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In Episode 53 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo speaks with Brick PBA Local 230 delegate Mark Storch and member Dominick Puccio about the origins and mission of the Allie's Army 5K. Created in memory of Dominick's late wife, Allie Puccio, who passed away from leukemia, the annual event brings the community together to support families dealing with life-threatening illnesses. Dominick and Mark share heartfelt stories about the impact of the race, the challenges faced by affected families, and the profound sense of unity it fosters. The conversation highlights how the law enforcement community and local residents unite to turn grief into purpose, raising funds and spirits in the process. The episode also details the logistics, atmosphere, and opportunities for participation in the event, making it clear that Allie's Army 5K is about more than just running, it's about love in motion.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:43 Allie's Army 5K: A Tribute to Allie Puccio

01:43 The Purpose and Mission of Allie's Army 5K

02:56 Personal Stories and Community Impact

05:31 Event Details and Experience

09:27 Challenges and Support for Families

15:34 Mid-Roll Sponsorship Message

24:32 Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts

29:12 Conclusion and Farewell

For more information and to sign up or sponsor:

https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Brick/BrickPBA230RallyForAllie5K

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In Episode 52 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo reflects on the 2025 New Jersey State PBA Annual Convention held at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The event was a remarkable blend of unity, leadership, and family, highlighted by professional updates, legislative victories, and invaluable discussions among PBA members. Attendees relished the camaraderie, educational sessions, and memorable social events, while also paying tribute to fallen members. From serious convention talks to relaxing by the pool, the convention embodied the spirit of the PBA. The episode encourages listeners to appreciate their solidarity and look forward to future gatherings.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:15 Arrival and First Impressions

02:32 Convention Kickoff and Leadership Messages

03:25 Convention Activities and Testimonial from Convention Chairman Dellatacoma

04:41 Mid-Roll Sponsor message from Blue Guardian Insurance

05:26 Work and Play: Balancing Business and Leisure

07:21 Special Moments and Key Highlights

08:27 Conclusion and Farewell

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In Episode 51 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo brings back the popular 'Five in a Flash' segments, featuring quick, candid conversations with various union members. The episode highlights the unique personalities, advice, and experiences of PBA members from Locals 187, 27, 321, 275, 197 and 20, showcasing the authentic spirit and diverse voices within the union. The segments cover a range of lighthearted and insightful topics, from advice for new officers to favorite ice cream flavors, reinforcing the connection and camaraderie among members. The episode also includes a message about the importance of the podcast and its role in strengthening the union.

00:00 Introduction and Recap of Episode 49

01:56 The Power of 'Five in a Flash'

03:27 Call to Action for Members

03:49 Segment 1: Pat Papero of PBA Local 187

04:27 Segment 2: Greg Polakoski of PBA Local 27

04:52 Segment 3: Szymon “Simon” Popek of PBA Local 321

06:16 Mid-Roll Sponsor Message

07:02 Segment 4: Mike Podeia of PBA Local 275

08:25 Segment 5: Mike Dalton of PBA Local 197

09:07 Segment 6: Kyle Scarpa of PBA Local 20

10:02 Conclusion and Farewell

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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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