Pratt Funeral Home: Newberry SC News & Info

This establishment provides funeral and cremation services in Newberry, South Carolina. It assists families in planning and executing memorial services, handling arrangements related to death certificates and obituaries, and coordinating with cemeteries. The business operates within the broader funeral industry, offering a range of options from traditional funeral ceremonies to direct cremation.

Funeral homes fulfill a crucial role in communities by supporting bereaved families during times of loss. They offer practical assistance with logistics and emotional support, easing the burden associated with funeral arrangements. These businesses often have deep roots within their locales, providing continuity of service and a familiar presence for generations of families in Newberry.

The following sections will address specific aspects of funeral service options, grief support resources, and practical considerations for pre-planning funeral arrangements within the broader context of end-of-life care.

1. Grief Support

In the aftermath of loss, grief becomes a constant companion, a shadow cast by absence. A funeral home in Newberry, South Carolina, often stands as a locus of initial mourning, yet its role extends beyond the orchestration of final rites. It serves as an important conduit to grief support networks, recognizing that the acute pain of bereavement evolves into a longer journey of healing. The availability of these resources shapes the experiences of surviving family members, helping them navigate emotional complexities often underestimated in the immediate aftermath of death.

Consider the scenario of a widow, suddenly faced with managing not only her personal sorrow but also the administrative burden of settling her late husband’s affairs. A funeral home that actively connects her with grief counseling services, legal advice, and support groups provides invaluable assistance. This proactive approach mitigates the risk of compounded grief, where unresolved emotional issues intertwine with practical difficulties, creating significant psychological barriers. The compassionate presence of a funeral director who understands the nuances of grief can transform an overwhelming ordeal into a more manageable process of adjustment and acceptance.

The provision of comprehensive grief support reflects an understanding that the services offered by the mentioned establishment are not limited to the logistical aspects of funeral arrangements. Instead, it acknowledges a deeper responsibility to the community, providing a sustained network of care. This commitment acknowledges that healing is a long process, underscoring that supportive care becomes critical in transforming loss into a renewed perspective on life.

2. Cremation Options

In recent decades, cremation has emerged as a significant preference in memorialization, prompting funeral homes to adapt and expand their service offerings. The availability and range of cremation options at an establishment in Newberry, South Carolina, reflects both national trends and local preferences, impacting families’ decisions during emotionally sensitive times.

• Direct Cremation

  Direct cremation, without a formal viewing or service, represents a cost-effective and simple option. For families seeking minimal expense and complexity, this provides a dignified, streamlined process. At this establishment, this choice includes assistance with necessary paperwork and the respectful handling of the deceased, culminating in the return of the cremated remains to the family.

• Cremation with Memorial Service

  Alternatively, a family may choose cremation following a traditional viewing and funeral service. This combines the elements of customary mourning rituals with the practicalities of cremation. For many in Newberry, this approach strikes a balance between honoring tradition and embracing evolving preferences. The establishment can assist in arranging the viewing, memorial service, and the cremation itself, coordinating all aspects to reflect the family’s wishes.

• Cremation Urns and Keepsakes

  Following cremation, the selection of an appropriate urn becomes another significant decision. Choices range from simple, biodegradable containers to ornate, personalized vessels. Keepsakes, such as jewelry incorporating a portion of the ashes, provide tangible reminders of the deceased. This local establishment typically offers a selection of urns and keepsakes, allowing families to find items that resonate with their personal connection to the departed.

• Scattering or Interment of Ashes

  The final disposition of the cremated remains offers several possibilities, each carrying its own emotional significance. Ashes may be scattered in a place of personal importance to the deceased, interred in a cemetery plot, or kept at home. The funeral home in Newberry can provide guidance on local regulations regarding scattering and assist with arrangements for interment, ensuring compliance and respecting the family’s wishes for the final resting place.

The specific menu of cremation options demonstrates the commitment to accommodating diverse needs. By offering a spectrum of choices, from direct cremation to elaborate memorial services, this establishment aims to provide a supportive and respectful environment for families navigating the complexities of end-of-life decisions. These choices reflect a balance of cost, tradition, and personalization, enabling families to honor their loved ones in a meaningful way.

