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Thursday, December 19, 2024

I Have To Do Something With All of These Crayons!

I Made THIS To Make It Easier To Shoot Ghia Videos!

Saturday, December 14, 2024

Drone expert explains why shooting down unknown drones is ‘out of the qu...

This guest says that most of these drone sightings are actually manned aircraft. But other interviewees with knowledge of drones and how they work say that these phenomena are NOT manned aircraft. They move differently. Also, manned aircraft are required to file flight plans. If they were manned aircraft, it would be pretty easy to establish that fact.

In an answer to a question about shooting the alleged drone down, the guest stated that anti-drone technology does exist. That is true, according to other news reports; however, these reports state that attempts to use anti-drone technology against these things have been made, but were found to be ineffective. 

Officials raise questions about mysterious drone sightings over New Jersey

These things are violating FAA regulations. Why are the FAA regulations not being enforced?

Which is worse: the Government knowing what is going on and then lying about it, or the Government really not knowing what is going on?

Ross Coulthart: FBI sources 'utterly baffled' by 'SUV-sized' New Jersey ...

Ocean County sheriff: Officer says he saw 50 drones coming off the ocean...

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

MUST WATCH: McCaul Grills Blinken About Employees, Classified Docs, Weap...

‘Revealed Who Is Naughty & Who Is Nice’: Joni Ernst Unveils Federal Work...

JUST IN: Pete Hegseth Flashes American Flag Inner Lining To Suit Jacket:...

BREAKING NEWS: McCaul Torches Blinken To His Face For Blowing Off Subpoe...

'He Was Really Qualified?': Pete Buttigieg Knocked By GOP Senator Defend...

'What Else Have You Lied About?': Hawley Goes Scorched Earth On Judicial...

Iran is 'on its heels' in a way not seen since 1980s, retired four-star ...

Will The Russian Influence In Syria Remain Following The Fall Of Assad A...

Luigi Mangione's Attorney: This Is Why My Client Should Be Eligible For ...

'What Are We Going To Have Written On Our Headstone?': Chip Roy Delivers...

WH Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre Gives Advice To Her Successor Karo...

Top House Dem Raises Concern About Elon Musk’s DOGE Taking A ‘Meat-Ax’ T...

White House Wishes Brazilian President Lula A Speedy Recovery After Emer...

Top Biden Economic Adviser Jared Bernstein Gives Direct Advice To Trump ...

Marsha Blackburn Has Fierce Clash With Witness When She Reads His Tweets...

Do I Have to Be a Christian for God to Love Me?

Karine Jean-Pierre Pressed On TikTok Forced Sale: 'We Want To See A Dive...

[PODCAST] Should We Repent for the Sins of Our Ancestors? w/ Monique&Kri...

Lindsey Graham Confronts Senate Dems With Blind Quotes From Their Own Si...

Mom With Broken Heart Seeks Advice for Prodigal Children

Luigi Mangione’s Attorney Takes Questions Directly From Reporters, Says ...

Is Meekness a Weakness?

White House Pressed: ‘Has There Been Any Movement On Securing’ Austin Ti...

[PODCAST] 8 Lines of Evidence FROM EGYPT for the Exodus

What’s the Difference between Socialism, Fascism, and Communism? | Fires...

Friday, December 6, 2024

Free Speech in European (and Other) Democracies, with Prof. Jacob Mchang...

[PODCAST] Walking in Unity with Monique Duson and Krista Bontrager @cent...

Canadian town fined $10k for refusing to celebrate Pride Month

This took place in Canada, not the U.S., but U.S. citizens should consider this to be a shot across the bow. There are people in the U.S. who do not recognize the free speech rights of others. Freedom of speech includes not only the right to say what one believes, but also to abstain from saying something that one does not believe.

Monday, December 2, 2024

Springfield Sex Offender Sentenced for Child Pornography

 Press Release

Springfield Sex Offender Sentenced for Child Pornography

Friday, November 22, 2024

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man who is a registered sex offender was sentenced in federal court today for receiving child pornography.

