Plainfield Park District, 100 West Ottawa St., Plainfield, IL 60544  815.436.8812
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Welcome!

winter spring 08 coverWelcome to the Plainfield Park District web site - 2nd place winner in the Most Improved Marketing Piece category of the Illinois Park and Recreation Association's 2006 Agency Showcase Competition!

To download a PDF copy of our Winter/Spring 2008 Brochure, click the image to the right.

summer 08 coverWant to know what's going on at the park district this month? Visit our calendar of events!

Want to know what we'll be offering this summer?
Click the image to the left to download a PDF copy of our Summer 2008 Brochure!


Saturday, May 17 Special Events:

JERIC'S SKATE CONTEST
Noon * Renwick Community Park
A K-12 event! Click here for more info.

HERSHEY'S TRACK & FIELD MEET
Check-in 10 a.m. * Meet 11 a.m.
Plainfield South High School
Free for ages 9-14! Click here for more info.


Summer Play Passport information will be available online Monday, May 19.


Looking for our Summer T-ball Leagues?
Click here for information.


Check out our revamped summer day camps!

Mighty Wild Cats Camp (Ages 5-7)
Click here for a complete camp calendar.

Camp Ottawa (Ages 8-10)
Click here for a complete camp calendar.

Teen Camp (Ages 11-14)
Click here for a complete camp calendar.

To download a PDF copy of the summer camp information from our
Summer 2008 Brochure, click here.


OTTAWA STREET POOL SEASON PASSES ON SALE NOW!
Early Bird Discount good through May 30

Individual Pass R $60/NR $120 (32826A1)
Family of 2 R $100/NR $200 (32826A2)
Family of 3 R $140/NR $280 (32826A3)
Family of 4 R $180/NR $360 (32826A4)
Family of 5+ R $220/NR $440 (32826A5)
Senior Pass R $20/NR $40 (32626A6)

Click here for more information on the Ottawa Street Pool!


To download a PDF copy of our May Park-ticipate! newsletter
featuring upcoming programs and events, click here.


Bike Park construction is underway!
To learn more, click here.


To download a PDF copy of our 2006 Annual Report, click here.


To view the Plainfield Riverfront Master Plan, including a proposed riverwalk and other recreational amenities, click here.


Upcoming Events

Tip Toe Through the Tulips Bus Trip
5/13/2008

Travel back in time with About Tours to discover the rich history of the Dutch pioneers who settled in Holland, Michigan. At Windmill Island, a walk through thousands of tulips will bring you to America’s only 230-year-old Dutch windmill, “DeZwaan”. Here you will also see a replica of a Dutch inn, a dike and a Dutch drawbridge. You will enjoy a special lunch and watch the making of authentic wooden shoes called “klompen” and see the famous Delftware being painted at the only factory in the USA. Browse specialty shops featuring a variety of Dutch wares, and wander through a 30-acre tulip farm and garden. Your “tip toe through the tulips” will be a memorable and enjoyable experience! R $105/NR $150. Includes professional guide, coach transportation for 13 hours, sites and meal. Program #22341A1. Registration deadline is March 12. [more]


Board Meeting
5/14/2008

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. [more]


Parents' Night Out
5/16/2008

Parents can drop their children ages 4-11 off for age-appropriate, supervised games, crafts, and activities while they run errands, enjoy a nice dinner, or just get some quiet time. Popcorn and juice will be provided while we watch a movie. Children must be potty trained. R $12 per child/NR $18 per child. Program #23103D1. [more]


Hershey’s Track and Field Meet
5/17/2008

Created in 1975, Hershey's Track and Field Games is the largest youth sports program of its kind in the United States and Canada. Meets take place in every state and every province in North America, and the grand finale — the North American Final Meet — takes place in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The goal of the event is to introduce children to physical fitness through basic events like running, jumping and throwing. But the program also encourages children to reach their potential and develop a sense of accomplishment. The Plainfield Park District is proud to sponsor its sixth annual local meet. Age Divisions: 9–10, 11–12 & 13–14. Check-in starts at 10 am; meet starts at 11 am. Volunteers will be needed for the event. If interested, contact Adam at (815) 436–8812. FREE! Program #21711A1, 2, 3. [more]