3. Funeral Planning

Within the quiet streets of Newberry, South Carolina, the act of funeral planning, often perceived as a distant task, becomes acutely real when loss casts its shadow. At the heart of this process stands a local establishment, where individuals navigate a landscape of decisions, seeking solace and guidance. The connection between this local establishment and meticulous planning is cause and effect; one informs the other, shaping the final farewell. Consider Mrs. Eleanor Reynolds, a lifelong resident of Newberry. When her husband, Thomas, passed unexpectedly, she found herself overwhelmed. The pre-arranged details they had discussed years prior at this establishment became her anchor. The selected hymns, chosen casket, and even the designated charity for memorial donations eased her burden, allowing her to focus on grieving rather than logistical complexities. The significance of funeral planning as an integral service this establishment offers is not merely about selecting options, but about preemptively addressing the potential chaos and emotional strain that accompanies loss.

The benefits extend beyond emotional relief. Consider the practical implications: financial arrangements, legal documentation, and family coordination. Without a structured plan, these elements can become sources of conflict and confusion, exacerbating an already painful situation. This establishment, through its planning services, aims to mitigate these risks. For instance, they guide families through pre-payment options, shielding them from unexpected expenses during a vulnerable time. They facilitate the completion of necessary paperwork, minimizing bureaucratic hurdles. Moreover, they act as a central point of contact, streamlining communication among family members scattered across the country. This ensures that everyone is informed and aligned, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose during a difficult period.

In essence, the relationship between funeral planning and this local establishment in Newberry transcends a simple transaction. It embodies a commitment to easing the burden of loss, providing practical support and emotional reassurance. While the prospect of planning one’s own funeral may seem daunting, the alternative leaving those decisions to grieving loved ones often proves far more challenging. The thoughtful execution of funeral planning serves as a final act of care, a testament to the enduring bond between the deceased and those they leave behind. It provides families facing loss with a clear path forward, and ultimately offers the chance to remember, heal, and honor their loved ones in a meaningful way.

4. Obituary Services

In the quiet town of Newberry, South Carolina, where generations have woven lives into the fabric of the community, the obituary serves as a vital thread, connecting past and present. A local establishment steps into this role, understanding that these written tributes are more than mere announcements; they are legacies etched in ink, memories shared, and lives celebrated.

• Crafting the Narrative

  The obituary is a concise biography, encapsulating a life’s journey into a few carefully chosen paragraphs. The local establishment assists families in shaping this narrative, guiding them in selecting key details, significant achievements, and defining characteristics. Consider the story of Mrs. Evelyn Hayes, a schoolteacher who dedicated 40 years to educating the children of Newberry. Her obituary, crafted with the help of the local establishment, highlighted not only her professional accomplishments but also her passion for literature and her tireless work volunteering at the local library. It painted a portrait of a life well-lived, leaving a lasting impression on all who read it.

• Dissemination and Reach

  The obituary’s impact lies in its reach. The local establishment plays a critical role in ensuring it finds its intended audience, publishing it in local newspapers like The Newberry Observer and online platforms. This ensures that friends, former colleagues, and distant relatives can learn of the passing and pay their respects. Beyond local publications, the establishment often extends its reach to national or specialized outlets when appropriate, acknowledging connections that extend beyond the immediate community. The ability to reach a wider audience ensures that legacies are honored far beyond the borders of Newberry.

• A Record for Posterity

  Obituaries serve as invaluable historical documents, providing future generations with insights into the lives and times of their ancestors. They offer a glimpse into the community’s past, preserving stories of perseverance, innovation, and service. The records maintained by the local establishment, both in print and digital form, contribute to this historical tapestry. Researchers, genealogists, and family members can access these records years later, piecing together fragments of the past and gaining a deeper understanding of their heritage.

• A Catalyst for Remembrance

  The publication of an obituary often serves as a catalyst for remembrance, prompting individuals to share their own memories and stories. Online guestbooks and memorial websites provide a platform for these shared reflections, creating a virtual space for collective mourning and celebration. The local establishment frequently facilitates these online forums, understanding their importance in the grieving process. Through these shared memories, the life of the deceased continues to resonate, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts and minds of those who knew them.

The services associated with obituary creation extend beyond simple notification; they represent a cornerstone of remembrance and community connection. The local establishment understands this profound responsibility, offering thoughtful guidance and support to families as they craft these lasting tributes. The story of Newberry is partly written in the obituaries they help create, a testament to the lives that have shaped the town’s identity and character, securing its heritage for generations to come.

