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Dutch Bros Bringing The Energy & A Second Location To Davenport

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Dutch Bros Bringing The Energy & A Second Location To Davenport

Dutch Bros Coffee, the renowned Oregon-based drive-through coffee chain, is amplifying its presence in Davenport, Florida, with the introduction of a second location. This expansion underscores the company’s commitment to bringing its signature energy and diverse beverage offerings to the Sunshine State.

The inaugural Davenport outlet, situated at 2800 Jacks Road, opened its doors in early 2024 under the local leadership of Chandell Nganga.  Building on this momentum, Dutch Bros has unveiled a second location coming to Osceola Polk Line Rd near Fords Garage Restaurant. Another Polk County location is coming to the old Boston Market location (150 Cypress Gardens Blvd.) in Winter Haven. Details on when these locations may be opening has not been released. They are however starting the process to hire: Dutch Bros Searching For Broistas

Founded in 1992 by brothers Dane and Travis Boersma in Grants Pass, Oregon, Dutch Bros has experienced remarkable growth, evolving from a modest pushcart operation to a formidable coffee empire with over 1,000 locations across 17 states as of February 2025.  The company’s mission transcends serving beverages; it emphasizes fostering community connections and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Dutch Bros. Broista Handing Out Coffee

The menu at Dutch Bros is both extensive and innovative, designed to cater to a wide array of tastes. Coffee aficionados can indulge in classics like the Caramelizer—a rich caramel mocha—or the Annihilator, which features chocolate macadamia nut flavors. For those seeking an alternative to coffee, the proprietary Blue Rebel™ energy drinks offer a customizable energy boost, with a variety of flavors to choose from. Additionally, the menu includes smoothies, lemonades, and teas, ensuring there’s something for everyone. 

Dutch Bros’ distinctive approach to customer service sets it apart in the competitive coffee industry. Employees, affectionately known as “broistas,” are celebrated for their upbeat and engaging interactions, creating a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with customers. This emphasis on positive engagement has cultivated a loyal following, often referred to as the “Dutch Mafia.”

The company’s strategic focus on drive-through service aligns with contemporary consumer preferences for convenience without compromising quality. This model has significantly contributed to Dutch Bros’ rapid expansion and its status as a major player in the U.S. coffee market.

The introduction of a second Dutch Bros location in Davenport signifies more than just the availability of quality beverages; it represents the brand’s dedication to community engagement and personalized service. As Dutch Bros continues its expansion across Florida and beyond, residents and visitors alike can anticipate a variety of beverage options served with the distinctive Dutch Bros flair, further enriching the local coffee culture.

Delve into the Mystical World of Narnia with the Mystic Tea and Stories Podcast

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Delve into the Mystical World of Narnia with the Mystic Tea and Stories Podcast
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by James Coulter

The beloved fantasy series The Chronicles of Narnia is set to receive its latest film adaptation in theaters and on Netflix next year.

Until then, for anyone who cannot wait to explore the magical world of Arden, the books are readily available to read at your local library and bookstore.

Mystic Tea and Stories is a new podcast that has been exploring the Narnia book series to help unveil the mystical meaning behind the stories and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in the process.

Hosted by Amanda Elizabeth Stauffer, Mystic Tea and Stories was created, along with her Etsy store, as a way to connect with other people who love vintage YA fiction as much as she does.

As her website explains, “Her podcast explores vintage fiction through a mystical lens, featuring conversations with guests and delving into themes of mysticism and the wild things of God.”

Stauffer has been a woman-of-all-trades, doing everything from crafting and writing, to content marketing and graphic design.

She was initially inspired to start her podcast to help market her book-themed Etsy shop; however, she decided to follow her heart and delve more into the mystic aspects of her favorite books.

“I wanted to be true to what I actually loved and wanted to talk about, [which] was books, but also the mystic aspect.” she said. “I heard mysticism described as the ‘adventure of the wild things of God’ and I love that.”

Recently, local author J.C. Alexandre, author of the YA fantasy series “The Light Prince” inspired by Narnia, appeared on the podcast to discuss the third book in the Narnia series, “Voyage of the Dawn Treader.”

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Likewise, Amanda Stauffer appeared on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast to discuss her podcast and the mystical influences that inspired it. Listen to the full podcast episode on Acast: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-56-mystic-tea-stories-wamanda-elizabeth-stauffer

Welcome, World Travelers! Here’s What Disney World Attractions Will Be Closing (And When)

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Welcome, World Travelers! Here’s What Disney World Attractions Will Be Closing (And When)

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by James Coulter

From the Muppets taking over a classic coaster in Hollywood Studios, to new Indiana Jones and Encanto rides coming to Animal Kingdom, to a whole villains-themed land being built in the Magic Kingdom, big changes are coming to Walt Disney World.