Jeric’s Skate Contest
5/17/2008

All contestants will be guaranteed one qualifier 1-minute run to show of their best tricks for the crowd and judges. Top scorers from the first run will then skate in a second and deciding final run. Skaters will be grouped into four divisions: Kindergarten-2nd grade, 3rd-5th grades, 6th-8th grades, and high school. ALL PARTICIPANTS ARE REQUIRED TO WEAR HELMETS TO PARTICIPATE! Music will be played during the competition. $8 pre-registration/$12 day-of-event registration. Day-of-event registration will begin at 10:30 am. Max. 25 skaters per division. Program #21712A. [more]


Non-Resident Registration Begins
5/19/2008

Non-resident registration begins Monday, May 19, during normal business hours: Monday through Thursday – 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  [more]


Bike Park Volunteer Work Day
5/25/2008

The bike park will be located on the eastern edge of Van Horn Woods, along the I-55 Frontage Road between Route 30 and Caton Farm Road in Plainfield. Volunteers will work with IMBA-trained “trail bosses” to build the bike park to plan. Duties will include shoveling, raking, tamping, planting, wheelbarrow loading and pushing. Volunteers should be prepared for the work conditions and weather. Leather work gloves, hard-soled boots, eye protection, sunscreen, water, and food are recommended. Local vendors are donating food and refreshments for volunteer workers on specified work days. All volunteer workers must sign a waiver. Children under 18 must have a waiver with a parent or guardian's signature. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Additional supervised work days, weather permitting, include: Sunday, June 08; and Saturday, June 21. Cancellations will be posted by 8 a.m. Hosted by the Plainfield Park District and CAMBr West, the west chapter of Chicago Area Mountain Bikers. [more]


Park District offices closed
5/26/2008

Park District offices will be closed for the Memorial Day holiday. [more]


Board Meeting
5/28/2008

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. [more]


Ottawa Street Pool Opening Day
5/31/2008

The pool will host several special events this summer, including Flick-N-Float movie showings on June 14, July 16, and Aug. 9; a Teen Pool Party on July 29; and a Family Fun Day on Aug. 3. In addition, the Park District offers group and private swim lessons certified by the American Red Cross, lifeguard training, summer swim team, and other classes such as scuba and snorkeling for kids. Discounted daily admission rates are available to large groups, and party packages and private rentals are also available. Built in 1981, the Ottawa Street Pool is a 200,000 gallon L-shaped pool equipped with high and low diving boards. The outdoor facility also contains a 3,000 gallon wading pool, ship-shaped children’s play area, and men’s and women’s locker rooms. [more]


Meet the Summer Camp Counselors Night
6/5/2008

All parents and campers are invited to meet our summer camp counselors and pick up their camp shirt before camp starts! [more]


Teen Trip - White Water Rafting
6/6/2008

Get ready to get soaked! Experience the thrill of white water rafting. You’ll raft down 9 miles of the Vermillion River near Utica with class 1 and class 2 rapids perfect for beginners and thrilling for experienced rafters. Bring a lunch and a change of clothes. Grades 9-12. R $58/NR $68. Transportation, supervision, and rafting are included. Program #32347A1. [more]


Fishing Derby
6/7/2008

Grab your fishing pole and test your “angling” skills. The derby is divided into two age divisions: 3-7 and 8-13. Ages 3-7 must be accompanied by an adult. Check-in 8:30-9 am; Derby 9-10 am; Awards & Snack 10:15-10:30 am. R $8/NR $12. Program #30116A1. Registration deadline is June 3. Don’t forget the bait and a bucket for your fish! This event sponsored by Strictly Fishing and the Department of Natural Resources. [more]


