The field for the 2026 primary election is becoming clear as the deadline for petitions approaches. Auditor Brenda Hanton confirmed that candidates have filed for all three seats up for election (Districts 1, 3, and 5):

District 1: A new challenger, Chris Hupke, has filed to run for the seat currently held by Lee Gabel. As of the broadcast, Gabel has not yet filed for re-election.

District 3: Incumbent Myron Johnson has formalized his bid for another four-year term.

District 5: Incumbent Randy Schier has officially filed for a second term.

Important Dates: Candidates have until March 31st to submit petitions to the Auditor's office. The primary election is scheduled for June 2nd.

Codington Connects is exploring the creation of a Community Volunteer Coordinator role to serve as a central hub for matching local talent with organizational needs.

Funding Incentive: A $50,000 matching donation is currently available to fund this position, provided the community shows sufficient interest in using the service.

How to Participate: Residents living within 30 miles of Watertown are urged to take a 5-minute survey on the Codington Connects Facebook page. Participants will be entered into a drawing to win $50.

In honor of National SBDC Day, Regional Director Dr. Melissa Meidinger spoke about the challenges of business ownership, specifically the "isolation of being at the top of the silo" and the pressure of meeting payroll.

Free Services: The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers expert consulting at no cost, assisting with LLC filings, labor laws, and burnout prevention.

Contact: Owners can visit the SBDC office located at the Beacom School of Business.

The Watertown Lacrosse Club is gearing up for the 2026 season following recent success, including two consecutive state titles for the girls' varsity program.

Free Trial Events: The club is hosting "Try Lacrosse for Free" events at Mount Hope Fields on April 20, 21, and 23. Helmets and pads will be provided.

Practice Schedule: Varsity practices begin March 30; Youth practices begin April 13.

Home Tournament: Mark your calendars for May 30–31 at the Anza Soccer Complex.

The annual Blue Door Derby Camel Races will return to the Codington County Extension Complex on Friday, April 24 at 5:00 PM.

The Event: This "life-sized board game" features 4-foot tall plywood camels moved based on the roll of giant dice. Attendees can bet on races or enter drawings for prizes like spa packages and sports tickets.

The Mission: Proceeds support the Boys & Girls Club of Watertown, which serves over 400 children daily and provided nearly 70,000 healthy meals last year.

Employment Opportunity: The club is currently looking to hire 20 mentors for the upcoming summer season. Details are available at bgcofwatertown.com.

Otter Tail Power has filed its annual update (EL26-001) regarding the rates it pays to independent energy producers, such as farmers with wind turbines and businesses with solar arrays.

Context: This follows a recently approved $3.33 million base revenue increase for the utility, effective April 1st.

Public Input: The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is reviewing the proposal to ensure fair returns for small producers without overtaxing regular ratepayers. A final decision is expected by early summer.

Other News Bits:

Mount Marty University (Watertown): Registration is now open for summer and fall sessions. Graduation ceremonies are set for late April.

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The Watertown community is gearing up for two days of inspiration and professional growth as the 4th annual Day of Development returns on March 24-25, 2026. Founder Mitch Reed, who also serves as the Superintendent of the Florence School District, interviewed with Steve Jurrens at Northeast Radio SD to discuss the event’s evolution and what attendees can expect this year.

What began as a simple “concept” has transformed into a regional staple, drawing attendees from across South Dakota, including Rapid City, Sioux Falls, and Aberdeen. For Reed, the motivation behind the event remains rooted in a desire to fill a gap he noticed in the local landscape.

“I saw a void in the community of bringing people together—like-minded people together—to get something done and push the community forward,” Reed shared during the interview. “The first year, you don’t know what you don’t know. We were trying to sell a concept rather than an event. Now, people know what’s expected.”

A Two-Part Experience

The event kicks off on Tuesday evening, March 24, with the “Night of Development” at Lake Area Technical College. Doors open at 5:00 PM for this free community session, which features speakers Mike Donahue, Major League Baseball agent Mark Linweaver, and Hall of Fame speaker Brad Montgomery.

A highlight of the Tuesday evening program is the Watertown Community Builder Award ceremony. Reed emphasizes that these awards celebrate the “unsung heroes” of the workforce. “We take for granted loyalty and pride in work in this society,” Reed noted. “These individuals are perfect examples of what it means to be loyal and be proud of the work that you do.”

