Meerkat Dinner Auction
The Multnomah Learning Academy has an upcoming dinner auction that has historically been an integral part of funding their operations.
Save the Date – April 3rd 2022
It is vital for the Parent-Teacher Organization to raise funds that support the students and their families. Historically the contributions from this event has funded a multitude of events to enrich and strengthen the learning experience and resiliency of every student.
This year all auction bidding and raffle tickets sales will be online. There is no need to be present to win either. Please see MLA.k12.or.us for more information. Please consider participating in the auction and supporting local Gresham area students.
Paul Blankenship-You Made Our World Better
Paul has been acting as the Gresham Ford our Municipal Fleet Manager for seven years. However he had been with us from the beginning. He weathered the ups and downs of the automobile business during the past nearly 20 years of Gresham Ford “Dealer with a Heart”! He was always learning, growing, and trying to be a more well-rounded and knowledgeable Auto Professional. He loved learning. Approaching new people or new challenges with an open mind and open ears was always appreciated.
His personal time away from the dealership was filled with his much loved Rottweilers. As a voracious reader he was not the opponent you wanted for trivial pursuit but the partner that surprised many with his deep knowledge about a wide variety of topics.
Even when the odds were against him, he fought Cancer, he won some battles, but sadly not the war. Those of us that share his faith know he is with his Lord and Savior but nonetheless our hearts hurt. We all miss his laugh and dry sense of humor. Our tears, thoughts and prayers are with Janet who was a spark of joy in Paul’s all too short life. Her care and attention to him made the path to heaven bearable.
Celebration of Life for Paul Blankenship
Services will be held at Willamette National Cemetery (11800 SE Mt. Scott Blvd, Portland, Or) – Friday, February 25, 2022, at 11:30 a.m. To all his friends we ask you to join us in honoring this man who asked for so little but served our Country, our Community, his Customers and our Dealership with such grace and dedication.
“The only true test of values, either of men or of things, is that of their ability to make the world a better place in which to live”. —-Henry Ford
Paul Blankenship, you made this world a better place to live!
It Was Our Honor Gregory Lingelbach
Greg Lingelbach it was our honor to have known you and worked with you. Over the last 17 years it was your smiling face and bright blue eyes that began our work day. You arrived early to turn on the lights, unlock the doors, and start the coffee. You cared each and every day and it made our days better and brighter. Your bright blue eyes and smile are seared into my memory. Your dedication to and familiarity with your customers made you part of their families. Many have tears in their eyes as we tell them of your untimely passing.
More than a Ford Service Advisor
Greg Lingelbach, you have done so much more than advise us on automotive repair. We will never forget you clearing snow off the lot wearing shorts in a Bob Cat. Your initiative and cleverness to make the many upgrades to this old building is a reflection of your energy and cleverness. There was not anything you could not do. When you coordinated a fundraiser for the Senior All Night Party at Reynolds High School we were impressed with your organization. When you built a deck in a day we were in awe of your efficiency. When you remodeled the kitchen we were made mindful of your forethought. As you traveled the world with ease and encouraged us to all do the same we felt closer to you. Your ability to navigate the river, pan for gold, install a security system, take photographs regularly touched and amazed us. You were always ready, willing, and able to bail us all out of home emergencies, work emergencies, and so much more.
Gregory Scott Lingelbach you will be missed
As I look back at the 17 years we shared under the big blue oval sign on Powell, I am most faced with your ability to never ever choose to say a bad word about anyone. Not your wife, nor your children, or your extended family, co-workers or even customers with unreasonable requests. Your demonstration as a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend made the Gresham area a better, more beautiful place.
I will forever strive to listen as well as you. Your ability to give love and guidance in a humble and caring way without judgment will forever be your most prevailing quality.
Your Ford Family will forever miss you. You have left a big hole in the hearts of the Dealer with a Heart.
Adopt-A-Cop Campaign
Thank You – Diego – Travis -Sabrina – Bob
Sunday was “National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day”. As a result, Gresham Ford wants to state our appreciation for the men and women of the Gresham Police Department. Thankfully, the Gresham Area Chamber of Commerce has been working hard to coordinate and facilitate our communities first Adopt-A-Cop program.
