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.”
#image_title
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
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.
#image_title
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.
#image_title
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.
#image_title
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.
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.
***
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.
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
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:
Response Planning – Organizations should establish and maintain response processes and procedures that are regularly tested and updated to handle incidents effectively.
Communications – Proper communication strategies must be in place to notify stakeholders, law enforcement, and the public when necessary.
Analysis – Affected organizations should conduct a thorough assessment of the incident to determine its scope, impact, and potential attack vectors.
Mitigation – Steps should be taken to contain the incident and prevent its spread, ensuring that security controls are reinforced.
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.
#image_title
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.
HAINES CITY – Haines City Mayor Omar Arroyo kicked off his campaign for the County Commission District 4seat on Saturday (March 15) at City Hall.
More than 75 supporters gathered with Arroyo, the first Hispanic Mayor of Haines City and Polk County, for a group photo.
He said he loves the area and hopes his expertise will help with what he sees as the county’s biggest challenge – the enormous population growth.
“I’ve been preparing for the last four years (for the job) by being on different boards and learning about the challenges that the county is facing,” Arroyo said. “I have a passion for helping the community and want to continue the good works of Dr. (Martha) Santiago.”
If elected, he will replace Santiago, who personally asked Arroyo to run for the seat as she plans to retire.
Born in Mexico, Arroyo moved to Austin, Texas at 16where he began his career in residential framing. Two years later, in 2001, he moved to Haines City and is now a general contractor. He believes his constructionexperience will be an asset to the County Commission.
In 2022, Arroyo was elected to the Haines City Commission, making him the first Hispanic commissioner in the City’s history. Then, last year, he was unanimously elected by his fellow Commissioners to become Mayor, also the first Hispanic in the history of the City.
According to polkelections.com, currently, Arroyo is the only candidate registered to run for County Commission District 4 seat. The election will be held Nov. 3, 2026.
He and his wife of 20 years, Alejandra, have three children.
*Editors Note: I’ve personally known both Dedric Brinson and Freddie Brinson for a long time. Prior to them, even realizing it I used to referee their youth football games. I would say I’ve known Freddie more than Dedric, but I found both these young men to never be aggressive or belligerent (Dedric, lately has a podcast where he does get very emotional, but he is producing content). However, some serious allegations have been levied against both of them. I cannot condone any illegal behavior, which may or may not have occurred. The starting issue was an issue involving Freddie’s son we believe and a school guardian. As a father of three children I can get very emotional in defending them. I hate that this has occurred for these two young men and will be in prayer for this to be resolved in the best possible manner. – Carl
Winter Haven, FL – A social media influencer, Dedric Brinson, was arrested on March 13, 2025, following a series of alleged disruptive incidents at Garden Grove Elementary School that culminated in a standoff with law enforcement at his residence.
The situation reportedly began earlier in the day when Dedric Brinson’s brother, Frederick Brinson, was involved in a verbal altercation with a school guardian during a school event. The District Supervising Guardian, Aaron Wilson, intervened to de-escalate the situation and called law enforcement, who escorted Frederick Brinson off campus.
Approximately 30 minutes later, Dedric Brinson arrived at the school’s front office and requested access to the school’s WiFi. When informed that it was for students and staff only, Brinson allegedly refused to leave the premises despite multiple requests from school staff and Guardian Wilson. Witnesses reported that Brinson’s behavior became increasingly erratic, causing concern among school employees. Wilson repeatedly instructed him to leave, but Brinson refused, stating that he was waiting for law enforcement.
Wilson continued to direct Brinson off campus, eventually walking him to his vehicle, where he left just before officers arrived.
Later that day, Brinson engaged in a Facebook Live session in which he allegedly played a recorded phone conversation with Wilson’s son, who was unaware he was being recorded. The conversation was broadcast without consent, violating Florida law regarding unauthorized recording and distribution of private communications.
Law enforcement responded to Brinson’s residence while he was live-streaming. When deputies ordered him to exit, Brinson instead slammed the door and continued his broadcast. Officers informed him through a window that he was under arrest, but he refused to comply, acknowledging the potential additional charges but allegedly stating he did not care.
Following an investigation, authorities determined that Brinson committed multiple violations, including:
• Trespassing on School Grounds After Warning (FSS 810.097(2)) – By remaining on school property without legitimate business after being directed to leave.
