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24UP®: Smarter Maintenance for Industrial Control Systems

Industrial Data Centers: Digital Foundation to Drive Innovation

In the world of industrial automation, maintaining uptime isn’t just about fixing issues, it’s about anticipating them. That’s where 24UP®, Champion’s Run and Maintain service, stands apart. Designed to sustain operational continuity and safeguard critical control infrastructure, 24UP delivers more than support, it delivers trust.

Champion brings over two decades of hands-on experience across a broad range of control system platforms, network architectures, and OT environments. From Honeywell Experion and Emerson DeltaV to Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric, and legacy platforms like Honeywell TDC, Allen-Bradley PLC-5 or Siemens S5/S7, our teams understand the nuances of industrial automation—and how to keep it running.

Why 24UP?

Engineered for Industrial DX Maintenance 🚀

As digital transformation (DX) accelerates across the industrial sector, the volume and complexity of digital OT assets are growing rapidly. From connected field devices and virtualized control systems to cloud-integrated historians and cybersecurity platforms, maintaining these assets requires more than just break/fix support, it demands continuous oversight.

24UP was purpose-built to support this shift. Our service is real-time enabled, delivering actionable insights across both modern and legacy DCS and PLC platforms. Whether you're managing cutting-edge architectures or aging infrastructure, 24UP helps maintain system health, configuration integrity, and operational resilience.

Cybersecurity & Compliance Visibility 🔐

Our enterprise dashboards highlight vulnerabilities, backup status, patching gaps, and hygiene scores—empowering facilities to stay compliant and reduce cyber risk across legacy and modern systems.

Support Backed by Real OT Knowledge 🛠️

Every ticket, escalation, and support event is handled by engineers who’ve stood in front of live DCS panels and PLC racks. From after-hours emergency calls to scheduled turnarounds, you get expert support from people who know the control systems inside out.

Championing Performance. Sustaining Reliability.

We know industrial systems don’t run on theory, they run on execution. With 24UP®, we combine digital tools and decades of operational experience to help clients maintain OT asset health, meet compliance goals, and keep production on track.

Whether you’re managing an aging DCS, navigating cybersecurity modernization, or just need peace of mind, 24UP is your partner in performance.


Let’s talk about how 24UP can work for you. Contact us today to schedule a demo and see why clients in refining, petrochemicals, and energy choose Champion for OT support that actually understands OT.

We empower our clients to build safe, sustainable operations by delivering comprehensive Operational Technology (OT) solutions. From concept to implementation and beyond– we'll be there every step of the way.

Let's collaborate.

Schedule a no-cost consultation today.



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24UP® Solutions


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Project Brief

Industrial Data Center Upgrade

Oil & Gas, Midstream // Southeast Texas


  • The Challenge

Legacy data center hardware had reached end-of-life, limiting system reliability, scalability, and vendor support options.

Obsolete Windows environments prevented the application of critical patches and updates, impacting compliance and system stability.

Outdated versions of FactoryTalk and historian software introduced performance bottlenecks and integration challenges with modern platforms.

fragmented domain and workgroup configuration made it difficult to enforce consistent user policies or manage authentication centrally.

Limited VLAN segmentation reduced network visibility, increased broadcast domain congestion, and created barriers to secure zone management.

The absence of high-availability mechanisms and VM mobility increased risk during maintenance windows and system transitions.

The migration needed to occur without interrupting operations, requiring a carefully sequenced cutover plan and parallel runtime verification.

  • Our Solution

Both data center environments were rebuilt with fully virtualized, high-availability platforms. Core control system applications, historian nodes, and Windows services were migrated to domain-managed virtual machines for greater scalability and centralized control.

Switching infrastructure was upgraded to support segmented VLANs for management, storage, and control traffic. Routed failover between sites provided redundancy and improved network performance.

OT applications including FactoryTalk View SE, Linx, Alarm & Event, and Historian services were upgraded to current versions. Engineering and operator workstations were refreshed with pre-configured toolsets for faster deployment and user readiness.

A structured deployment approach included Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), parallel HMI validation, and a staged cutover. Snapshot backups and rollback procedures ensured system continuity throughout.

  • Project Timeline: 6 Months
  • The Results

The modernized OT systems delivered key advantages. Redundant systems ensured uptime and operational continuity, while network segmentation and supported platforms strengthened cybersecurity. Centralized control simplified management, and modern infrastructure provided fast recovery and failover.

  • The Champion Advantage
Seamless Integration

A unified solution across virtualization, networking, and software eliminated the need for multiple vendors.

Client-Centered Execution and Support

Staged cutover, clear documentation, and on-site training ensured a smooth transition with minimal disruption.