Gresham Police Department Serves Our Community
All 113 Sworn Officers from the Gresham Police Department have been adopted by local businesses and even a few residents. We have lots of plans to show our appreciation. Each of our Department’s: Sales, Service, Parts and Quick Lane have stepped up to show their appreciation and “Adopt A Cop”. If you don’t already follow Gresham’s Finest on Facebook, I encourage it. It highlights just some of the situations that we are so grateful and appreciative.
Gresham Finest on Facebook
Well first let’s acknowledge that they have been working 24/7 during the entire time much of the rest of the world “sheltered in” away from potential threat of the Corona Virus. Then there is the bank Robbery with chase and gunfire directed at officers where civilian’s lives were at risk. On Christmas Eve they responded to a neighbor’s call that there was banging around in an apartment below him, they found an 8-year-old with no coat, nor shoes standing outside afraid to go back in due to the “intoxicated condition of his parent”.
The officers contacted DHS, which is their job, but they also fed him breakfast went to a 7-Eleven and bought the boy Christmas Presents which is their character. On New Year’s Day they responded to a Homicide at a local apartment complex, secured the area, a sad way to begin the year.
And lastly, want to mention this incident that happened on December 8th, 2021 – Officers walked into a situation where the victim was wrestling with a suspect who had pinned him and a gun against a sofa. The officers preceded carefully but forcefully to find the gun and take it from the suspect without rounds being fired, saving the victim from possible injury or death. Also, during the past month Gresham Police Officers gathered toys for those in need, did “Shop with a Cop” and volunteered and donated to our local Food Pantry SnowCap.
Prayers and Love to Those Who Keep the Peace
The above excerpt is from just post detailing the daily reality for our officers. We may only have adopted four but we are thankful and appreciative of all 113 Gresham Police Officers. In addition, I also want to mention our appreciation for their families that support them. It takes a village. I have known a number of Law Enforcement Professionals over the years. Their families sacrifice differently but still deserve acknowledgement and love.
Please join us in a month-long celebration and appreciation of Law Enforcement. You can follow @GreshamPolice and @GrehsamAreaChamberOfCommerce to see how other local businesses and residents are acknowledging Gresham’s Finest. If you would like ideas of what you can do, please give me a call 503-665-0102!
The Electric F-150 Lightning is Tough and Techy
Purpose Built Electric F-150
The iconic F-150 earned its reputation of being the hard-working truck people like you rely on to get the job done. Now, the F-150 Lightning offers even more tools with innovative tech that will change the way you work. You can connect and control your vehicle remotely through the FordPass™ App††, know how far you can go before your next recharge, stay updated wirelessly, and more. All designed so you can deliver on the most important reputation of all — yours.
This electric F-150 was purpose built to have the capacity to do everything you need a truck to do. This truck is strong and tough. Offering immediate torque with it’s electric engine is impressive and makes this truck a blast to drive. The strength and capabilities of the Ford Lightning has been thought out by Ford Engineers and the source of the useful tech like in bed power sources.
Electric F-150 Tows Big
Trailers, boats, or another big toy? You and the F-150 Lighting have got this! When there’s a lot riding behind you, the F-150 Lightning has the tech to help you keep it under control. Hitch a trailer and back ’em up like a pro with the turn of a knob, thanks to available Pro Trailer Backup Assist™*. Plus, you can take advantage of Intelligent Range** to know how far you can take your payload before your next recharge.
Stay more confident and in command on the road with Ford Co-Pilot360™ Technology and available BlueCruise driver-assist cruise system*** in your F-150 Lightning. Ford Co-Pilot360 features Lane-Keeping technology and the Blind Spot Information System BLIS® to help you avoid accidents. Ready for a break? BlueCruise driver-assist cruise technology allows customers to drive hands-free with their eyes on the road.
With the FordPass™ App††, you’ll enjoy complimentary remote access to your F-150 Lightning.† That includes the power to start up or turn off your truck remotely or set a departure time, so it’s ready to go when you are. You can also find and activate public charging, keep an eye on your home charge sessions and even plan a road trip right from the palm of your hand. So charging is simple and convenient, no matter where you are.
