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Information Please

Presented by OTRPODS

Rediscover the wit and wisdom of Information Please!—the classic American radio quiz show that captivated audiences from 1938 to 1951. Hosted by the brilliant Clifton Fadiman, a former literary editor, this iconic show brought together an esteemed panel of experts, including Oscar Levant, Franklin P. Adams, and John Kieran, each known for their intellect and humor. Listeners submitted questions in hopes of stumping the quick-witted panel, and with celebrity guests like Groucho Marx and Orson Welles, each episode delivered a unique blend of knowledge and laughter. From poetry and sports to music and history, Information Please! entertained with lively debates, clever puns, and spontaneous humor. Now re-broadcasted for a new generation, this show is perfect for trivia lovers, history buffs, and fans of vintage radio. Tune in and enjoy a true gem from radio’s golden age! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

229 episodes

  1. March 28, 1939: Childhood Chants and Stolen Treasures with Rex Stout and Moss Hart

    Mar 29, 2021 · 30 min

    In this March 28, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman orchestrates a delightful evening of trivia with regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by the distinguished playwright Moss Hart and Rex Stout, creator of the Nero Wolfe mysteries. Together, the panel tackles a range of entertaining and challenging questions, from completing classic childhood rhymes and identifying famous stolen items in literature to recalling the names of their congressmen—a surprising test of civic knowledge!Listeners will enjoy the lively banter as Hart and Stout add their unique humor to the proceedings. The panel faces quirky questions about nursery rhymes, famous stolen artifacts, and nursery chants that date back centuries. Join us for an evening filled with wit, literary insight, and good-natured competition, as the experts aim to avoid being stumped and secure victory over America’s cleverest listeners! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. March 21, 1939: Political Insights and Historical Headlines with John Gunther

    Mar 21, 2021 · 29 min

    In this March 21, 1939, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a session filled with wit and intellectual challenge, featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Special guest John Gunther, the acclaimed foreign correspondent and author of Inside Europe, lends his expertise on global affairs and history as the panel tackles topics that range from historical bromides and father-daughter relationships in mythology to famous political figures and sports records.Gunther brings his nuanced understanding of international events, particularly as the panel discusses recent world changes and political figures from the Czechoslovak crisis. Tune in for a thought-provoking mix of history, trivia, and lively conversation, as the panel aims to answer America’s questions and avoid stumping for the $10 prize. A fascinating and insightful episode that explores culture, language, and the ever-evolving world of 1939. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. February 21, 1939: Literary Lovers, Presidents, and Language Puzzles with Moe Berg

    Feb 21, 2021 · 30 min

    In this February 21, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes a unique guest: the multilingual baseball player Moe Berg, catcher for the Boston Red Sox and noted scholar. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Berg lends his wit and knowledge to tackle a variety of questions on topics ranging from famous quarrels and romantic pairings in literature to presidential trivia and curious phrases in English and French.With Berg’s intellectual charm and the panel’s quick humor, the experts take on challenges like identifying classic love letters, famous disputes, and musical answers to unusual questions. Join in for a lively evening of historical facts, literature, and a touch of baseball banter, as the panel matches wits with listeners and Moe Berg shines with his surprising expertise! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. February 14, 1939: Wit and Wordplay on Valentine’s Day with Russell Crouse and Frank Sullivan

    Feb 14, 2021 · 30 min

    In this special Valentine’s Day episode of Information Please from February 14, 1939, host Clifton Fadiman celebrates the occasion with a panel featuring humorist Franklin P. Adams, sports expert John Kieran, playwright Russell Crouse, and newcomer Frank Sullivan, author of A Pearl in Every Oyster. Together, they dive into a fun mix of holiday-themed questions, from identifying famous valentines in history to recalling literary characters who lived to regret their choices.This episode brims with humor and lively exchanges as the panel tackles questions involving Shakespearean slang, famous fortunes, and fictional family members. Whether they’re quipping about modern romance or debating historical facts, each expert brings their own unique flair to the conversation. Tune in for a Valentine’s Day treat filled with laughter, clever banter, and all the charm that makes Information Please a classic! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. February 7, 1939: Student Smarts and Slangy Shenanigans with Myron Wallace