Scalable and Future-Ready

The upgraded infrastructure supports digital growth, remote access, and enhanced OT visibility.

Smarter Commissioning, Faster Execution

Champion’s risk-informed approach, with FAT, SAT, and operator validation, enabled efficient deployment and handoff.

Ready to elevate your operations?

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Securing Legacy OT Systems

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Disaster Recovery

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Enhance OT Security with Network Segmentation

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In today's increasingly connected operational environments, network segmentation is a foundational pillar for cybersecurity, performance, and system reliability. For industrial facilities managing legacy assets, segmentation isn't just an IT best practice, it's a business-critical strategy.

What is Network Segmentation?

Network segmentation involves dividing a network into smaller, isolated segments (or subnets), each with its own access controls and security measures. This approach:

  • Minimizes the attack surface
  • Restricts lateral movement by threat actors
  • Prevents malware from spreading across the network

6 Key Strategies for Effective Segmentation

1. IT/OT Alignment 🤝

Ensure collaboration between IT and OT teams from the outset. Joint planning, training, and awareness initiatives build shared ownership and improve execution.

2. Identify Critical Assets 🔍

Prioritize protection by identifying which systems are most critical to operations. This enables a phased segmentation approach that minimizes disruption.

3. Network Mapping 🗺️

Visualizing all connected entities reveals data flows, hidden vulnerabilities, and monitoring blind spots—essential for informed segmentation planning.

4. Define Network Zones 🧱

Group systems with similar security requirements into zones, and enforce strict rules for how data moves between them. This zoning model forms the backbone of OT segmentation.

5. Implementation ⚙️

Roll out segmentation in phases to minimize operational risk. Closely monitor performance throughout the rollout to identify and resolve unforeseen issues early.

6. Monitor and Maintain 📈

Ongoing monitoring and regular audits ensure the segmentation strategy adapts to evolving threats. Update protocols and configurations as your network grows or changes.

The Takeaway

As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, network segmentation is no longer optional—it’s foundational. By creating controlled, isolated zones within your OT network, you enhance system protection, simplify compliance, and future-proof your operations for digital transformation.


Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation.

We empower our clients to build safe, sustainable operations by delivering comprehensive Operational Technology (OT) solutions. From concept to implementation and beyond– we'll be there every step of the way.

Let's collaborate.

Schedule a no-cost consultation today.



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System Hardening


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Microsoft DCOM Changes and Windows 10 End-of-Life: What It Means for OT

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🔍At a Glance:
  • DCOM (Distributed Component Object Model) enables communication between Windows-based applications.
  • Microsoft updates have hardened DCOM to address security vulnerabilities.
  • Result: Compatibility issues may arise with Industrial Control System (ICS) software relying on DCOM.
  • Windows 10 reaches end-of-life on October 14, 2025, compounding upgrade urgency.

🛠Background

In June 2021, Microsoft released KB5004442, a security update aimed at hardening DCOM.  While these changes improve cybersecurity, they also introduce risks to OT environments, especially:

  • SCADA/HMI systems
  • Engineering workstations
  • Data historians

If your systems depend on DCOM-based communication, you may face issues like failed application launches or broken device connectivity.

⚠️What’s the Risk?

Once the DCOM hardening updates are installed:

  • Certain ICS applications may fail to launch or exchange data.
  • Remote access to devices and data historians could be blocked.
  • After March 14, 2023, the DCOM hardening features can no longer be disabled, even with registry edits.
  • After October 2025, Windows 10 will stop receiving security updates—including those affecting DCOM. Windows 10 will reach end-of-life on October 14, 2025

Bottom line: Running ICS on Windows 10 with hardened DCOM settings presents a dual risk—unsupported OS and incompatible security changes. 

✅What You Should Do 

1. Audit your systems

→ Identify where DCOM is used across your OT/ICS environment. 

2. Engage with your software vendors 

→ Most have released guidance or patches to address compatibility with hardened DCOM. 

3. Plan a migration strategy 

→With Windows 10 approaching end-of-life, now is the time to evaluate your OS upgrade path alongside DCOM readiness. 

4. Consult with an expert 

Champion can assist with: 

  • System audits and risk assessments
  • Safe application of Microsoft updates
  • Compatibility mitigation strategies
  • OS upgrade planning and execution

🤝We’re Here to Help 

Whether you're sorting through vendor guidance or preparing for an OS transition, Champion Technology Services is ready to guide your journey. Our experts deliver tailored support for ICS environments, ensuring:

  • Minimal disruption

  • Long-term reliability

  • Cyber resilience


Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation.