Technology Abounds Making Your Life Easier
The F-150 Lightning offers you an ingenious array of connected, intelligent features. And the technology can improve over time. That’s right. The F-150 Lightning can download the latest upgrades with Ford Power-Up Software Updates. Some updates happen in the background, while others will require your vehicle to be parked with the ignition off. Either way, you will be notified when an update completes so you can learn more about them.†
*Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations. **Actual range varies with conditions such as external elements, driving behaviors, vehicle maintenance, lithium-ion battery age and state of health. ***Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. BlueCruise is a hands-free highway driving feature. Only remove hands from the steering wheel when in Hands-Free Blue Zones. Always watch the road and be prepared to resume control of the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving.
See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations. The BlueCruise Prep Kit contains the hardware required for this feature. Requires purchased 3-year connected service plan with regular map updates, FordPass™ App and modem activation. BlueCruise functionality expected 3rd quarter 2021CY. †FordPass™ Connect (optional on select vehicles) and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see FordPass™ terms for details). Connected service and features depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected service excludes Wi-Fi hotspot. ††FordPass™ App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.
Great News for Ford Maverick Buyers
America’s first truck that comes with a hybrid engine as standard equipment and starts at $20,000 is a huge success across the United States including Oregon. Gresham Ford submitted custom built orders for over 34 eager truck enthusiasts. Ford Motor Company has confirmed that the hybrid Maverick with a 2.5L engine has completed all necessary testing in order to pass emissions certifications. This was the last step before loading the all new addition to the iconic Ford truck line up gets loaded to rail cars on their way to Ford dealers across America.
Ford Maverick Customizable Truck Bed
The pick up box is four and a half feet long with the tailgate up. When you put the tailgate down you have access to a full six foot truck bed. The purpose built Flexbed system with side storage bins and spaces to add bed divider boards that allow two tiered loading are impressive.
A 110 volt power outlet is also available that makes your truck even more functional. The LED cargo light also helps to ensure that you can see your truck bed even in the dark.
Storage is easy with the Ford Maverick
The Maverick allows you to remove the outer panel to create your own custom storage solutions. If you choose to build your Maverick without the Ford OEM bin the space is covered with a plastic panel. The XLT trim level includes one storage cubby while the Lariat trim models include two of the storage cubbies. These are used to secure your cargo. This is great for items that you don’t want to store inside the cab and don’t want to leave loose in your truck bed for risk of being stolen. A frequent question we have received is asking how big are the storage cubes. While we don’t have them in stock currently, we can tell you that they are large and deep enough to hold a 2-liter bottle of soda.
How is the Flexbed different?
The Flexbed comes standard with every 2022 Ford Maverick. It is different from a traditional truck bed with it’s purpose built design. For instance, the bed sides are stamped with vertical as well as horizontal slots. This allows you to utilize either 2X4 or 2X6 boards in order to divide your truck bed. Not only does this help your cargo from shifting it helps to maximize your storage area.
Tie downs and pre-drilled attachment point holes provide purpose built power access. Once you have access to power in your truck bed you will wonder how you ever accomplished your to-do list without it. The six standard tie-down hooks help to ensure that you can easily secure your cargo. Ford Motor Company really had consumers in mind when designing this truck.
The staff at Gresham Ford has been most impressed by the functionality and versatility of the Maverick. Completing household projects and then loading up for an extended camping trip all in the same day is streamlined by the design and standard tools of the Maverick.
Build and Custom Order Your Own Ford Maverick
Car buying has evolved and Gresham Ford has evolved with it. Don’t limit yourself to the vehicles that have been sitting on a local dealership’s lot. With a $100 deposit, you can build, price, and order your own custom Ford Maverick. This allows you to get the exact color and equipment, you really want without features you won’t use.
During the Ford Maverick Sales Event, prospective buyers can look forward to a variety of incentives designed to enhance the appeal of this compact truck. Special financing rates, attractive leasing options, and cash back offers are all on the table, making it easier for customers to find a purchasing plan that fits their budget. These financial incentives are carefully structured to lower the barriers to ownership, allowing more people to experience the innovation and versatility of the Maverick.
