Financial Sextortion Results in at least 20 Teen Suicides

The FBI has learned of more tragedies of teen boys dying from suicide after being financially sextorted. The number of deaths has increased to at least 20. The FBI has launched another nationwide public awareness campaign.

Updates since April:

• Two Nigerians extradited to face charges in teen's suicide

• The Financially Motivated Sextortion Threat — FBI (published January 16th with linked resources)

The Outreach - Creating Relationships Through Dialogue. Spring 2023 Edition.

FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association

We are pleased to share with you the Spring 2023 edition of The Outreach, a quarterly newsletter published by the FBI to inform its community partners about the Bureau's outreach priorities, programs, and achievements. The Spring issue features the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association, as well as articles about FBI outreach programs on internet safety, Junior Special Agents, school safety, and the Bureau's diversity initiatives in recruiting.

Download "The Outreach" Here

FBINCAAA is a nonprofit organization separate and apart from the FBI www.fbincaaa.org

FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association 7901 4th Street N STE 5275 St. Petersburg, Florida 33702

FBISTLCAAA Cyber Security Webinars Featured on Local TV Channels

Join host Jasmine Huda for an interview featuring FBI St. Louis SAC Jay Greenberg,  former FBISTLCAAA Chapter President and cybersecurity expert Gary Chan, and CAAA Member Fred Thal. The program will provide highlights from our Chapter's ongoing series of free cybersecurity webinars aimed at smaller organizations:

• SATURDAY, MAY 20 AT 7:30 PM ON KPLR / CHANNEL 11

• SUNDAY, MAY 21 AT 10:00 AM ON KTVI / CHANNEL 2

• SATURDAY, JUNE 10 aT 7:30 PM oN KPLR / CHANNEL 11

• SUNDAY, JUNE 11 AT 10:00 AM ON FOX 2

The Outreach - Creating Relationships Through Dialogue : Winter 2023 Edition

We are pleased to share with you the Winter 2023 edition of The Outreach, a quarterly newsletter published by the FBI to inform its community partners about the Bureau's outreach priorities, programs, and achievements.

The Winter issue features FBINCAAA's national initiative to Stop Human Trafficking through development of an outreach toolkit to support Chapters with human trafficking awareness and prevention programs. You will also learn about the Bureau's partnering programs with HBCUs, AfroTech, the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, and with Virginia Commonwealth University for a STEM-focused collegiate academy.

Click Here to Download!

FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association 2022 Annual Report

The FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association’s 2022 Annual Report provides a summary of the Chapter’s accomplishments toward the goals and objectives established in Exhibit A of the 2022 Memorandum of Agreement with the FBI St. Louis Field Office. Founded in 2006, our Chapter remains committed to supporting the FBI’s mission and outreach priorities as demonstrated by the programs, events, and community service projects that our all-volunteer membership delivers in partnership with the FBI Field Office.

Please click here for summary highlights of our goals and accomplishments in 2022.

FBISTLCAAA 2022 Year In Review, Annual Members Meeting & Holiday Reception

FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association members gathered recently for an interesting and informative annual reception. Special Agent in Charge Jay Greenberg presented a snapshot of 2022 investigations by FBI St. Louis.

FBI St. Louis CAAA Chapter President Peter Smith (Class of 2011) and SAC Greenberg signed the 2023 Memorandum of Agreement that outlined chapter objectives in support of the FBI mission.

The holiday reception included a delicious buffet for members.

SAC Greenberg arrived in St. Louis only eight months ago but has already made a significant difference in the community. He made it his priority in his first few months to meet community groups and leaders, in addition to corporate and law enforcement leaders.

Mr. Greenberg was pleased to share that his office enjoys excellent cooperation and a mutually beneficial partnership with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in Eastern Missouri, which is covered by FBI St. Louis.

SAC Greenberg reminded us of FBI St. Louis’s top priorities, which include addressing violent crime and public corruption.

Thank you to retiring FBISTLCAAA Vice President Eling Lam (Class of 2011) and Treasurer Christy Moreno (Class of 2016). Fortunately, both agreed to remain actively involved with the chapter. Welcome newly-elected Vice President Jim von der Heydt (Class of 2022) and Treasurer John Nickel (Class of 2019).

Former FBISTLCAAA President Gary S. Chan (FBI Boston Citizens Academy Class of 2015), President of Alfizo Security Solutions, discusses his upcoming cybersecurity webinars with FBI St. Louis Field Office Public Affairs Officer Rebecca Wu. Stay tuned for dates and times of these free educational webinars to help small to medium-sized businesses and non-profits.

Peter Smith thanked SAC Greenberg for his presentation and staying as long as members had questions. It was wonderful to reconnect in person after a long and isolated pandemic. The FBISTLCAAA Board looks forward to offering more in-person events for 2023!

*All photos courtesy of FBISTLCAAA Board Member Philip Deitch

FBISTLCAAA Members & Guests Learn Life Saving Techniques

More than thirty CAAA members and their guests met at Washington University School of Medicine for an extraordinary presentation on active shooter response and civilian first-aid techniques to stop a life-threatening bleeding injury.

 

Expert presenters outlined the "Run, Hide, Fight" strategy deployed during active shooter situations.

       

This was followed by a tutorial on methods anyone can use to stop a deadly bleed, plus hands-on training from a leading trauma surgeon at Washington University Medical School- BJC Hospital.

    

 

Our thanks to Board member Dr. Stephen Liang for his efforts in organizing this important Training!

Still Time To Make A Difference for St. Louis!

First and most importantly, a most sincere thank you to all of the FBISTLCAAA members and graduates who supported or participated in the 41st Annual LDA Golf!

Tournament held Friday, September 9, 2022!

