By Duane Morris Government Strategies
Welcome to "Back in Session," a podcast focused on exploring various state-level policies and legislation shaping our nation, one state at a time. Join our hosts, Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara from
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The podcast currently has 24 episodes available.
In this episode of The Back in Session Podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara are joined by Brendan Williams from PBF Energy. They delve into the state of energy policy, the refining sector, and the challenges posed by electric vehicle mandates and renewable energy transitions. Brendan offers insights into his career, the pivotal role of refiners, and how energy policies impact consumers.
About PBF Energy:
They are one of the largest independent petroleum refiners and suppliers of unbranded transportation fuels, heating oil, petrochemical feedstocks, lubricants, and other petroleum products in the United States. They sell their products throughout the Northeast, Midwest, Gulf Coast, and West Coast of the United States, as well as in other regions of the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and are able to ship products to other international destinations. They own and operate six domestic oil refineries and related assets. Their refineries have a combined processing capacity, known as throughput, of approximately 1,000,000 barrels per day (“bpd”), and a weighted-average Nelson Complexity Index of 12.7 based on current operating conditions. The complexity and throughput capacity of their refineries are subject to change depending on configuration changes made to respond to market conditions, as well as investments aimed at improving their facilities and maintaining compliance with environmental and governmental regulations.
They operate in two reportable business segments: Refining and Logistics. Their six oil refineries are all engaged in the refining of crude oil and other feedstocks into petroleum products, representing the Refining segment. PBFX operates certain logistical assets, such as crude oil and refined products terminals, pipelines, and storage facilities, which represent the Logistics segment.
Their six refineries are located in Delaware City, Delaware; Paulsboro, New Jersey; Toledo, Ohio; Chalmette, Louisiana; Torrance, California; and Martinez, California.
In this episode of the Back in Session podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara sit down with Michigan State Representative Bryan Posthumus to explore the key issues shaping Michigan’s political and legislative landscape. Posthumus, the GOP Floor Leader, shares his experiences running for office during COVID-19, highlights the "Mission for Michigan" policy platform, and outlines his vision for making Michigan more affordable, improving education, and enhancing energy production. The discussion also covers the balance between environmental protection and economic growth, the importance of vocational education, and the state's approach to combating the opioid epidemic. A must-listen for anyone following Michigan’s pivotal role in national politics.
About Rep. Bryan Posthumus:
Elected in 2020, Representative Posthumus serves the citizens of Michigan’s 90th House District, which encompasses much of Northeast Kent County. The district is comprised of the townships of Sparta, Alpine, Algoma, Courtland, Cannon, Grattan, Vergennes and parts of Tyrone and Plainfield, as well as the City of Rockford.
Bryan graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelors’ Degree in Agricultural Business Management.
As a fifth-generation farmer, Bryan knows the value of hard work and commitment. Over the past ten years, he has built his farm from a start up to the largest farmer-owned hop grower in the state, and he brings that work ethic and experience to Lansing as a representative.
About Mission for Michigan:
https://missionformichigan.com/
Ever wondered what goes into organizing a U.S. presidential debate? In this episode of Back in Session, Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara sit down with Jean Cantrell and Dan Felton, who have served as members of the 'Ticketing Team' with the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD), to uncover the complexities behind the scenes. From selecting venues to ticketing logistics, discover the intricate planning that shapes these historic events. Plus, learn about memorable moments from past debates, the role of students in the process, and some of the most unusual challenges, like Kid Rock and mask enforcement during the 2020 debate! Perfect timing with the 2024 election around the corner—don’t miss this insider's take!
About Jean Cantrell:
As a seasoned government relations professional, State and Federal Communications, Inc., was thrilled to bring on Jean Cantrell as the company’s first senior advisor in January, 2022, with a particular focus on stakeholder management. She has been a volunteer with the Commission on Presidential Debates since 1988 and worked with the Commission to set up presidential debate watches on more than 500 college campuses. She has served in a number of leadership positions: President of both the Washington Area State Relations Group and the State Government Affairs Council, was Vice President of the NCSL Foundation, and co-chair of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Business Council.
About Dan Felton:
As AMERIPEN Executive Director, Dan can be contacted directly for comments and questions about AMERIPEN's Board of Directors, finances and resources, association and industry leadership, coalition management, strategic planning, public policy positions, and conference and speaking requests Dan is currently staff liaison for their federal working group, Communications Committee and Compostables Work Group.
About the CPD:
The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) was established in 1987 to ensure, for the benefit of the American electorate, that general election debates between or among the leading candidates for the offices of President and Vice President of the United States are a permanent part of the electoral process. CPD’s primary purpose is to sponsor and produce the quadrennial general election debates and to undertake research and educational activities relating to the debates. The organization, which is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) corporation, sponsored all of the presidential debates in 1988, 1992, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020.