    Feb 7, 2021 · 30 min

    In this February 7, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings a fresh twist by inviting University of Michigan student Myron “Mike” Wallace, the future broadcaster known as Mike Wallace, to join the expert panel. Regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant round out the lineup, facing a delightful mix of questions that range from literary figures and nursery rhymes to contemporary slang and historical facts.The young Wallace surprises everyone with his quick wit as the panel tackles challenges like matching Shakespearean quotes with modern slang, identifying crimes of Mother Goose characters, and recalling quirky figures from American history. With Wallace’s collegiate humor and the experts’ quick comebacks, this episode offers a lively blend of intellect and lighthearted fun. Join in as the panel takes on America’s trivia while enjoying witty banter and spirited competition! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. January 31, 1939: Fashion, Literature, and Witty Repartee with Elizabeth Hawes and Gilbert Seldes

    Jan 31, 2021 · 30 min

    In this January 31, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a panel featuring two fascinating guests: fashion icon Elizabeth Hawes, author of Fashion is Spinach, and cultural critic Gilbert Seldes. Joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, this star-studded panel tackles questions on topics ranging from outdated fashion trends and famous American presidents to popular expressions in sports and obscure literary references.Hawes brings her sharp sense of style, while Seldes provides intellectual insight, making for a humorous and insightful evening. The panel faces quirky challenges, such as identifying clothing items from the early 1900s, matching beverages to famous quotes, and unraveling riddles involving historical figures. Tune in for an episode filled with lively banter, fascinating trivia, and the witty charm that makes Information Please a timeless classic! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. January 24, 1939: General Knowledge and Sharp Witticisms with General Hugh Johnson

    Jan 24, 2021 · 31 min

    In this January 24, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman moderates a session filled with wit and humor. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant is General Hugh Johnson, the public servant known for his sharp commentary and strong opinions. Together, the panel faces an array of challenging questions, from constitutional puzzles and literary references to humorous idioms involving animals.The experts engage in lively banter as they navigate topics like peculiar trial outcomes in literature, historical figures who faced unusual fates, and patriotic quotes. General Johnson’s direct and insightful responses add a unique edge to the evening’s discussions, while Levant’s musical expertise shines in a special piano segment. Tune in for an entertaining mix of knowledge, humor, and intellectual sparring, as these experts take on America’s trickiest trivia! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. January 17, 1939: Witty Rhymes and Global Affairs with Ogden Nash and Hendrik Willem van Loon

    Jan 17, 2021 · 30 min

    In this January 17, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes two unique guests: the witty poet Ogden Nash and renowned historian Hendrik Willem van Loon. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, Nash and van Loon bring a blend of humor and intellectual depth to the evening’s quiz. Together, they tackle a variety of questions, including identifying famous historical figures from cryptic headlines, parodies of classic poetry, and naming songs with household items in their titles.Listeners will enjoy Nash’s poetic quips and van Loon’s worldly insights as the panel navigates challenges like famous meals in literature, news events of 1938, and classic riddles. The banter is lively and full of surprises, making this episode a delightful mix of laughter, knowledge, and the unforgettable wit of two legendary literary figures. Tune in and test your own knowledge with this classic episode of trivia and charm! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  9. January 10, 1939: Excelsior, Lost Chords, and Literary Quizzes with Alexander Woollcott

    Jan 10, 2021 · 31 min

    In this January 10, 1939, episode of Information Please, the ever-witty Alexander Woollcott returns as a special guest to join Clifton Fadiman and regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. This intellectual and humorous session tackles an array of topics, from famous nursery rhymes in poker hands to haunting literary quotes, giving the panel a chance to showcase their literary knowledge and quick wit.Woollcott brings his signature charm, contributing to questions on famous generals, nursery rhyme characters in poker, and supernatural folklore. The panel dives into everything from guessing poems by their final verses to identifying famous gas properties and musical compositions written for unique occasions. Join in as the experts engage in lively banter and challenge one another to recall classic literature, famous quotes, and curious tidbits from American history. Tune in to test your knowledge and see if you can match wits with the panel in this delightful episode of trivia and laughs! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  10. January 3, 1939: Philosophers, Playwrights, and a Quiz on Colloquialisms with Cornelia Otis Skinner and Irwin Edman

    Jan 3, 2021 · 29 min

    Kick off the New Year with a lively January 3, 1939, episode of Information Please, where host Clifton Fadiman assembles a distinguished panel including philosopher Irwin Edman, actress and writer Cornelia Otis Skinner, and regular experts Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran. This week’s questions challenge the experts to match American and British slang, identify crimes of famous literary characters, and solve creative questions about everyday phrases.Skinner brings her theatrical flair, while Edman’s philosophical insight adds depth to a quiz on popular conceptions of famous philosophies. With topics ranging from folk songs to Shakespearean lines, this episode offers a delightful mix of humor, intellect, and spontaneous wit. Tune in to see if you can outwit the experts and stump them for the $10 prize in this engaging and thought-provoking episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  11. December 27, 1938: Literary Laughs and Holiday Trivia with William Lyon Phelps

