with more communities nationwide,” said Michael Jacobson, CEO of French Florist, second generation in the floral business. He added, “This investment represents confidence in our brand, our vision, and the dedicated team behind our success.”

French Florist has been a staple in the Los Angeles area for over 40 years, providing exquisite floral arrangements for special events, weddings, corporate functions, and individual customers. With this new funding, the company plans to open 15 additional franchise locations by the end of 2025. The expansion will bring the florist’s unique blend of classic French elegance and modern floral artistry to major cities.

Supporting Franchisees for Success

In addition to geographical growth, a portion of the $3 million will be allocated toward improving the comprehensive training programs and marketing support for franchisees. French Florist’s goal is to equip each new location with the tools necessary for success, ensuring that the exceptional quality and customer service for which the brand is known, are maintained across all locations.

“We want to empower our franchise partners to thrive,” said Jacobson. “This investment allows us to expand the already robust infrastructure that supports our franchisees every step of the way.”

A Blooming Future

The expansion plan comes as French Florist continues to see a surge in demand for high-quality floral services. The company’s approach to luxury flowers, combined with sustainable practices and local sourcing, has resonated with customers seeking both beauty and environmental responsibility.

The $3 million funding is a key milestone in French Florist’s journey toward becoming a national leader in the premium floral industry. As the company embarks on this new chapter, its commitment to delivering stunning floral experiences remains at the heart of its mission.

About French Florist


Founded in Los Angeles in 1978, French Florist has grown into one of the most respected and recognized names in the floral industry. Winner of L.A. Weekly’s award for Best Florist, French Florist has been family-owned and caring about customers since 1978 – seven days a week, including every holiday, French Florist offers same-day delivery.

Known for its high-quality floral arrangements and exceptional customer service, the company offers a wide range of products, from everyday bouquets to custom arrangements for special occasions. French Florist is committed to sustainability and supports local flower growers through its eco-conscious sourcing practices.

French Florist has locations in Los Angeles, CA; Westlake Village, CA; Costa Mesa, CA; and soon to open Scottsdale, Arizona and Tustin, CA.

For more information, contact French Florist at https://frenchflorist.com. For more insight into the business opportunity in other territories, visit https://frenchfloristfranchise.com/ or call (310) 659-7700.

Smell the Success. $3 Million Funding Boost Propels French Florist Franchise Expansion.Read More

Old Colony Elder Services named as a 2024 Best Places to Work honoree

PHOTO CAPTION: From Left to Right: Michelle Fontes, Jodie McDonald, Rob Buckel-Gillis, Kerri Soule, Nicole Long, Marco St. Louis, Vania Jure

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has been named as a Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing 2024 Best Places to Work honoree. It is the second consecutive year that OCES has received this award.

OCES was recognized as one of 40 honorees for the 2024 Best Places to Work in a well-attended ceremony on September 12, 2024, at Hotel 1620 in Plymouth, MA. The award was presented to Nicole Long, CEO, and Rob Buckel-Gillis, Human Resources Director.

Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing 2024 Best Places to Work were voted based on criteria including company culture, career advancement, staff appreciation, and giving back to the community. 

“OCES is very proud to be named a Best Places to Work honoree for the second consecutive year, particularly as we celebrate our 50th anniversary milestone and significant growth,” said Nicole Long, CEO. “OCES is dedicated to providing a positive work environment with an emphasis on work/life balance. Every team member has an important role, and we appreciate their contributions and commitment to our mission and to our community.”

OCES Team
Founded in 1974, OCES continues to grow and evolve. Currently, OCES has 243 full-time and 26 part-time employees, and a 23-member Board of Directors. Their leadership team includes  Nicole Long, Chief Executive Officer; Anna Dee, Chief Operating Officer; Alisa DeLage, Chief Programs Officer; Rob Buckel-Gillis, Human Resources Director; and Yolanda America, Chief Finance Officer.

OCES aspires to be a culturally diverse and inclusive agency that removes barriers creating equity for all by empowering individuals and communities to thrive, age in place, and reach their highest potential.

According to Long, “OCES is at the forefront, providing essential services, creating awareness of critical issues, and serving as an important resource for older adults, people with disabilities, families, caregivers, and the larger community. We are dedicated to, and passionate about, helping others and improving lives.”

About 2024 Best Places to Work
For more information about Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing’s third annual award event, the 2024 Best Places to Work sponsored by Brabo, visit capeplymouthbusiness.com

About OCES
Celebrating 50 Years of Care and Collaboration and recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing, OCES is a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 23 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. 

Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit https://ocesma.org.

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Hope4Hardship: A new non-profit helping homeowners stop foreclosure and save their homes

photo of Michael Russell, founder of Hope4Hardship

Dartmouth resident Michael Russell, an award-winning Century 21 agency owner and broker, recently launched Hope4Hardship. This newly established non-profit organization provides complimentary services to homeowners facing the devastating threat of being foreclosed on and losing their home.