Learn more: https://www.debates.org/about-cpd/
In this episode of the Back in Session podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara sit down with Amy Bos, Director of State and Federal Affairs at NetChoice, to discuss the critical issues facing the tech industry today. They dive into the latest developments around AI regulation, antitrust lawsuits, and online speech moderation. Amy shares insights from her Capitol Hill experience and highlights the potential global challenges to U.S. tech leadership. From privacy law to artificial intelligence, this episode provides an in-depth look at how the government is shaping the future of technology.
Learn more about NetChoice: https://netchoice.org/
Join us in this insightful episode of the Back in Session podcast as co-hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara sit down with Pennsylvania State Representative and Republican Whip, Tim O'Neal. Dive into the complexities of the recent state budget, explore the dynamics of special vs. general elections, and learn about crucial legislative efforts aimed at transparency and consumer convenience. Whether you're a Pennsylvania resident or a political enthusiast, this episode offers valuable perspectives on state politics and governance. Don't miss out on this great conversation!
About Rep. O'Neal:
Relying on his private-sector experience, Rep. Tim O’Neal is working to create and protect jobs, improve infrastructure, ensure our energy diversity and independence, and reform state government. He is serving his third full term in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives after assuming office following a May 2018 special election.
Tim was elected to serve as the Republican Whip for the 2023-24 Legislative Session.
A life-long resident of southwestern Pennsylvania, Tim graduated from Jeannette High School and Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). While an undergraduate, he served in the ROTC program at IUP and was a member of the Pennsylvania National Guard. After graduation, he served on active duty, including a tour in Afghanistan. He rose to the rank of captain. While in combat, Tim was awarded the Bronze Star with “V” for valor. Once he returned from active duty, he chose to settle back in southwestern Pennsylvania and earned his master’s degree in business administration from the University of Pittsburgh’s Katz Graduate School of Business. After working in the energy industry, Tim was a human resources director for a construction company.
In his spare time, Tim coaches football and enjoys spending time outdoors.
Tim resides in South Strabane Township with his wife, Julia, and their three children, Lucy, Daniel and Simon.
The 48th Legislative District covers the city of Washington; Amwell, part of Carroll (Districts 3, 4 and 5), East Finley, Fallowfield, Morris, North Franklin, part of North Strabane (Districts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5), Nottingham, Somerset, South Franklin, South Strabane, and West Finley townships; and the boroughs of Donora, East Washington and Green Hills.
In this episode, the Back in Session hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara dive into their excitement for the upcoming National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. They then welcome this week's special guest, Alex Baloga, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA), for an insightful discussion on his career journey, PFMA's mission, and their advocacy work. Alex shares recent legislative successes, the challenges of representing the competitive retail industry, and how PFMA navigates the partisan divide in Pennsylvania's government. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the intricacies of legislative advocacy and the importance of collaboration.
About PFMA:
The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) is a statewide trade association advocating the views of the food and beverage industries. Our membership includes convenience stores, supermarkets, independent grocers, wholesalers, distributors, and consumer product vendors of all sizes operating in Pennsylvania and beyond.
About Alex Baloga:
Alex Baloga became PFMA President and CEO on July 1, 2017. After joining PFMA in 2013 as director of government relations, he was promoted to director of government and public relations in 2014 and to vice president of external relations in 2015. Baloga leads PFMA's day-to-day operations and helps implement its strategic vision, working with the board of directors, of which he is a member. He leads PFMA’s government relations efforts at the local, state and federal levels. He also manages PFMA’s federal, state and Philadelphia Food PACs along with PFMA’s Legislative, Pharmacy and WIC Stakeholder’s committees.
He serves on the Classification and Ratings Committee for the Pennsylvania Compensation Rating Bureau. He is a board member on the Underground Storage Tank Indemnification Fund. He joined the Pennsylvania Department of Health's newly formed Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Advisory Group in 2022. He sits on the Food Industry Association Executives (FIAE) Board of Directors, the Pennsylvania Dairymen's Association Board of Directors and the NACS Legislative Committee. In addition, he represents PFMA members on the Pennsylvania Lottery Sales Advisory Council.
Baloga previously served as deputy finance director for Robert P. Casey’s re-election campaign for U.S. Senator, where he directed the fund raising activities in central Pennsylvania. He has extensive contacts from his experience as an associate lobbyist for a contract lobbying firm in Pennsylvania.
In addition, he worked in U.S. Senator Bob Casey’s Government office as a regional field manager, serving as the senator’s liaison to government, community and constituent groups in central Pennsylvania; monitoring local issues and developments, and representing Senator Casey at civic meetings and community events.
Baloga has earned recognition for his work in the food retail industry on several 40 under 40 lists, including Central Penn Business Journal, City & State PA and The Griffin Report. He recently was recognized in City & State PA’s 2022 PA Agriculture Power 100. He also earned the 2018 Excellent in Government Affairs Award from the Grocery Manufacturers Association. Baloga earned his bachelor’s degree in History with a specialty in Political Science from West Virginia University.