    Dec 28, 2020 · 29 min

    Celebrate the holiday season with Information Please in this December 27, 1938, episode, featuring host Clifton Fadiman and special guest William Lyon Phelps, esteemed literary critic and Yale professor. Joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Phelps brings his signature wit and charm to an evening filled with festive trivia.The panel takes on a holiday-themed music challenge, identifies literary characters and classic streets, and matches popular songs to their cinematic debuts. With topics ranging from Shakespearean quotes to humorous limericks, the experts share laughter and knowledge in equal measure. Tune in to see if you can outsmart the experts on this joyful episode, perfect for fans of trivia, literature, and classic radio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  12. November 29, 1938: Feats of Strength and Shakespearean Slang with Kathleen Norris

    Nov 30, 2020 · 28 min

    In this November 29, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes novelist Kathleen Norris as a special guest. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, Oscar Levant, and John Kieran, Norris contributes her wit and literary insight to a lively evening of trivia. The panel takes on a unique range of questions, including interpreting Shakespearean phrases into modern slang, identifying book titles with money denominations, and listing common expressions that sound like feats of strength.This episode features humorous exchanges and surprising answers as the experts tackle topics like American political phrases, folk songs reimagined in different musical styles, and memorable phrases from novels and plays. With Norris’s sharp humor and the panel’s lively banter, listeners are treated to an entertaining blend of trivia and spontaneous wit. Tune in and see if you can match wits with the experts on this classic broadcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  13. November 15, 1938: Literary Wit and Global Insights with John Gunther

    Nov 16, 2020 · 29 min

    In this November 15, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman guides the evening’s lively quiz session, with regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant joined by distinguished foreign correspondent John Gunther, author of Inside Europe and Inside Asia. The experts tackle an eclectic mix of topics, from clever puns and Shakespearean quotes to historical events and cultural trivia. Gunther’s knowledge of global affairs brings insightful answers to questions on international politics, while the panel’s collective wit shines in their responses to literary and musical challenges.This episode highlights a variety of entertaining moments, including musical performances that reimagine folk tunes in the styles of famous composers and witty banter on post-party etiquette. Join us for a spirited mix of humor, intellect, and memorable exchanges as the panel tackles listeners’ toughest questions, hoping to avoid stumping for the $10 reward. Tune in and test your own knowledge alongside the experts! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  14. November 1, 1938: Slang, Autograph Rhymes, and Tricky Trivia with Oswald Jacoby

    Nov 2, 2020 · 29 min

    In this November 1, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads an all-star panel through a challenging and varied set of trivia questions. Regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran are joined by day editor Marcus Duffield and bridge expert Oswald Jacoby. Together, they dive into topics ranging from outdated slang and historical events to famous fictional characters and food-related idioms.Jacoby’s expertise shines through in questions about bridge, while the panel’s quick wit keeps the atmosphere lively as they attempt to complete old autograph book rhymes, recall events from significant historical dates, and identify famous houses in literature. This episode delivers a delightful blend of humor and intellect, featuring everything from nostalgic sayings to tricky wordplay. Tune in to test your knowledge alongside the experts in this captivating and lighthearted battle of wits! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  15. October 25, 1938: Musical Mischief and Witty Banter with Harpo Marx

    Oct 25, 2020 · 30 min

    In this memorable October 25, 1938, episode of Information Please, the panel of experts is joined by a special guest who brings an entirely new level of entertainment: the silent comedy genius Harpo Marx. Hosted by Clifton Fadiman, the panel features Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Bernard Jaffe, and Oscar Levant, who team up to tackle trivia questions on subjects ranging from classical music to literary characters, all while navigating Harpo’s playful interruptions.Listeners will enjoy Harpo’s unique responses—often given through gestures and mimed answers—as he keeps the audience laughing and the experts on their toes. This episode is filled with humor, as the panel tackles questions about occupations in book titles, scientific discoveries, and musical compositions inspired by animals. With Harpo’s silent antics and the experts’ sharp wit, this episode promises an evening of laughs and intellectual fun. Tune in for a delightful mix of trivia, laughter, and unexpected moments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  16. October 18, 1938: Global Politics and Shakespearean Wit with Gene Tunney