Marvin E. Smith, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 16 years in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Smith to spend the rest of his life on supervised release following incarceration.

On March 5, 2024, Smith pleaded guilty to one count of receiving child pornography.

Smith’s state parole officer discovered images of child pornography on his cell flip phone on Feb. 8, 2023. The next day, the manager of the halfway house where Smith resided discovered a microSD card that had been taped to the back of Smith’s television. Investigators found additional files of child pornography on the microSD card, including infants and prepubescent girls being sexually assaulted and children engaged in bestiality and bound. In total, investigators found more than 6,400 files of child pornography.

Smith has prior felony convictions for possessing child pornography and residing within 1,000 feet of a school. Smith had been released from state prison eight months earlier and was on parole at the time he committed the federal offense in this case.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the FBI, the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Project Safe Childhood

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

Updated November 22, 2024

KC Man Indicted for Computer Hacking

 Press Release

KC Man Indicted for Computer Hacking

Friday, November 22, 2024

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for hacking into the computer systems at an area nonprofit and a health club business.

Nicholas Michael Kloster, 31, was charged in a two-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Tuesday, Nov. 19. That indictment was unsealed and made public today following Kloster’s arrest and initial court appearance.

The federal indictment charges Kloster with one count of accessing a protected computer without authorization and obtaining information.

Kloster allegedly entered the premises of a business, identified in court documents as Company Victim 2, which operates multiple health clubs in Kansas and Missouri, shortly before midnight on April 26, 2024. The following day, Kloster sent an email to one of the owners of Company Victim 2, claiming that he had gained access to the computer system. Kloster also claimed to have “assisted over 30 small to medium-sized industrial businesses in the Kansas City, Missouri area” and attached a copy of his resume.

Following Kloster’s intrusion, the indictment says, employees with Company Victim 2 noted that Kloster’s monthly gym membership fee was reduced to $1, that his photograph was erased from the gym’s network, and determined that Kloster stole a gym staff nametag. A few weeks later, Kloster posted an image to a social media profile which appeared to be a screen capture of his desktop showing control of the security cameras for Company Victim 2, with a chatbox window with the message “how to get a company to use your security service.”

The federal indictment also charges Kloster with one count of causing reckless damage to a protected computer during unauthorized access.

Kloster allegedly entered the premises of a nonprofit corporation, identified in court documents as Company Victim 3, on May 20, 2024. Kloster entered an area that is not available to the public and accessed a computer with access to the company’s network. Kloster utilized a boot disk, the indictment says, which enabled him to access Company Victim 3’s computer through multiple user accounts. By accessing Company Victim 3’s computer in such a manner, the indictment says, the use of this boot disk enabled Kloster to circumvent the password requirements on Company Victim 3’s computer and change the password assigned to one or more of the users of Company Victim 3’s computer. Kloster was able to install a virtual private network on this computer. Since Kloster’s intrusion into its computer and its network, Company Victim 3 has sustained losses in excess of $5,000 in an attempt to remediate the effects from this intrusion.

In addition to these two victims, the indictment refers to a third victim, identified in court documents as Company Victim 1. According to the indictment, Kloster was employed by Company Victim 1 in March and April 2024. Kloster allegedly used a company credit card to make numerous personal purchases, including a thumb drive that was advertised as a means to hack into vulnerable computers.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Daly and Nicholas Heberle. It was investigated by the FBI and the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.

Updated November 22, 2024

Co-founder of Medical Charity in St. Joseph Sentenced for $8 Million Fraud Scheme

 Press Release

Co-founder of Medical Charity in St. Joseph Sentenced for $8 Million Fraud Scheme

Friday, November 22, 2024

‘Christian Health Care Sharing Ministry’ Defrauded Hundreds of Members

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A co-founder of a so-called Christian health care sharing ministry in St. Joseph, Mo., has been sentenced in federal court for his role in an $8 million wire fraud conspiracy that cheated hundreds of members, and for making false statements on a personal tax return.

