NEW ORLEANS — Aside from being known for Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and other celebrations, New Orleans has long been known for its cultural diversity, which can often be reflected in the work environment.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations in New Orleans and its five-state area of responsibility is no different, having a staff nearly as diverse as its city, many working in the U.S. Custom House, a building believed to have been built, in part, by Free Men of Color.  

“Working in the U.S. Custom House allows us to reflect on the adversity that African Americans fought through while making lasting contributions to the United States,” said Steven Stavinoha, Director of Field Operations for CBP New Orleans. “I’m proud to work and lead an organization dedicated to diversity not only in the workforce, but also in the leadership positions.” 

An example of this diversity is Terence Hudson, who is the first African American to hold the second-highest ranking position in CBP New Orleans, the Assistant Director of Field Operations for Border Security.  

“New Orleans is a diverse city, with people coming from all over the world to live and work here,” he said. “I feel like the diversity that I bring to the field office will enhance operations and inspire those who are seeking to move up within the organization to feel as if possibilities are attainable and achievable.”  

Currita Waddy, Assistant Chief Counsel for CBP NOLA, is the second African American in New Orleans to hold her position, and has done so since 1995, when she took the reins from Hattie Broussard, who was the first. She does not take this distinction lightly.

“Early in my career as a black female attorney working with mostly white males in Washington, D.C,, I had to be overly prepared and confident in my delivery of sound legal advice so that I could be taken seriously and my message could be heard,” Waddy said. “With time and persistence, I was given the respect that came along with the position, and my advice was sought after and appreciated.” 

CBP New Orleans also has three area ports in New Orleans, Memphis, and Mobile, Ala. Alrick Brooks, a Caribbean American, holds the position of Assistant Area Port Director in Memphis, Derrick Coleman is the Nashville Port Director, and Donna Dedeaux is the first African-American Port Director in Pascagoula, MS. Additionally, Terri Edwards was recently promoted to the position of Area Port Director in New Orleans, the first African-American to hold the position in New Orleans. 

“Diversity affords the opportunity for new ideas, positive challenges, and leadership development, all of which, I feel, represent CBP,” said Brooks, who is the first person of color to hold his position. 

Edwards echoed his sentiment by saying, “It is an honor and a privilege to work for an agency that embraces the spirit of diversity. I look forward to continuing that commitment with the dedicated men and women of CBP New Orleans.” 

CBP’s Port of New Orleans also has one of the most diverse agriculture teams in the country, including four African American female agriculture specialists, accounting for nearly one fourth of the port’s agriculture work force. This team, three of whom are in their 20s, helps keep the country safe from harmful exotic plant pests and foreign animal diseases. 

“I am blessed to work for an agency that not only promotes diversity, but also implements measures to ensure that it is carried out,” said Kendall Gaines, Supervisory Agriculture Specialist for CBP New Orleans. “It is encouraging to know that African-Americans have a fair opportunity to pursue an agriculture career with CBP.”

CBP New Orleans is responsible for border security and facilitates safe trade and travel at points of entry in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Tennessee. For more information on CBP New Orleans activities, follow @CBPGulfCoast and @DFONewOrleans on Twitter.

Aaron Heitke Named Chief Patrol Agent

SAN DIEGO — On February 4, U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), San Diego Sector, welcomed Aaron Heitke as its newest Chief Patrol Agent (CPA). 

CPA Heitke entered on duty on February 2, 1998.  His first assignment as a Border Patrol agent was at the Wellton Station in the Yuma Sector.  In November 2004, he was promoted to Supervisory Border Patrol Agent at the Grand Marais Station in the Grand Forks Sector and was named its Patrol Agent in Charge in 2005. 

Throughout his two decade career with USBP, CPA Heitke has served in many leadership positions around the country, including roles at USBP Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

CPA Heitke originally joined San Diego Sector in November 2019 as the Deputy Chief Patrol Agent after serving as CPA for the Grand Forks Sector, a position he held since 2015.  The Grand Forks Sector covers eight northern and mid-west states and is responsible for border security operations along the 861 miles of U.S and Canadian border in North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

CPA Heitke now manages more than 2,400 law enforcement agents and mission support staff and has direct oversight of San Diego Sector’s eight Border Patrol stations.

CPA Heitke earned a bachelor’s degree in criminology at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.  He also earned a juris doctorate at the University of North Dakota School of Law, was inducted into the Minnesota Bar Association in 1997, and practiced law for a short time before entering the Border Patrol. 

CPA Heitke is a native of Minnesota, is married, and has two daughters.

You can follow the Chief on Twitter and Instagram @USBPChiefSDC. 

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced today the appointment of Julio Chacón as the Port Director for the Port of Ponce. 