Bike Park Volunteer Work Day
6/8/2008

The bike park will be located on the eastern edge of Van Horn Woods, along the I-55 Frontage Road between Route 30 and Caton Farm Road in Plainfield. Volunteers will work with IMBA-trained “trail bosses” to build the bike park to plan. Duties will include shoveling, raking, tamping, planting, wheelbarrow loading and pushing. Volunteers should be prepared for the work conditions and weather. Leather work gloves, hard-soled boots, eye protection, sunscreen, water, and food are recommended. Local vendors are donating food and refreshments for volunteer workers on specified work days. All volunteer workers must sign a waiver. Children under 18 must have a waiver with a parent or guardian's signature. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Additional supervised work days, weather permitting, include: Saturday, June 21. Cancellations will be posted by 8 a.m. Hosted by the Plainfield Park District and CAMBr West, the west chapter of Chicago Area Mountain Bikers. [more]


Senior Citizen Summer Picnic
6/11/2008

FREE! Co-hosted by Plainfield Township and Plainfield Park District. To make a reservation, call (815) 439-7943 by May 28. [more]


Board Meeting
6/11/2008

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. [more]


Park Play Date
6/11/2008

Looking for an evening activity for your family? We have packed up great games, crafts and activities and are bringing them out to a park near you! Bring your neighbors and meet a few new ones for what is sure to be a new summertime favorite! All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE! Pre-registration is not required. This is a Play Passport event.  [more]


Movie in the Park: Surf’s Up
6/13/2008

PG/85 min. Calling all movie buffs! Bring some popcorn and snacks and join us for a free movie under the stars. Terraced seating is available. Attendees are also encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and even bug spray. If inclement weather is forecast, the movie will be cancelled. Presented by the Plainfield Park District and the Village of Plainfield. In case of possible cancellation, call the Settlers Park Event Hotline at (815) 609-6124 after 4 p.m. [more]


Flick-N-Float - Ratatouille
6/14/2008

G/110 min. Don’t miss out on the ultimate cinematic experience! Here’s your opportunity to enjoy a movie while floating on a tube at the Ottawa Street Pool! Guests must supply their own tubes. Free to season pass holders/$3 for non-pass holders. Registration will be taken at the door. [more]


Teen Trip - I & M Canal Kayaking
6/18/2008

Begin your summer with a relaxing paddle down the Illinois & Michigan Canal. This historic route, completed in 1848, was the last waterway link to connect the Gulf of Mexico to the East Coast. Kayak just off the canal in Gebhard Woods State Park. While traveling through history, observe the flora and fauna that includes a variety wildflower species, water foul, songbirds and much more. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and warm weather on this day trip. Bring sunscreen, a change of clothes and swimsuit. Ages 11-16. R $43/NR $53. Co-Op with Shorewood. Program #32348A1. [more]


Kids Garage Sale
6/20/2008

Do some spring cleaning because CLUTTER = CASH! Kids will learn the value of getting rid of their old stuff as well as what it takes to make a deal! Adult supervision is required per space. Sellers must provide their own tables and chairs. This sale is strictly for children’s toys, games, sports equipment, clothes and collectibles. Information packets will be sent to registered sellers two weeks prior to the sale. Kids will have the opportunity to join the park district staff in making posters to advertise the sale. R $20/NR $30 per space (1 garage sale space = 2 parking spaces). If you would like to purchase more than one space, please register a different family member to reserve the second space. Min. 20/Max. 25 spaces Registration deadline is June 4. Fee is non-refundable after registration deadline. Rain date is Friday, June 27. Program #30124A1.  [more]