James L. McGinnis, 78, of St. Joseph, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays on Thursday, Nov. 21, to 12 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered McGinnis to pay restitution of $7,758,908 to the victims, $143,141 to the Internal Revenue Service, and $10,787 to the Missouri Department of Revenue. The Court also ordered McGinnis to forfeit to the government a 2021 Ford F-250 truck.

On April 2, 2024, McGinnis pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of making false statements on a tax return.

McGinnis co-founded Medical Cost Sharing, a tax-exempt organization, and served as its chief operating officer from 2014 through December 2022.

Another co-founder, Craig Anthony Reynolds, 62, of St. Joseph, has pleaded guilty and been sentenced on the same charges. Reynolds incorporated and ran Medical Cost Sharing as its president and chief executive officer from 2014 through December 2022.

McGinnis and Reynolds each admitted that he and his co-conspirators used false and fraudulent promises to market Medical Cost Sharing as a “Health Care Sharing Ministry” to defraud hundreds of “ministry members.” They collected more than $8 million in member “contributions,” yet paid only 3.1 percent in health care claims so that they could personally profit and take most of the members’ contributions for themselves.

McGinnis and Reynolds pocketed at least $5,168,268 from the member contributions from December 2015 through December 2022. Thus, McGinnis and Reynolds took at least 64 percent of total member contributions for their personal profit.

McGinnis and Reynolds marketed Medical Cost Sharing as a “Christian Health Care Sharing Ministry” through insurance brokers, radio stations, social media, and its website. Medical Cost Sharing sales materials promoted its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt designation, advertising that it was different from for profit health insurance. The Medical Cost Sharing website claimed, “while we are not an insurance company, many think of us as a Christian Health Insurance, or Christian Medical Insurance because, like conventional insurance plans, we help you pay your healthcare costs. We help you protect your family. But unlike these corporate, profit based plans, we are a healthcare sharing ministry … your healthcare costs are shared with other Christians enrolled in our medical sharing plans.”

Medical Cost Sharing promised its member that if they paid monthly “contributions,” Medical Cost Sharing would pay claims after the members’ “personal responsibility” (deductible) was met.

In reality, McGinnis and Reynolds admitted, Medical Cost Sharing rarely paid members’ health care claims. Sometimes Medical Cost Sharing would pay a part of a claim if the member filed a complaint with their state attorney general and/or hired an attorney to represent them against Medical Cost Sharing.

Medical Cost Sharing paid no claims at all for nearly two years from Feb. 22, 2021, through December 2022, although it collected a total of nearly $1.2 million in dues in 2021 and 2022.

On Dec. 13, 2022, federal agents served search warrants on the Medical Cost Sharing business location and the residences of McGinnis and Reynolds and seized property generated from Medical Cost Sharing proceeds. Medical Cost Sharing continued to try to collect membership dues after the search and seizure warrants. On Dec. 27, 2022, the court entered a temporary restraining order that prohibited Medical Cost Sharing, McGinnis, and Reynolds, from continuing to perpetrate a fraudulent scheme and from processing Medical Cost Sharing member payments, among other actions.

In addition to the wire fraud conspiracy, McGinnis also admitted that he filed a federal income tax return that claimed he had no taxable income in 2019. McGinnis actually received at least $140,881 in taxable income in 2019.

Reynolds was sentenced, in a separate but related case, on June 26, 2024, to 17 years and six months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Reynolds to pay $7,758,908 in restitution to the victims, $253,474 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service, and $46,550 in restitution to the Missouri Department of Revenue. The court also ordered Reynolds to forfeit to the government $462,771, which includes proceeds from the sale of a St. Joseph residence, cash representing his interest in another St. Joseph residence, the values of a Lincoln Navigator, and a Harley-Davidson motorcycle which will all be sold, and the contents of several bank accounts.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathleen D. Mahoney, Patrick Daly, and John Constance. It was investigated by the FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation.