As some of you may be aware, the annual LDA Golf Tournament is the FBISTLCAAA’s top/main fundraiser of the year in support of the local FBI St. Louis Field Office. The LDA fund aids the families of fallen FBI agents, The BackStoppers, and the Special Olympics. This event is also part of the annual Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the FBI St. Louis Field Office Special Agent in Charge and the FBISTLCAAA.

The FBISTLCAAA has one last opportunity to increase our donation to the LDA Golf Tournament and show the men and women of the FBI and these other fine organizations that we appreciate all they do for our community.  We are seeking your assistance in helping the FBISTLCAAA reach this year’s goal of $2500.00.

Donations are being accepted now until Friday, October 7, 2022.  No amount is too small -- every dollar counts!

Donation Options:

Online: FBISTLCAAA Web Donation - LDA

Or Mail Checks to: FBISTLCAAA, 2122 Parkridge Ave, Brentwood, MO 63144

If you have any questions or need more information please contact Peter Smith, President, FBISTLCAAA at [email protected]

A Special Presentation on “One Pill Can Kill”

You’re Invited To A Special Presentation & Panel Discussion

On The Current Fentanyl Crisis:

“One Pill Can Kill”

Wednesday, October 5th at 6:30 pm

Radiant Life Church
11533 Gamel Cemetery Road
Festus, MO 63028
636-937-0800

Presented by the FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Pastor Randy Gray of Radiant Life Church, the Festus Police Department, and members of an area family who will share their personal experiences.  All FBI Citizens Academy graduates, their friends, families and guests are invited to attend this informative and timely presentation. Fentanyl is an extremely dangerous drug which is claiming countless lives in our communities. The DEA presentation will be followed by a panel discussion featuring organizations dedicated to safely and responsibly addressing this crisis.

The event is FREE and attendees may remain anonymous during and after the presentation.

Light refreshments will be provided so we ask that you please RSPV to Christy Moreno, Treasurer of the Citizens Academy Alumni Association, at [email protected] by 10/3/22 so we have an accurate count of attendance.

Additional Contacts:
Pastor Randy Gray at 636-236-5150
Peter Smith (FBISTLCAAA) at 314-378-4104

Norman Appelman Fund

Current and former board members of the FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association recently accepted a generous $25,000 bequest from the estate of the late Norman Appelman.  Norm was a 2004 graduate of the FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy. He founded the St. Louis Alumni Association Chapter in 2006. The presentation was made by Al and Ed Appelman, Norm’s sons. This remarkable gift will be used to establish The Norman Appelman Fund.

Al and Ed Appelman, along with invited guests, had the honor of meeting new FBI St. Louis Special Agent In Charge, Jay Greenberg. SAC Greenberg thanked the Appelman family and briefed the group on his background, his perspective on current events impacting our region, and the FBI’s commitment to serving Eastern Missouri, which is covered by FBI St. Louis.

Participants enjoyed an informal reception following the presentation. The Norman Appelman Fund will help the FBISTLCAAA engage with its members, increase our service to the community, and support the mission of the St. Louis FBI Field Office as well as local and regional law enforcement.

Thank you, Norm for everything you did and continue to do for FBISTLCAAA and our community!!

FBISTLCAAA members enjoyed catching up with each other!

FBISTLCAAA members enjoyed an evening reception at Rosalita‘s Cantina on June 15th following the Second Quarter Board meeting. 

It was great to see everyone!

FBI Director Wray Addresses Business Leaders in London

FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR CHAPTER MEMBERS FBI Director Wray and U.K. MI5 Director General McCallum Urge Business Leaders to Stay Aware of Ongoing Threat of Theft from China

MI5 Director General Ken McCallum (left) and FBI Director Christopher Wray (right)

On a recent trip to London, FBI Director Christopher Wray and United Kingdom MI5 Director General McCallum urged business leaders to be aware of the threat from the Chinese government and to help government agencies protect corporate secrets from theft by China. “By volume, most of what is at risk from Chinese Communist Party aggression is not, so to speak, my stuff. It’s yours,” McCallum said. “The world-leading expertise, technology, research, and commercial advantage developed and held by people in this room, and others like you.” The Chinese government has a longstanding practice of hacking and stealing proprietary information to try to get an economic advantage. Wray also spoke about the China threat and emphasized the importance of partnerships to address it. This is the first time the two leaders have gathered to address a global threat with an audience of business and academic leaders.  “We're not just in the business of articulating problems. We’re doing something about them, together - with MI5, with the private sector itself, with other government partners,” Wray said. Wray encouraged the business leaders to partner with the FBI and MI5 so they can have the appropriate intelligence about this threat. The information can also help companies decide whether partnering with China is worth the risk of having proprietary information stolen. Companies must take the long view in making decisions about China, just as the FBI and MI5 are approaching the threat from a long-term perspective. “Maintaining a technological edge may do more to increase a company’s value than would partnering with a Chinese company to sell into that huge Chinese market, only to find the Chinese government and your ‘partner’ stealing and copying your innovation,” Wray said. Read the Director's full remarks to business leaders in London. Source: FBI News July 6, 2022 On a recent trip to London, FBI Director Christopher Wray and United Kingdom MI5 Director General McCallum urged business leaders to be aware of the threat from the Chinese government and to help government agencies protect corporate secrets from theft by China.

WWT Speaker Series: Daniel Dae Kim, Actor, Director & Producer

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Join us for another WWT Speaker Series event! In celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we welcome Daniel Dae Kim. You will hear an inspiring story of Kim's life, career and dedication to AAPI community activism.   Register     Tuesday, May 24 12:00 p.m. CT Daniel Dae Kim, actor, director and producer Daniel Dae Kim has made a career of creating multifaceted and stereotype-breaking roles as an actor, director and now producer. Prior to his seven-season portrayal of Chin Ho Kelly on "Hawaii Five-0," Kim was best known for his role as Jin Soo Kwon on the hit TV series "Lost". Kim is a dedicated AAPI community activist.   In partnership with   Check out the full list of WWT's upcoming events here! Copyright © 2022 World Wide Technology. All Rights Reserved.