“Mr. Chacon’s experience, operational background and leadership skills make him well suited for this key management position,” stated Edwin Cruz, San Juan Area Port Director.  “He is committed to the security and wellbeing of the southern region of the island as a concerned citizen, husband, father, and professional.”   

In 1997, Julio started his federal employment career as a Customs Inspector with the U.S. Customs Service and was assigned to Culebra Duty Station, Port of Fajardo.  In 2002, he was transferred to Port of Ponce where he served as CBP Officer.   

Since 1998, Julio is an active member of the US Army Reserve, where he currently occupies the position of First Sergeant.  In addition, he served in other key leadership positions, to include US Army Drill Sergeant for 10 years. 

Mr. Chacón was born, raised and currently resides in Guánica, Puerto Rico.   

“Julio has been personally affected by the earthquakes that have rattled his hometown.  Nonetheless, he has been devoted to help those affected by this disaster all the while he has also completed his duties as a consummate professional," added Mr. Cruz. 

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza de los Estados Unidos (CBP) anunció hoy el nombramiento de Julio Chacón como Director del Puerto de Ponce. 

" La experiencia del señor Chacón, su experiencia operativa y sus habilidades de liderazgo lo cualifican para este puesto clave de administración ", declaró Edwin Cruz, Director del Puerto del Área de San Juan. "Está comprometido con la seguridad y el bienestar de la región sur de la isla como ciudadano preocupado, esposo, padre y profesional".  

En 1997, Julio comenzó su carrera laboral federal como inspector de aduanas en el Servicio de Aduanas de los Estados Unidos, siendo asignado a la estación de servicio Culebra, en el puerto de Fajardo. En 2002, fue transferido al puerto de Ponce, donde se desempeñó como oficial de CBP. 

Desde 1998, Julio es un miembro activo de la Reserva del Ejército de los Estados Unidos donde actualmente ocupa el cargo de Primer Sargento. Además, ocupó otros cargos clave de liderazgo, incluido el sargento de instrucción del ejército durante 10 años. 

El señor Chacón nació, creció y actualmente reside en Guánica, Puerto Rico. 

“Julio se ha visto personalmente afectado por los terremotos que han sacudido su ciudad natal. No obstante, se ha dedicado a ayudar a los afectados por este desastre mientras que también ha completado sus deberes como todo un profesional consumado” agredo el señor Cruz.

YUMA, Ariz. – An off-duty Border Patrol agent attending his daughter’s soccer practice Tuesday evening responded to a motor vehicle versus bicyclist accident nearby and provided lifesaving medical care to the injured individual on scene.

The off-duty agent, a Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue operator and certified paramedic, was watching his daughter’s soccer practice when he was informed of the incident nearby. The agent ran to the location and found a conscious male in the middle of the road. The man had a large laceration above his left knee that was bleeding from a suspected femoral artery laceration. The depth of the wound was to the bone near the patient’s thigh. After assessing the victim’s injuries and with the help of a bystander, the off-duty agent applied pressure to the wound, in an effort to slow the bleeding. When Yuma Police Department (YPD) arrived on scene, the agent requested a tourniquet, which he applied to the individual’s leg. Yuma Fire Department (YFD) then arrived on scene and began treatment. The agent continued assisting paramedics in preparing the individual for transport. The patient was transported to Yuma Regional Medical Center. Currently, the patient is reported to be in a stable condition.

“These are the reasons why I joined this agency, acquiring the platform and training necessary to make a difference in the lives of the ones I come in contact with,” said Border Patrol Agent Travis J. Carter.” “We do not have the advantage of choosing the type of situations we respond to, but we do have the benefit of choosing how we respond.”

“Agent Carter’s quick thinking, ability to react in high-stress situations and preparedness saved this man’s life,” said Yuma Sector’s Acting Chief Patrol Agent Carl Landrum. “His expertise and training highlights the adaptability and first-response capabilities of U.S. Border Patrol agents in our community—on and off duty, I’m proud of Agent Carter’s actions.”

BORSTAR was created in response to the growing number of injuries to Border Patrol agents and migrant deaths along our nation’s borders. BORSTAR teams are composed of experienced Border Patrol Agents who have received specialized training in search and rescue operations, to include swift water rescue and recovery operations in rescuing border crossers, and in this instance—U.S. citizens, in distress and providing them with medical care and lifesaving aid. All BORSTAR operators are Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technicians and/or Nationally Registered Paramedics.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced today the appointment of Carlos Nieves as the Port Director for the Port of Mayaguez-Aguadilla.

“Mr. Nieves is good CBP asset for the ports of entry in the islands’ western coast bringing a wealth of experience in trade operations,” indicated Edwin Cruz, San Juan Area Port Director.   “He a valued colleague that can make a difference to secure and facilitate trade and travel.”