Ford Motor Company even gives you the choice of rebates and offers at the time you submit your custom Maverick order and those when you vehicle is ready for delivery. It’s your choice. Gresham Ford’s No-Hassle Guarantee is dedicated to providing transparent pricing. Not to mention a better car buying experience. Reach out and experience the difference a Dealer with a Heart can make.
Electric Vehicle Fundamentals
Ford Motor Company has a comprehensive strategy to say “Goodbye to Gasoline” completely in the next decade. Electric Vehicles are different than traditional gasoline powered vehicles. Below you will learn the key characteristics of each type of EV and their benefits.
Typically an EV (electric vehicle) is a smart vehicle that utilizes a high voltage battery coupled with an electric motor in order to replace the traditional gasoline engine.
Types of Electrified Vehicles
You may have also heard the term BEV or Battery Electric Vehicle used as well as Plug-In and hybrid vehicles. All of these types are EVs but provide you fuel in different ways.
HYBRID VEHICLE
These vehicles use a traditional internal combustion engine complete with a traditional fuel tank. The difference comes with the addition of an electric motor and a high capacity, high voltage battery. On a hybrid vehicle the battery is automatically recharged each time you brake. The energy saved to the battery is then used to assist the gas engine. Without any input from the driver a hybrid vehicle usually produces substantially improved fuel economy.
PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLE
This type of vehicle has all the equipment of a traditional hybrid vehicle with the additional option of externally charging the battery with a charge cord. Many PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) also include a larger battery in order to maximize the benefits of external charging in addition to the regenerative braking. Plug-In Hybrids also provide the driver with the option to use the electricity stored in the battery or the gas in the traditional engine. This has been a great option for people who have high levels of range anxiety. Once the battery is depleted the vehicle automatically adjusts to use the traditional gas engine without prompting.
ALL_ELECTRIC VEHICLE
With this type of EV the gas engine and components are completely replaced with an electric motor and a high capacity battery in addition to the regenerative braking technology. Exclusively electric cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs completely run on electricity and no gas is ever needed. That being said these vehicles must be recharges regularly. Due to their increased capacity, all electric Ford vehicles can travel many more miles on electricity alone than the other types of EVs.
Smart Vehicles for a Smart World.
Ford has been working towards an electric future for a long time. In fact, way back in 1913 Henry Ford partnered with Thomas Edison on an electric car project. While it was not mass produced it did set the stage for the EVs of today. Over the last 20 years Ford has accelerated EV efforts. Selling more than one million EVs sold by Ford Motor Company already. Recently it was announced that they have earmarked $26 billion to develop EV even further.
Ford Motor Company is working to improve EV performance while also increasing the range of dedicated all-electric powered vehicles. Battery research and development are also a big part of the investment. It isn’t a secret that EV sales over the last five years have grown incrementally and show no sign of slowing. Projections estimate that by 2025 electric powered vehicles will account for ten percent of all vehicles on the road.
Benefits of electrically powered vehicles
As you get older you tend to agree that it’s the little things in life that can make all the difference. One of these “little things” often cited by owners of EVs is PreConiditioning. This feature will bring the vehicle to your preset desired temperature. On those hot days it starts the air conditioning before it is ever unplugged to help ensure that you get the most from your battery and enjoy the comforts at the same time. This feature can be controlled by your FordPass app on your smart phone or by the touch screen in the vehicle itself.
Near instant torque and impressive acceleration are a few of the other benefits that surprise new owners.
“Many people are genuinely surprised by the instant torque and performance off the line. Most people who visit us to learn about our electrified options know about the battery type and size but weren’t aware of the performance benefits. You may not consider your traditional gas vehicle to be noisy but once you experience driving an all electric engine, the sheer absence of noise makes it apparent. Owning an EV these days is not like it was in the beginning. There are charging stations everywhere. The touchscreen in the center stack of the vehicle will even display the charging stations near you. Range anxiety is no longer a valid concern for the vast majority of drivers.”
David Miller, New Car Sales Manager
On the road EV owners have access to thousands of charging stations, both paid and unpaid. Going green really can save you money. Partnering with your electric power utility company can also be helpful. Locally, Portland General Electric offers discounts when you choose to charge your EV in off peak hours.