Bike Park Volunteer Work Day
6/21/2008

The bike park will be located on the eastern edge of Van Horn Woods, along the I-55 Frontage Road between Route 30 and Caton Farm Road in Plainfield. Volunteers will work with IMBA-trained “trail bosses” to build the bike park to plan. Duties will include shoveling, raking, tamping, planting, wheelbarrow loading and pushing. Volunteers should be prepared for the work conditions and weather. Leather work gloves, hard-soled boots, eye protection, sunscreen, water, and food are recommended. Local vendors are donating food and refreshments for volunteer workers on specified work days. All volunteer workers must sign a waiver. Children under 18 must have a waiver with a parent or guardian's signature. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Cancellations will be posted by 8 a.m. Hosted by the Plainfield Park District and CAMBr West, the west chapter of Chicago Area Mountain Bikers. [more]


Ride, Walk or Roll
6/24/2008

Let’s ride, walk or roll on the Fort Beggs Trail, enjoy some family fun at the Streams Recreation Center, and then ride, walk or roll back. We will start at the trail head on Fort Beggs Drive. All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE! Pre-registration is not required. This is a Play Passport event. [more]


Shovels & Sand-Oh My!
6/25/2008

Scoop, sift and pour as we explore Eaton Preserve! Sand toys and shade will be provided. All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE! Pre-registration is not required. This is a Play Passport event. [more]


Board Meeting
6/25/2008

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. [more]


Teen Trip - Centennial Beach
6/27/2008

Missin’ the beach? Centennial Beach in Naperville has clean water and plenty of sandy beach to frolic in, plus more than 6 acres of grassy area for Frisbee and tag and multiple volleyball nets for a pick-up game. It is also an NCAA-approved diving complex with two 1-meter diving boards and one 3-meter high dive. Catering company Belgio’s provides concessions and there is plenty of fun to be had. Grab a towel, swimsuit and sun tan lotion and come to the beach with us! Ages 11-16. R $20/NR $30. Co-op with Channahon. Program #32346A1. [more]


Movie in the Park: The Great Outdoors
6/27/2008

PG/90 min. Calling all movie buffs! Bring some popcorn and snacks and join us for a free movie under the stars. Terraced seating is available. Attendees are also encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and even bug spray. If inclement weather is forecast, the movie will be cancelled. Presented by the Plainfield Park District and the Village of Plainfield. In case of possible cancellation, call the Settlers Park Event Hotline at (815) 609-6124 after 4 p.m. [more]


Bike Park Grand Opening Event
6/28/2008

The bike park, the only one of its kind in Illinois and one of the few in the Midwest, is located on the eastern edge of Van Horn Woods, along the I-55 Frontage Road between Route 30 and Caton Farm Road in Plainfield. Similar to a skate park but made of dirt, the free public bike park will feature dirt jumps of various sizes, a rhythm section of rolling berms, a pump track, and a skills area with obstacles such as logs and rocks. The park will be a safe environment designed for riders of all ages and skill levels with sections ranging from beginner to expert for riders to evolve in their sport. The bike park will provide a location for competitions, exhibition riding, and instructional classes. In addition, the park will provide a training ground for the Olympic sports of BMX racing, mountain bike racing, and freestyle competitions like the X-Games. Hosted by the Plainfield Park District and CAMBr West, the west chapter of Chicago Area Mountain Bikers. [more]


Park District offices closed
7/4/2008

Park District offices will be closed for the Independence Day holiday. [more]


Fireworks Display
7/5/2008

Free fireworks display at dusk, presented by the Plainfield Park District and Village of Plainfield. Please note that Renwick Community Park will be closed for the day on July 5. [more]


Teen Trip - Great America “Six Flags”
7/9/2008

Are you looking for one last thrill before the summer ends? We’re heading to Gurnee to ride the biggest, fastest, scariest rides that Six Flags has to offer! Bring money for lunch. Trip includes transportation and admission. Ages 11-16. R $70/NR $80. Program #32324A1. [more]


Board Meeting
7/9/2008

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. [more]


Park Play Date
7/9/2008

Looking for an evening activity for your family? We have packed up great games, crafts and activities and are bringing them out to a park near you! Bring your neighbors and meet a few new ones for what is sure to be a new summertime favorite! All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE! Pre-registration is not required. This is a Play Passport event. [more]