Justice Department Statement on the Mass Shooting in Buffalo, NY

FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association   Justice Department Statement on the Mass Shooting in Buffalo, New York WASHINGTON — The Justice Department released the following statement from Attorney General Merrick B. Garland: “Tonight, the country mourns the victims of a senseless, horrific shooting in Buffalo, New York. The FBI and ATF are working closely with the Buffalo Police Department and federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.   The Justice Department is investigating this matter as a hate crime and an act of racially-motivated violent extremism. The Justice Department is committed to conducting a thorough and expeditious investigation into this shooting and to seeking justice for these innocent victims.” Source: OAG; www.justice.gov/news (May 14, 2022)

Cyber Security Summit: Protect your Business From Cyber Attacks (May 13, 2022)

This messaging is brought to you by St. Louis Business Journal on behalf of official Cyber Security Summit. Save the Date - Official Cyber Security Summit A new cyber attack occurs every 40 seconds, affecting 1 in 3 Americans each year. Learn how to protect yourself & your business from becoming a victim: Register to attend the region’s Official Cyber Security Summit, rated Top 5 InfoSec Conference Worldwide. Subject Matter Experts will discuss the latest security threats, best practices & cutting-edge solutions to combat cybercrime. Earn CPE / CEU Credits by attending, either In-Person or Virtually. Space is limited so secure your pass today. Register to Attend   In-Person Admission: Free with Code BIZJOURNAL22 (Regularly $195) - Includes a Catered Breakfast, Lunch & Cocktail Reception Virtual Admission: $50 with Code BIZJOURNAL50 (Regularly $95) Register at CyberSecuritySummit.com   Unsubscribe Partner | Manage Preferences All rights reserved. © St. Louis Business Journal Email sent by St. Louis Business Journal 815 Olive St., Suite 100 St. Louis, MO 63101, USA

Sextortion Targeting Teenaged Boys

The FBI is seeing a concerning increase in sextortion targeting teenaged boys locally and nationwide.

The tragic story of a Michigan teen (tweet below) is linked here:

https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/fbi-michigan-teens-suicide-caused-by-sextortion-from-online-predator

Our St. Louis office is receiving victim complaints on a weekly basis and we know this crime is severely under-reported. We are asking for help to raise awareness. Please forward this email to family, friends, and employees:

1. So teens are made aware and prevent from becoming a victim
2. If kids do become victimized, they are not alone and they are not in trouble with the law.
3. The FBI wants to stop the perpetrators but we need victims to come forward with information.

Our news release explains more: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/stlouis/news/press-releases/fbi-warns-of-increase-in-sextortion-targeting-teenaged-boys

WWT Speaker Series Presents: Sylvia Acevedo (Hosted by NVIDIA and WWT LEAD)

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  [email protected] 

Stop, Lurk & Listen: How to Have Better Conversations About Technology in the Home

Greetings Graduates and Members,

Please review the Partent Ministry Program event information below, if interested, register as soon as possible for attendance on Monday, March 7th via Zoom, 7-8:30pm CST. 

Stop, Lurk & Listen: How to Have Better Conversations About Technology in the Home  presented by Jennifer Shiffman.

Jennifer has worked in the area of cyber security, particularly with children, for a long time and is in constant and current contact with law enforcement agents in Missouri, so she is up to date on all of the latest trends, good and bad, in technology. She is particularly versed in talking about ways to best prevent our children from falling for the schemes of predators and what is being seen. 

Company and website information:

Jennifer Schiffman, DigiDiva Dialogs, digidivadialogs.com

Register Here:  Stop, Lurk & Listen: How to Have Better Conversations About Technology in the Home

If you would like to follow Parent Ministry on Instagram go to @csmsgparentministry; Meta(formerly Facebook) go to CSMSG Parent Ministry.

Best regards!

Message from the FBI - Bomb Threats to HBCU's & House's of Worship

FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association   FBI Statement on the Ongoing Investigation into Bomb Threats to Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Houses of Worship The FBI is continuing to aggressively investigate the ongoing nationwide bomb threats targeting Historically Black Colleges and Universities, houses of worship, and other faith-based and academic institutions. From January 4 to February 16, a total of 57 institutions across the country were targeted. The bomb threats have been made in phone calls, e-mails, instant messages, and anonymous online posts. FBI agents from multiple field offices are conducting hundreds of interviews and gathering a variety of electronic evidence for analysis. This investigation is of the highest priority for the Bureau and involves 31 FBI field offices that are actively working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to identify those involved. The FBI is investigating these cases as racially or ethnically motivated violent extremism and hate crimes. Although at this time no explosive devices related to these threats have been found, the FBI takes all of these threats with the utmost seriousness and will remain vigilant to protect our communities. The FBI has been prioritizing information sharing and officials in Washington, DC have briefed approximately 2,800 law enforcement partners, and community, academic, and faith leaders. Senior leaders in a number of our field offices also have engaged with university leaders in their respective communities to maintain direct lines of communication. We recognize the fear and disruption this has caused across the country, and we will continue our work to make sure people feel safe in their communities, schools, and places of worship. We would like to remind members of the public that if they observe anything suspicious or have information about potential threats to report it to law enforcement immediately, call their local FBI office, or submit a tip to tips.fbi.gov. Due to the ongoing investigation we are unable to provide more details at this time, but we will continue to share with schools, partners, and the public as information becomes available. Source: FBI National Press Office (February 23, 2022)