• Illegal Interception and Distribution of Communication (FSS 934.03 (1)(D)) – By recording and broadcasting a private phone call without consent.
• Resisting an Officer Without Violence (FSS 843.02) – By refusing to comply with law enforcement’s orders to surrender.
Brinson was taken into custody and now faces multiple charges, including a third-degree felony for the unauthorized recording. His actions, both at the school and online, have drawn significant attention, raising concerns over privacy violations and the misuse of social media platforms to escalate conflicts.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, emphasizing the importance of respecting school security measures and lawful orders from law enforcement.
We currently don’t have a current comment from Dedric, but we imagine he will post on his facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BxszRVmmL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
If you were to ask ChatGPT to write a script for a new Captain America movie, and you asked it to have the film star Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America, as well as to incorporate Isaiah Bradley, the Celestial, the Red Hulk, and Sabra (without ever mentioning she’s Sabra because…reasons!), you would most likely have a script resembling that of Captain America: Brave New World.
The new movie is that big of a mess–and considering the film received endless reshoots, a shuffling around of release dates, and a scathing article in Vulture detailing its chaotic production (where one of the crew members literally stated, “I think everyone on the crew knew this is probably not going to be a good film”), expecting anything less would have been wishful thinking.
Captain America: Brave New World follows Sam Wilson (played by Anthony Mackie) assuming his role as the new Captain America. As a government agent, he now works under the new president Thaddeus Ross, who has proven controversial considering his history.
However, following an assassination attempt by Isaiah Bradley (a former soldier who had been experimented on to create the original super serum for Captain America), Sam is forced to investigate and uncover the real culprit. Will he find out who’s really responsible? And will the Red Hulk factor into it? (Considering he was featured in the trailers, that answer’s obvious.)
I’m not even going to bother with a rhetorical question asking whether or not this movie will be hypothetically good. Because it isn’t! This may not be the worst Marvel movie ever (because Iron Man 2 and The Incredible Hulk win that dishonor with a tie), but it is hands down the worst Captain America movie.
I’m not kidding when I say this movie feels like it was written by AI. It looks like a Marvel movie. It even feels like a Marvel movie. But something about the story feels hollow, almost as if it was written by a computer borrowing heavily from previous Marvel movies and shows. And watching it certainly leaves you feeling hollow.
And is it a spoiler to mention that the entire “mystery” involves the Red Hulk? Especially since Marvel already spoiled that “twist” in their trailers? Because the whole time, I was sitting in my seat waiting for the moment the Red Hulk finally appeared (because I knew he was going to be in the movie), and then when he did appear, the result felt underwhelming, leaving one to ask, “Wait, that’s it?”
Anthony Mackie does an excellent job reprising his role as Sam, who is now assuming his role acting as the new Captain America. And Harrison Ford as Thaddeus Ross…well, Harrison Ford is great in everything he appears in. Because he’s Harrison Ford.
However, the rest of the cast feels undercooked. This movie introduces Shira Haas as Sabra, an Israeli superhero who’s never mentioned in the film to be an Israeli superhero because…current events! The result is that her character doesn’t leave much of a lasting impression.
Oh, and there’s also Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres, who assumes the role of the new Falcon. He exists. Seriously, I had forgotten he was even a character in this movie, he was that forgettable. In fact, he’s so irrelevant to the overall plot that he’s written out halfway through following a serious injury in the film.
But perhaps the worst aspect of the film is how “apolitical” it feels, especially considering it’s a Captain America movie. Captain America, as a hero, embodies the heroic ideals of the American spirit. As such, his movies usually have something to say about America.
In contrast, this movie has nothing to say at all. The movie almost has something to say with the president being a literal monster, but considering that whole plot point feels almost incidental, rendering the metaphor toothless.
I recently stumbled across a thread by someone on BlueSky who put it best:
“[The movie] is such a rejection of who Cap should be as an inspirational character, someone who always took a stand, always tried to do what was right, no matter the thumps or how unpopular it may have been…
A Cap story HAS to stand for something, HAS to have meaning, or it, it’s intrinsic to the character as a greater symbol. Otherwise, you run the risk of becoming the meaning, in this case, a weak, mealy-mouthed sequel.”
With that said, as underwhelming as this whole movie felt, I’m not too enthused about The Thunderbolts, and I’m crossing my fingers that Fantastic Four proves to be the better film.