5. Memorial Services

The town of Newberry, South Carolina, carries a quiet dignity, a respect for lives lived within its borders. Within this community, lies an establishment that acknowledges that not every farewell demands a traditional funeral. Sometimes, the most profound tribute comes in the form of a memorial service a gathering centered not around the physical presence of the deceased, but on the enduring impact of their life. For the families who turn to them, memorial services represent an opportunity to celebrate a life’s journey, offering remembrance without the constraints of traditional funeral arrangements. The selection of location, timing, musical accompaniment, and guest speakers falls under the purview of the bereaved, supported by the guidance of the establishment’s experienced staff.

Consider the case of Mr. Arthur Bennett, a local artist known for his vibrant watercolors of the South Carolina landscape. After his passing, his family chose to forgo a traditional funeral, opting instead for a memorial service held at the Newberry Arts Center, a place he cherished. This local establishment helped them transform the space into a gallery of his work, a visual testament to his passion. Friends and family shared anecdotes, celebrating his artistic spirit and his contributions to the community. This choice reflected a desire to honor him in a way that felt authentic and personal, a departure from traditional somber rituals. The significance of such personalized remembrance cannot be overstated. It allows for a more tailored expression of grief and celebration, creating a lasting memory that aligns with the unique essence of the departed.

Memorial services, as facilitated by the establishment in Newberry, therefore represent a key component in the spectrum of end-of-life care. They offer an alternative path for grieving families, allowing them to create meaningful tributes that reflect the individual’s personality, passions, and legacy. These services honor not merely the end of a life, but the entirety of it, supporting the healing process within the close-knit community. The establishment serves as a facilitator, understanding that the most profound tributes are those that come from the heart, tailored to reflect the unique story of each life honored.

6. Pre-Arrangement

The passage of time etches its marks on every life, yet few willingly contemplate its ultimate endpoint. Within the small community of Newberry, South Carolina, however, exists an understanding cultivated by the local establishment: facing mortality with foresight through pre-arrangement. Mrs. Clara Mae Singleton, a pillar of the local church, exemplifies this approach. Years before her passing, she met with the establishment to outline her funeral preferences. Her reasoning was simple: to alleviate the burden on her children, scattered across the country, during their time of grief. She chose the hymns, selected the scripture readings, and even specified the floral arrangements, sparing her family from these difficult decisions amidst their sorrow. The connection between pre-arrangement and the mentioned establishment, therefore, lies in providing a pathway for individuals to exercise control over their final farewell, offering a measure of peace to both themselves and their loved ones.

The benefits of pre-arrangement extend beyond emotional considerations, delving into practical and financial spheres. Inflation’s relentless march erodes the purchasing power of savings. By pre-funding funeral arrangements through this establishment, individuals lock in current prices, shielding their families from potentially escalating costs in the future. Furthermore, pre-arrangement simplifies the administrative process. The necessary paperwork, often daunting in the wake of loss, is completed in advance, minimizing delays and bureaucratic hurdles. Consider the hypothetical situation of a family unprepared for the financial implications of a funeral. Unexpected expenses can strain relationships and create undue stress during an already difficult period. Pre-arrangement mitigates this risk, providing financial certainty and allowing families to focus on mourning rather than managing financial crises.

In essence, the story of pre-arrangement is a testament to proactive planning and enduring family care. The services offered by the local establishment in Newberry represent more than a transaction; it reflects a commitment to easing the burden of loss. The challenges associated with facing one’s mortality are undeniable, but the peace of mind gained through pre-planning significantly benefits those left behind. The connection between pre-arrangement and the mentioned establishment is rooted in support, providing families with a framework for navigating a difficult life event, preserving both emotional and financial well-being.

7. Local Tradition

Within the tapestry of Newberry, South Carolina, threads of custom and heritage intertwine, shaping the communitys identity and informing its approach to lifes most significant transitions. The local establishment has long stood as a guardian of these traditions, seamlessly blending time-honored practices with evolving needs of grieving families.