WWT Speaker Series: Marc Morial, One of America's leading Voices on Civil Rights

 

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Join us in welcoming Marc Morial to the WWT Speaker Series "stage" as we kick off Black History Month! This is your chance to hear from one of the most accomplished servant-leaders in the country and a leading voice on the national stage in the battle for jobs, education, housing and voting rights equity. Register   Thursday, February 3 12:00 p.m. CT Marc Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League         Described as one of the few national leaders to possess “street smarts” and “boardroom savvy”, Marc Morial is the current President and CEO of the National Urban League, the nation’s largest historic civil rights and urban advocacy organization. He served as the highly successful and popular Mayor of New Orleans as well as the President of the US Conference of Mayors. He previously was a Louisiana State Senator, and a lawyer in New Orleans with an active, high profile practice.   Register   Check out the full list of WWT's upcoming events here!

Honoring The Founder of the St. Louis FBI Academy Alumni Association

Dear FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Graduates and Alumni Association Members:

It is with sadness that we inform you of the passing of Mr. Norman Appelman, a 2004 Citizens Academy Graduate and the 2006 Founder of our Alumni Association. Norm was a tremendously dedicated leader who was committed to the mission of the FBI and the supporting role played by CA Graduates and Alumni Association Members. His stewardship and wise counsel to the Alumni Association Board continued literally up to the week of his death on January 16^th at the age of 95.

The following link to Norm’s obituary, and the photo collage of FBISTLCAAA activities, are indicators of his devotion to our organization:

www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/olivette-mo/norman-appelman-10535866

To honor Norm’s many contributions, the Alumni Association Board is making a $250 donation to the FBI Agents Association in his memory. The FBIAA provides for the needs of Specials Agents and their families during times of hardship and duty-related injury or death. This worthy cause is one which Norm and many other CA Graduates and Alumni Association Members have generously supported in the past.

Those wishing to make their own donation in Norm’s memory may do so using this link:

www.fbiaa.org

Interim Special Agent in Charge Spencer Evans of the FBI St. Louis Division offered the following condolence:

“We are saddened by the passing of Mr. Norm Appelman and offer our deep condolences to his family. We also thank his family for sharing him with us. Unlike my predecessors, I’ve not had the good fortune of meeting Norm as I’ve only been in St. Louis since the beginning of this month. Still, I would like to share what I now know.

 Norm graduated from our FBI Citizens Academy in St. Louis in 2004. Shortly after, he founded the St. Louis chapter of the FBI Citizens Academy Alumni Association. Throughout the years, Norm was determined to grow the association in St. Louis and to ensure its future success. With an all-volunteer board consisting of busy community leaders, it was, and is still hard work. Norm never gave up. He supported the FBI and our law enforcement partners in many ways and often times anonymously. His intentions were 100% genuinely pure. He did not do any of it for publicity. He did it with his heart to help our community. At FBI St. Louis, we are deeply humbled by his unwavering support, sincerely inspired by his selflessness, and very blessed to have been his friend. May Norm rest in peace.”

We believe the most fitting legacy we can offer Norm is our continued support of the mission of the FBI and the welfare of all people and communities in the greater St. Louis area.

Best wishes to you and your family for a safe and healthy year to come.

• Your FBISTLCAAA Board of Directors

Message from the FBI - Colleyville, Texas

Top 10 Security Predictions for 2022

****The following article was written and published by Infosecurity Magazine and is made available with its permission.****

"Top 10 Security Predictions for 2022" by James Coker, Reporter, Infosecurity Magazine

The fast-paced field of cybersecurity is reaching the end of yet another turbulent year with numerous high-profile incidents. The real-world impact of many of these incidents, such as fuel shortages in the United States and the cancellation of hospital appointments in Ireland following ransomware attacks, has thrust cybersecurity into the general public's consciousness once again.

For the full article, click this link: https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news-features/top-10-security-predictions-for/

Richard Schwalberg Joins the FBI National CAAA Board of Directors

Richard Schwalberg, Director of Fundraising FBINCAAA

FBI Leaders Recognize Citizens Academy Alumni for Building Trust and Support in Communities

IPR Center Launches New Toolkit to Help Holiday Shoppers Avoid Scams

A message from the FBI:

The holiday shopping season is underway and the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center), Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, and The Toy Association have teamed up to ensure consumers can make educated decisions when searching for the best deals this season.

The IPR Center launched a new holiday shopping toolkit to help consumers protect themselves from substandard or even hazardous counterfeit toys, electronics, cosmetics and other products.

The toolkit includes online shopping do’s and don’ts, ways to protect financial and banking information, educational videos and infographics, and general information on how to spot fake merchandise.   

“Criminals don’t take the holidays off, so it’s important for consumers to be aware of ways they can protect themselves this busy season,” said Acting Deputy Assistant Director Carlton Peeples of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI collaborates with our law enforcement and private sector partners at the IPR Center year-round to combat the sale of counterfeit goods, which threaten public health and safety and impose high costs to the U.S. economy. Everyone can help identify and thwart counterfeiters, and this year, we encourage the public to use our holiday shopping toolkit to avoid becoming a scammer’s next victim.” 

What’s the risk of buying counterfeit products? Counterfeit electronics can overheat and explode, bicycle helmets can break upon impact, phony cosmetics and health care products can be made with dangerous or unsanitary ingredients that should not be applied to the skin, and seasonal items for the home, like holiday lights, can be poorly wired and ignite fires.

Counterfeit goods not only cheat the consumer with substandard and potentially hazardous products, but the websites used can also put shoppers at risk of having their personal and financial data stolen for other nefarious purposes. Online shopping is particularly vulnerable to scams that trick the user into buying counterfeit and pirated goods.