FBI Website for Victims of Medical Cost Sharing Fraud

Those who believe they are victims of this fraud and wish to receive restitution for any losses suffered as a result may provide their information through the MCS Victim Information Page that has been established by the FBI.

https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/mcs-victim-information-page

Updated November 22, 2024

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Death: Things Unseen with Sinclair B. Ferguson

Lives Transformed by God’s Truth

The Four Last Things: Things Unseen with Sinclair B. Ferguson

The Secret to Knowing God’s Will (and Making Great Decisions)

Paul’s Defense in Jerusalem (Acts 22:1–21) — A Sermon by R.C. Sproul

Parable of the Prodigal Son: The Parables of Jesus with R.C. Sproul

Glorification: Perfected in Christ: Things Unseen with Sinclair B. Ferguson

The Separation of Church and State: Ultimately with R.C. Sproul

Sunday, November 10, 2024

The War on Words: How Biblical Words are Redefined , with Scott Allen

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Dozens of tires slashed in Blue Springs neighborhood

Local foundations host cohort in support of new non-profits

Why are people being priced out of pet ownership? Local shelters react

Veteran in Virginia reunites with hat lost in Kansas City area

Child injured after being hit by mail delivery van in KCK

Three is a Magic Number | Royals Blank Nationals 3-0

Drama in D.C. | Royals grab series-opening win vs. Nationals

KC grandmother details being robbed at gunpoint during armed break-in

'KC Superman' says he's banned for life from Westport, faces two new cha...

Jeff Weather Blog

Chiefs RB Kareem Hunt: 'I didn't think I'd end up back here'

Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes: 'All you can do is go back and practice'

Chiefs HC Andy Reid reports no injuries as prep for Chargers continues

Olathe Royals fan has close to 1,000 bobbleheads -- with no plans to sto...

Public safety concerns linger in Platte County one month after voters re...

Veterans Community Project expands, offers more permanent housing for vets

Kansas City nonprofit Youth Ambassadors beautifying new Hyde Park locati...

Harvester's receives donation at crucial time as food insecurity is on rise

Folklore program helps Latino businesses succeed

Pattonsburg's Rachel Tozier eyes LA2028 after Paris Games debut comes wi...

KCMO City Council committee advances 'unified' 911 system in hopes of im...

'I'm expecting someone to answer': KCMO resident, business owner experie...

KCFD rescues window washer near 12th, Baltimore

Employers to spend more money on healthcare costs amid rise in interest ...

Local company equipping police departments with state-of-the-art mobile ...

Primary care clinic opens up near Linwood, Prospect to assist seniors

Guadalupe Centers Schools bring Hispanic culture to life through song an...

Is your child's school in a school zone? Kansas City working to find out...

'It's aggressive and it's constant': Crossroads community frustrated wit...

Ambassador Hotel calls 2023 'renaissance year' amid record-breaking tour...

Jackson County legislators discuss efforts to lower 2024 property taxes

Monday, September 23, 2024

Changes to Grand Boulevard in downtown KCMO lead to parking confusion

An aging, deteriorating Central Middle School in KCK shows need for bond...

Chiefs HC Andy Reid: 'Plenty of things to work on'

130k Missourians in default on student loans, only one week left to enro...

Overland Park mother shares concerns for teens with mental health challe...

Meta's new Instagram features spark conversation on social media's role ...

Community member hopes second time’s the charm for upcoming KCKPS bond p...

Lee’s Summit School District now offers pre-K education

Everything Kansas City Chiefs practiced came out in win vs. Atlanta Falc...

Chiefs WR Rashee Rice recaps 22-17 win

Chiefs' LB Nick Bolton recaps key defensive stops

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Chiefs’ Mahomes: ‘I’ve got to get better’

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'Fun time to be a Royals fan': Tailgaters talk postseason hopes

Families affected by fentanyl overdose host candlelight vigil, call on p...

Royals face Giants in final home game as postseason hopes hang by thread

Monday, September 16, 2024

How Bill Maher Steals From God

Why Is Evil Necessary?