    Oct 18, 2020 · 29 min

    In this October 18, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads an engaging session with a panel that includes columnist Franklin P. Adams, sports expert John Kieran, editor Marcus Duffield, and special guest Gene Tunney, former heavyweight boxing champion and Shakespeare enthusiast. Together, they field questions from listeners that span a diverse array of topics, from Shakespearean quotes and recent global events to common expressions that use nationalities.The experts delve into topics such as international politics with references to Realpolitik, the concept of enclaves, and recent developments involving British diplomacy. Tunney’s expertise shines in questions about famous Shakespearean lines, while the panel’s quick wit and humor make for an entertaining evening. Join us for this unique blend of literature, history, and humor as the experts tackle America’s toughest trivia challenges, hoping to outwit listeners and avoid the $5 penalty for unanswered questions! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  17. October 11, 1938: Hollywood Icons and Epitaphs with Lillian Gish

    Oct 11, 2020 · 30 min

    On October 11, 1938, Information Please welcomes the legendary actress Lillian Gish as the guest of honor. Clifton Fadiman moderates as the panel, including regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, dives into trivia covering a diverse array of topics. From memorable Hollywood characters to famous epitaphs and Shakespearean ghostly encounters, the experts must summon their wits to avoid being stumped by clever listeners.Gish adds a touch of Hollywood charm as the panel tackles questions about famous last names in literature, classic film roles, and famous “three-word” phrases from literature. The episode culminates in a humorous impromptu performance, with Levant providing live musical accompaniment, creating an unforgettable theatrical moment for the radio audience. Tune in to see if you can match wits with the experts in this entertaining episode, blending film trivia, literary knowledge, and a touch of old Hollywood glamour! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  18. October 4, 1938: Film Trivia and Historical Treaties with Dorothy Thompson and William Bonell

    Oct 4, 2020 · 29 min

    In this October 4, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman moderates an intellectually stimulating quiz featuring regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran. Joining them are two distinguished guests: motion picture editor William Bonell and journalist Dorothy Thompson, whose insight adds depth to the evening’s discussions.This episode explores a wide range of topics, from finishing classic jokes and identifying imaginary characters to recalling famous historical treaties. The panel dives into questions on domestic quarrels, the origins of popular words, and memorable moments in movies where domestic servants take center stage. With Thompson’s expertise in global affairs and Bonell’s knowledge of film, the trivia takes on an entertaining blend of humor and historical insight. Join in to see how well you fare against the experts in this dynamic episode, rich with wit and unexpected knowledge! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  19. September 27, 1938: Shakespeare, Operatic Tragedies, and Musical Baseball with Basil Rathbone

    Sep 27, 2020 · 28 min

    In this special September 27, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman guides a panel of experts through a range of challenging questions, with a touch of glamour added by special guest Basil Rathbone, star of stage and screen. Joining him are the regulars: humorist Franklin P. Adams, sports columnist John Kieran, and musical expert Sigmund Spaeth. Together, they tackle an entertaining variety of topics, from Shakespearean quotes and the tragic fates of operatic heroines to classical compositions that inspired popular tunes.This episode features everything from identifying racehorses to matching musical terms with baseball slang, and even a singalong challenge for the panel. Rathbone’s theatrical flair shines in his Shakespearean recitations, while Spaeth impresses with his encyclopedic knowledge of music. Join us for a delightful evening of wit, humor, and intellectual camaraderie as the experts compete to avoid being stumped by listeners’ clever questions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  20. September 13, 1938: Nursery Rhymes, Rose Poems, and a Classical Music Challenge with Percy Waxman

    Sep 13, 2020 · 29 min

    In this September 13, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a stellar panel of returning experts, including Franklin P. Adams, journalist Marcus Duffield, Oscar Levant, and special guest Percy Waxman from Cosmopolitan magazine. The night’s questions cover an entertaining array of topics, from identifying poems that mention roses to matching songs with famous dances and even recalling nursery rhymes under pressure.Levant showcases his musical talents as he tackles an impressive classical music challenge, while the panel dives into nursery rhymes, famous taverns from literature, and even imaginary newspaper headlines inspired by classic novels. With Waxman’s quick wit and the panel’s friendly banter, this episode offers a delightful blend of humor, trivia, and memorable moments. Join the fun as the experts match wits with listeners and tackle America’s toughest trivia questions! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  21. September 6, 1938: Scientific Discoveries and Famous Prisoners with Ben Bernie