The momentum continues on Wednesday, March 25, at the historic Goss Opera House. Starting at 9:00 AM, the full-day session includes keynote addresses, breakout sessions, and panels featuring local and regional business leaders. This year’s panelists include representatives from Glacial Lakes Rubber, Summit Contracting, and SDSU mental coach Marley Sailer.

Recognizing the Future

The Wednesday program will also recognize the “Top 4 Under 40” leaders, showcasing young professionals making a significant impact through non-profit work and community board service. Reed admitted that while these leaders often shy away from the spotlight, their contributions are vital. “These individuals just do things; they don’t want any credit for it. They do them because that’s what they’re supposed to do in the role they’re in.”

Community Support and Attendance

With attendance up significantly from previous years, the event is nearing capacity. Reed credits the success to a massive grassroots effort and the support of local sponsors like the Watertown Rotary Club and local media.

“Everyone deserves an opportunity to be motivated and inspired,” Reed said. “Whether it helps you personally or professionally... those conversations with individuals in the community help us all move the needle.”

Tickets for the Wednesday session are available at thedayofdevelopment.com, while the Tuesday “Night of Development” remains free to the public.

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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Watertown Development Company Internship: The sponsor of the news hour is currently accepting applications for a 12-week paid internship running from May through August 2026. The role focuses on housing, childcare initiatives, and business development. Students in business, marketing, or economics are encouraged to apply by emailing [email protected].

Legislative Social: Scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Lake Area Technical College (The Archway). This event allows local business leaders to connect with state legislators from Districts 4 and 5 to discuss the 2026 legislative session.

2026 Community Builder Award Winners: Five residents were honored for their professional and civic contributions:

Kelly Jaderborg (Boys & Girls Club)

Carmen Backen (Edward Jones)

Morgan Hoff Nelson (Real Estate Professionals)

Denise Regles (Beacon Center)

Kevin Lossing (Esco Stein Sign)

Ceremony Details: A celebration will be held March 24 at the Lake Area Technical College Student Union, featuring keynote speaker Mike Donahue.

BISCO BBQ & Education Awards: The Business Industry School Coalition (BISCO) recently held its annual BBQ. Keynote speaker Army Col. Dr. Jess Eidson shared a story of community impact involving six Watertown doctors serving together in Baghdad.

Staff of the Year: Renee Mealand (Lincoln Elementary) was named Certified Staff of the Year, and Michael Steidell was named Classified Staff Member of the Year.

175th Street Closure: A section of 175th Street (near the landfill) is closed for critical bridge repairs by Holloway Construction. The road is expected to fully reopen by Monday, March 23. Landfill access is currently diverted to Highway 81.

14th Avenue NW Bridge: This $2 million replacement project is trending ahead of schedule. Structural framing for the new deck is largely in place. Motorists are advised to continue using the detour via Highway 20.

Drug Investigation & Arrests: Following a multi-day investigation, the Watertown Police Department arrested six individuals for methamphetamine distribution. Rocky Denholm (65) faces charges of possession with intent to distribute and conspiracy. Other individuals arrested include Alan Chase, Donald Bury Jr., Heidi Whitetail, Dana Scheiden, and Robin Mendenwahld.

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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🐪 READY, SET... ROLL THE DICE! 🎲

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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📢 WATERTOWN & SURROUNDING AREAS: We need your input! 📢

We recently caught up with Sara Foust (Codington Connects) and Heidi Schooley (Mount Marty University) to talk about a major new initiative for our region: a Community Volunteer Coordinator. 🤝

Imagine a central "hub" where you could share your skills—whether it’s 5 hours a week serving meals or professional mentoring—and be matched perfectly with a local organization in need.

BUT FIRST, WE NEED TO HEAR FROM YOU! 👂

There is a $50,000 matching donation ready to go if the community shows support for this role.

✅ Take the Survey: It takes only 3-5 minutes! ✅ Win Cash: Completing the survey enters you into a drawing for $50! ✅ Who can take it? Anyone in Watertown and the surrounding 20-30 mile area.

🔗 TAKE THE SURVEY HERE: [Insert Link to CodingtonConnects.com or Survey]

Also in this episode: 🎓 Mount Marty graduation and enrollment updates. 🧠 Important ACEs Training coming March 30-31 (Don’t miss the Monday night supper & presentation!).

Check out the full interview below to learn how we can strengthen our community together!

