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In Episode 20 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo continues a special series covering the platforms of all gubernatorial candidates ahead of the June primaries. The discussion is based on their speeches from the NJSPBA mini-convention and features a Q&A session moderated by PBA lobbyist Rob Nixon. The episode includes an introduction from President Peter Andreyev and an update on the election process changes. The guest is Sean Spiller, president of the New Jersey Education Association and Democratic candidate for governor, who speaks about affordable housing, healthcare costs, and supporting labor unions. The episode also covers critical topics such as bail reform, civilian oversight of police, and collective bargaining caps.

00:00 Introduction to the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast

00:37 Overview of the Gubernatorial Candidate Series

01:51 Importance of the Upcoming Election

06:42 Explanation of the New Voting Process

09:58 Introduction of Sean Spiller

10:20 Sean Spiller's Speech

19:17 Q&A with Sean Spiller

33:30 Closing Remarks and Outro

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In Episode 19 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, hosted by Vinny Rizzo, our special series covering the platforms of gubernatorial candidates ahead of the June primaries continues. The series features speeches and Q&A sessions from a mini convention moderated by PBA lobbyist Rob Nixon, where candidates discuss their vision for New Jersey, focusing on law enforcement relations and state policy issues. This episode includes remarks from Congressman Josh Gottheimer, touching on his record of supporting law enforcement, plans for tax cuts, and making the state more affordable. Additionally, the episode addresses changes in the election day voting process and legislative impacts on law enforcement.

00:00 Introduction to the Union Strong NJSPBA Voices Podcast

00:37 Overview of the Gubernatorial Candidate Series

01:51 Importance of This Year's Election

02:28 Format and Structure of the Candidate Sessions

06:42 Changes to the Voting Process

09:58 Introduction of Congressman Josh Gottheimer

10:16 Congressman Josh Gottheimer's Speech

20:56 Q&A Session with Congressman Josh Gottheimer

33:53 Closing Remarks and Outro

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In Episode 18 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, hosted by Vinny Rizzo, gubernatorial candidate Bill Spadea presents his platform ahead of the June primaries. This episode is part of a special seven-episode series where candidates share their visions for New Jersey directly. The series includes Q&A sessions moderated by PBA lobbyist Rob Nixon, focusing on bail reform, pension issues, and law enforcement support. Spadea outlines his strong stance on supporting law enforcement, suspending bail reform, repealing unnecessary regulations, and addressing health care costs and property taxes. The discussion also touches on combating bureaucratic inefficiencies and ensuring better budget allocations for public safety. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to make informed decisions based on the candidates' responses.

00:00 Introduction to the Gubernatorial Series

01:53 Importance of This Year's Election

02:37 Unique Opportunity for Candidate Platforms

06:46 Changes in Voting Process

10:02 Introduction of Bill Spadea

11:39 Bill Spadea’s Vision for Law Enforcement

18:34 Q&A with Bill Spadea

26:35 Discussing the Health Care Plan

28:26 Addressing Licensing Concerns

29:11 Political Stance and Actions

30:32 Support for Toms River Police Department

35:23 Funding and Budget Allocation

38:37 Corrections Officers and Jail Staffing

43:48 Property Taxes and Education Reform

47:15 Conclusion and Outro

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Episode 17 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, features an in-depth conversation between host Vinny Rizzo and veteran Rutherford police chief, John Russo, the current President of the New Jersey Police Chief’s Association. The discussion explores the importance of open-door policies, effective communication, and the balance of authority with approachability in police departments. The chief shares personal insights on fostering good relationships within the department, handling discipline fairly, and involving officers in decision-making processes. Practical advice is offered to both chiefs and officers on maintaining trust, building morale, and working collaboratively for the greater good of the department and community. The conversation also highlights the benefits of involvement in the PBA Local, County and State associations and the importance of training and leadership development.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

02:19 Chief's Open Door Policy

03:31 Balancing Authority and Approachability

04:48 Common Misunderstandings and Communication

06:33 Importance of Immediate Issue Resolution

11:22 Effective Communication Techniques

17:35 Leadership Qualities and Union Involvement

23:18 The Importance of Reasonable Negotiations

24:26 Collaboration and Teamwork in Law Enforcement

24:35 Involving Officers in Decision Making

27:15 Constructive Feedback and Open Communication

29:36 The Role of Local Meetings

34:17 Challenges and Solutions in Police Leadership

36:05 Advice for New Chiefs and Officers

39:48 Final Thoughts and Reflections

42:06 Outro and Acknowledgements

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In Episode 16, the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast takes you to the bustling lobby and packed check-in lines at the Hard Rock Hotel in Atlantic City for this year's record-breaking mini convention. Host Vinny Rizzo navigates through the crowd, gathers stories and insights from attendees like PBA Attorney Colin Lynch, Don Rowley from Berkeley Township PBA 237, and delegates from various counties. He captures the spirit of camaraderie and the networking opportunities the convention offers. With over 1,200 attendees and packed schedules, the podcast highlights the importance of breaking the stress with light-hearted interactions while also diving into serious discussions about bail reform, healthcare issues, and hearing from 7 gubernatorial candidates. (Stay tuned for a special upcoming series of episodes where we actually hear the gubernatorial candidates’ platforms and Q&A responses!) This episode wraps up with inspiring words from key members and an overview of the jam-packed vendor room, emphasizing the value of these conventions in fostering connections and advancing union goals.