How Do We Know The Gospels Were Written In the First Century?

Why is there Evil?

Is Maoism Coming to America? | 5 Minute Videos

If Evolution Is True, Does That Disprove God?

Isn't It Possible That The Risen Jesus Was A Hallucination?

How Can You Believe In A God Who's Jealous?

Is Philosophy Incompatible With Science? (The Berra's Blunder)

Stephen Meyer and Ben Shapiro Talk Intelligent Design

Hollywood Star Patricia Heaton Stays True to Her Values | Real Talk

Sunday, September 15, 2024

How Can Christians Think A Perfect God Created Such An Imperfect Creatio...

How Does The Designed Universe Argument Prove God?

A Challenge About The Integrity of the Council of Nicea & the Biblical C...

Skeptic Gives a Fake Name Trying to Prove a Point

Challenging a Skeptic to Reconsider Contradictory Views

Frank Turek tells Hitchens that He is Stealing from God

Explaining the Difficulty of Genesis 22 from the Temple Mount

What’s Stopping Boys from Becoming Men? | Fireside Chat

Explaining Jesus' Controversial Olivet Discourse

Frank Turek Answers Atheist's 3 Objections to Christianity

The Most Misquoted Verse in the Bible?

Ep. 358 — Thoughts on Abortion, Sin, and God's Will | Fireside Chat

Instilling God-Given Qualities Into Your Children - Melissa Hannigan

The Unexpected Influence of Social Justice on Pro-Life Advocacy!

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

The Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:11–34) — A Sermon by R.C. Sproul

EPA Tips to Prepare for Hurricane Francine

 US EPA News Release:


EPA Tips to Prepare for Hurricane Francine

DALLAS, TEXAS (September 11, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reminds residents of Louisiana to take steps now to be ready before, during, and after Hurricane Francine.

Before:

  • Make a plan with your family and discuss how to contact each other if communications are limited; what to do if you get separated; and where you’ll go if you have to evacuate.
  • Make an emergency kit with canned food, bottled water, first aid supplies, flashlights, pet supplies, and any other items you might need.
  • Prepare your home by securing or properly storing harsh cleaning agents, paints and solvents, and other hazardous materials to prevent chemical spills or releases.
  • Talk to your neighbors to make sure your community is prepared.

During:

  • As a storm develops, pay close attention to local news and announcements from emergency response officials, and follow all shelter-in-place or evacuation instructions.
  • Review your family plans and location of emergency supplies.
  • If you run a generator, ensure it’s outside and set back from open windows, doors, or balconies. Generator fumes that get inside can cause illness or death from carbon monoxide poisoning.

After:

  • Watch for instructions from local response officials on when shelter-in-place or evacuation orders are lifted.
  • Watch for instructions from responding agencies on how to handle debris, especially household hazardous waste or other potentially hazardous materials.
  • Avoid flood waters, and do not enter your home or other flooded buildings.

Hurricane preparation tips are available in 12 languages on EPA’s website: https://www.epa.gov/natural-disasters/tips-hurricane-preparedness

For more information on disaster preparedness, including cleanup tips, visit https://www.epa.gov/natural-disasters

Friday, September 6, 2024

Iowa Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of Princeton Bank

 Press Release

Iowa Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of Princeton Bank

Friday, August 30, 2024

Blink points a firearm at the bank clerk during the armed robbery of First Interstate Bank.
Blink points a firearm at the bank clerk during the armed robbery of First Interstate Bank.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Promise City, Iowa, man pleaded guilty in federal court today to the armed robbery of a Princeton, Mo., bank.

Phillip Michael Blink, 67, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to one count of armed bank robbery and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

By pleading guilty today, Blink admitted that he robbed First Interstate Bank in Princeton on May 19, 2023. Blink, wearing a cowboy hat, a red bandana over his face, gloves and a trench coat, walked into the bank and approached a teller at approximately 9:25 a.m. Blink stated in a low voice: “I’m sorry, but this is going to be a bad morning.” Blink then placed a light blue bag on the countertop and stated: “I want all the money.” The teller began placing all the bills from her teller machine into the blue bag when Blink reached into his right pocket and pulled out a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun. Blink stated: “I told you it was going to be a bad morning.” Blink then set the firearm on the countertop and pointed it at the teller.