#WatertownSD #CodingtonConnects #VolunteerWatertown #MountMarty #CommunityImpact #NortheastRadioSD #SouthDakotaService

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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🚀 Entrepreneurs: You don’t have to carry the weight alone. 🛡️

In honor of National SBDC Day, we sat down with Dr. Melissa Meidinger, Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), to talk about the “superhero” journey of small business owners.

Running a business is high-stakes, and it can often feel like you’re on an island. As Dr. Meidinger puts it: “No one really tells you how isolating and lonely it can be to be that person at the top of the silo.”

The good news? The SBDC is here to help—and their services are FREE. 🆓

From navigating LLC filings and tax licenses to finding a community of peers, Dr. Meidinger and her team at the Beacom School of Business are dedicated to helping Watertown businesses thrive.

Key Takeaways for Business Owners: ✅ Find your group: Connect with other owners who understand the pressure. ✅ Practice vulnerability: It’s okay to admit you don’t have all the answers. ✅ Prioritize self-care: You can’t model success for your employees if you’re burnt out.

Ready to take the next step or just want to “talk shop” about your passion? Reach out to the SBDC today!

#SBDCDay #WatertownSD #SmallBusinessSupport #Entrepreneurship #SouthDakotaBusiness #NortheastRadioSD #BeacomSchoolOfBusiness

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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State Senator Stephanie Sauder Seeking Re-election: Senator Stephanie Sauder has officially announced her bid for another term representing District 4. A former educator and resident of Bryant, Sauder was first elected to the Senate in 2022 after serving in the State House. Her platform focuses on agriculture, technical education, and rural healthcare.

Key Dates: Absentee voting begins April 17, ahead of the June 2 primary.

Harmony Hill Subdivision Expansion: The Watertown City Council approved the annexation of a new parcel for the Harmony Hill subdivision, a project Mayor Reed Holleen describes as one of the state's largest residential developments.

Territory Dispute: The move has sparked a "turf war" with the Codington-Clark Electric Cooperative. General Manager Dave Eide characterizes the shift in service territory to Watertown Municipal Utilities as a "government taking." Mayor Holleen noted that the transition is governed by a perpetual agreement dating back to 2007.

Surge in Juvenile Crime Statistics: Councilman Doug Allen is calling for a shift in city resources following a report showing a 400% spike in juvenile rape arrests over the last reporting period.

Contrasting Views: While Police Chief Toomey suggested the numbers might reflect increased trust in reporting, Councilman Allen argued the city must act aggressively to prevent youth violence and domestic assault. He is calling for more female representation in local government and more support for organizations like the Beacon Center.

Quarry Fire Update (Custer): Firefighters are making steady progress on the Quarry Fire, located two miles southeast of Custer. The fire has grown to 9,059 acres, but containment is holding at 27%.

Resident Status: All residents have been allowed to return home with an "Orange Card" ID.

Warnings: Officials warn that a warming trend through Friday could increase fire activity. The public is reminded that unauthorized drones will immediately ground all firefighting aircraft.

OneMain Financial Lawsuit: South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has joined a 13-state bipartisan coalition suing OneMain Financial. The lawsuit alleges "bait and switch" tactics involving high-interest subprime loans packed with expensive, unneeded add-on products. AG Jackley emphasized that South Dakotans should not pay for services they never agreed to.

Watertown Municipal Utilities (WMU) Billing Upgrade: WMU is modernizing its billing system starting this April.

Changes: New statements will feature a refreshed design and QR codes for a new online payment portal.

Action Required: Customers currently using online services or third-party credit card payments must re-register and will be issued new account numbers. A grace period is being offered for April bills with no late penalties.

Farley Fest 2026 (Milbank): The music lineup has been revealed for the celebration kicking off Friday, June 19.

Lineup: A free concert by Ember opens the fest. Saturday’s ticketed show features The 1270s, the Dan Brekke Band, and headliners 32 Below.

Tickets: On sale April 1st for $25 (increasing to $35 in June).

Paid Internship Opportunity: The Watertown Development Company is accepting applications for a 12-week paid internship (May through August 2026). The role offers exposure to housing initiatives, childcare, and business development. Interested candidates in business, marketing, or economics can email [email protected].