• Sacred Ground: Cemetery Observances

  In Newberry, cemeteries represent hallowed spaces, imbued with generations of remembrance. Annual Decoration Days become community events, with families converging to adorn gravesites with flowers and flags, preserving memories of those who came before. The mentioned establishment assists families in coordinating these observances, ensuring adherence to cemetery regulations and respecting the somber dignity of the occasion. The business’s actions are integral to maintaining these sacred practices, linking present generations to their ancestral roots.

• The Comfort of Familiar Hymns

  Gospel tunes and familiar hymns resonate deeply within Newberrys churches and funeral gatherings, offering solace during times of loss. Families often request specific hymns that held special meaning for the deceased, invoking a sense of spiritual comfort and communal connection. The establishment maintains an extensive catalog of traditional music, assisting families in selecting the perfect melodies to honor their loved ones. These melodies become a soundscape of remembrance, connecting generations through shared spiritual heritage.

• Community Kinship: Support Networks

  In times of sorrow, Newberry’s residents lean on one another, demonstrating the strength of their community bonds. Neighbors bring food, offer assistance with errands, and provide emotional support, reflecting a deep-seated sense of kinship. The establishment often serves as a conduit for these expressions of sympathy, coordinating meal deliveries and facilitating communication among family and friends. By supporting these informal networks of care, the mentioned establishment reinforces the values of compassion and community solidarity.

• The Obituary Page: Chronicle of Lives

  Within the pages of the local newspaper, obituaries serve as a testament to lives lived within the community. They offer detailed accounts of individuals’ accomplishments, contributions, and personal stories, becoming lasting records of their presence. The establishment understands the importance of this tradition, assisting families in crafting thoughtful and informative obituaries that capture the essence of their loved ones. This ensures that legacies are preserved for future generations, connecting the past with the present and solidifying Newberry’s unique narrative.

The mentioned establishment is intertwined with the cultural heritage of Newberry. By respecting local traditions and integrating them into their services, the business provides more than just funeral arrangements; it facilitates meaningful experiences that connect families to their past, strengthen community bonds, and honor the lives of those who have shaped the towns character. These time-honored practices contribute to the unique fabric of Newberry, ensuring that memories endure and legacies are preserved.

8. Family Support

The quiet ache of loss often reverberates most intensely within the family circle. In Newberry, South Carolina, the role of a local establishment extends beyond orchestrating funeral services; it involves providing a crucial foundation of family support during times of profound grief. Consider the experiences of the Caldwell family, whose matriarch, Mrs. Evelyn Caldwell, passed after a long illness. This local establishment provided not just logistical arrangements, but also a sanctuary of understanding, guiding the family through complex decisions with compassion and sensitivity. They helped mediate discussions about funeral preferences, ensuring everyone felt heard and respected. The importance of their support as a component of their service highlights the understanding that loss is a shared experience, and the need to address the emotional well-being of the entire family unit.

This support manifests in various practical ways. For instance, the establishment facilitates grief counseling referrals, connecting families with professionals equipped to navigate the complexities of bereavement. They offer guidance on navigating legal and administrative tasks, such as securing death certificates and settling estates, alleviating the burden on grieving individuals. Consider also the arrangements for out-of-town relatives. The establishment often assists with lodging and transportation, ensuring that distant family members can gather to offer support. These actions reinforce the value of family unity and provide practical assistance to those struggling to cope with loss.

In essence, the local establishment recognizes the critical need for family support during periods of bereavement. It serves not merely as a funeral home, but as a community partner, providing a haven of compassion, guidance, and practical assistance. By attending to the unique needs of each family, they enable grieving individuals to navigate loss with dignity and resilience, strengthening family bonds and fostering healing within the heart of Newberry. This is not simply a business transaction, but a commitment to serve community in one of its most profound moments.

9. End-of-Life Care

In the gently rolling landscape surrounding Newberry, South Carolina, the concept of end-of-life care carries a particular weight, a recognition of mortality interwoven with community values. This care, encompassing physical comfort, emotional support, and spiritual guidance, often intersects with the services provided by establishments like Pratt Funeral Home, creating a continuum of assistance for individuals and families navigating the final stages of life. This convergence is not merely coincidental; it reflects a shared commitment to easing the burden of transition and honoring the dignity of each individual’s journey.