We empower our clients to build safe, sustainable operations by delivering comprehensive Operational Technology (OT) solutions. From concept to implementation and beyond– we'll be there every step of the way.

Let's collaborate.

Schedule a no-cost consultation today.



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End of Support for Windows 10: A Strategic Opportunity for OT Environments

Industrial Data Centers: Digital Foundation to Drive Innovation

What the End of Windows 10 Support Means for OT

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. While this change raises important cybersecurity and compliance concerns, it also presents a chance for industrial and OT facilities to modernize critical infrastructure.

We don’t view this milestone as a disruption, but as a moment to strategically enhance your systems—building resilience, security, and readiness for tomorrow’s demands.

Why Strategic Action Is Essential in OT Environments

Unlike general IT systems, OT environments operate in high-stakes, highly regulated settings. Unsupported systems introduce serious risks—but transitioning with intention offers real, measurable benefits:

🔒 Enhanced Cybersecurity

Upgrading from Windows 10 enables deployment of modern operating systems with advanced security features and ongoing support—significantly reducing your exposure to cyber threats.

⚙️ Infrastructure Built for the Future

New platforms support greater interoperability, performance, and readiness for future digital transformation initiatives.

🚀 Improved Operational Efficiency

Modernized systems contribute to smoother performance, simplified maintenance, and fewer unplanned outages.

✅ Regulatory Compliance

Maintaining supported systems ensures alignment with evolving industry standards—helping avoid penalties and reinforcing your security posture.

How Champion Helps You Transition with Confidence

We deliver vendor-neutral, OT-specific strategies tailored to your unique environment. Our support includes:

🔧 Upgrade Planning & Migration

We develop and execute upgrade roadmaps that minimize disruption and maximize value.

🛡️ OT-Focused Cybersecurity Enhancements

  • Network Segmentation: Designing secure zones for critical systems.
  • Advanced Firewalls: Implementing industrial-grade perimeter defense.
  • Intrusion Detection and Prevention: Real-time threat detection and response.
  • Security Audits: Identifying and remediating vulnerabilities.
  • Cybersecurity Training: Equipping your personnel to be the first line of defense.
  • Incident Response Planning: Ensuring rapid, coordinated action in the event of a breach.

Prepare Today. Lead Tomorrow.

The Windows 10 deadline isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of a more secure, capable, and resilient OT environment. Champion is your trusted partner for navigating this shift with clarity and strength. Let's start planning your transition today.


Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation.

We empower our clients to build safe, sustainable operations by delivering comprehensive Operational Technology (OT) solutions. From concept to implementation and beyond– we'll be there every step of the way.

Let's collaborate.

Schedule a no-cost consultation today.



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DCOM Hardening


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Project Brief

On-Process Control System Migration

Oil & Gas, Upstream // Gulf of Mexico


  • The Challenge

The outdated Control System Infrastructure lacked modern performance enhancements and advanced features.

Obsolete Process Control Network appliances and architecture lacked scalability and posed risks to both operations and security.

Unsupported Windows operating systems increased exposure to cyber threats and compliance issues.

live system upgrade required a structured approach to ensure zero impact on ongoing operations.

  • Our Solution

On-Process Control System Migration (OPM) to the latest Honeywell Experion® PKS software, incorporating critical system components such as enterprise models, trends, control modules, SCADA points, and operator graphics.

PCN Network Redesign to implement Fault-Tolerant Ethernet (FTE) with the latest Cisco network appliances, ensuring enhanced reliability and redundancy.

System Architecture Upgrade, transitioning PCN servers and operator stations from a Microsoft Workgroup to a Domain, improving security and access management.


Comprehensive Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) of integrated software and hardware to mitigate risks before deployment.

On-Process Field Installation & Commissioning, ensuring a seamless transition to the upgraded system while maintaining operational continuity.

  • The Results

With a comprehensive implementation plan and rigorous testing, the solution was commissioned without operational disruption. This seamless transition enabled the client to operate the upgraded system with enhanced reliability, security, and performance, ensuring long-term operational efficiency.

  • The Champion Advantage
Seamless Integration

Delivery of a turnkey solution integrating Honeywell Experion® PKS, FTE networks, Windows domain migrations, and third-party systems eliminated the need for multiple vendors and delivered a cohesive, cost-effective solution.

Client-Centered Execution and Support

Clear communication, hands-on operator training, and a well-documented transition plan empowered facility operations for long-term success.

Scalable and Future-Ready

Solutions designed with a technical and operational cutover plan ensured a disruption-free migration. The FTE network and Windows domain built a flexible foundation for future growth and cybersecurity enhancements.