Learn more at https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/new-toolkit-helps-consumers-avoid-scams-while-holiday-shopping.

FREE SPEAKER SERIES FOR FBISTLCAAA MEMBERS – October

WWT Speaker Series Presents: Haben Girma (Hosted by: Check Point & WWT's ABLE ERG)

Event Overview

Join WWT's ABLE Employee Resource Group and our partner, Check Point, for a special WWT Speaker Series event with Haben Girma on October 12 at 11:00am CT. The first Deafblind person to graduate from Harvard Law School, Haben Girma is a human rights lawyer advancing disability justice. Haben believes disability is an opportunity for innovation and teaches organizations the importance of choosing inclusion.

Haben Girma

The first Deafblind person to graduate from Harvard Law School, Haben Girma is a human rights lawyer advancing disability justice. President Obama named her a White House Champion of Change. She received the Helen Keller Achievement Award, a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, and TIME100 Talks. The NY Times, Oprah Magazine, and TODAY Show featured her memoir, Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law.   Register here.

FREE Speaker Series for FBISTLCAAA Members – July

Featuring World Class Speakers
Courtesy of World Wide Technology!

Add inspiration to your week with these stories filled with thought leadership, inspiration and insights from business leaders and our greater community, presented by our good friends at WWT.

Wednesday, July 21st at 4:00pm CDT
John O’Leary, Author and Inspirational Speaker

In 1987, John O’Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given less than a 1% chance to live. This epic story of survival was first showcased in his parents’ book, Overwhelming Odds, in 2006. O’Leary’s emotional story-telling, unexpected humor, and authenticity make each of his presentations truly transformational. Register Now.

FREE Speaker Series For FBISTLCAAA Members

Mental Health First Aid

K9-Decoy Passenger Volunteers Needed

K9-Decoy Passenger Volunteers Needed over Christmas Break!

If you have family in town, a friend, or a coworker that wants to participate feel free to bring one extra person.

Please Contact Us for details.

Thanksgiving Food Drive

“GIVING BACK FOOD, FAMILY AND LOVE”
FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association Food Drive In Memory of Officer Tamarris Bohannon Collects Nearly 13,000 Pounds of Donated Food & Personal Care Items

Donated items and monetary contributions enable the St. Louis Area Foodbank to feed more than 17,500 people throughout the metro area.

St. Louis, Missouri, December 3, 2020 —The FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBISTLCAAA), in partnership with the St. Louis Area Foodbank, collected 12,721 pounds of food and personal care items, along with more than $1,800 in contributions in memory of St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer Tamarris Bohannon. Officer Bohannon, 29, was killed in the line of duty in August, 2020.

Food drive collection bins were placed in nearly fifty locations throughout the metropolitan area from Tuesday, November 17th – Tuesday, November 24th. Many truckloads of donated food and personal care items were delivered to the St. Louis Area Foodbank to assist children, adults, and seniors facing food insecurity this holiday season.

Monetary donations may still be made at the St. Louis Area Foodbank’s “Virtual Food Drive” webpage dedicated to Officer Bohannon: https://vad.techbridge.org/vfdhtml.cfm?driveid=49583

Officer Bohannon leaves behind a wife and three children. He was the first member of the SLMPD to be killed in the line of duty since 2011. The FBISTLCAAA, the St. Louis Area Foodbank, and the family of Officer Bohannon thank everyone who contributed to help provide access to food for thousands of people in the St. Louis community, for whom Officer Bohannon gave his all.

Chasing the Dragon

On March 12th, our St. Louis chapter in conjunction with the Kansas City chapter jointly presented “Chasing the Dragon” in Jefferson City. This is the second time in as many years, the FBISTLCAAA helped the FBI and DEA inform the public about the dangers of abusing prescription drugs. This year’s panel included a mother and daughter who gave very emotional testimony about the daughter’s journey from addiction to recovery. These two women actually attended our “Chasing the Dragon” event in Festus almost exactly a year ago. Watching the film helped both women see each other’s perspective. After more tough love from her mother, the daughter finally agreed to an out-of-state treatment program that lasted 10 months. The women’s courage to testify at the event gave hope to other families suffering from drug addiction. Thank you Board Director Pastor Randy Gray for spearheading this event.

Little Free Library Donation Campaign

“The FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association has joined efforts with Little Free Library (LFL) to improve literacy in the FBINCAAA affiliate chapter communities. Stewarding Little Free Libraries provides a great way for chapters to connect community, law enforcement outreach, and education. Free Library® is the largest grassroots book sharing literacy network in the world with over 90,000 Little Free Libraries in 91 countries and in all 50 states. As partners we can work together to address the growing illiteracy crisis in the United States. LFL’s mission is to inspire a love of reading, build community and spark creativity by fostering neighborhood book exchanges around the world.”
– FBI National CAAA, 2019

The FBISTLCAAA has purchased two libraries and are in the process of choosing their location. We need books to fill these Free Little Libraries! The plan is to purchase a wide variety of books for all ages to fill our Free Little Libraries.

Please donate by clicking here. All donations received will be used to purchase books for the FBISTLCAAA chapter Little Free Libraries now and in the future.

Lambert Security Tour

On February 14, 2020, FBISTLCAAA members joined DHS, TSA, and Federal Air Marshalls at the St. Louis Lambert International Airport for a behind-the-scenes look of airport security operations. Attendees learned about the airport’s different security programs and also watched a K-9 explosives search demonstration and baggage search demonstration. Thank you to the fantastic airport security personnel who keep all of us safe when we travel!

FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association 2020 Goals and Objectives

1. In coordination with FBI, organize, invite, and present cyber security information to businesses and non-profits, especially those that do not have dedicated IT resources.