However, with these big changes also comes the closing of many old and beloved attractions Here’s what attractions will be closing this year and when they will close:

#1: Magic Kingdom

The good news is that the Magic Kingdom will see a massive expansion with the construction of both Cars and Villains-themed lands. The bad news is that these new lands will also see the removal of the iconic Rivers of America with the Tom Sawyer Island and Liberty Square Riverboat attractions.

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When exactly the river will be closed and drained to make way for the new lands has yet to be officially announced. However, the Disney Parks Blog has stated that: “Ahead of work revving into high gear next year, guests will have plenty of time to experience the charm and nostalgia of Frontierland as it is today.”

As of December 2024, Disney has submitted updated plans to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) following the district’s Request for Additional Information (RAI) and is currently awaiting its approval. For now, the Rivers of America can be expected to close sometime later this year.

But the Rivers will not be the only Frontierland attraction to close. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad recently closed temporarily for refurbishment, with an expected opening sometime next year in 2026.

Also, in Liberty Square, the Hall of Presidents show had likewise closed temporarily for refurbishment and is scheduled to re-open sometime later this year.

#2: Disney’s Animal Kingdom

A new Latin America-themed land has been proposed for the park with attractions based on Encanto and Indiana Jones. The new land will replace Dinoland USA along with its attractions including The Boneyard play area and the iconic Dinosaur thrill ride.

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So far, TriceraTop Spin, along with smaller attractions like Fossil Fun Games and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, have already shut down as of this January. Several more attractions are slated for closure throughout the year, with the Dinosaur ride slated to close in 2026.

Meanwhile, the It’s Tough to Be A Bug 4-D show located in the Tree of Life will close its doors on Mar. 17 to make way for its replacement, Zootopia: Better Together. Kali River Rapids has also closed temporarily and is set to re-open sometime this spring.

#3: Disney’s Hollywood Studios

It’s finally time to stop the music. It’s time to dim the lights. And it’s almost time to meet the Muppets one last time before they close the doors to their iconic MuppetVision 3D show.

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Both MuppetVision 3D and the adjoining themed restaurant PizzeRizzo are scheduled to close permanently on June 7. The area will be rethemed and renovated into the new Monster Inc.-themed land, which will include a suspended roller coaster.

As for the Muppets, they are set to make their new home at Rock n Roller Coaster, which will be rethemed to the Muppets’ band, The Electric Mayhem. While this means Rock n Roller Coaster featuring Aerosmith will be set to close, no official closure date has been announced.

Cooking on the Ridge: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

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Cooking on the Ridge: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
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by James Coulter

I love curry. I love how the blend of sweet and spicy makes Indian food so flavorful. And I love being able to make my food extra spicy by adding hot peppers to the mix.

The only thing I love more than curry is my slow cooker. All you have to do is dump all your ingredients in the pot, turn it on, and let it cook through the day for a delicious meal come dinner time. So, of course, I love being able to prepare my curry dishes with my slow cooker.

And making the entire experience more convenient are curry sauces sold premade in jars. It certainly saves me time measuring and adding all of the different spices. All I have to do is dump the sauce in with my meat and veggies, and I have a scrumptious curry dinner by the end of the day.

I recently purchased my first curry simmer sauce and used it to make chicken tikka masala. The sauce was extra spicy, just the way I love it! The recipe is easy enough: just add the sauce to a pound of chicken and cook.

However, like with all good recipes, it can always be improved with modifications. So, I also added diced onion, fire-roasted tomatoes, and green chilies for added spice. The result was a spicy helping of curry served with white rice and naan bread.

With how easy this recipe is, I certainly expect to prepare it for future meals. Maybe next time I’ll add jalapeno or even poblano and habanero peppers. The spicier, the better.

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Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

1 lb. chicken thigh or breast

1 tbsp. minced garlic

1 15. oz. jar curry sauce (like Patak’s Taste of India)

1 diced onion

1 10 oz. can diced tomatoes (fire roasted for added heat)

1 7 oz. can green chilies or jalapenos (optional for added heat)

Directions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized portions.