PGE provides a home charging rebate up to $1,000
There are lots of incentives an rebates when you purchase or lease a NEW Electric Vehicle in Oregon. The Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program can save you up to $5,000 on the purchase or lease of a qualifiying electrified vehicle.Below is a list of the Ford vehicles that qualify for a $2500 rebate.
- Ford C-Max Energi
- Escape Plug-In Hybrid
- Mustang Mach-E
Unfortunately the rebate amount for the F-150 Lightning All Electric Truck has not be released yet. We do know that the Blue Oval Charge Network offers over 63,000 plugs from established charging providers. This network brings multiple brands and charging locations to your touchscreen and your Ford Pass app. And if you do inadvertently run out of power the Ford All Electric Roadside Assistance is also available with a free tow to the nearest charging station.
FAQs about Electrified Vehicles
Q: How much spaces does a hybrid battery take up?
A: While each vehicle’s high voltage battery differs in size, hybrid batteries are located in areas to take up minimal cargo space.
Q: Where can a Ford EV be serviced?
A: Ford and Lincoln hybrid vehicles and/or plug-in hybrid vehicles can be serviced at any Ford or Lincoln dealership. All-electric vehicles, as well as certain EV components can only be serviced at an EV certified Ford Dealership. Gresham Ford is a EV certified dealership with multiple Senior Master Certified Technicians who specialize in servicing electrified vehicles built by Ford.
Q: How much does it cost to charge an EV?
A: Charging costs are based on the price per kilowatt hour or the time spent charging. These factors are set by the provider of the charging station. The charging stations that you see at your gym, the airport, the grocery store, may be public or operated by a charging company like Blink. As we write this, the rates the rates vary between $0.39 and $0.59 depending on your membership status and they type of charging you choose; Level 2 or DC Fast Charging.
In general there may be cheaper to charge than filling up at a gas station. However, some DC Fast-Charging stations can be more expensive than filling a traditional gasoline engine. You can use the Ford Pass app to see the cost to charge at any Blue Oval Charge Network charging station before you even arrive. It’s just one more way that Ford is working to procure and establish options that will make your experience outstanding. We all want to help save the planet and decrease pollution but no one wants to sacrifice their comfort or time to accomplish it.
Q: Do I have to pay extra for charging equipment?
A: Each Ford EV that can be plugged in comes standard with a compatible charging cord. Additional items to equip a residence for faster changing are available to purchase from the Gresham Ford Parts department. Again Public charging stations include a built in charge cord, so there is no need to bring yours from home. Many of us at the dealership have personally owned either a Plug-In Hybrid vehicle or a fully electric one. Our experience has been that charging your vehicle while you sleep provides more than enough time to fully charge your vehicle just using a normal 110V plug you have in your garage or even on the side of your house. Instead of Christmas lights you can fill your battery.
Q: Can an EV be charged in the snow or the rain?
A: Yes, a thousand times yes. This is a big one for the northwest based on our record setting amounts of rain, snow, sleet, and slush we recieve each year. All the chargin components are protected against inclement weather. Clear out any snow from the charge connector or port before plugging in. It’s that easy.
Q: Where can I find more answers to my EV questions?
A:We are a little biased but we suggest you come to the corner of East Powell and 3rd just outside of hisotric downtown Gresham under the blue oval. We enjoy geeking out over all the new technology that Ford has offer and applying it to real world use scenarios. Questions like yours even help us to get to know the Ford Electric Powered Vehicles better. You can also connect with us on any of our social channels too. Let’s learn together.
Enter to be the Hero of your Office Contest
Be the Office Hero Contest
Win free breakfast for your office
Bess Wills and the team at Gresham Ford started the Love Project earlier this year to help perk up the community. The pandemic has made things difficult for everyone. A monthly contest was built to not only show the love to the residents of Gresham but also the businesses.
In February, Gresham Ford launched a Free Lunch contest and asked for submissions of residents that deserved a Free Lunch. The response from the community was overwhelming with stories of Gresham area residents going above and beyond to care for their neighbors and community as a whole.