Port Director Nieves began his career with CBP in the San Juan Area Port in 2008, working as an officer in passenger operations and later assigned to the Trade Sensitive Team in seaport cargo. During that time, he served as the reviewer and worked with the Ace Business Office in Washington, DC developing the Cargo Release system.

He later moved to passenger secondary where he worked until selected for First Line Supervisor in 2015. As a Supervisor, he worked passenger operations, Trade Sensitive Team, and Foreign Trade Zone.

In 2017, he was selected as a Program Manager for Cargo and Conveyance Security in the San Juan Field Office.

In addition to his CBP career, Carlos is part of the Army Reserves with 22 years of service. In his military roles, he has served in multiple positions and participated numerous operations. He was recently selected as Command Sergeant Major for a training support Battalion in Fort Buchanan, PR.  

Carlos is native of Aguadilla and resident of Isabela. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Puerto Rico and a Master’s Degree in Homeland Security with concentration in Counterterrorism from the American Military University.

If you are a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) employee, former employee or applicant for employment, and you believe you have been subjected to employment discrimination because of your:

• Race, Color, Religion, National Origin, Sex, Reprisal;
• Age (40 or older);
• Physical or Mental Disability;
• Genetic Information;
• Status as a Parent; or
• Sexual Orientation

You must contact CBP's Privacy and Diversity Office (PDO) within 45 calendar days from the date of the alleged discriminatory event to initiate an informal EEO complaint.

You may initiate an informal EEO complaint by sending an email to: cbpeeocomplaintfiling@cbp.dhs.gov, with a brief statement on why you believe that you have been subjected to unlawful discrimination.  Your email should also include your telephone number and address.

You may also initiate an informal EEO complaint by calling (1-877) MY-EEO-HELP (1-877-693-3643), or by contacting your servicing EEO Officer.

Upon receipt of your informal complaint, a PDO staff member will facilitate the processing of your claim and inform you of your rights and responsibilities (such as anonymity and representation) in the EEO complaint process.

What Is PTIP?

• The Public Transportation Incentive Program (PTIP) is a transportation fringe benefit program established to encourage employee utilization of mass transportation to help reduce air pollution and traffic congestion.
• In the National Capitol Region (NCR), transit benefits are offered in the form of a SmarTrip card.
• In the Field Offices, transit benefits are offered as a reimbursement via the current local travel system.

Who Is Eligible?

All CBP federal employees who:

• Utilize mass public transportation as their daily means of commuting to and from work; 
• Are not assigned a parking space or receive subsidized parking benefits;
• Are not enrolled in any other Federal agency transit or commuting program.

Eligible Modes of Transportation

Mass transit methods recognized as qualified means of transportation include:

1. Commuter Bus
2. Commuter Train
3. Subway/Light Rail
4. Vanpool

Ineligible Modes of Transportation

The following methods are not recognized and are not eligible for PTIP:

1. Carpools
2. Private Owned Vehicles
3. Motorcycles
4. Airplanes
5. Walkers/Pedestrians

How Does the Program Work?

• CBP federal employees in the NCR must submit an online application.
• CBP federal employees in the NCR are required to register the SmarTrip card at www.smartrip.com.
• Transit funds will automatically be loaded every month onto the SmarTrip card. Benefits can only be loaded to a SmarTrip card with the CBP Federal Employee name and address.
• In the Field Offices, transit benefits are offered as a reimbursement, and employees must input claims between the 1^st and 15^th of the month for transportation expenses incurred during the previous month.

How to Apply for Transit Benefits?

• In the NCR and Field Offices, all eligible CBP federal employees must complete the application via the Public Transit Subsidy Application Tool (PTSAT) and enroll in the SmartBenefit™ program.
• Employees who have submitted an application before the 15th of the month will have transit benefits uploaded the following month.
• Applications submitted after the 15^th of month will receive transit benefits 45-60 days later.
• Field Office employees must input vouchers into the local travel system between the 1^st and 15^th of each month for transportation expenses incurred during the previous month.

For More Information Contact:

Public Transportation Incentive Program (PTIP)
1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW 
Suite 3.2-C 
Washington, DC 20229
Customer Service Desk
Ronald Reagan Building 
Location: C1-40 
Phone: 202-344-2130 
Email: ptip@cbp.dhs.gov

WASHINGTON— U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published CBP’s Strategy 2021-2026 today, which introduces new mission and vision statements that describe the agency’s commitment to a safer and more prosperous nation and a set of enduring mission priorities that describe CBP’s core missions in a succinct and meaningful way. The strategy remains committed to a set of 12 strategic objectives introduced last year.

“Great organizations have strong identities,” said CBP Acting Commissioner Mark A. Morgan. “They have an unshakeable sense of purpose. And they adapt to change effectively and efficiently, recognizing that change is constant and inevitable. Our ability to deliver on our mission depends on our ability to navigate through change in the present, embracing it as we plan for the future while never losing sight of our purpose.”