Hope4Hardship’s services include consultation, representation on behalf of the homeowner in talks with banks and mortgage companies, administrative support, assistance application services and ongoing consultation.

“I have been through the gauntlet of financial chaos, being foreclosed on, bankruptcy and all the emotional lows that accompany them; largely the same things Hope 4 Hardship clients are going through. Only I didn’t have the knowledge back then to avoid bankruptcy and losing my property,” said Russell. “After facing up to my relatively tragic fiscal irresponsibility and making amends with loved ones I hurt along the way, I decided to help people in similar situations as part of my real estate practice.”

After an initial consultation, Hope4Hardship works closely with homeowners and advocates on their behalf with banks to explore every possible avenue for keeping their home. Remarkably, 100 percent of the time Hope4Hardship is able to help people save their home from foreclosure, but only if the homeowner stays in consistent contact, provides all necessary documentation and doesn’t give up along the way.   Unfortunately, 50 percent of the time, homeowners let go of the persistence required to see the process through completely.  The bottom line is, foreclosure can always be avoided if the homeowner is committed throughout the process.

In this current real estate market, some sellers opt to simply sell their home.  With property appreciation on an all-time upward trajectory, walking away with a healthy profit even after falling behind, is more common than ever.

“What most people don’t realize is that the bank—often seen as adversaries in these situations—can be your biggest ally toward financial recovery,” said Russell.

Part of the pact Russell made in creating Hope4Hardship was not to charge homeowners for its services. The only things Hope 4 Hardship asks for is a testimonial should you be able to save your home and an agreement that should you sell your home in the future, you hire Century 21 to help you.

Said Kevin M. of Plymouth, “I got behind on my mortgage due to a number of factors—in particular two car payments, ironically for two cars that also needed extensive repairs. Wells Fargo started the foreclosure process within three months. I was freaking out. Michael Russell reached out anonymously. He told me his story of being foreclosed and said he wanted to help. I shot down to meet him that very day. He called the mortgage company with me at his side. We found out what the process was. I followed his directions. He saved my house.”

As a non-profit organization, Hope 4 Hardship offers its extensive services free of charge. Whether it’s finding a way to keep your home or exploring other options such as a sale or federal bankruptcy protection, Hope4Hardship is committed to guiding homeowners toward the best possible outcome.

If you or someone you know is facing foreclosure or being foreclosed, it’s essential to explore all options before making any life-altering decisions. Hope4Hardship is here to help. To schedule a confidential consultation, call 508-501-9214 or email help@hope4hardship.com.

About Hope 4 Hardship

Hope 4 Hardship is a non-profit corporation dedicated to helping homeowners in financial distress avoid foreclosure and find a path to financial recovery. Founded by Michael Russell, the organization has already helped thousands of homeowners regain control of their financial future. For more information, visit www.help4hardship.org.

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Screeching, spalling, overheating among key bearing issues. Emerson Bearing Boston releases “How to Troubleshoot Your Bearings” eBook

BOSTON, MA… Emerson Bearing, a Boston, MA-based bearing company serving Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) markets throughout the nation, has just released “How to Troubleshoot Your Bearings” eBook.
 
Bearing problems can have significant repercussions – unplanned downtime, high maintenance costs and the potential to negatively impact facility revenues.
 
With its newest complimentary eBook, Emerson Bearing enables OEMs and MROs to accurately diagnose bearing issues with ease. 
 
From common bearing problems such as strange noises, high temperatures, corrosion, incorrect fit and lubrication issues to the influence of the operating environment, Emerson Bearing delves into a range of issues that must be taken into consideration when troubleshooting bearings.
 
“We understand there are so many issues that can cause bearing failure,” said Steve Katz, president of Emerson Bearing, which caters to niche markets nationwide and is the sister company of Action Bearing which serves the New England market. “Bearings can be damaged by a number of environmental and operational factors. Knowing everything you can about the most common bearing issues and how to solve them can prevent costly repairs and downtime associated with damaged or failed components.” 
 
Emerson Bearing’s “How to Troubleshoot Your Bearings” eBook is available in the Resources Library on the company’s website emersonbearing.com, or may be downloaded directly by visiting: https://info.emersonbearing.com/lp-how-to-troubleshoot-your-bearings
 
Katz continued, “We’ll help you find the right bearings at the right price. We provide extensive tools and resources and troubleshoot any bearing issues if they arise. At Emerson Bearing, we’re here to help you overcome all bearing challenges.”
 