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - While the snow may still be a factor in South Dakota, the Watertown Lacrosse Club is already looking toward the green grass of spring. Club President Eric Skott and Treasurer Christy Kallenberger recently sat down with Northeast Radio SD to discuss the sport’s rapid growth, the club’s success, and how local families can get involved in the upcoming 2026 season.

From a Facebook Post to State Titles

The club, which has been a staple in the community for over a decade, had humble beginnings. Skott, one of the founding members, recalled how a simple social media post sparked the movement.

“I actually saw it on Facebook; a gentleman from Sioux Falls was trying to get it started in all the communities that had hockey throughout South Dakota,” said Skott. “I went downstairs and asked my son if he was interested... he said, ‘Oh yeah, Dad, can I?’ and it just grew steadily from that point.”

That growth has turned into serious competitive success. While the boys’ program has expanded across all age levels from 12U to Varsity, the girls’ program has recently stolen the spotlight, capturing two consecutive state championships.

More Than Just a Game: A Family Culture

One of the most unique aspects of lacrosse in the region is the “one-location” tournament style. Unlike many youth sports where siblings might be spread across three different towns on any given weekend, the Northern Plains Lacrosse League (NPLL) keeps everyone together.

“My favorite part of it, obviously as a mom or parent, is that everyone goes to the same tournament together,” explained Christy Kallenberger. “All levels will travel to Bismarck or Fargo for the weekend. It makes it so much more fun, and you get to know more of the families. It’s a fun journey.”

High Action, Low Barrier to Entry

For those unfamiliar with the sport, Skott describes it as a blend of hockey and basketball played on a soccer-sized field. It is a high-scoring, high-energy game, but the club is making sure it isn’t high-cost for new players.

The club provides equipment for beginners, including helmets and pads, so families can try the sport without a major financial commitment. To help bridge the gap, the club is hosting a “Try Lacrosse for Free” event on April 20, 21, and 23 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Mount Hope Fields.

“We have equipment available,” Kallenberger noted. “Bring your 10-year-old out, and we can help. We have uniforms, helmets... you don’t have to go out and buy all the equipment right away when you’re starting out.”

Looking Ahead: Key Dates for 2026

Registration is currently open for all age groups. Interested parents can scan the QR code featured in the interview video or visit the Watertown Lacrosse Club Facebook page for registration links.

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - In a Session that stretched nearly three hours, the Watertown City Council faced a packed agenda on Monday night, highlighted by passionate testimony from residents regarding a major road reconstruction project on 5th Avenue North.

Appearing on the Northeast Radio SD program “The People’s Pulse” on Tuesday, Mayor Ried Holien reflected on the meeting, emphasizing the importance of public input, even when it leads to difficult conversations.

The 5th Avenue North Reconstruction: Balancing Infrastructure and Community Heritage

The most contentious issue of the night centered on the upcoming two-phase reconstruction of 5th Avenue North, spanning from 4th Street West to 4th Street East. While the project aims to modernize aging water mains and sanitary sewers—some of which may still contain lead pipes—the associated removal of boulevard trees has sparked significant concern among homeowners.

Mayor Holien noted that many residents are protective of the historic tree canopy, which provides shade and aesthetic value to the older neighborhood. The conflict is further complicated by the city’s ongoing efforts to manage the Emerald Ash Borer threat.

“Last summer, we as a city made it clear... that the ash trees are going to have to be removed because of the Emerald Ash Borer,” Holien explained. “But several homeowners told me... ‘we treated ours, we paid to have them treated.’ And then all of a sudden I’m going, ‘Oh wait a minute here, this is going to get more complicated.”

In response to the community’s feedback, the City Council moved toward a more individualized approach. “Let’s go with a more home-by-home look to see what we can and cannot do,” said Holien, indicating a shift away from a blanket removal policy if trees are healthy and do not interfere with the new infrastructure.

Sidewalk Standards and Federal Compliance

The discussion also touched on sidewalk policies, particularly the transition from older 3-foot-wide paths to modern 5-foot (60-inch) standards. The cost to homeowners—currently set at $9 per linear foot after a $20 city subsidy—remains a point of contention, especially for those who have recently installed sidewalks that do not meet the new width requirements.

Holien announced plans to resurrect the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities to provide expert guidance on ADA regulations and help the city develop a more cohesive sidewalk strategy.

Development and Utility Agreements: The Harmony Hill Expansion

The Council also finalized an annexation agreement for Harmony Hill, one of the largest ongoing developments in South Dakota. This move reignited discussions regarding service territory disputes between Watertown Municipal Utilities (WMU) and local electric cooperatives.