Smarter Commissioning, Faster Execution

Continuous engagement with our project team from design through commissioning minimized risks, streamlined troubleshooting, and ensured a seamless installation.

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Securing Legacy OT Systems

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Disaster Recovery

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Cisco Catalyst 2960 End of Life: What It Means for OT Environments

Industrial Data Centers: Digital Foundation to Drive Innovation
🚨 Cisco Catalyst 2960 Switches: End of Life & What It Means for OT Systems

If you’re operating industrial control systems, chances are Cisco Catalyst 2960 switches are buried somewhere in your infrastructure. These reliable workhorses have long supported OT environments—but Cisco has officially announced their End of Life (EOL).

For facilities relying on these switches for SCADA, PLC, or DCS networks, the implications are serious:
🔒 Increased cybersecurity risk
⚠️ Unplanned downtime
💸 Rising replacement costs


❓What Does EOL Mean for Catalyst 2960?

Cisco’s EOL designation means that the Catalyst 2960 switches will:

  • ❌No longer receive software updates or critical security patches 
  • 📞No longer be supported under standard Cisco TAC
  • 🧩Become harder (and pricier) to source due to limited hardware availability

In OT environments, this creates major concerns such as: 

  • 🔐Incompatibility with modern security standards 
  • 🔧Lack of support during failures or cyber incidents 
  • 🛑Disruptive outages caused by aging hardware 
  • 🛑Growing attack surface due to outdated firmware 

⚠️The Risk of Doing Nothing

Sure, the 2960 might still “work”…
But in regulated or mission-critical facilities, relying on unsupported hardware is a liability.
These switches are often deeply integrated—meaning failure could affect production, safety, and compliance.

🛠️Champion’s OT Mitigation Strategy

Our team brings deep domain expertise in ICS networks and zero-disruption migration planning. Our strategy is built for operational continuity:

1️⃣OT Network Discovery

Full network audit to locate 2960s, identify dependencies, and assess criticality.

2️⃣Lifecycle and Risk Analysis

Prioritization using OEM lifecycle data, operational impact, and supportability.

3️⃣Replacement Roadmap

Phased rollout using industrial-grade, Cisco-approved switches ensuring: 

  • Compatibility with your OT protocols 
  • Segmentation and VLAN design 
  • Ruggedization for harsh environments

4️⃣Secure Network Design and Hardening

We go beyond replacement to modernize your OT network:

  • ISA/IEC 62443 alignment
  • Security Zone segmentation
  • VLAN/firewall rules
  • Zero Trust principles

5️⃣Project Execution and Commissioning

Planned and executed by our experienced OT teams during low-risk windows, minimizing downtime and maintaining system integrity.

6️⃣Ongoing Support

Post-upgrade monitoring, health checks, and managed support for sustained reliability.

🏆Why Champion?

With decades of control system integration experience, we’ve successfully delivered secure migrations across:

  • 🛢️ Oil & Gas
  • 🧪 Chemicals
  • ⚡ Utilities
  • 🏭 Manufacturing
  • 🚢 Marine & Terminals

In these environments, downtime isn’t an option—and safety is non-negotiable.

💡Final Thoughts

EOL for the Catalyst 2960 isn’t just a hardware sunset. It’s a strategic opportunity to strengthen your OT network’s security, resilience, and performance.

Let’s modernize your network—on your terms.


Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation.

We empower our clients to build safe, sustainable operations by delivering comprehensive Operational Technology (OT) solutions. From concept to implementation and beyond– we'll be there every step of the way.

Let's collaborate.

Schedule a no-cost consultation today.



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Network Segmentation to Enhance OT Cybersecurity


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OT Asset Management: A Key Pillar in MTSA Cybersecurity Compliance

Industrial Data Centers: Digital Foundation to Drive Innovation
As cybersecurity regulations under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) expand to cover Operational Technology (OT), many facility operators are asking a critical question: "Do we really know what assets we're protecting?"
The answer often reveals a blind spot.
According to industry data, over 70% of organizations lack a comprehensive OT asset management strategy. This gap doesn’t just hinder performance—it puts entire facilities at risk of non-compliance, operational downtime, and cyber threats.
That’s where Champion comes in.

📊 Asset Management: Your First Line of Defense

Our scalable OT asset management solutions are built to enhance visibility, secure legacy systems, and support compliance with new MTSA requirements. By continuously discovering, classifying, and monitoring assets across your OT environment, Champion helps reduce risk and build the digital foundation for long-term resilience.