00:00 Introduction to Episode 16

01:48 Live from the Hard Rock Hotel

02:55 Interviews and Interactions

06:25 Meet and Greet

14:13 Day Two Highlights

20:43 Day Three Insights

25:26 Conclusion and Outro

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In Episode 15 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo and guest Colin Lynch discuss the Social Security Fairness Act, also known as HR 82, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden on January 5th, 2025. Designed to address long-standing injustices faced by certain public sector employees, this act eliminates the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). These provisions previously reduced Social Security benefits for over 3 million people, including law enforcement officers, certain federal workers, and teachers in specific states who earned pensions without contributing to Social Security. The episode provides a detailed explanation of WEP and GPO, their impacts, and the significant legislative effort behind HR 82, emphasizing its importance for the financial well-being of affected individuals and their families. Retroactive benefits and the ongoing efforts to ensure fair Social Security benefits are also discussed.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:37 Overview of the Social Security Fairness Act (HR 82)

03:44 Detailed Explanation of WEP and GPO

06:48 Simplifying the WEP and GPO for Listeners

07:55 Impact of HR 82 on Law Enforcement and Public Sector Employees

15:07 Legislative Journey of HR 82

19:27 Future of Social Security Reform

23:13 Personal Stories and Testimonials

26:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For more information:

www.ssa.gov

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In Episode 14 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, Anthony Dellatacoma, the NJSPBA’s Convention Coordinator, sits in studio with host Vinny Rizzo and details his role, responsibilities, and the extensive planning involved in organizing the state's large-scale conventions. He discusses the importance of networking, participation, and educational opportunities these conventions offer to members. Anthony gives a sneak peek into the upcoming mini convention, the challenges faced, and memorable moments from past events. He emphasizes the commitment of his team and shares advice for first-time attendees to maximize their convention experience.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:34 Meet Anthony Dellatacoma

00:40 Anthony's Journey in Law Enforcement

01:33 Role and Responsibilities as Convention Coordinator

09:42 Challenges and Memorable Moments

12:12 Importance of Networking and Education

20:18 Future Conventions and Innovations

25:29 Final Thoughts and Outro

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In Episode 13 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo is joined by Kevin Burke, the director of Special Olympics New Jersey. This episode delves into the upcoming Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside Heights, now celebrating its 32nd year. The Plunge is a significant fundraiser, supporting over 20,000 athletes to participate in various sports free of charge. Kevin and Vinny cover the history, the event's growth, logistical improvements, and offer valuable tips for first-time plungers. They share compelling reasons to contribute and participate, emphasizing the unity and support from the local community and law enforcement. The episode spotlights the importance of the event in raising funds and awareness for individuals with intellectual disabilities and encourages continuous support to ensure its success.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:28 Welcome to Episode 13

00:35 Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge Overview

01:35 History and Evolution of the Plunge

04:23 Participant Experience and Tips

07:20 Memorable Stories and Community Impact

09:49 Fundraising and Community Involvement

15:11 Event Logistics and Safety Measures

19:45 Notable Participants and Costumes

21:09 Law Enforcement Support and Final Thoughts

25:51 Conclusion and Outro

If you'd like to donate, please visit:

www.plungeseaside.org

www.sonj.org

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In Episode 12 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo delves into real stories of union strength in action, featuring 14 testimonials from attendees of last week's collective negotiation seminar. The episode illustrates the impact of the seminar on securing stronger contracts and confidently navigating tough negotiations. Key insights include discussions on leadership strategies, contract priorities, and the significance of unity among law enforcement professionals. Attendees share their experiences and takeaways, ranging from the importance of fair labor practices to innovative approaches to healthcare and sick time policies. This episode is brought to you by the New Jersey State PBA owned Federal Credit Union and Blue Guardian Insurance Agency.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

01:49 Connor Walsh's First Seminar Experience

03:17 John Mullins on Sick Time and Arbitration

05:07 Nyquan Shaw and Nick Grawehr on Bargaining

08:05 Devy Valadares and Jeff Bass on Collective Bargaining

11:20 Anthony Osettl and Brandon Castro on Contract Negotiations

14:47 Charles Barnwell and Shanara Cannon on Tier Restoration

18:01 Jorge Vela and Ryan Walsh on Contract Priorities

18:17 Negotiation Priorities and Mental Health

18:50 Union Support and Impactful Takeaways

19:55 Insights from Jared Adams and Aida Eaddy

20:52 Young Members and Family Leave

24:12 Healthcare and Contract Strategies

27:08 Medical Costs and Contract Ratification

30:17 New Members and Contract Expectations

34:23 Final Thoughts and Outro

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In Episode 11 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo interviews Heather Glogolich, President of New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement (NJWLE) and Captain at NJIT Police Department. Heather, with 21 years in law enforcement, discusses NJWLE's mission, initiatives, and challenges in supporting female officers and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. She shares personal career insights and the importance of community and mentorship. The episode highlights NJWLE’s achievements, including their comprehensive maternity policy and annual conference for female officers. Heather also speaks on the significance of proactive policies and the broader impact of organizations like NJWLE on advancing gender equality in law enforcement.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

01:33 Mission and Evolution of NJWLE

02:04 Programs and Initiatives

05:20 Community and Mentorship

07:51 Heather's Personal Journey

12:25 Challenges and Successes

19:18 Future Goals and Advice

24:22 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement Website:

www.njwle.org

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