2. Support FBI Citizens Academy in addition to the new half-day version for executives.

3. Support FBI Teen or Youth Leadership Academy, where top junior or senior high school students will be invited to participate.

4. Co-sponsor and support the annual LDA memorial golf tournament.

5. Fundraise, possibly at Top Golf, to increase general revenue to enable FBISTLCAAA to better support and/or execute initiatives that make a difference in improving the community.

FBISTLCAAA Holiday Reunion

The FBISTLCAAA held its holiday reunion at Spazio Westport on December 12th. Approximately 40 members gathered to enjoy each other’s company, food, and the following:

• Emeritus and founding member Norm Appelman was recognized for his enormous generosity. He gifted his shares to start an investment account to sustain the viability and to support the mission of FBISTLCAAA. Happy 93rd Birthday Norm!

• Immediate Past President Gary Chan recapped how our chapter won two national awards, the Presidential Chapter of Excellence & Public Safety Innovation Award, which were presented at last August’s National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Leadership conference in Houston.

• Chapter President David Brickhaus and FBI SAC Richard Quinn signed the 2020 Memorandum of Agreement, which includes five objectives for our chapter.

• SAC Quinn presented significant investigations accomplished by FBI St. Louis in 2019 and answered lots of questions.

Thank you to all who brought books to the event to help launch our chapter’s “Little Free Library.” Installation locations TBD.

Presidential Chapter of Excellence & Public Safety Innovation Award

The FBISTLCAAA received two national awards at the recent annual 2019 National Conference: the Presidential Chapter of Excellence and the Public Safety Innovation Award. Thank you to all our members for helping us achieve this honor.

Presidential Chapter of Excellence Award

This award is given to an FBICAAA chapter, which has exhibited excellence in all organizational aspects: strong partnership with their local FBI Field Office; successful community outreach programs; sustained membership growth; full compliance with all documentation required by the Federal, state, and local entities to be a certified 501(c)(3), non-profit organization; meeting all FBINCAAA standards for professionalism and participation to include attendance at the previous year’s FBINCAAA Leadership Conference.

FBINCAAA Innovation Award

This award is given to chapters, who exhibit uncommon innovation and creativity. This includes innovative approaches to community outreach; developing and maintaining excellent chapter membership participation; creating unique partnerships within their communities; and/or leading the way in establishing true “Best Practices,” which can be replicated by other FBICAAA Chapters.

E-Skimming: Protecting Your Online Business from a Growing Threat

The FBI, US Secret Service, and DHS held a briefing regarding e-Skimming on September 5, 2019. Any business accepting online payments on their website is at risk of an e-Skimming attack.

To learn more about the growing threat of e-skimming attacks, you can listen to this FBI podcast.

Or review this recent posting from the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies.

Redbird Rookies

On June 29th, members supported the FBI at the annual Redbird Rookies Health Fair, hosted by Cardinals Care, the team’s community foundation dedicated to improving the lives of children. Our booth sported giveaways, community-relevant FBI information, and a virtual reality experience. This combination made the FBI/FBISTLCAAA booth the hit of the event with crowds lining up to learn about the FBI and play games.

Teen Academy, Spring 2019

Our members volunteered to help the Spring 2019 FBI Teen Academy by role-playing for a mock bank robbery investigation.

Mental Health First Aid Training

The FBISTLCAAA helped sponsor a Mental Health First Aid Public Safety course for Special Agents of the Army’s Criminal Investigative Command by donating funds to pay for all of the class manuals. Retired FBI Special Agent Karyn Feeney commented:

“A special thank you to the FBISTLCAAA for sponsoring Mental Health First Aid Public Safety to Special Agents of the Army’s Criminal Investigative Command on April 18, 2019 at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. We had an engaging class of students who were open to reducing stigma surrounding mental health. We were excited to certify over fifteen Special Agents from across our nation and we could not have done it without your help. We look forward to partnering with you in the future. Thank you. Mental Health First Aid Instructors Karyn Feeney and Tony Campbell”

Chasing the Dragon

On March 24, 2019 (Sunday), the FBISTLCAAA sponsored a joint DEA and FBI event held at Festus 8 Cinema to raise awareness about opioid abuse. The goal of showing Chasing the Dragon: The Life of an Opiate Addict is to help people understand the critical components of opioid addiction – how easily it can began, the downward cycle that ensues, followed by tragic consequences.

FBI SAC Rich Quinn and DEA SAC Bill Callahan explained their desire to provide information, resources, and support to communities beyond the City and County of St. Louis. They also strongly encouraged the attendees who the packed auditorium with the following: (1) To engage with resources made available at the event if they know someone who may need help. (2) To show the documentary to others, especially in high schools. Anyone can watch the 50-minute documentary online: https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/newss-chasing-the-dragon-the-life-of-an-opiate-addict/view

After the showing, the executive director of NCADA moderated a panel discussion with FBI, DEA, Jefferson County Drug Prevention Coalition, COMTREA, and an individual in recovery.

See more about the event as published in a local periodical, Leader Publications, titled: Opioid addiction film delivers powerful message.

Additional information and support resources:

• NCADA: (314) 962-3456, http://ncada-stl.org/

• MO-HOPE: https://MOHopeProject.org

• Opioid STR: https://MissouriOpioidSTR.org

• United Way of Great St. Louis: 211 or (800) 427-4626; http://www.211helps.org/

• Behavioral Health Response: 24-hour Crisis Line: (314) 469-664 or (800) 811-4760, http://bhrstl.org/

Stop the Bleed Seminar

By Larry Christopher – FBISTLCAAA life member

On February 20, 2019, representatives of the FBI St. Louis office; Dr. Stephen Liang, MD; and members of the Barnes-Jewish Hospital emergency room staff provided guidance on how to respond to mass casualty events to members of the FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association. Presenters agreed that run, hide, and fight remains the recommended approach for dealing with active shooters. They explained how those in danger should interact with law enforcement during an event: police are there primarily to secure the site and neutralize the shooter(s), not to rescue or interact with victims. Stay clear of them, and do not engage except to respond to commands or provide information. At the end of the seminar, all those present participated in a drill that reinforced what was learned.