CBP’s vision statement – enhancing the nation’s security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration and trust – reflects the agency’s position as the largest federal law enforcement agency and its intent to operate as a threat-based, intelligence and data-driven, operationally focused organization. The new mission statement – protect the American people, safeguard our borders, and enhance the nation’s economic prosperity – describes CBP’s role in ensuring the country’s physical and economic security. Together, the new vision and mission statement provide a clear, meaningful and succinct description of the agency’s purpose and future.

The strategy continues to prioritize 12 strategic objectives across the agency which include: counter network; awareness and enforcement; secure and compliant trade; biometric identification; targeting and vetting; stakeholder experience; talent acquisition and workforce development (formerly hiring and retention); wellness and resilience (formerly resilience); partnerships; data and analytics; IT infrastructure; and Intelligence (formerly OneCBP).

This updated strategy demonstrates CBP’s commitment to a transparent and actionable plan that provides results to the nation as well as CBP’s mission, team, and collective future.

WASHINGTON — The nonpartisan, nonprofit Partnership for Public Service has selected U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s agency-wide forced labor team as a finalist for the 2021 Service to America Medal (“Sammies”) in the Safety, Security, and International Affairs category. The Sammies, sometimes called the “Oscars” of government service, are a highly respected honor with a rigorous selection process.

Led by Executive Director Ana B. Hinojosa and Deputy Executive Director Eric Choy, CBP’s forced labor team is responsible for investigating goods suspected of being made with forced labor and preventing them from entering the United States.

“This Sammies nomination is testament to the incredible work that Executive Director Hinojosa, Deputy Executive Director Choy, and experts throughout CBP are doing every day to protect vulnerable workers, American consumers, and our economy,” said Troy Miller, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the CBP Commissioner. “The importation of merchandise made by forced labor is illegal, dangerous to U.S. consumers, harmful to American industry, and counter to our shared values as a nation. In just a few short years, the CBP team has made the United States the global leader in preventing these goods from entering the United States.”

According to the International Labour Organization, 25 million people suffer under conditions of forced labor around the world. Those conditions include physical and sexual violence, debt bondage, withholding of wages, and other human rights abuses. Goods made by forced labor hurt workers, undermine law-abiding U.S. businesses, and subject unsuspecting American consumers to making unethical purchases.

Under Executive Director Hinojosa’s and Deputy Executive Director Choy’s leadership, CBP has developed a robust civil investigative program to identify forced labor in U.S. supply chains and take appropriate enforcement actions. When CBP has information reasonably indicating that certain goods are made by forced labor, the agency will issue a Withhold Release Order to prevent those goods from being imported into the United States. CBP can also issue monetary penalties for certain forced labor offenses and refer cases to Homeland Security Investigations for criminal investigation.

Since 2016, CBP has issued 29 Withhold Release Orders on goods including cotton products from China’s Xinjiang region, palm oil from Malaysia, and seafood from various fishing vessels. During that same period, CBP prevented more than $100 million of goods made by forced labor from entering U.S. commerce, including hair products made with human hair. Last year, CBP levied the first monetary penalty for forced labor imports in recent history and also issued the first forced labor finding in a quarter century. This March, CBP levied an additional finding due to the use of forced labor in the production of disposable gloves. These are the only enforcement actions of their kind in the world.

“CBP’s enforcement efforts have not only stopped goods made by forced labor from entering the United States, but they have also convinced companies to clean up their supply chains and change their business practices for the better,” said John Leonard, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner of the CBP Office of Trade. “That means better working conditions for hundreds of thousands of laborers, a more competitive global trade environment, and less risk for U.S. consumers and businesses.”

CBP’s enforcement authorities are limited to U.S. supply chains, but that has not stopped the agency from working with foreign governments to increase overall awareness, and strengthen global efforts to end forced labor.  Canada and Mexico committed to work with the United States to address forced labor under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and CBP continues discussions of forced labor enforcement with like-minded partners in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

CBP maintains a proud tradition of vigilance, integrity, and excellence in public service. Since 2015, the Sammies have recognized CBP employees for using pollen analysis to solve serious crimes; implementing a facial comparison system to secure and facilitate international travel; implementing an electronic single window for imports and exports that has saved the government and businesses billions of dollars; and reducing airport wait times while ensuring the highest possible security standards.

The Sammies are the premier awards program recognizing America's best in government. Renamed the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals in 2010 to commemorate the organization’s founder, the program has honored more than 500 outstanding federal employees since its inception in 2002. More information about the program and the 2021 finalists is available online.

Anyone can support CBP’s nomination for the Service to America Medal by visiting servicetoamericamedals.org. Every vote for the CBP team supports the effort to end modern slavery.