Learn more about PFMA:
https://www.pfma.org/
In this episode of the Back in Session Podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara are joined by Mark Hutchinson, the CEO and founder of Blue Line Solutions. With a rich background in law enforcement, Mark shares his personal journey and the heartbreaking incidents that led him to create Blue Line Solutions, a company dedicated to improving road safety through automated speed enforcement technology, with a focus in school zones and work zones.
Listeners will gain insights into:
Join us for an enlightening discussion that highlights the critical role of automated speed enforcement in saving lives and making our roads safer.
Learn About Blue Line: https://www.truebluesafer.com/
Learn About the Lipford Foundation: https://lipfordfoundation.com/
Welcome to this episode of the "Back in Session" podcast, featuring a dynamic discussion between hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara, and their special guest, Terra McClelland, the current president of the State Government Affairs Council (SGAC) and Vice President of Government and External Affairs for Benevis.
In this episode, discover Terra’s insights on professional development, state-level policy, and her fascinating journey in government affairs. Plus, hear about her unique experiences in presidential advance work (in the Office of the First Lady) and her passion for making a difference in underserved communities.
About Benevis:
Benevis is a leading dental healthcare delivery organization for practices focused on delivering life-changing oral care and orthodontics to underserved communities. Through comprehensive care and operational services that expand access to dentistry, Benevis has a 20-year history of providing the highest quality care to approximately 5 million children and adults. Its network reaches more than 100 locally branded dental offices across the U.S. that deliver treatment through 1.2 million visits each year. Benevis also advocates for programs and legislation that ensure all families have access to the oral healthcare they need and deserve.
For more information, visit Benevis.com.
About the State Government Affairs Council (SGAC):
The State Government Affairs Council (SGAC) is the premier national association for multi-state government affairs professionals, providing opportunities for networking and professional development. SGAC's mission is to advance and support the state government affairs profession by fostering community among peers and elected officials, building knowledge, and promoting diverse perspectives in a nonpartisan environment.
Learn more at: https://www.sgac.org/
In this episode of the "Back in Session" podcast, hosts Ryan Stevens and Ryan DeMara delve into the innovative world of AI technology applied in gun detection with Burgess Nichols from ZeroEyes. Starting with some light-hearted sports banter, the conversation transitions into a serious discussion on how AI can help mitigate mass shootings through advanced detection systems. The episode also covers ZeroEyes' efforts in working with legislators and communities to ensure a cooperative approach to security and emergency response, emphasizing the importance of education and transparency in technology deployment.
About ZeroEyes:
Founded in 2018 by a team of Navy SEALs and elite technologists following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas school active shooter incident, ZeroEyes was created to protect people from having to face similar circumstances.
As veterans and parents, ZeroEyes’ co-founders were compelled to develop a proactive solution to keep people safe after seeing and hearing about mass shootings occurring in schools and other public places, and the impact they have on our society.
Drawing from over 50 years of collective military experience, they provide military-grade intelligence monitoring to facilities like schools, commercial buildings, and defense sites.
Learn more: https://zeroeyes.com/
This week, the Ryans bring on special guest, Connecticut State Senator James Maroney. They ask Sen. Maroney about his role in shaping artificial intelligence (AI) policy in the state of Connecticut and beyond. They also talk about his path to public service, the importance of collaboration, where things stand in Connecticut's current legislative session, and even how Connecticut has better pizza than New York and New Jersey! Tune in for an excellent discussion.
About Sen. Maroney, Deputy Majority Leader of the CT Senate:
James Maroney was first elected to represent the 14th District (Milford) in 2018.
Before being elected to the Senate, he was a State Representative for the 119th District from 2012-2014, where he served on the Higher Education Committee. Due to his distinguished service on the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, he was asked to serve on the Planning Commission for Higher Education and help develop a strategic plan for higher education in Connecticut.
Prior to politics, Sen. Maroney was a past president and founding member of the Milford Education Foundation and also served on the Milford Board of Education. A proud and active participant in the community, he is a member and past president of the Devon Rotary, where he is the co-chair of the scholarship committee.
Sen. Maroney founded First Choice College Placement in January of 1999 which aims to make young people’s higher education dreams come to fruition. First Choice College Placement also makes community service a priority and offers a number of educational seminars, donates to scholarships, and makes practice SAT and ACT tests available to the community. First Choice is a member of the Milford Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Milford Business Association.
Prior to a successful career in public service, State Senator Maroney attended Yale (Class of 96), where he was a 3-time varsity letter winner in both track and field and cross-country. In his senior year, he was elected captain of the track and field team and was awarded the Yale Men’s Cross-Country Award for Performance and Dedication. He graduated from Jonathan Law High School of Milford in 1992.
Senator Maroney lives in Milford with his wife Jennifer and his son Jay.
His committee assignments:
Learn more: https://www.senatedems.ct.gov/senator/james-maroney/bio
The podcast currently has 24 episodes available.
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