“We were going to award five residents with Free Lunch but were so impressed with the submissions we recognized ten Gresham area community members for their efforts.” said Preston Wills, General Sales Manager at Gresham Ford.
Gresham Area Restaurants and Eateries
The second dimension of the Love Project is the business aspect. Not only did ten residents each receive a $100 gift certificate for lunch the restaurants sold gift certificates too! It was a great win win experience for everyone. We all know food just tastes better when someone else is cooking.
Breakfast for Your Office Contest
October brings the same core strategies to the Love Project contest for the month. Click below to enter to win breakfast for your entire office, thanks to the Gresham Ford Love Project. Not only will you and your team benefit, it will also help a local restaurant too. Creating win win situations is just what Gresham Ford does. Enter to win below.
Trunk or Treat
If you’re looking for something safe and fun for your kiddos on Halloween, we’ve got just the thing! Gresham Ford, 1999 E Powell Blvd, is having a “Drive Thru Trunk or Treat” on Sunday, October 31st from 3pm-5pm. Drive in on our SERVICE side (look for the volunteers and signs) from E Powell, follow the direction of the traffic volunteers around the building, drive thru some great classic vehicles provided by the Mt Hood Mustangs & Fords Car Club with their trunks open handing out prepackaged goodies for all your Ghouls and Goblins in the back seat and then exit out again on the SALES side heading North on Powell (right turn). And you never have to leave your car!! Safe, fun and treats for all!! Go to our Gresham Ford Facebook page and look for the “Drive Thru Trunk or Treat” picture for a visual of the drive through traffic route.
And if you’re not familiar with the Mt Hood Mustangs & Fords Car Club, here’s a few things they’ve done in this crazy year!
They gathered cars for birthday drive by and assisted living facilities in the area to bring some sunshine to folks that couldn’t see their families.
They setup their own drive in movie nights giving the community a place to gather and still do it safely while social distancing enjoying their cars and friends.
They answered the call for the Cystic Fibrosis event providing cars from the club and coordinating opening the event for other classic cars to join. And raising a total of $1,500 in donations as well.
This club supported Fort Kennedy this year by donating furnishings for three apartments for veterans who have previously been homeless.
And then there’s the 51 backpacks filled with school supplies and snacks they gathered for the kids in our community, honoring Veterans at Willamette National Cemetery with wreaths and so much more! They are truly a gem of community support and we are so grateful for this club and all they do.
2021 Fill-A-Bag Food Drive
Fill-A-Bag was created some years ago Bess Wills, General Manager of Gresham Ford along with Steve Brown, Publisher / Executive Editor of Pamplin Media Group and Casey Ryan, SVP-Region Manager at Riverview Community Bank to fulfill a need. All three executives saw a very real need from SnowCap Community Charities. Jumping right in with both feet is just how these three roll and jump they did.
In previous years the annual Fill-A-Bag Food Drive has kicked off the holiday season with a grocery bag folding party attended by nearly 100 community members. Those grocery bags were then inserted into the Gresham Outlook that is printed by Pamplin Media Group. Over the years the bags have fallen by the wayside making room for envelopes. In the past SnowCap was given the opportunity to purchase food from the Oregon Food Bank for just ten cents a pound. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case.
Kirsten Wagerman, Executive Director of SnowCap Community Charities shared during a recent steering committee meeting that their need for fresh fruits, veggies, and dairy products are is unprecedented. They also have a great need for baby food and hygiene products.
Fill-A-Bag Events
Friday, November 5th, 2021 – Gresham Ford Drive Thru Food Drive
Gresham Ford: 1999 East Powell Blvd., Gresham, OR 97080 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday, November 20th, 2021 – Mt. Hood Mustangs & Fords Car Club Drive Thru Drop Off & Car Show
Gresham Office Depot: 2205 NE Burnside Rd, Gresham (Time is still TBD. Check their Facebook for detail updates)
Thursday, December 2nd, 2021 – Riverview Community Bank Drive-Thru Drop Off
225 NE Burnside Rd in Gresham (They will be collecting donating for the rest of the calendar year too!)
Monday, December 11th, 2021 – US World Class Taekwondo Drive-Thru Drop Off
39 NW 3rd St in Gresham
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