Click here to request an interview with Executive Director Hinojosa and/or Deputy Executive Director Choy.

Visit the CBP DVIDS page for b-roll of CBP forced labor enforcement actions. Photos of goods produced with forced labor and detained by CBP are available here and here.

More information about CBP efforts to combat forced labor is available at CBP.gov or on Twitter @CBP and @CBPTradeGov.

On July 31, 2021, at approximately 00:20 a.m., a Tucson Sector agent was involved in a head-on collision with a civilian motorist on State Route 86 near mile marker 128, outside of Sells, AZ.  Multiple emergency response agencies, including a life flight, were requested and responded to the scene.  A short time after the collision, both the agent and the sole occupant driver of the civilian vehicle were pronounced deceased. TOPD is leading the investigation into the accident. Further information to follow.

----------

WASHINGTON — U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s agency-wide forced labor team has been awarded the 2021 Service to America Medals (“Sammies”) People’s Choice Award by the nonpartisan, nonprofit Partnership for Public Service. 

“I’m incredibly proud of the CBP team for being recognized as the People’s Choice Award winner in the Partnership for Public Service’s 2021 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals,” said Acting CBP Commissioner Troy Miller. “Eliminating forced labor from U.S. supply chains is a priority for CBP and we remain dedicated to ending this egregious abuse of human rights. 

Led by Executive Director Ana B. Hinojosa and Deputy Executive Director Eric Choy, CBP’s forced labor team is responsible for investigating goods suspected of being made with forced labor and preventing them from entering the United States. 

“Our forced labor team is committed to its mission and works exceptionally hard to investigate allegations of forced labor in U.S. supply chains," said AnnMarie Highsmith, Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Trade. "The information that they uncover allows us to take strong enforcement actions to keep illicit goods out of our country, stores, and homes.” 

According to the International Labour Organization, as of 2016, 25 million people suffer under conditions of forced labor around the world. Those conditions include physical and sexual violence, debt bondage, withholding of wages, and other human rights abuses. Goods made by forced labor hurt workers, undermine law-abiding U.S. businesses, and subject unsuspecting American consumers to making unethical purchases. 

Under Executive Director Hinojosa’s and Deputy Executive Director Choy’s leadership, CBP has developed a robust civil investigative program to identify forced labor in U.S. supply chains and take appropriate enforcement actions. When CBP has information reasonably indicating that certain goods are made by forced labor, the agency will issue a Withhold Release Order to prevent those goods from being imported into the United States. CBP can also issue monetary penalties for certain forced labor offenses and refer cases to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations for criminal investigation. 

Since 2016, CBP has issued 32 Withhold Release Orders on goods including cotton products from China’s Xinjiang region, palm oil from Malaysia, and seafood from various fishing vessels. During that same period, CBP prevented more than $350 million of goods suspected of being made by forced labor from entering U.S. commerce, including hair products made with human hair. Last year, CBP levied the first monetary penalty for forced labor imports in recent history and also issued the first forced labor finding in a quarter century. This March, CBP levied an additional finding due to the use of forced labor in the production of disposable gloves. These are the only enforcement actions of their kind in the world. 

CBP’s enforcement authorities are limited to U.S. supply chains, but that has not stopped the agency from working with foreign governments to increase overall awareness and strengthen global efforts to end forced labor.  Canada and Mexico committed to work with the United States to address forced labor under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and the G7 countries committed in June to ensure that global supply chains are free from the use of forced labor forced labor. 

CBP maintains a proud tradition of vigilance, integrity, and excellence in public service. Since 2015, the Sammies have recognized CBP employees for using pollen analysis to solve serious crimes; implementing a facial comparison system to secure and facilitate international travel; implementing an electronic single window for imports and exports that has saved the government and businesses billions of dollars; and reducing airport wait times while ensuring the highest possible security standards. 

The Sammies are the premier awards program recognizing America's best in government. Renamed the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals in 2010 to commemorate the organization’s founder, the program has honored more than 500 outstanding federal employees since its inception in 2002. More information about the program and the 2021 finalists is available online. 

Visit the CBP DVIDS page for b-roll of CBP forced labor enforcement actions. Photos of goods produced with forced labor and detained by CBP are available here and here. 

More information about CBP efforts to combat forced labor is available at CBP.gov or on Twitter @CBP and @CBPTradeGov.

Border Patrol Agent Janenne Ellis knows a thing or two about heat. That’s because she works on the border at Presidio Border Patrol Station, an area which is generally 10 degrees warmer than Big Bend Sector Headquarters in nearby Marfa, Texas. She also knows that sometimes the best way to get through the day is to “brush it off.” That’s exactly what she, and a small group of volunteers, did recently at Presidio Station when they painted an inspiring mural on a new building.