Teen Trip - Fox River Canoeing
7/11/2008

Join us as we go for an afternoon of canoeing down the Fox River. We begin our trip in Ottawa and spend two hours heading down-river. Bring a lunch, sunscreen, swimsuit, and a change of clothes. Weather and time permitting, we will go swimming after we finish canoeing. Trip includes transportation and canoe rental. Ages 11-16. R $45/NR $55. Program #32303A1. [more]


Movie in the Park: Flushed Away
7/11/2008

PG/90 min. Calling all movie buffs! Bring some popcorn and snacks and join us for a free movie under the stars. Terraced seating is available. Attendees are also encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and even bug spray. If inclement weather is forecast, the movie will be cancelled. Presented by the Plainfield Park District and the Village of Plainfield. In case of possible cancellation, call the Settlers Park Event Hotline at (815) 609-6124 after 4 p.m. [more]


Flick-N-Float - Mr. Magorium’s Imporium
7/16/2008

G/94 min. Don’t miss out on the ultimate cinematic experience! Here’s your opportunity to enjoy a movie while floating on a tube at the Ottawa Street Pool! Guests must supply their own tubes. Free to season pass holders/$3 for non-pass holders. Registration will be taken at the door. [more]


Fall Brochure Delivery
7/21/2008

Our Fall 2008 Brochure will be delivered to district driveways the week of July 21. Resident registration begins Aug. 2. [more]


Teen Trip - Devils Lake Rock Climbing
7/21/2008

Join us for a day trip to enjoy the exciting world of rock climbing and hiking at Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin. We will teach the basics of climbing to beginners and offer more challenging climbs to those who feel ready to take on the bluffs. Swimming in the nearby lake and hiking will also take place on this adventure. Our guides will show us the ropes on this exciting outdoors trip. All equipment will be provided. Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, change of clothes and two meals or money to purchase meals. Ages 11-16. R $85/NR $95. Program #32349A1. [more]


Teddy Bear Picnic
7/23/2008

It is time to go on a picnic so pack up a yummy lunch and grab your favorite furry friend for a basket full of fun activities! All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE! Pre-registration is not required. This is a Play Passport event. [more]


Board Meeting
7/23/2008

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. [more]


Teen Trip - Raging Waves Water Park
7/25/2008

Come with us to Yorkville for the newest and most exciting water park around! Raging Waves is an “Australian”-themed park offering 18 different water slides, a lazy river, and wave pool. If you like water slides, you don’t want to miss this one! Bring sunscreen, a change of clothes, and money for concessions at the park. Trip includes transportation and admission to the park. Ages 11-16. R $54/NR $64. Program #32315A1. [more]


Movie in the Park: Kicking & Screaming
7/25/2008

PG/95 min. Calling all movie buffs! Bring some popcorn and snacks and join us for a free movie under the stars. Terraced seating is available. Attendees are also encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and even bug spray. If inclement weather is forecast, the movie will be cancelled. Presented by the Plainfield Park District and the Village of Plainfield. In case of possible cancellation, call the Settlers Park Event Hotline at (815) 609-6124 after 4 p.m. [more]


Teen Trip - Vertical Endeavors Indoor Rock Climbing
8/1/2008

Ever wonder what it would be like to climb a mountain? We’ll be visiting one of the most impressive indoor climbing facilities in the midwest. Vertical Endeavors in Warrenville offers more than 18,000 square feet of indoor adrenaline-pumping fun! Bring a sack lunch. Ages 11-16. R $42/NR $52. Program #32318A1. [more]


Family Campout
8/1/2008 to 8/2/2008

Pack up your tent and bring the family to our inaugural family campout! Enjoy the great outdoors with activities for all ages, dinner, campfire, smores and FUN! Lanterns out at 10:30 pm and breakfast will be served at 7:30 am. Detailed agenda will be sent out to registered participants two weeks prior to the event. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent /legal guardian. R adult $8/NR adult $12. R child $15/NR child $22.50. Fee is non-refundable after registration deadline. Registration deadline is July 18. Min. 20/Max. 50 families. Program #30125A1. [more]