• Pre-Need Planning Integration

  End-of-life care planning often includes practical arrangements for funeral or memorial services. Pratt Funeral Home in Newberry facilitates pre-need planning, allowing individuals to outline their wishes and alleviate the emotional and financial burden on their families. This proactive approach ensures that personal preferences are honored and reduces the stress associated with making difficult decisions during times of grief. The peace of mind gained through this integration becomes an integral part of a holistic end-of-life care strategy.

• Grief Support Resources

  The emotional toll of end-of-life care extends far beyond the individual facing mortality. Family members and loved ones require support in navigating their own grief and bereavement. Pratt Funeral Home connects families with grief counseling services and support groups, recognizing that healing is a process that extends beyond the funeral itself. This recognition exemplifies how funeral homes serve as important pillars in the broader network of emotional and psychological care during this vulnerable period.

• Coordination with Hospice Providers

  Effective end-of-life care necessitates seamless coordination among various healthcare providers, including hospice organizations. Pratt Funeral Home often works in collaboration with local hospice agencies in Newberry, ensuring that families receive comprehensive support. This collaboration includes assisting with paperwork, coordinating transportation, and facilitating communication between medical professionals and family members. This partnership emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach in providing dignified and compassionate care during the final stages of life.

• Respect for Cultural and Spiritual Values

  End-of-life care is deeply influenced by cultural and spiritual beliefs. Pratt Funeral Home strives to honor the diverse traditions and values of families in Newberry, tailoring their services to reflect individual preferences. This may involve incorporating specific religious rituals, honoring cultural customs, or accommodating unique requests. The ability to provide culturally sensitive care ensures that the end-of-life experience is meaningful and respectful for all involved, reflecting the values of the community.

Ultimately, the connection between end-of-life care and Pratt Funeral Home in Newberry underscores a shared commitment to providing compassionate and dignified support during a challenging time. By integrating pre-need planning, grief support resources, hospice coordination, and respect for cultural values, the establishment serves as a vital resource for individuals and families navigating the complexities of mortality. This connection reflects a deeply ingrained understanding that true care extends beyond the physical realm, encompassing the emotional, spiritual, and practical needs of those facing the end of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

The landscape of loss is often shrouded in uncertainty. The answers below address common inquiries surrounding arrangements with this establishment, seeking to clarify processes and alleviate anxieties during challenging times.

Question 1: What immediate steps are necessary when a loved one passes away?

The initial hours following a death often feel disorienting. The primary concern is to ensure that the deceased is treated with dignity and respect. If the death occurs at home under hospice care, notify the hospice agency immediately. Otherwise, contact emergency services. Once the appropriate authorities have been notified, contacting this establishment becomes paramount. Its staff will guide the family through the necessary procedures, from transporting the deceased to securing the required legal documentation.

Question 2: What are the differences between funeral and memorial services?

The distinction often blurs, yet subtle nuances separate the two. A traditional funeral typically involves the presence of the deceased in a casket, with a viewing preceding a religious service. A memorial service, in contrast, does not require the presence of the body. It often occurs after cremation or burial and focuses on celebrating the life of the deceased through eulogies, music, and shared memories. This establishment assists families in determining which type of service best reflects their preferences and cultural traditions.

Question 3: How does one begin the process of writing an obituary?

Crafting an obituary is a delicate art, balancing factual information with heartfelt sentiment. The task may feel overwhelming, especially during acute grief. This establishment offers compassionate guidance, helping families gather essential details such as birth and death dates, significant life events, and surviving relatives. They also assist in composing a fitting tribute that captures the essence of the deceased’s personality and contributions.

Question 4: What options exist for memorializing a loved one’s remains?

The options for memorialization have expanded significantly in recent years, catering to diverse preferences and budgets. Traditional burial in a cemetery remains a common choice, but cremation has gained considerable popularity. For cremated remains, options range from interment in a columbarium to scattering ashes in a meaningful location. This establishment offers a variety of urns and keepsakes, allowing families to create personalized tributes that reflect their unique connection to the deceased.

Question 5: How can funeral arrangements be pre-planned and pre-funded?

Pre-planning funeral arrangements offers peace of mind, sparing loved ones from making difficult decisions during their time of sorrow. It allows individuals to express their preferences regarding service details, burial or cremation options, and memorialization. Pre-funding arrangements through this establishment provides financial security, locking in current prices and protecting against inflation. It also simplifies the estate settlement process, reducing administrative burdens for the family.