Addressing concerns raised by Codington-Clark Electric, Holien pointed to a 2007 “perpetual agreement” that governs service rights in annexed areas.

“It’s more nuanced than what you can really get to in an open forum comment,” Holien said. “From Codington-Clark’s perspective now, it probably doesn’t make much sense, but there is a contract that exists, and it’s not as easy as just saying, ‘This is unfair.’”

Infrastructure Delays and Public Communication

Finally, the Mayor addressed frustrations over the ongoing road closure in front of Old City Hall. While demolition was completed in January, the road remains closed due to ongoing subterranean work, including the removal of old vaults and tunnels that extend beneath the street.

Holien apologized for a lack of communication regarding the project’s progress:

“It’s on us for not sharing that information. I apologize; we could have done better. But it wasn’t as bad as people think... No one wants this to be going on as long as it does—the developer certainly doesn’t, and the city doesn’t.”

The Mayor encouraged residents to bring their concerns directly to City Hall rather than relying solely on social media, which he noted often amplifies negativity without offering solutions.

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Under much clearer skies than the “muddy mess” that marked its 2021 groundbreaking, the Village of Harmony Hill celebrated a milestone on Monday afternoon. The community gathered for a dual celebration: a formal ribbon cutting welcoming Minnwest Bank into the local fold and a substantial check presentation to the Challenger Learning Center of South Dakota.

The event, held at the Village of Harmony Hill, served as a testament to the rapid development of the campus, which has grown from a visionary plan by the Sisters of Mother of God Monastery in 2020 to a thriving multi-use hub for education and senior living.

A Commitment to Local Roots

Andrea Spilde, Senior Cash Management Sales Officer for Minnwest Bank, opened the presentation by highlighting the bank’s commitment to the region. Though Spilde is a newcomer to Watertown, the bank’s history is deeply rooted in the soil of the Midwest.

“The history of Minnwest is that we started in 1987 out of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, during the farm crisis,” Spilde noted. “Our family owners, the McVays, purchased it as a realization that you can’t continue small-town living if you don’t have financial institutions that support agriculture. You’re going to lose small towns if you don’t have that.”

While Minnwest’s physical branch is located 20 miles away in Florence, the bank staff emphasized that distance is no barrier to community involvement. Jessie Tesch, an Ag/Business Banker who grew up on a dairy farm just a stone’s throw from the Harmony Hill campus, reflected on the personal connection she feels to the land’s transformation.

“Our dairy is actually just a little ways away from this building,” Tesch said. “We used to graze cattle on where all the development is going on, so we have a close-to-home feel for this area.”

Investing in the Future: The Challenger Center

The highlight of the afternoon was a check presentation to the Challenger Learning Center of South Dakota. Spilde announced an $8,750 donation, made possible through a partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Des Moines Member Impact Fund.

Michael Klatt, representing the Challenger Center and Harmony Hill, outlined the ambitious vision for the facility. The center will be the only one of its kind in South Dakota, North Dakota, or Minnesota to offer NASA-affiliated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) experiences.

“We want to see kids, especially fifth and sixth-grade students, really exposed to STEM,” Klatt explained. “We want to have them involved in everything from precision ag to healthcare to cyber technology. If we can get to those early students, we can inspire them... and long-term, because of South Dakota’s growth trends, we need more people than ever to stay in South Dakota.”

Klatt noted that the center is part of a broader “continuum of care” and campus education, which includes independent senior living, workforce housing, and “Startup Watertown,” an incubator space for new businesses.

A Multiplied Impact

The $8,750 grant is part of a larger $183,750 initiative by Minnwest Bank to support 21 different non-profit organizations across South Dakota. Under the Member Impact Fund, FHLB Des Moines provides a nearly $3-to-$1 match for every dollar donated by member banks like Minnwest.

“Minnwest Bank fosters a culture of volunteerism and altruism across its 3-branch footprint,” stated Ivan Van Essen, President of Minnwest Bank, in a recent release. “We are proud to donate to so many positive organizations to make an impact across the communities we serve.”

The afternoon concluded with refreshments and tours of the facility, leaving the Watertown community with a sense of momentum. As Klatt put it, the goal is simple but profound: to create a culture of economic development where the next generation doesn’t just learn about the future—they build it here.

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 

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