We combine:

  • Up-to-date dashboards to unify asset KPIs and vulnerabilities
  • Lifecycle-based risk prioritization to streamline response
  • 24/7 expert support from seasoned OT cybersecurity professionals

Whether you're preparing your Facility Security Plan or responding to an audit, knowing what’s in your environment—and how it behaves—is step one.

🚀 Ready for MTSA and Beyond

Champion doesn’t just help you check compliance boxes. We help you build a cyber-smart asset strategy that scales with your operations and aligns with MTSA mandates like:

  • Continuous cyber risk assessments
  • OT-specific incident response plans
  • Network segmentation and supply chain visibility

Let’s close the visibility gap—before it becomes a security gap.


Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation.

We empower our clients to build safe, sustainable operations by delivering comprehensive Operational Technology (OT) solutions. From concept to implementation and beyond– we'll be there every step of the way.

Let's collaborate.

Schedule a no-cost consultation today.



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Asset Management


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Navigating New MTSA Cybersecurity Regulations

Industrial Data Centers: Digital Foundation to Drive Innovation

With cybersecurity threats growing more advanced and persistent, regulatory bodies are raising the bar—especially across critical infrastructure sectors. For facilities covered under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), the U.S. Coast Guard is introducing new cybersecurity requirements that demand immediate attention.

As a trusted leader in Operational Technology (OT) cybersecurity, Champion Technology Services is here to guide you through this evolving compliance landscape and help strengthen your organization’s cyber resilience.


🚨What’s Changing with MTSA?

The MTSA originally focused on physical security, but recent updates now expand its scope to include cybersecurity risk management for MTSA-regulated facilities. These changes reflect growing concerns over vulnerabilities in control systems that support maritime operations—such as industrial control systems (ICS), SCADA, and networked sensors and actuators.

📋Key upcoming requirements include:

  • ✅ Integration of cybersecurity into Facility Security Plans (FSPs)
  • ✅ Regular cyber risk assessments
  • ✅ Incident response plans for OT-specific threats
  • ✅ Ongoing training and drills related to cyber incidents
  • ✅ Demonstrating supply chain cybersecurity awareness and controls

🔐 Why It Matters to OT Environments

Unlike IT systems, OT environments are often built on legacy infrastructure using proprietary protocols—making them more vulnerable and harder to secure.

Yet these environments are increasingly targeted by:

  • 🎯 Ransomware groups
  • 🏴‍☠️ Nation-state actors
  • ⚠️ Zero-day exploits in industrial hardware

These new MTSA rules underscore a simple truth: OT cybersecurity is no longer optional.

🧩 How Champion Can Help

Champion specializes in bridging the gap between compliance and real-world security by delivering customized OT cybersecurity solutions. Here’s how we can support your MTSA compliance journey:

1️⃣ Cybersecurity Risk Assessments

We evaluate your OT environment using standards like NIST CSF, IEC 62443, and USCG directives, identifying gaps and vulnerabilities.

2️⃣ FSP Cybersecurity Integration

We update or develop Facility Security Plans to meet evolving Coast Guard expectations—grounded in real-world OT constraints.

3️⃣ Secure Network Architecture

Champion engineers design resilient network infrastructures, including:

  • Firewalls
  • Industrial DMZs
  • Secure remote access
  • VLAN segmentation

4️⃣ OT-Focused Incident Response

We co-develop incident response playbooks tailored to OT systems—minimizing downtime and speeding up recovery.

5️⃣ Training and Simulation

Through hands-on workshops and tabletop drills, your OT personnel will be prepared to recognize and respond to incidents quickly.

6️⃣ Managed OT Security Services

Stay protected 24/7 with Champion’s monitoring, threat detection, and vulnerability management—purpose-built for industrial environments.

🏆 Why Champion?

We bring decades of experience across energy, manufacturing, terminals, and critical infrastructure sectors—where compliance and uptime are non-negotiable. Our team combines deep OT knowledge with practical cybersecurity expertise, ensuring your path to MTSA compliance is efficient, strategic, and secure.

💬 Final Thoughts

These MTSA changes aren’t just policy shifts—they’re a wake-up call for every operator of critical infrastructure. Let Champion Technology Services help you:

✅ Understand the new rules
✅ Achieve compliance
✅ Build cyber resilience for the future

We're here to help you navigate the MTSA requirements.


Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation.

We empower our clients to build safe, sustainable operations by delivering comprehensive Operational Technology (OT) solutions. From concept to implementation and beyond– we'll be there every step of the way.

Let's collaborate.

Schedule a no-cost consultation today.



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Industrial Cybersecurity


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Testimonial

Penny Priester

“I’ve never worked for a place this nice and giving. It was surprising to see how you are supported, not because they have to, but because they want to.”

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