Inventory Matters
As an industry-leading bearing supplier with a sourcing network that spans the globe, Emerson Bearing Boston caters to clients with a wide selection of bearings that include: Ball and roller bearings from GMN, KOYO, and others; Cam followers and yoke rollers from Carter, IKO, and others; Rod ends from Durbal and FK; Oil seals from Garlock, Dichtomatik, and Timkens; Mounted units from AMI, IPTCI, and others; Roller chains from Daido, Hitachi, and Drives; and Bushings from IGUS and Oilite. BOWER, FAG, FERSA, IKO, INA, NACHI, NSK, NTN, RBC, TORRINGTON, URB, and ZNL are also among the leading brands that Emerson Bearing carries.
 
With over four million bearings in stock at multiple price points, Emerson Bearing has the largest inventory of bearings on the East Coast under one roof in their 30,000 square foot warehouse. The company serves 16 major markets and their team of experts can assist with bearings and related products for industrial, manufacturing and other applications.
 
To speak with a Marketing Specialist or request a quote, contact 800-225-4587 or visit EmersonBearing.com.
 
About Emerson Bearing 
For more than six decades, Emerson Bearing offer customers a one-stop shopping experience. With an online product catalog with over 3 million bearings – ranging in size from 3mm to tunnel-boring 15-foot-diameter giants; a vast inventory of bearings; worldwide sourcing; a fixed price program; a knowledgeable staff; same day shipping and 24/7 service, Emerson Bearing Boston has become a leading provider of bearings in the U.S., and its sister company Action Bearing, which serves the New England market, maintains headquarters at 201 Brighton Ave. Boston, MA. For more information, visit EmersonBearing.com and ActionBearing.com in the New England market or call 800-225-4587.

Screeching, spalling, overheating among key bearing issues. Emerson Bearing Boston releases “How to Troubleshoot Your Bearings” eBookRead More

Stem’s “Beach Bash” raises $10,000 for military veterans assistance group

Massachusetts cannabis retailer Stem Haverhill took over two popular locations on Salisbury Beach Monday September 17 to host its first-annual Beach Bash, which raised $10,000 for Patriots Helping Vets, a non-profit that provides equipment and services to veterans who benefit from plant medicine.

The event, which drew 300 attendees, was held at the Surfside and the Carousel on Salisbury Beach and featured a DJ and dancing, a boardwalk caricature artist, carousel rides, a glam station, an Italian ice station, and local artists and musicians. 

The Beach Bash was the last in a trio of events held by Stem this year to benefit its non-profit partners.  In August Stem hosted Blast in the Grass, which raised $10,000 for the YWCA Northeastern Massachusetts, and in May Stem hosted Power of Flower, raising $10,000 for the Parabola Center, a non-profit think tank devoted to cannabis policy reform and anti-monopoly regulations.

And next April Stem will host the second Bong and Pong, which will also raise money for local charities.

“Our mission from the beginning has been to provide customers with the best cannabis products on the market while helping worthy charitable organizations bring their vital services to more and more people in the community.  The Beach Bash was a great bash indeed, and I couldn’t be happier with the turnout and the money raised to help an organization that does such important work for our veterans,” Stem owner Caroline Pineau said.

Pineau said the Beach Bash and the two preceding events once again highlighted the cannabis community’s commitment to local and regional assistance and charitable causes.

“This may be a young and evolving industry but it’s certainly proving to be a power when it comes to local philanthropy and charity. That’s a testament not just to the industry, but to the entire cannabis community,” Pineau said.

Since opening in 2020, Stem has raised more than $250,000 for local charities.  Pineau has also made her mark on the Massachusetts cannabis industry by targeting the unfair collection of community impact fees by host communities when those communities have documented no negative impacts from legal cannabis sales.

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Smile. Woodside Dental, Assonet, MA, outlines new dental comfort.

What keeps most people from visiting the dentist?

Fear!  Fear of pain, fear of being judged.

Approximately 36% of Americans avoid dental visits due to fear of pain, according to the Cleveland Clinic, a nationally respected source for health information.

Woodside Dental Care, located in Assonet, MA, is focused on removing those fears and providing a better dental experience, focusing on connecting with patients and building meaningful, long-lasting relationships. Patient comfort is the top priority, and the practice is continuously incorporating new technologies and techniques to minimize pain and anxiety.

Dental anxiety and fear often stem from previous painful experiences, fear of needles, or general anxiety about dental procedures.

Woodside Dental Care and modern dentistry have made significant strides in reducing pain and discomfort which can help alleviate some of these fears.

Examples of Innovative Techniques:

Strong Topical Anesthetic are utilized. Before Needle Injection pre-emptive measures aretaken.To minimize the pain and fear associated with needles, Woodside dentists use a strong topical anesthetic before administering any numbing injections. This approach significantly reduces discomfort and helps alleviate anxiety for patients who may be apprehensive about the procedure.

Better Local Anesthetics. Modern local anesthetics are more effective and act faster, providing better pain control during procedures.