After taking $4,115, Blink left the bank and got into a Ford F-150 truck. He backed out of a parking space and went northbound on Highway 65. The bank manager took photographs of Blink and his truck while Blink was fleeing the scene. Employees of the bank called 911 for law enforcement assistance.

Later on the same day, Blink was pulled over by a Knoxville, Iowa, police officer. Officers arrested Blink, who admitted to the armed bank robbery. Officers searched his truck and found the Ruger handgun and clothing linked to the bank robbery, as well as the money that was stolen.

Under federal statutes, Blink is subject to a sentence of up to 25 years in federal prison without parole for armed bank robbery and an additional  mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison without parole, which must be served consecutively, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of the bank robbery. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the FBI.

Thursday, September 5, 2024

EPA Issues Draft Permits for Underground Injection Control Class VI Wells in Texas

 US EPA News Release:


EPA Issues Draft Permits for Underground Injection Control Class VI Wells in Texas

Draft permits seek public input to ensure local communities and the environment are protected

DALLAS, TEXAS (September 4, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued draft Class VI permits to Oxy Low Carbon Ventures LLC for three proposed wells for geologic sequestration of carbon dioxide in Ector County, Texas. These are the first draft permits that EPA has issued in Texas for Class VI wells under the Safe Drinking Water Act Underground Injection Control program, which establishes requirements to protect underground sources of drinking water from contamination.

Class VI injection wells store carbon dioxide deep underground that has been captured from an emissions source or the atmosphere. The proposed project, on former ranch land about 14 miles from the city of Odessa, includes three wells that will store about 722,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year at a depth of about 4,400 feet.

As part of its central role delivering on the Biden-Harris Administration’s ambitious climate and environmental justice agenda, EPA is following a rigorous, science-based process in implementing its Safe Drinking Water Act Underground Injection Control program.

In developing the draft permit, EPA required the company to provide specific analysis of the site to ensure that constructing and operating the proposed wells remains protective of the environment, including preventing contamination to underground sources of drinking water and human-caused seismicity. EPA evaluated these technical analyses, with support from experts at the Department of Energy’s National Laboratories, and additional data to verify that the site’s geology, other nearby underground activity, and project scope and operations would ensure that the permitted activity meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. EPA also required the company to ensure the plans are appropriate for conditions at and around the site, including construction materials, mechanical integrity, and emergency response planning.

Once permitted, Class VI wells require extensive monitoring for well integrity, ground water quality and CO2 movement. Well operators are also required to plan for emergencies and for how the well will be plugged after its lifespan. EPA also ensured the language in the draft permit is clear and enforceable under Safe Drinking Water Act regulations. While developing the draft permit, EPA met with local elected officials and emergency responders, community members, and property owners to explain the Class VI well program, listen to concerns, and answer questions. The draft permit is now open for public comment until October 7. EPA will host a public hearing on October 3. More details on the hearing will be available here: https://www.epa.gov/tx/uic-class-vi-permit-intent-issue-oxy-low-carbon-ventures-llc.

Comments on the draft permit can be submitted at www.regulations.gov under docket #EPA-R06-OW-2024-0410.

For more information on EPA’s Class VI Program visit https://www.epa.gov/uic/class-vi-wells-used-geologic-sequestration-carbon-dioxide      

Background

Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA developed specific criteria to ensure that when carbon dioxide is stored underground to reduce greenhouse gases and confront climate change, underground sources of drinking water are protected. UIC Class VI injection wells are used to store underground carbon dioxide that has been captured from an emissions source or the atmosphere. Class VI injection wells—when used as a part of carbon capture and storage (CCS) and carbon dioxide removal (CDR) projects—are a critical tool for reducing carbon emissions to meet mid-century climate goals. CO2 is injected through specially constructed wells that deposit and store material deep beneath the earth in rock formations. These formations must be tested and evaluated to ensure that geologic formations are suitable for the safe containment of CO2 for long-term storage. This technology will provide well-paying jobs and can be implemented in an environmentally responsible way.