2. In a large frying pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.

3. Add the chicken and cook until the meat turns white.

4. Add contents to slow cooker along with sauce, diced tomatoes, and peppers.

5. Cook on high for six hours, or low for eight hours, or until chicken has been cooked thoroughly.

6. Serve with rice and naan bread.

Wauchula Moose Lodge “Pays It Forward” with AED for Arcadia Moose Lodge

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Wauchula Moose Lodge “Pays It Forward” with AED for Arcadia Moose Lodge
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by James Coulter

After receiving their own automated external defibrillator (AED) for their facility, the Wauchula Moose Lodge raised enough money to “pay it forward” and sponsor an AED donation for the Arcadia Moose Lodge.

On Mon. Mar. 10, Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF) placed its 61st AED at the Arcadia Moose Lodge #1327/#1597. The AED was donated in large part to Wauchula Moose Lodge #1487.

The Wauchula Moose Lodge received their own AED last month from CCF. Inspired by the donation, the Lodge decided to raise the proceeds to “pay it forward” by sponsoring an AED donation for the Arcadia Moose Lodge.

“It is an amazing feeling that the Wauchula Moose Lodge paid it forward,” said April White, a member of the Arcadia Moose Lodge. “I hope our lodge pays it forward.”

April White started working at the Lodge four years ago. She started working in the kitchen, then as a bartender, and now as the social quarters and kitchen manager.

She was especially impressed by the presentation by Eric Shimkus, who demonstrated how to use the AED and perform CPR in case of an emergency.

“The demonstration was amazing,” she said. “This learning experience was amazing for myself and my bartenders, as we have discussed the learning experience that we got and what we learned [from it].”

That evening, CCF founder Melanie Brown Culpepper also highlighted the importance of keeping fire extinguishers in vehicles, noting an incident in Nov. where a young girl Jolynn lost her life in a car accident.

“All of these I added to our demonstration in the hope to share the importance of Saving Lives,” Melanie wrote on Facebook. “Thank you everyone and our community so very much as without our community support, we could not make this all happen.”

Melanie started CCF more than four years ago following the untimely passing of her late fiancée Michael Culpepper, who passed away from cardiac arrest.

Not wanting anyone else to suffer a similar fate, she started her non-profit to raise proceeds to donate AEDs across Polk County. Since its inception, it has donated more than 60 AEDs.

To learn more, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/honoringculpepper

NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Mastering the Respond Function for Effective Incident Management

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NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Mastering the Respond Function for Effective Incident Management

In today’s evolving cyber threat landscape, organizations must be prepared to swiftly and effectively respond to security incidents. The “Respond” function of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) focuses on developing and implementing appropriate actions when a cybersecurity event is detected. This phase ensures that organizations can mitigate the impact of an incident and recover with minimal disruption.

Understanding the Respond Function

The Respond function is essential in reducing the impact of cyber incidents by providing structured response measures. This function is broken down into five key categories:

  1. Response Planning – Organizations should establish and maintain response processes and procedures that are regularly tested and updated to handle incidents effectively.
  2. Communications – Proper communication strategies must be in place to notify stakeholders, law enforcement, and the public when necessary.
  3. Analysis – Affected organizations should conduct a thorough assessment of the incident to determine its scope, impact, and potential attack vectors.
  4. Mitigation – Steps should be taken to contain the incident and prevent its spread, ensuring that security controls are reinforced.
  5. Improvements – After resolving an incident, organizations should review their response efforts and update their security policies to prevent similar occurrences.

Importance of an Effective Response Plan

Having a well-defined response plan is critical for organizations to minimize downtime, limit financial losses, and protect their reputation. An effective incident response plan includes:

  • Clearly defined roles and responsibilities for cybersecurity teams.
  • Automated response mechanisms to quickly isolate threats.
  • Coordination with external partners like forensic investigators and legal teams.
  • Regular training and tabletop exercises to ensure readiness.
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Leveraging Security Tools for Incident Response

Organizations should integrate automated security tools to accelerate detection and response processes. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), and Artificial Intelligence-based threat intelligence can enhance real-time incident handling. Solutions like PC Matic Pro can support these efforts by ensuring that applications and processes are secured, helping businesses mitigate and contain cyber threats efficiently.

Conclusion

The NIST CSF Respond function is crucial in an organization’s cybersecurity strategy. By implementing robust response strategies, companies can reduce the impact of cyber incidents and strengthen their overall security posture. Proactive planning, communication, and continuous improvements ensure organizations are resilient in the face of emerging threats.

About the Author:

Kip Kirchberg

Kip Kirchberg is an international cybersecurity expert with extensive experience in building and leading cybersecurity teams, as well as collaborating with Fortune 500 organizations to enhance their security posture.