The seminar also addressed how to deal with the wounded following a mass casualty event. Statistics show that a large percentage of deaths at these events are from blood loss following wounds to extremities. Those deaths, Dr. Liang stressed, are preventable. Recognizing this, the American College of Surgeons, the FBI, and others created a protocol known as the Hartford Consensus which makes stopping bleeding the highest priority following shootings, explosions, and other similar events. Medics and emergency room personnel at the seminar explained principles of trauma care response and presented different procedures to stop the loss of blood.

FBI Seminar on “Protecting Houses of Worship”

By Philip Deitch – FBISTLCAAA life member

Congregations of all faith have been facing growing security concerns. There is no longer a single faith or type of spiritual community that can consider itself immune whether in urban or rural areas.

The FBI St. Louis office offered a free seminar on “Protecting Houses of Worship’” on January 26, 2019. More than 50 people from congregations as far as Cape Girardeau came out on a snowy, bitter, cold Saturday morning to learn how they can better protect their congregations and their congregants. In the process, they created a supportive community among representatives from diverse faiths to include the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities. The host location was the New Northside Conference Center, 5939 Goodfellow Boulevard, in the City of St Louis. The FBISTLCAAA provided continental breakfast and refreshments. About ten FBISTLCAAA members came to volunteer and/or to learn themselves.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Richard Quinn welcomed and thanked the attendees and put the importance of the day into stark perspective. FBI special agents gave an overview on hate crimes, active shooter behavioral analysis, and what to do in an active shooter situation. Also, on the program, a Jewish Federation security expert who provides evaluations and trainings to all Jewish congregations and Jewish communal organizations. He self-identified as a Christian underlying the point that all spiritual congregations should be taking preventive action. Our own FBISTLCAAA President Gary Chan provided tips on cyber security. Rounding out the 3-hour seminar, a sergeant with SLMPD’s Crisis Intervention Team talked about the mental health resources available and how it provides such training to police officers.

Additional Resources

• fbi.gov/resources (active shooter studies)

• dhs.gov (how to prepare your business for an emergency, bomb threat checklist)

• adl.org/security (DHS, FBI and broader material)

Red Cross Informational Sessions

The St. Louis office of the American Red Cross is hosting informational sessions on being a volunteer for their organization. These sessions will run once a month from February through December in 2019. These Red Cross volunteer activities are separate from FBISTLCAAA activities, but we are exploring partnerships with them. If there are joint activities in the future, we will advertise them as such.

If you would like more information on this topic, please Contact Us.

Additional information from the Red Cross

Learn the impact the American Red Cross volunteers have on the local community and how you can help:

• Provide shelter, food and comfort following a home fire, tornado, flood or other disaster

• Save lives by installing smoke alarms

• Provide support at local blood drives which keep our nation’s blood supply stable

• Provide support to our military and their families

• Learn about the menu of volunteer opportunities and ways you can give back to your community

Holiday Happy Hour

On Dec 12, 2018, the FBISTLCAAA held its annual Holiday Happy Hour for FBI Citizens Academy graduates. During the informal gathering, FBI St. Louis and FBISTLCAAA signed the 2019 Memorandum of Agreement.

Special Agent in Charge Richard Quinn spoke about the accomplishments of the St. Louis Division and the challenges it faces, his appreciation for the FBISTLCAAA, and ideas on how the association can partner with the FBI to help improve the community. FBISTLCAAA President Gary Chan also shared the organization’s accomplishments in 2018 and painted a picture for what 2019 could be.

November Chapter Relations Webinar

On Nov 15, 2018, Steve Tarani presented a webinar on Your Most Powerful Weapon: How to Use Your Mind to Stay Safe. Steve is a professional educator, author, and keynote speaker who has served the United States defense, law enforcement, and intelligence communities for over 25 years. He taught members how to build mental toughness, control our environment, avoid a threat, defeat an attack, and control fear.

Peabody Elementary

On October 27, 2018, the FBI and FBISTLCAAA participated in a block party at Peabody Elementary in St. Louis. Thanks to generous donations from our members, we were able to serve almost 500 slices of free pizza to students and their families. The FBI passed out activity books to kids and information about the FBI Child ID App to parents. The block party included a bounce house, DJ, community services and food to bring the neighborhood and school together.

The school held the block party to build on the positive momentum gained after the FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force dismantled a drug-trafficking ring which operated in the Clinton-Peabody housing complex. Read more at STL Today.

Membership Dues Increased Moderately

During the weekend of October 27, 2018 our chapter membership dues increased from $25 annual/$250 lifetime to $35 annual/$350 lifetime.  All annual payments made after this date will apply from the payment date through Dec 31, 2019.

Fall Range Day

The FBISTLCAAA held a Fall Range Day on Sunday, October 21, 2018. It couldn’t have been a more perfect day with excellent weather and good company.

The firearms instructors helped new and experienced shooters get better. Members shot skeet and trap outside as well as pistol indoors.

The gun club awarded two 1-year free memberships, one to the best indoor shooter and one to the best outdoor shooter. The FBISTLCAAA awarded a $100 cash prize to the best overall shooter as well as Life Lapel pins to new Life Members.