Resident Registration Begins
8/2/2008

Registrations taken in-person and online Aug. 2 will receive top priority. All others, including mail-in, drop-off, and faxed forms received before Aug. 2, will be processed after noon on Aug. 2. [more]


Ottawa Street Pool Family Fun Day
8/3/2008

Join us for a day of family fun at the Ottawa Street Pool! Activities will include wacky games, dive contests and much more! Regular admission fees apply. Free to season pass holders. [more]


National Night Out -- Teen Pool Party
8/5/2008

The 23rd annual National Night Out is a unique crime and drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch. National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in local anti-crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships, and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. Ages 13-17. FREE! Deadline for registration forms is July 25.  [more]


Park Play Date
8/6/2008

Looking for an evening activity for your family? We have packed up great games, crafts and activities and are bringing them out to a park near you! Bring your neighbors and meet a few new ones for what is sure to be a new summertime favorite! All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE! Pre-registration is not required. This is a Play Passport event. [more]


Teen Trip - Magic Waters
8/8/2008

Come with us as we travel to Magic Waters in Rockford. Magic Waters offers something for everyone! For thrill-seekers. it has tube slides, body slides, and water roller coasters. For those less daring, there is a gigantic wave pool and lazy river to relax in. Bring a towel, sunscreen and a lunch or money for concessions. Trip includes transportation and admission. Ages 11-16. R $45/NR $55. Program #32322A1. [more]


Movie in the Park: Charolette’s Web
8/8/2008

G/97 min. Calling all movie buffs! Bring some popcorn and snacks and join us for a free movie under the stars. Terraced seating is available. Attendees are also encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and even bug spray. If inclement weather is forecast, the movie will be cancelled. Presented by the Plainfield Park District and the Village of Plainfield. In case of possible cancellation, call the Settlers Park Event Hotline at (815) 609-6124 after 4 p.m. [more]


Flick-N-Float - Alvin & the Chipmunks
8/9/2008

PG/90 min. Don’t miss out on the ultimate cinematic experience! Here’s your opportunity to enjoy a movie while floating on a tube at the Ottawa Street Pool! Guests must supply their own tubes. Free to season pass holders/$3 for non-pass holders. Registration will be taken at the door. [more]


Board Meeting
8/13/2008

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. [more]


Movie in the Park: Little Giants
8/22/2008

PG/106 min. Calling all movie buffs! Bring some popcorn and snacks and join us for a free movie under the stars. Terraced seating is available. Attendees are also encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and even bug spray. If inclement weather is forecast, the movie will be cancelled. Presented by the Plainfield Park District and the Village of Plainfield. In case of possible cancellation, call the Settlers Park Event Hotline at (815) 609-6124 after 4 p.m. [more]


Board Meeting
8/27/2008

Regular meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. [more]


Park District offices closed
9/1/2008

Park District offices will be closed for the Labor Day holiday.  [more]


Photography Contest Deadline
9/5/2008

Give us your best shot! The rules for this community-wide contest are simple: as you enjoy the summer at our parks, capture these moments on your camera! Photos must be taken at Plainfield Park District park sites or facilities. You may submit as many photos as you’d like throughout the summer. All entries must be received no later than 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept 5. Photo Contest Entry Forms will be available online or at the Recreation/Administration Center. To enter your photos in the contest, pick-up or download an official Photo Contest Entry Form, print out an 8”x10” photo, enclose payment, and mail or drop-off to Kelly Banach at the Recreation/Administration Center, 23729 W. Ottawa St., Plainfield, IL 60544. Winning photos will be displayed in the Recreation/Administration Center! Prize categories include: best overall photos, best landscape photos and best people photos. Winning photos may be used in our brochure and on our web site. (Winners may be requested to submit a digital copy of their photo.) Photos will not be returned. All ages R $5 per photo/NR $7.50 per photo [more]

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