    Sep 6, 2020 · 30 min

    In the September 6, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman guides an engaging round of trivia with regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, sports columnist John Kieran, and science writer Bernard Jaffe. This week’s special guest is the lively maestro Ben Bernie, adding his unique humor to the mix. The panel faces challenging questions that range from classic poetry and famous prisoners to scientific breakthroughs and uncomplimentary song titles.Listeners will enjoy the experts’ witty banter as they identify famous prisoners from literature and history, match scientific discoveries to their inventors, and discuss iconic songs tied to notable personalities. Bernie’s quick wit and the panel’s varied knowledge create an entertaining blend of humor and intellect, where no topic is off-limits. Tune in to this lighthearted episode and see if the panel can keep up with America’s toughest trivia questions! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  22. August 30, 1938: Classical Tunes, Baseball Superstitions, and Movie Trivia with Ben Hecht

    Aug 30, 2020 · 29 min

    In the August 30, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings another lively session of trivia and laughs. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran are pianist and composer Oscar Levant and special guest Ben Hecht, celebrated playwright and screenwriter. Together, they take on a range of questions that explore classical music inspirations in popular songs, quirky baseball superstitions, and famous movie scenes.This episode tests the panel’s knowledge of everything from nursery rhymes and poetic quotes about fools to baseball rituals involving chewing gum and superstition-laden coaches. Hecht’s quick wit and Levant’s musical prowess shine as they identify classical compositions behind beloved songs and recall iconic lines from stage and screen. Tune in for an entertaining blend of humor, music, and the surprising ways trivia can stump even the most knowledgeable experts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  23. August 23, 1938: Limericks and Famous Feuds with Percy Waxman

    Aug 23, 2020 · 29 min

    On August 23, 1938, Information Please returns with another entertaining round of intellectual sparring, led by host Clifton Fadiman. Joining him is a panel of knowledgeable newspapermen, including Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Marcus Duffield, and guest Percy Waxman, associate editor of Cosmopolitan magazine. Together, they tackle questions that range from classic limericks and historical feuds to mixed drinks and nursery rhymes.This episode takes listeners on a unique journey through trivia, with Waxman adding humor and insight. The panel faces challenges identifying poetic stanzas, naming villains from classic novels, and recalling famous American political movements. With $5 on the line for each question they can’t answer, the experts strive to outwit the listeners. Tune in for a delightful mix of humor, history, and the occasional stumble, as the panelists keep things lively with quick wit and clever comebacks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  24. August 9, 1938: Whimsical Trivia and Quick Wit with Alice Duer Miller

    Aug 9, 2020 · 29 min

    In this August 9, 1938, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is back and brings his signature charm and intellect to a lively evening of trivia. Joined by columnist Franklin P. Adams, sports expert John Kieran, radio editor Alton Cook, and special guest, writer Alice Duer Miller, the panel tackles an array of clever and unusual questions. From poetry recitations to the history of American political groups, the experts are tested on everything from fictional characters’ hair to famous birdsongs.With Miller’s sharp wit and knowledge of astronomy and literature, this episode is a delightful blend of humor, intellect, and spirited debate. The panel faces questions about quirky food slang, Little Willie limericks, and iconic literary characters, revealing fascinating tidbits about American history and folklore. Join in for a charming slice of 1930s radio and see if you can match wits with the experts in this classic trivia showdown! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  25. August 2, 1938: Wit, Lies, and Literary Legends with George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart

    Aug 2, 2020 · 29 min

    In this special August 2, 1938, episode of Information Please, acclaimed playwright George S. Kaufman steps in as host while Clifton Fadiman is away, bringing his sharp humor and wit to the quiz show. Kaufman introduces a lively panel featuring columnist Franklin P. Adams, international affairs expert Quincy Howe, sports columnist John Kieran, and special guest Moss Hart, famed for his theatrical work. Together, the panel navigates an entertaining range of questions, from classic literary quotes and well-known movie songs to identifying famous liars in plays and stories.Kaufman’s unique comedic style shines as the experts tackle challenges involving automobiles named after rivers and cities, decipher tricky ballads, and even sing a few lines from popular tunes of the day. With Moss Hart’s theatrical flair and Kieran’s extensive knowledge, the panel engages in clever banter, keeping listeners laughing and guessing along with them. Don’t miss this standout episode where humor meets intellect, and see if you can match wits with the experts as they take on America’s toughest trivia! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.