Presidio is a small town on the Southwest border of Texas and Mexico located in the famous Big Bend region. In the summertime it’s sweltering with temperatures breaking 100+ degrees for weeks at a time. It’s also a hot spot because the Presidio Port of Entry is located here and the activity associated with illegal immigration, drugs and contraband being pushed through the area by smuggling organizations. While the port is operated by Office of Field Operations, there is also a significant presence of Border Patrol agents based out of the Presidio Border Patrol Station.

In the region, buildings usually have a light tan or brown exterior to keep the heat down. That’s true for most of the buildings within the Presidio Border Patrol Station too. So, when a new building was brought in, the station ended up with the broad side of a tan building sitting directly inside of and facing those entering the main gate. This perfect “blank canvas” became a morale-boosting mural project led by Watch Commander Janenne Ellis. “That is what you see when you come in the gate here,” said Ellis. “The side of a blank wall. When they were putting it up, I was thinking that would be so cool if we had a mural here.”

Ellis is an Army veteran and is currently the only female agent at Presidio Station. Her husband, Steven, is a retired Army vet who now plays the role of key spouse. Both were instrumental in turning an idea into art and improving the aesthetic appearance of the entire compound, she said.

The large mural incorporates symbols and silhouettes across the length of the building to represent various landmarks in the region and aspects of the job. Featured jobs include horse patrol, ATVs and even unmanned aerial systems. The mural was done in long-lasting paints and painstakingly applied by hand using brushes to increase the detail and accuracy.

While the Ellis’ led the mural effort, they were joined by others from Border Patrol, Office of Field Operations and medical personnel contracted to support the evaluation and treatment of illegal immigrants processed at Presidio Station. This included design and application assistance from Anna Purrington, an Office of Field Operations trainee; Belinda Garza, from Loyal Source Medical; Luis Ontiveros, Border Patrol; and Beatriz Martinez, an Office of Field Operations trainee.

Something like this doesn’t happen without leadership approval. However, that was not hard to get after the proposal was made to Silverio Escontrias, Presidio’s patrol agent in charge.

“The mural is a direct reflection of Presidio Stations Esprit de Corps and our agents’ dedication to border security,” he said.

Ellis recalled that it took just over a month to complete because they worked on it during off-duty hours using their own supplies. “It was a lot more [time] than we thought it was going to be to start,” she said. 

Those entering Presidio Border Patrol Station now have a visual representation of the pride, history and roles agents take in protecting America’s front line. Sean L. McGoffin, Big Bend Sector’s chief patrol agent, said he was so impressed with the results and improved morale that this may be the start of a sector-wide effort allowing various stations to do similar projects.

“I am grateful for the pride and initiative shown by Watch Commander Ellis and everyone that assisted with this project,” said McGoffin “This initiative is a direct reflection of the professionalism and attention to detail that all our Big Bend Sector employees put into their duties on a daily basis. Going above and beyond the call of duty by utilizing their own resources and time truly embodies the U.S. Border Patrol’s motto of Honor First.”        

Strong Parents, Strong Families: Encouraging Effective Homework & Study Habits

This month's talk offers parents and guardians tips on how to promote effective study and homework habits in the primary grades. The discussion will include: the role of parents/guardians, helping children with homework, tutoring options, working with teacher(s), and encouraging learning outside of school.
Date/Time: Wednesday, September 22, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Your Healthy Lifestyle: Promote Family Health

It is a family's responsibility to take care of one another. This talk is designed to empower people with knowledge to promote healthy living on the home front. We will discuss the benefits of healthy living, nutrition and exercise, doctor’s involvement, and how to have informed conversations with children.
Date/Time: Thursday, September 23, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Resiliency Today: Overcoming Burnout

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of everyday life, this month's talk will help bring your life back into balance. Learn to identify the symptoms of burnout and strategies for coping with and avoiding it
Date/Time: Thursday, October 7, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Parenting a Child with Special Needs/Disabilities: The Importance of Self Care

This self-care refresher is designed to help parents of a child with special needs/disabilities so they can be a positive support to everyone in their family. Participants will explore basic wellness, time management and getting support from professionals, as well as finding childcare resources to give needed time for rejuvenation.
Date/Time: Tuesday, October 12, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Financial Wellness: Holiday Budgeting

Even people who have their budgets under control during the rest of the year may find them blowing up during the holidays. This month's talk teaches participants how to rein in spending at the holidays and strategies to re-examine expectations of the holidays to stay out of debt.
Date/Time: Wednesday, October 13, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Parenting Your Teen: Resiliency for Working Parents

Today’s working parent needs to build resiliency in order to prevent burnout. This month's talk will give participants the tools to manage stress while maintaining a sense of work and family life balance.
Date/Time: Thursday, October 14, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Caregivers Network: Sandwich Generation Juggling Act