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Was “The Acolyte” being canceled just the beginning of big changes at Lu...

"The Acolyte" has been canceled and the same old excuses are not going t...

Is Outlaws the next Star Wars project to be met with apathy by many?

EPA Announces About $70 Million in Grant Funding for Dillard University and the City of New Orleans

 US EPA News Release:


EPA Announces About $70 Million in Grant Funding for Dillard University and the City of New Orleans

DALLAS, TEXAS (August 27, 2024)— The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $19,944,576 in community grant funding for Dillard University and their partner United Way of Southeast Louisiana. The City of New Orleans will receive $49,975,589 from the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program (CPRG) to implement community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis.

“New Orleans, more than any other city, knows the importance of climate resilience. Projects funded through Climate Pollution Reduction and Community Change grant programs will not only strengthen infrastructure to build resilience, but will also cut greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “The Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act brings historic amounts of funding to community groups on the frontlines of climate change who are ready to implement solutions to the challenges they face.”

“I’m excited to celebrate the tremendous strides being made in our fight against the climate crisis and to recognize the impactful work being done right here in Southeast Louisiana. The grants we are highlighting today represent more than just financial support – they symbolize our collective commitment to environmental justice, sustainability, and the health of our communities. Together, we are building a brighter, greener future,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02).

"Our community's strength lies in our collaboration, and today we celebrate the transformative climate investments made possible by the EPA and the Biden-Harris Administration," said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. "This historic level of funding will empower us to create a more resilient, sustainable New Orleans while directly addressing the needs of our residents. Together, we are leading the charge toward a brighter, greener future."

"Today marks a pivotal moment for Dillard University and the Greater New Orleans community as we celebrate this transformational grant from the EPA,” said Dr. Monique Guillory, Interim President of Dillard University. "This funding reflects our dedication to sustainability and resilience and highlights the power of collaboration with our community partners. Together, we are poised to address critical environmental challenges and empower our community, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all." 

“At United Way of Southeast Louisiana, we are committed to fostering financial stability for our families and empowering them to take meaningful action toward environmental resilience. Through initiatives like the new monthly orientations, job referrals, and sustainable infrastructure improvements at our Prosperity Centers, together with our partners, we are creating a community where every family has the resources and opportunities to thrive,” said Michael Williamson, President and CEO, United Way of Southeast Louisiana.

"Louisiana Green Corps is thrilled to be part of these historic awards for our city and is committed to shaping a sustainable future where racial equity, economic growth and environmental stewardship all go hand in hand. To grow the equity we seek for our region we need workforce development partnerships like these to ensure local residents benefit from our city's current and future economic and environmental revitalization efforts,” said Ryan Mattingly, Executive Director Louisiana of Green Corps.  

"With over 70% of ridership by New Orleans locals, Blue Bikes provides a healthy, sustainable, and fun way for folks to move around town," said Interim Co-Executive Director Patrick Urbine. "We are thrilled to be able to partner with the City of New Orleans and Dillard University to continue to expand access to bikeshare and improve healthy, sustainable, and fun mobility options for the larger New Orleans community."

A total of $19 million is being given to Dillard University and their partners to reduce pollution and strengthen community resilience to natural disasters in the St. Tammany and Washington Parishes. This funding will improve transportation access by providing up to 300 families with e-bikes; expanding bike sharing programs; and installing EV chargers. Several buildings will be retrofit with energy efficient HVAC systems, solar, and energy storage so they can serve as community resilience hubs during emergencies. The university will also launch new non-degree certificate programs in clean energy and climate resilience.