All proceeds from this event will be contributed to the amount raised for the 2018 LDA Memorial Golf Tournament, which benefits the FBIAA Memorial College Fund for children of deceased agents, Missouri Special Olympics, Backstoppers, and other charities.

Tour of FBI HQ and Academy

The annual Citizens Academy trip to FBI Headquarters and FBI Academy took place on September 26 – 27, 2018. Graduates also visited the Pentagon and the Pentagon 9/11 Memorial. This year’s trip was held jointly with fellow graduates from FBI Chicago’s Citizens Academy. A total of 36 people attended. The tours were free, but travel, meals, and lodging were at each attendee’s own expense. The overall mood was excitement, amazement, and awe as all were simply honored that the FBI would invest so much time into us and the tour. There was plenty of conversation and laughter and times of solemn introspect during various parts of the tours when there were stories of lives lost in the line of duty. The “FBI Experience” exhibit at Headquarters was a highlight as many expressed what they observed.

37th Annual LDA Memorial Golf Tournament

The 37th annual LDA Memorial Golf Tournament, in memory of FBI St. Louis SWAT Agent Doug Abram, was held on September 7, 2018, at the Norman K. Probstein Golf Course in Forest Park. The rain held off during the first few hours of the tournament, but Tropical Storm Gordon took over, making the last few holes tough.

After the round of golf, attendees sat down to a fantastic dinner and discussion with new and old friends. A special thank you to St. Johns Bank, World Wide Technology, and members who donated. Our chapter offered its highest support in years. The FBISTLCAAA is responsible for $1,100 in registration fees and the following donations: $3,000 in cash, 2 gun club gift certificates, a golf outing certificate, a PGA golf ball, 6 Cardinals box seats with parking passes, and any amount raised from the upcoming Fall Range Day event.

National Leadership Conference

FBISTLCAAA members attended the annual FBI National CAAA conference Sep 5-7, in San Antonio, Texas. Attendees networked with counterparts and learned about the remarkable work that CAAA chapters are engaged in across the country. The FBI presented the Las Vegas shooting investigation and a public corruption investigation in the Washington, D.C. area. Our Chapter donated a basket of St. Louis BBQ goodies for a silent auction. Overall, the conference helped build relationships and provided everyone with new ideas to create value for chapter members and their communities. Next year’s conference will be held in Houston, Texas.

FBISTLCAAA Annual Meeting

The FBISTLCAAA held its Annual Meeting for its members on August 14. The events and successes over the past year were shared and members weighed in with ideas on several topics around the coming year’s activities.

Donate to Reduce Violent Crime

With your donations and membership fees, the FBISTLCAAA donated $1,000 towards the purchase of anti-theft devices for cars. A special thank you to an anonymous and generous member who matched our original $500 donation. The donation will pay for devices for roughly four blocks of houses in south city as St. Louis Metropolitan Police goes door-to-door throughout the year to meet with residents. The goal is to help prevent vehicles from getting stolen and used to commit violent crimes.

St. Louis Cardinals Redbird Rookies Health Fair

FBISTLCAAA had a booth at the St. Louis Cardinals’ Redbird Rookies Health Fair on June 23rd. We engaged more than 550 children with temporary tattoos, stickers and activity books while parents learned about the FBI Child ID app and FBI internet safety program for 3rd to 8th graders.

Firearms Safety

The FBISTLCAAA held a firearms safety events for members. A local Police Chief gave an insightful keynote speech on how he would reinvent law enforcement in today’s age to better serve the community. Afterwards, members were invited to use the simulation shooter or live fire range.

Violence Prevention Commission Outreach Event

Members of the FBISTLCAAA participated in a Violence Prevention Commission outreach event on Saturday, June 9. The mission was to go door-to-door in the Walnut Park neighborhood to: (1) hear directly from families about the specific resources and basic supports they need; and (2) connect families to resources immediately or through ongoing follow-up and community events.

Volunteers placed door hangers with details about how to access common social services for any unanswered doors. Volunteers also provided customized United Way 211 cards for community members to help them access services. Volunteers worked with 211 staff on-site to help connect community members with resources for immediate needs.

Orlando Pulse Nightclub Presentation

The FBI gave FBISTLCAAA members a behind-the-scenes look at the Orlando Pulse Nightclub shooting from an investigator’s standpoint. Participants learned how the situation unfolded, the suspect’s behavior before and during the event, and the challenges law enforcement encountered throughout the investigation. It was a very insightful overview of the horrific event and tremendous response and support from local and federal law enforcement. In addition, the FBI recognized three out-going Board members (George Wilder, Norm Appelman, and Rick Heinrichs) for their self-less service to the FBISTLCAAA Board and helping the community.

Northwest Academy of Law

The FBI St. Louis office taught a 7-session course on Introduction to Law Enforcement to 10th graders at the Northwest Academy of Law High School in St. Louis from February 27, 2018, through April 17, 2018. The students learned through the practical exercise of investigating a bank robbery, and FBISTLCAAA volunteers helped by playing the role of a key witness or assisting with processing a crime scene, etc. In addition to teaching the ins and outs of investigative work, the teaching team showed students the various careers in law enforcement available to them and a path to get there. The graduation event was May 2. Of those who graduated, four students (randomly chosen by drawing) won tablets that the FBISTLCAAA donated.

Board of Directors Applications Received!

We had many outstanding candidates apply for positions on the Board of Directors to help make a difference to our community. We are thrilled to receive such a positive response. The Board is currently reviewing the applications and will be in touch with all applicants this month (May).

Classic Car Event

On April 28, 2018, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police and St. Louis County Police took 30-40 middle schoolers to view classic cars where the FBISTLCAAA had the opportunity to attend and engage with them while enjoying the car show.