Work-life balance is never easy. Caregiving often presents even more challenges for the Sandwich Generation, those who are caring for both children and older loved ones. This month's talk offers resources and tips on how to survive and thrive at work and at home while caregiving for two generations.
Date/Time: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Strong Parents, Strong Families: Working Parents, How to Achieve Balance

This month's talk offers strategies to help parents and guardians triumph in managing family and work responsibilities. The discussion will include: developing a work/life plan, improving organizational skills, finding quality time for loved ones, tips for on the job, commuting and transitioning from work to home, travel and overtime, self-care, and stress management.
Date/Time: Wednesday, October 27, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Your Healthy Lifestyle: Living a Healthy Life

This month's talk provides tips on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle by reducing stress, better managing responsibilities and getting proper nutrition and exercise. Participants will explore the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, the importance of a good night’s sleep, the power of positive thinking and more.
Date/Time: Thursday, October 28, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Note: Family Care webinars are available to CBP employees and their family members and can be accessed on any computer or mobile device.  If you cannot attend the live family care webinars, you can still register to receive an on-demand recording to watch at your leisure.

As children return to the classroom, it is important to examine the connection between bullying and domestic violence. Bullying, similar to domestic violence, may result in emotional and psychological injuries that can have longer impacts than physical injuries.

Parents and caregivers should talk to children about bullying:

• Begin a conversation by letting children know that any type of bullying is unacceptable.
• Talk about what to do when being bullied, like walking away.
• Let your children know that it is ok to speak up if they feel uncomfortable.
• Encourage children to stop bullying by speaking with a trusted adult (e.g., teacher, school counselor).

Children look to parents and caregivers for help when they face tough situations, so the best thing parents and caregivers can do is lead by example. Set aside time daily to talk, comfort, and reassure them. Children pay close attention to how adults treat others and how they cope with stress and conflict. Treating others with kindness and respect shows children there is no place for bullying.

For additional resources, you can:

• Visit Childhelp for signs and symptoms of teen bullying and abuse.
• Text Tess, a free and confidential mental health chatbot, at 442-245-8065.

For more information contact cbpresiliency@cbp.dhs.gov.

CBP has developed a series of suicide prevention and awareness podcasts full of inspiring stories from employees impacted by suicide. These are powerful stories from within CBP. They are unscripted conversations about firsthand experiences with suicide, its risk factors, and aftermath.

In Episode 1, Dr. Kent Corso speaks with a Border Patrol agent who lost his son to suicide recently. 

In Episode 2, Dr. Corso speaks with a CBP supervisor who learned that one of her employees was considering suicide. She used resources available to all CBP employees as well as her personal experience to connect with that employee and assist in their time of need.

In Episode 3, CBP employee Sal talks about the time he considered suicide. Distraught with grief over events in his personal life, Sal showed several warning signs of suicide and his coworkers noticed. He discusses how their intervention saved his life and the events that followed.

If you are experiencing a crisis or are having thoughts of death, dying, or ending your life, help is available.  CBP employees and family members can access free and confidential support through any of the resources below.

• Local CBP Chaplain or Peer Support Member or a Veteran Support Field Coordinator
• CBP Employee Assistance Program website (password: CBPEAP) or call 800-755-7002
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline's online Lifeline Chat or call 800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line via Facebook or text HOME to 741741
• Veterans Crisis Line's web-based Crisis Chat, text 838255, or call 800-273-8255 (Select 1)
• Call 911

New Border Patrol Processing Coordinators have Early Impact on Operations

After completing 36 training days and 288 training hours, the fifth class of the U.S. Border Patrol Processing Coordinators (BPPC) proudly received their badge and credentials on Sept. 21, 2021 excited for what they just accomplished as well as for the mission ahead.

This time last year, the position did not exist. One year later, there are now 160 BPPCs supporting operations in each of the nine southwest border sectors with more classes currently going through training and plans to grow to 1,200 over the next three years.

"You've made it through. It says a lot about you. Similar to your training, the job ahead will be tough, and you will have challenges. You now have what it takes to do this job with those alongside you," said Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy Jason Owens. "We need you."

Support for the New Position

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) is on the front line of the largest humanitarian crisis our country has ever seen, with all southwest Border Patrol stations operating over capacity. Overwhelmed by this influx, Border Patrol agents have been taken off their primary enforcement missions to assist, ensuring that all processing procedures required by law are carried out. Trained for the front-line security mission, many agents now find themselves performing administrative and caretaking responsibilities to include feeding infants, changing diapers, preforming regular cell checks, providing transportation to different facilities and to medical appointments and distributing food and water to all. At the most intense times, more than 50% of agents were pulled off their front-line mission to attend to needs of those coming into the U.S. The agency quickly saw a need to establish a new position and took steps in fiscal year 2018 to get the needed support to make it happen.