Question 6: What resources are available for grief support in the Newberry area?

Grief is a complex and multifaceted emotion, requiring ongoing support and understanding. This establishment recognizes this need and maintains a network of resources within the Newberry community. These resources include grief counseling services, support groups, and bereavement programs. The staff can provide referrals and guidance, helping families navigate the challenging journey of healing and remembrance.

Navigating loss is a deeply personal journey. Understanding available resources and processes through establishments like this can empower informed decisions and support during emotionally challenging times.

The subsequent sections will delve into the historical context of funeral practices and the evolving role of funeral homes within the community.

Navigating Loss

The path through grief is seldom straightforward. Drawing upon experience within Newberry, South Carolina, the following guidance aims to illuminate potential challenges and offer approaches to navigate the complexities of loss.

Tip 1: Embrace Pre-Planning, Not as an End, but a Beginning.

Pre-planning, often considered a somber task, offers significant advantages. Consider the narrative of a community leader, Mrs. Eleanor, known for her meticulous planning. She ensured her affairs were in order, including funeral arrangements, years before her passing. This act of foresight spared her family emotional distress during a difficult time, allowing them to focus on remembrance rather than logistics. Pre-planning isn’t an end; it’s a beginning towards peace of mind.

Tip 2: Prioritize Emotional Well-being over Rigid Schedules.

Funeral arrangements should never supersede the emotional needs of the grieving. Take the example of a family who felt pressured to hold a traditional funeral despite their personal reservations. The resulting stress detracted from their ability to mourn and support one another. Acknowledge emotional limits and prioritize needs over external expectations. Don’t be afraid to modify timelines to accommodate emotional healing.

Tip 3: Engage with Community Resources for Sustained Support.

Grief extends far beyond the funeral service itself. The Newberry community offers a wealth of resources, from support groups to counseling services. Consider the experience of a recent widower who found solace in a local grief support group, sharing his experiences and connecting with others who understood his pain. Don’t hesitate to tap into these resources. Grief is a journey best undertaken with support.

Tip 4: Honor Individuality, Not Just Tradition.

Traditions offer comfort, but the most meaningful farewells reflect the individual being honored. Remember a local artist whose memorial service was held in an art gallery, showcasing his works and celebrating his creative spirit. While tradition can be grounding, allow the deceaseds personality to guide your choices, creating a truly personalized tribute.

Tip 5: Document Memories, Create a Lasting Legacy.

Preserving memories becomes particularly crucial during bereavement. Gather photographs, record anecdotes, and compile stories that celebrate the life of the deceased. This establishment can aid in crafting obituaries and memorial videos, ensuring that these legacies are preserved for future generations. Documenting memories creates a lasting tribute that extends far beyond the funeral service.

Tip 6: Seek Guidance, Do Not Shoulder Burdens Alone.

Navigating loss involves making numerous decisions, often under significant emotional strain. Seek guidance from experienced professionals, such as funeral directors and grief counselors. They provide invaluable support and expertise, helping to navigate the complex logistics and emotional challenges. Remember, seeking guidance is a sign of strength, not weakness.

These insights, gleaned from experiences within Newberry, underscore the importance of planning, prioritizing emotional well-being, and seeking community support. Loss is an integral part of life, and navigating its complexities with compassion and foresight allows for healing and the celebration of enduring legacies.

The subsequent section will offer a concluding reflection on the enduring role of a funeral establishment within the community.

pratt funeral home newberry south carolina

The narrative has explored the multifaceted role of this establishment within the Newberry community. From facilitating grief support and cremation options to assisting with funeral planning and obituary services, the firm stands as a constant during life’s most challenging transitions. Its commitment extends beyond mere transactional services, encompassing emotional guidance, respect for local traditions, and support for grieving families. The stories shared illustrate the establishment’s dedication to easing the burden of loss and honoring individual legacies within a deeply connected community.

Consider the aged oak tree in the town square, its roots intertwined with the soil of generations. So too, this establishment stands, its presence a quiet reassurance amidst the storms of life. As the sun sets over the Newberry landscape, reflecting on lives both present and past, may this exploration serve as a reminder of the importance of preparedness, community, and compassionate support in navigating the inevitable passage of time. Remember the legacies of those who came before, and embrace the opportunity to plan for the future, ensuring peace of mind for those who will follow.