Composite Resins.  Newer filling materials bond better to teeth, requiring less removal of healthy tooth structure, which reduces discomfort.

Electric Handpieces. Powerful and quieter, Woodside dentistsuse electric handpieces that are more powerful and quieter than traditional air-driven handpieces. This technology not only improves the efficiency and effectiveness of dental procedures but also reduces the intimidating noise, creating a more calming environment for patients.

Digital Impressions. No More Goopy Impressions.  Woodside dentists have replaced traditional impression methods with digital impressions. This means no more goopy, nasty-tasting, gag-inducing impressions. Digital impressions are quick, accurate, and much more comfortable for patients, enhancing their overall experience.

New Dental Chairs. Woodside Dental isequipped with the latest dental chairs designed for maximum comfort, ensuring that patients can relax during their procedures.

Ceiling-Mounted TVs – To help distract and entertain patients during their visits, Woodside installed TVs on the ceiling. This provides a pleasant diversion and helps make the time spent in the chair feel shorter and more enjoyable.

Warm and Comforting Environment. Woodside is designed to be welcoming and comfortable, with a warm and friendly atmosphere that helps put patients at ease from the moment they walk in.

Woodside Dental Care continuously seeks out and implement new technologies and techniques to ensure that patients receive the highest quality care in the most comfortable setting possible.

About Woodside Dental Care

Woodside Dental Care’s mission is to not only maintain a healthy smile, but to completely change perceptions of dentistry and challenge the idea that going to the dentist is unpleasant.

Woodside offers high quality care, maximum convenience, and the kind of friendly service you’d expect at a small Mom & Pop store. For information, visit the offices at 36 South Main Street, Assonet, MA, via the web at https://www.woodsidedental.com/ or call (508) 452-6302.

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OCES is shining a light on Caregivers and honoring their commitment to caregiving. Nominate a Caregiver

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, is putting the spotlight on caregivers in honor of National Caregiver Month. 
 
According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, the number of Americans providing unpaid care has risen to 53 million. Twenty-six percent of Americans are caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
 
OCES invites individuals to nominate a Caregiver (family members, friends, associates, and individuals) who has positively impacted their life or someone else’s life within OCES’ service area.
 
Nominations will be accepted until September 23, 2024.  To nominate a caregiver, visit 
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/umumkLp/caregiver
 
OCES will be highlighting the nominated caregivers throughout the month of November, which is National Caregiver Month, through their social media channels and a special Caregiver Edition newsletter.  If you have any questions, please email OCES at development@ocesma.org. 
 
To view a map of OCES’ Services Area, visit the webpage at https://ocesma.org/about-old-colony-elder-services
 
“OCES is celebrating our community’s caregivers who are making such a positive impact in the lives of so many,” said Nicole Long, MSW, LICSW, and CEO of OCES. “We look forward to sharing their stories and honoring their commitment to caregiving.”
 
Providing Support & Resources for Caregivers
OCES’ Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) provides caregiver support and resources to individuals in OCES’ services area. For more information, visit ocesma.org or call 508-584-1561.
 
About OCES
Celebrating 50 Years of Care and Collaboration and recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Media, OCES is a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 23 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.


 

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OCES Expands Behavioral Health Program and Service Area

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has been awarded a three-year grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs to support the expansion of their behavioral health program and service area. 
 
Formerly known as Elder Mental Health Outreach Team (EMHOT) and Elder Mobile Outreach Team (EMOT), Massachusetts’ behavioral health program for older adults is now known as Behavioral Health Outreach for Aging Populations.  
 
Behavioral Health Outreach for Aging Populations
Through this program, behavioral health clinicians provide in-depth assessments and develop care plans that may include individualized counseling, referrals, and care coordination with community resources. Services are provided directly to the consumer. Clinicians can meet them at their home or at a site that is convenient for the consumer, such as a nearby park.
 
OCES’ service area for this program has expanded beyond the Greater Brockton communities and now includes Bridgewater, Lakeville, Middleboro and Wareham. The program provides one-on-one counseling with appropriate services and support to improve overall physical, behavioral and emotional health, and to reduce isolation. The program also provides care coordination, education, information, referrals and connections to community services. There is also information and referrals available for families of people with behavioral health needs.
 
“This critical funding enables our agency to expand support for older adults and individuals with disabilities who may be isolated or encounter barriers that limit access to behavioral health services,” said Nicole Long, CEO.
 
Long continued, “OCES provides essential services and is an important resource for older adults, people with disabilities, families, caregivers, and the larger community. We are dedicated to, and passionate about, helping others and improving lives.”
 
Referrals to OCES’ Behavioral Health Outreach for Aging Populations program can be made by anyone including an individual in need. To make a referral or to learn more about this program, call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.
 
About OCES
Celebrating 50 Years of Care and Collaboration and recognized as one of the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Media, OCES is a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 23 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

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