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In the 50th episode of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo talks with Benny Lisojo, the president of Hudson County Corrections, PBA Local 109. The conversation dives into the often overlooked yet critical role of county corrections within New Jersey's criminal justice system. They discuss current challenges like staffing shortages, safety concerns, legislative pressures, and the future of the profession. Benny highlights significant issues such as bail reform impacts, the introduction of PTC licensing, and mental health stresses faced by officers. The episode aims to raise awareness and spark discussions around necessary reforms to ensure a safer and more respected future for correctional police officers.

00:00 Introduction

02:23 The Role of County Corrections

04:35 Bail Reform in New Jersey

08:46 Staffing Challenges in County Corrections

16:11 Mental and Physical Wellbeing of Corrections Officers

18:25 Mid-Roll Sponsor Message

20:55 Respect and Peer Support in Corrections

22:39 Challenges of Staffing and Licensing

25:46 Retention and Policy Reforms

27:15 Future of County Corrections in New Jersey

30:36 Public Support and Advocacy

35:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this unique episode of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo features numerous rapid-fire segments showcasing multiple brief interviews with PBA members from Local 300, 33, 287, 83 and 102. Each member shares their personal insights, advice for new law enforcement officers, and favorite moments. The episode aims to show off the diverse personalities and experiences within the PBA family, highlighting the camaraderie and unique contributions of each member. Tune in for a fast-paced, entertaining, and insightful look into the lives of those who make the union strong.

00:00 Introduction

02:06 Segment One: John Ahern of PBA Local 300

03:37 Segment Two: Alan Ballester of PBA Local 33

04:56 Segment Three: Bill Comerro of PBA Local 287

05:55 Mid-Roll Sponsor Message

06:41 Segment Four: Jeff Compesi of PBA Local 83

07:12 Segment Five: Jarret Cooke of PBA Local 102

10:36 Conclusion and Farewell

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In Episode 48 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo sits down with Vlad Vaval, a retired officer and former executive board member of PBA Local 304, to discuss the transformative power of police training. Covering Vlad's extensive experience, the evolution of firearms training, and the importance of ongoing, realistic practice, this episode dives into how modern methods, such as scenario-based training and the use of simulators, enhance officer preparedness. The conversation also explores physical fitness, legal standards in use of force, stress inoculation, and the benefits of red dot sights.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:47 The Importance of Training

02:40 Police Firearms Training Evolution

07:40 Scenario-Based Training

11:39 Simulators and Virtual Reality in Training

18:16 Proficiency and Ongoing Training

27:17 Legal Standards and Misconceptions

31:00 Mid-Roll Advertisement

31:45 Physical Fitness and Firearm Performance

34:50 Preventing Complacency

37:00 Introduction to Threat Reflex

37:27 Training Challenges and Solutions

38:21 The Birth of Threat Reflex

38:53 Making Training Accessible and Affordable

40:48 Stress Inoculation in Training

41:55 Balancing Speed, Accuracy, and Decision Making

44:24 A Typical Training Day at Threat Reflex

49:35 Low Light and No Light Training

53:20 The Importance of Realistic Training

53:58 Innovations in Police Training

57:04 Feedback and Future Directions

01:01:58 Conclusion and Contact Information

For more information:

Website - https://www.threatreflex.com/

Instagram - @threat.reflex

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065320548368

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In Episode 47 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo talks to Debbie LaSalle, a retired PBA member and current Local 600 disability retirement liaison. Debbie recounts her traumatic brain injury from a traffic accident while on duty and describes its aftermath, including her coma, memory loss, and the end of her police career. She shares her journey of recovery, the emotional and psychological impact of forced retirement, and how she found new purpose by helping other officers navigate accidental disability retirement. Debbie emphasizes the importance of peer support, asking for help, and reinventing oneself after a career-ending injury.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:44 Debbie LaSalle's Life-Changing Incident

01:43 The Emotional Impact of Forced Retirement

03:11 Debbie's Law Enforcement Career Journey

05:04 Struggles and Realizations Post-Incident

07:49 Finding a New Purpose and Helping Others

13:41 Mid-Roll Advertisement

20:45 The Importance of Peer Support

22:23 Final Reflections and Advice

24:19 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

To speak to Debbie LaSalle directly, e-mail her at dlasalle@njspba600.org

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In Episode 46 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo highlights the vital support provided by the Garden State Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), an organization dedicated to aiding families of officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The episode features an emotional and powerful conversation with Lisa Preslar, President of Garden State C.O.P.S., who shares her personal journey of loss and healing after her husband, Lakewood patrolman William “Nichie” Preslar, was killed in the line of duty. Lisa discusses the organization's mission, how it supports survivors, and the importance of maintaining connections between law enforcement departments and the families of fallen officers. The discussion also touches on the numerous programs, events, and retreats that offer peer support and foster a sense of community among survivors. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of law enforcement families and the critical role that organizations like Garden State C.O.P.S. play in their lives.