His expertise includes, but is not limited to:

  • Developing and implementing SIEM platforms
  • Endpoint security solutions
  • Managing third-party remote access securely
  • Securing industrial control systems (ICS)
  • Deploying and optimizing next-generation firewalls
  • Assisting organizations in identifying cybersecurity risks
  • Generating actionable reports that drive informed security decisions
  • Building and maintaining incident response teams
  • Drafting and adopting corporate cybersecurity governance policies
  • Conducting internal and external penetration testing

With a proven track record in cybersecurity strategy and risk management, Kip is dedicated to helping organizations proactively defend against evolving cyber threats.

Book time with Me:

Contact

Three Car Accident at HWY 27 and Cypress Gardens Blvd

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Three Car Accident at HWY 27 and Cypress Gardens Blvd

A traffic collision was reported on Monday, March 17, 2025, at the intersection of Hwy. 27 and Cypress Gardens Blvd SE in Lake Wales (near Winter Haven) at approximately 5:42pm.

Witnesses say the accident involves three vehicles, including a white Tesla.

Polk County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer Nathaniel Gale confirmed that one individual was transported by ground to the hospital for care.

Photo source J Byam

Pair Charged with Grand Theft of Motor Vehicle and More After Night out at Party

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Pair Charged with Grand Theft of Motor Vehicle and More After Night out at Party

A night in St. Petersburg ended with a Winter Haven woman losing more than $1200, her car temporarily stolen and a couple behind bars.


On March 15, 2025, a Winter Haven woman drove to attend a party in St. Petersburg and met 46 year-old Jason Fernanda Floyd and 43 year-old Racheal Diane Jenkins along with another female. The victim became intoxicated and did not feel that she should drive home, so Floyd and Jenkins agreed to drive her back to her Winter Haven residence with the other female joining them.


Once they arrived at the victim’s Winter Haven residence, the victim went to sleep while Floyd, Jenkins and the other female were inside the residence. When the victim woke up a few hours later, Floyd and Jenkins were gone along with the victim’s vehicle, phone, purse and numerous financial cards. The other female who came over from St Petersburg was still in the residence and attempted to call Floyd and Jenkins to no avail.


The victim checked her card accounts online and found that more than $1,200 was missing from her accounts. Within roughly an hour-and-a-half of the victim waking up, Floyd and Jenkins arrived back at the residence in the victim’s car with Floyd driving and Jenkins in the passenger seat with the victim’s purse in her lap.


All totaled, Floyd and Jenkins utilized the victim’s cards for four ATM withdrawals, food, gas and beauty products totaling more than $1,266. Jenkins was also found to have Cocaine, Methamphetamine and Marijuana inside of her purse.


Floyd and Jenkins were taken into custody and booked into the Polk County Jail on the following charges:
Floyd: One count each of Grand Theft of Motor Vehicle (F-3), Grand Theft (F-3) and Criminal Use of Personal Identification (F-3)


Jenkins: One count each of Grand Theft of Motor Vehicle (F-3), Grand Theft (F-3), Criminal Use of Personal Identification (F-3), Possession of Cocaine (F-3), Possession of Methamphetamine (F-3), Possession of Marijuana (M-1) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (M-1).

Corned Beef and Cabbage- Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day

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Corned Beef and Cabbage- Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day

By Maria Iannucci

Since it’s St. Patrick’s Day, we would be remiss if we didn’t share a recipe for this classic. With just a few ingredients, all readily available at several local growers, tonight’s evening meal can still be a gastronomic success. 

It’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, but you’ll want to make it all year long.

Credit allrecipes.com

What Is Corned Beef? 

Corned beef is salt-cured beef. Before electricity paved the way for refrigeration, meat was preserved in salt. Brisket (the tender meat from the lower breast) is traditionally used to make corned beef in the United States.

Corned Beef and Cabbage Origins 

So how did corned beef and cabbage become such a dynamic duo? It’s actually an American invention. Historically, cabbage was paired with pork bacon in Ireland. Irish immigrants in 19th-century New York City, who often lived in the same neighborhood as Jewish butchers, noticed flavor similarities between the corned beef of NYC delicatessens and the pork bacon of their homeland. Thus, corned beef and cabbage was born. These days, it’s commonly associated with St. Patrick’s Day.

Corned Beef and Cabbage 

You’ll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make corned beef and cabbage:

Boil the corned beef, then simmer until the meat is tender.

Meanwhile, cut potatoes in half, cut the cabbage into wedges, and peel and cut the carrots.