Not only was the Lake Wales Moose Lodge able to raise enough money to donate an automated external defibrillator (AED) to the Haines City/Davenport Moose Lodge, but also to donate another AED at another location.
On. Thur. Feb. 27, Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF) placed its 60th AED at the Haines City/Davenport Moose. The AED has been purchased by the Lake Wales Moose Lodge, which has raised the money through a fundraiser hosted in January.
#image_title
Duane Anderson, Administrator for the Lake Wales Lodge, and a member since 2016, appreciates how the CCF gives back to the community by providing essential life-saving devices. As such, he and his organization wanted to do their part to help.
“It feels great to do the things we do for our community,” Anderson said. “The CCF is putting these [AEDs] everywhere to save lives… [and] we [would] like to help achieve [their] goals.”
Annie Chisnell commended the CCF’s founder, Melanie Brown Culpepper, for her commitment to assisting her community through her organization. Likewise, she was all proud to help the lodge donate an AED to another lodge.
“[I feel] proud & fortunate to be a part of this,” Chisnell said. “I congratulate Melanie on her dedication and drive.”
Melanie started CCF more than four years ago following the untimely passing of her late fiancée, Michael Culpepper, who had passed away from cardiac arrest. Not wanting anyone else to suffer a similar fate, Melanie started her non-profit to help raise proceeds to donate and install AEDs across Polk County.
Since its inception, CCF has donated more than 60 AEDs in businesses, restaurants, and other establishments including Tanner’s Lakeside, Caribbean Bay, and Old Man Frank’s. Recently, her organization installed another AED at the Arcadia Moose Lodge.
#image_title
“Thank you everyone and our community so very much, as without our community support, we could not make this all happen,” Melanie wrote in a Facebook post. “We all may be the closest first responder. It could be your own family or even you you’re saving.”
To learn more about CCF, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/honoringculpepper
Polk County, Florida, is buzzing with activities this weekend, offering residents and visitors a variety of events to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, community involvement, or family-friendly entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of some must-attend events happening on March 15-16, 2025.
Biodiversity Bingo Buggy Tour
Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: The Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve, Babson Park, FL Take a guided buggy tour through the stunning Tiger Creek Preserve and participate in an interactive game of biodiversity bingo. This event is perfect for nature lovers who want to learn more about Florida’s diverse ecosystem.
Community Litter Clean-Up
Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Location: Lake Wales Family Recreation Center, Lake Wales, FL Join fellow community members in beautifying the city by participating in a local litter clean-up. Supplies will be provided, and volunteers of all ages are encouraged to help keep Polk County clean and green.
International Market World
Date & Time: Friday to Sunday, March 14-16, 2025, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Location: 1052 US-92, Auburndale, FL Explore one of Central Florida’s largest flea markets, featuring over 1,200 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to antiques. Enjoy live entertainment, including alligator shows and music performances.
Polk Senior Games
Date: Ongoing through March 16, 2025 Location: Various venues across Polk County The Polk Senior Games feature a range of athletic and recreational competitions, offering seniors the opportunity to stay active and engaged in a fun and supportive environment.
Forever Elvis ‘73
Date & Time: Sunday, March 16, 2025, 7:00 PM Location: Polk Theatre, Lakeland, FL Experience an unforgettable tribute to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll as five-time World Champion Elvis Presley Tribute Artist Dwight Icenhower brings the 50s, 60s, and 70s eras of Elvis to life. This performance promises to be a must-see for Elvis fans and music lovers alike. Visit polktheatre.org for tickets and more information.
Detroit Tigers Spring Training Games
Date & Time:
Saturday, March 15, 2025, 1:05 PM
Opponent: Philadelphia Phillies
Location: BayCare Ballpark, Clearwater, FL
Sunday, March 16, 2025, 1:05 PM
Opponent: Baltimore Orioles
Location: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland, FL
Baseball fans can catch the Detroit Tigers in action during their Spring Training games this weekend. On Saturday, they face the Philadelphia Phillies in Clearwater. On Sunday, they return home to Lakeland to play against the Baltimore Orioles. For ticket information and the complete Spring Training schedule, visit the official Detroit Tigers Spring Training page.
With a variety of activities happening this weekend, Polk County promises an exciting time for all. Be sure to check event details and any registration requirements before attending. Enjoy your weekend!