00:00 Introduction

00:37 The Mission of Garden State C.O.P.S.

01:10 Lisa Preslar's Personal Journey

01:47 Support and Services for Survivors

04:23 Lisa's Initial Skepticism and Acceptance

06:18 The Importance of Community and Normalcy

08:12 Raising Awareness and Support

10:25 Challenges Faced by Families of Fallen Officers

16:46 Programs and Events for Survivors

21:52 National Police Week Experience

25:41 Advocacy and Support for Survivors

26:40 Mid-Roll Sponsor Advertisement

27:26 Emotional Impact and Peer Support

30:17 Upcoming Events and Programs

32:22 Challenges in Supporting Survivors

33:34 Conversations on Mental Health

34:29 Retreats for Affected Coworkers

36:47 Meaningful Moments and Peer Support

40:21 Maintaining Connections with Law Enforcement

43:49 How to Get Involved and Support

45:33 New Initiatives and Goals

48:01 Message of Hope and Resilience

49:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For more information:

New Jersey Chapter: www.gardenstatecops.org

National Organization: www.concernsofpolicesurvivors.org

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In Episode S4 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo presents part two of the special series Two for the State, which featured gubernatorial candidates addressing our members. Today’s guest is candidate Jack Ciatterelli, who discusses his policies and commitments directly impacting law enforcement officers. Ciatterelli touches on crucial issues such as pensions, health benefits, public safety, qualified immunity, and more. He addresses the need for changes in leadership, opposition to sanctuary city status, and reveals his plans for economic growth, property tax reduction, and educational reforms. The episode includes a Q&A segment where Ciatterelli responds candidly to concerns from officers regarding recruitment, pensions, and healthcare. Ciatterelli emphasizes his commitment to supporting law enforcement and reforms aimed at improving their working conditions and financial stability.

00:00 Introduction to the Special Series

00:52 Importance of the Gubernatorial Election

01:03 Direct Access to Candidates

01:10 Jack Ciatterelli 's Address

03:44 Commitment to Law Enforcement

04:39 Policy Stances and Reforms

06:16 Q&A Session Begins

13:02 Addressing Concerns and Comparisons

16:03 Atlantic City and Urban Development

18:45 Mid-Roll Sponsor Advertisement

19:39 Recruitment and Retirement Benefits

19:59 Addressing Recruitment Challenges

20:41 Restoring Morale and Addressing Chapter 78

21:16 Pension and Health Insurance Concerns

23:21 Cost of Living and COLA Adjustments

25:56 Correctional Facility Staffing Issues

28:44 Property Tax and School Funding Reforms

32:04 Business Environment and Economic Growth

35:49 Final Q&A and Closing Remarks

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In Episode S3 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo introduces a special two-part series, Two for the State, on the upcoming New Jersey gubernatorial election. The podcast provides members with direct access to candidates, starting with Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. Sherrill discusses her experiences and plans, focusing on issues critical to law enforcement and working families such as pensions, health benefits, safety, housing affordability, juvenile crime, and immigration reform. She emphasizes her commitment to working with law enforcement, maintaining open communication, and ensuring accountability in her administration. Members also engage in a Q&A session, addressing concerns on various topics including the impact of illegal immigration on state resources, juvenile violence, corrections facilities, and bail reform.

00:00 Introduction to the Special Series

00:40 The Importance of Being Informed

00:52 Upcoming Gubernatorial Election

01:04 Direct Access to Candidates

01:18 Transparency and Real Issues

03:13 Candidate Mikie Sherrill's Address

08:52 Q&A Session with Mikie Sherrill

13:41 Mid-Roll Sponsor Advertisement

14:27 Final Questions and Closing Remarks

33:30 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

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In Episode 45 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo speaks with retired PBA member and current product specialist of VCS software, Mike Babulski, about the 2nd Annual VCS Open at Eagle Oaks Country Club. The event unites law enforcement officers, supporters, and sponsors to raise funds for the NJSPBA’s Survivor and Welfare Fund, which provides critical support to the families of fallen officers and those facing hardships. The conversation covers the inception of the VCS Open, details of the golf event, and the positive impact of community support. Listeners are encouraged to participate, sponsor, or donate to make a meaningful difference.

00:00 Introduction to the VCS Open

01:39 The Origins of the VCS Open

03:16 Impact and Importance of the Survivor Welfare Fund

05:46 Event Details and Highlights

09:08 Sponsorship and Community Support

13:14 Mid-Roll Sponsorship

14:06 Memorable Moments and Stories

19:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For more information and to get involved:

Web: www.vcssoftware.com/vcs-open/

Phone: 732-730-9009

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