Add the potatoes and carrots to the Dutch oven and cook until tender.

Add the cabbage and cook for about 15 more minutes.

Remove the meat from the Dutch oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Slice across the grain and serve with vegetables and broth. Serves 6. 

Ingredients

  • 1 (3 pound) corned beef brisket with spice packet
  • 10 small red potatoes
  • 5 medium carrots
  • 1 large head cabbage

Directions

  1. Gather all ingredients. Place corned beef in a Dutch oven and cover with water. Add spice packet, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until corned beef is just about fork-tender, about 2 hours. While the corned beef is simmering, cut potatoes in half. Peel carrots and cut into 3-inch pieces. Cut cabbage into small wedges.
  2. Place corned beef in a Dutch oven and cover with water. Add spice packet, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until corned beef is just about fork-tender, about 2 hours. While the corned beef is simmering, cut potatoes in half. Peel carrots and cut into 3-inch pieces. Cut cabbage into small wedges.
  3. When corned beef has cooked for 2 hours, add potatoes and carrots; cook until vegetables are almost tender, about 10 minutes. Add cabbage and continue to cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 more minutes.
  4. Remove meat and let rest for 15 minutes. Leave broth and vegetables in the Dutch oven.Slice meat across the grain. Serve with vegetables and broth.
  5. Serve with mustard or horseradish if desired.

(Credit: Allrecipes.com)

Thompson Nursery Road Residents Raise Concerns about Traffic and Safety with Planned Renovations

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Thompson Nursery Road Residents Raise Concerns about Traffic and Safety with Planned Renovations

Thompson Nursery Road Residents Raise Concerns about Traffic and Safety with Planned Renovations

by James Coulter

 

Planned renovations to Thompson Nursery Road have many residents raising concerns about potential traffic issues and the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.

 

At their meeting on Mon. Mar. 10, Winter Haven city commissioners were given a presentation by Jay Jarvis, Director of Polk County Roads & Drainage Division, on the Thompson Nursery Road Project.

 

The project is divided into two phases. Phase one consists of four segments of road between Highway 17 and Eagle Lake and West Lake Ruby Road. The second phase consists of roadway from West Lake Ruby Road.

 

Currently, the project is focused on segment one of phase one, which consists of the roadway from Highway 17 to Rifle Range Road and Snively Avenue.

 

Jarvis explained that the alignment had been adopted back in mid-2007 to 2008 by the Board of County Commissioners of Polk County. Since then, the project has been “pulled off the shelf” and updated as funding has become available.

 

“Our intent is that this [segment one of phase one] will go out to bid sometime this summer and start construction by sometime of this fall of this year,” he explained. “We expect to go out to bid this summer and move into construction in the fall with a two-year construction timeframe, with 2027 or 2028.”

 

As for segment two of phase one, he expects the proposed alignment to be presented to the board sometime in April, preferably the second meeting that month, with the expectation of it being approved so they can move forward with design, permitting, and right-of-way acquisition.

 

“We have already done preliminary acquisition along this corridor,” Jarvis said. “We have already acquired some properties along this corridor already. Then the intent will be three to four years as we move through this. Our intent will be to build segments two to four, and the funding will be available.”

 

However, many residents, especially those who are members of a local homeowners association (HOA), have raised concerns about potential safety and traffic issues these planned renovations could create.

 

Linda Pfeiff is the Vice President of the Traditions HOA and a member of a regional community council representing 17 communities along Thompson Nursery Road, which are home to more than 20,000 people.

 

She took note of one design plan that proposed a bike lane next to vehicular traffic. She considered such a design proposal problematic, as many vehicles do not obey the 45 MPH speed limit. Many dump trucks and larger vehicles even go as fast as 60 to 65 MPH.

 

Moreover, she claims safety issues will only be complicated with a proposed development, which will include a Publix Supermarket along with other smaller adjoining stores.

 

“Please reconsider,” she told the commission. “Stay on top of the county. Let us do the right thing for everybody in our community and the residents of Winter Haven.”

 

James Colett, President of the Traditions HOA, added to her remarks about the proposed Publix. He claimed the development will compound safety issues for pedestrians crossing the street, as the two-lane road with turns will be upsized to four lanes with turns.

 

“Not to be dramatic, but we have a concern that someone may be killed at the intersection,” he said.

 

“We do not have a traffic light [there],” he added. “So how do we safely get residents back and forth across Thompson Nursery?… I would ask that you just please try to support us and either get a light or something there that can protect residents as we go back and forth.”

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