The City of New Orleans will develop projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across multiple sectors by improving access to non-vehicle transportation, supporting adoption of energy efficiency measures in large buildings, installing rooftop solar panels, and implementing urban forestry programs. This nearly $50 million in funding will help New Orleans increase the Blue Bikes share fleet to 2,000 with a focus on historically underserved areas; construct seven miles of protected bikeways adjacent to downtown New Orleans to protect bikers from traffic; plant 7,500 trees in underserved neighborhoods over five years; and retrofitting 41 City buildings by installing rooftop solar panels on 14 municipal properties.

Both of these grant announcements advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy, and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. To learn more about the CPRG program, please visit this webpage and for more information on the community change grant, visit this webpage.

Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on FacebookX (formerly known as Twitter), or visit our homepage.

Monday, August 26, 2024

Nevada, Mo., Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Leading Meth Conspiracy

 Press Release

Nevada, Mo., Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Leading Meth Conspiracy

Friday, August 23, 2024

Troopers Seized Nearly 10 Kilos of Meth, Three Firearms in Traffic Stop

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Nevada, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for leading a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

Trenton D. Wallace, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 20 years in federal prison without parole.

On Dec. 14, 2023, Wallace pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and attempting to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.

An Oklahoma State Highway Patrol trooper stopped Wallace, who was driving a Chevrolet Impala, on Interstate 44 on Feb. 16, 2022. Wallace denied being in possession of any firearms, but the trooper seized a Freedom Arms .22-caliber pistol (disguised to look like a belt buckle) when Wallace reached for it as a drug-sniffing dog was being deployed. Wallace also was in possession of $4,206 in cash.

When a police dog alerted to the presence of drugs, troopers searched the vehicle and found a duffel bag that contained approximately 25 pounds (9.9 kilograms) of methamphetamine, packaged in 10 large plastic bags. Troopers also found a loaded H&K 9mm semi-automatic pistol under the driver’s seat and a loaded Sig Sauer .40-caliber semi-automatic pistol under the passenger’s seat.

According to court documents, Wallace is an admittedly active and high-ranking member of the Southwest Honkey’s prison gang. The methamphetamine seized from Wallace would be enough to supply two doses (.25 grams) of methamphetamine to every man, woman, and child in Vernon County, Mo.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Eatmon. It was investigated by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Ozarks Drug Enforcement Team.

Updated August 23, 2024

TODAY: EPA Announces Nearly $70 Million in Grant Funding for Dillard University and the City of New Orleans

 US EPA Media Advisory


TODAY: EPA Announces Nearly $70 Million in Grant Funding for Dillard University and the City of New Orleans

DALLAS, TEXAS (August 26, 2024) – Today, officials from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Dillard University, the city of New Orleans, the United Way of Southeast Louisiana and other partners will celebrate nearly $70 million in climate change grants from two different EPA programs.  

EPA Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance will be joined by Representative Troy Carter (LA-2), Mayor LaToya Cantrell, Interim President of Dillard University Dr. Monique Guillory, United Way of Southeast Louisiana COO and Executive Vice President Charmaine Caccioppi, Louisiana Green Corps Program Manager Joel Holton, and Interim Executive Director of Blue Bikes Patrick Urbine to celebrate these announcements.

Members of the media are invited to attend, please RSVP to R6Press@epa.gov.

Date: Monday, August 26th  

Location: Professional Schools and Science Building (PSB) - Georges Auditorium, Dillard University, 2601 Gentilly Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70122 

Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM (CST)

WHO

  • Dr. Earthea Nance, Regional Administrator, EPA Region 6
  • Rep. Troy Carter, Congressman, (LA-2)
  • Mayor LaToya Cantrell, City of New Orleans
  • Dr. Monique Guillory, Interim President, Dillard University
  • Charmaine Caccioppi, COO and Executive Vice President, United Way Southeast Louisiana
  • Joel Holton, Program Manager, Louisiana Green Corps
  • Patrick Urbine, Interim Executive Director, Blue Bikes