After making the case to members of congress, the BPPC position was established with bipartisan support and marks the first brand new position created since the establishment of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in 2003. It was a massive undertaking to pull off, from getting the required congressional approval and funding, to building the specific job requirements and developing a new, quality training program. The first public announcement regarding this position was made in May 2019, followed by an open job announcement that was posted in December 2019.

Building the Program

Daily, BPPCs will encounter a wide range of people in USBP care and custody from infants, unaccompanied children, family units, to individuals with criminal records. The BPPCs not only ease the workload on agents, but also bring a humanitarian approach to the care of people in custody.

"With everything going on at the border today, we have a workforce prepared to provide care and safety for vulnerable populations, while our agents continue to operate on the front line," said CBP Office of Training and Development Assistant Commissioner Chris Hall.

The BPPC training program encompasses a wide range of academics and hands-on training that includes law, unconscious bias, processing, Spanish language, driving and transportation, first aid, physical training, tactics, and firearms. All trainees learn the Use of Force continuum as BPPCs are badged and credential professionals with the responsibility of proper judgement while carrying a firearm. Trainees also receive driving training, including transportation vans, so they are equipped to provide transportation needs as well as provide hospital watch for low-risk individuals in custody.

The training program was built and launched within a year's time, which is a huge accomplishment. "As with all of our training, we dedicated highly qualified instructors, seasoned course developers, and subject matter experts to build this program," said Hall. Medical professionals guided the first aid training, as well as informed what trainees are taught about engaging with vulnerable populations who have experienced trauma. "Everyone involved felt the importance and the need, and was dedicated to its success," said Hall.

Importantly, there are continued conversations and program evaluations with front-line operations to identify and make any needed adjustments to the training based on the needs and on-the-ground realities.

Early Impact on Operations

Trainee Paupellie Rivera first learned of the position from her father who is an assistant chief patrol agent with the U.S. Border Patrol. She served as a class leader for her session. "I read the description and I thought it was going to be intense, and it was," she said. She encourages future trainees to come to basic training open minded, noting that there is a lot to learn from the instructors and classmates. "The instructors were very knowledgeable and if someone was struggling, all of the instructors took time to break it down in order to ensure that students were successful and qualified," she said.

While present for the graduation of the fifth BPPC session, Chief Owens also engaged with other sessions, some who had just started the training program. With each engagement, he highlighted the significance of the new program, and how it created a unique opportunity and responsibility for the new BPPCs to help build it not just for them, but for those that come behind them. "Most Border Patrol stations are operating over capacity. Agents are looking forward to you joining the team," Owens said to the graduating class. When he asked if they were ready to accept this responsibility, the class responded with a unanimous and energetic, "yes."

The ultimate impact of this new position includes allowing agents to return to the front-line border security mission while increasing the care of people in CBP custody. In the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), they are seeing results firsthand. In FY 2021, the RGV experienced an unprecedented migrant surge, at times requiring up to 70% of its manpower to be assigned non-enforcement duties, including processing, property, hospital watch, and transportation duties. "The creation of the BPPC position is gradually enabling some Border Patrol agents in the Rio Grande Valley Sector to resume law enforcement duties," said RGV Chief Patrol Agent Brian Hastings. The BPPCs have now taken on a significant portion of these responsibilities, enabling RGV sector to deploy some agents back to field operations, strengthening the border security mission. "For those who have dedicated themselves to becoming a Processing Coordinator, thank you for your service and for ensuring the continuity of operations, your actions strengthen our Nation's borders," Hastings said.

CBP is now hiring for Border Patrol Processing Coordinators. More information about this position and how to apply is available at cbp.gov.

With the changing temperatures, cold and flu season is not far behind. Preventative measures help keep these contagious respiratory illnesses at bay while employee benefit programs offset the out-of-pocket expenses.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides resources on prevention, symptoms, treatment, and diagnoses for Common Colds and Influenza, as well as flu vaccines. CDC recommends annual flu vaccinations for everyone age 6 months or older by the end of October, when influenza activity often increases. Getting the flu vaccine could prevent you from getting the flu, or lessen the symptoms, while protecting the people around you, especially babies and young children, older people, and those with certain chronic health conditions.

Employees and dependents covered by Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) can get a flu vaccine at low or no cost. Insurance provider websites list covered health care expenses, medical provider directories, and other resources. Visit the FEHB page or Office of Personnel Management’s Healthcare and Insurance for additional information.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAFEDS) can be used to offset the out-of-pocket costs associate with preventive measures and health care. The list of eligible expenses has expanded to include personal protective equipment, over-the-counter medicines, and hygiene products. Visit FSAFEDS check out the recent additions to eligible health care services and products.