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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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In Episode 44 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo welcomes Wes Panckeri, state delegate from Monroe PBA Local 255 and chairman of Middlesex/Somerset PBA Conference. The duo, both veteran police officers and food enthusiasts, take a lighthearted approach to the long-standing association between cops and donuts. They dive into the historical origins of why police officers frequented donut shops and how this cultural practice has evolved. Sharing funny stories, personal anecdotes, and community experiences, this episode brings levity to the listeners while outlining the ongoing serious work of the New Jersey State PBA in advocating for its members' rights and well-being. The episode also touches on potential donut-related community relations events and inventing a law enforcement-themed donut. Join Vinny and Wes for a blend of humor, nostalgia, and insightful discussion.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:12 The Origin of Cops and Donuts

02:20 The Cultural Significance of Donuts in Policing

03:49 Balancing Humor and Seriousness in Policing

04:48 Personal Donut Stories and Preferences

14:42 Funny Mishaps and Donut-Related Incidents

19:06 Mid-Roll Sponsor Message

19:52 Best Donut Shops for Cops

20:56 Name Dropping Donut Spots

22:25 Coffee vs. Energy Drinks on the Job

23:50 Funny Donut Stories from the Force

29:25 Community Policing and Donuts

33:36 Inventing the Perfect Cop Donut

35:33 Wrapping Up with Donut Fun

Mentioned today, but please reach out (vrizzo@njspba.com) and tell us about YOUR favorite:

https://www.broadstreetdoughco.com/ - Multiple locations

https://www.facebook.com/UncleDoodsDonuts/ - 4 Robbins St., Toms River, NJ

https://www.purpleglazedonuts.com/ - 516 Summerfield Ave., Asbury Park, NJ

https://oncebittendonut.com/ - 86 Broad St. Red Bank, NJ

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In Episode 43 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo spotlights the unique and highly anticipated annual Tices Shoal Day. Rizzo is joined by Artie Cronk, a key organizer, who shares how the event fosters genuine connection among PBA members through relaxed, informal interactions in the water. Members from various counties highlight their experiences and the significance of the event, emphasizing the importance of networking beyond formal settings. The episode also features live testimonials from participants, including insights from the New Jersey State Trooper NCO Union's President Dan Oliveira. From the logistical details to the broader impact on member unity and morale, this episode captures the essence of what makes Tices Shoal Day a cherished tradition. Listeners are encouraged to join future events for an unforgettable blend of fun, networking, and camaraderie.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:46 Setting the Scene: Tices Shoal Day

02:42 Interview with Artie Cronk

05:45 The Origins of Tices Shoal Day

09:10 Event Logistics and Safety Tips

16:57 Reflections and Future Plans

21:33 Coordinating for Tices Shoal Day

22:18 Reflecting on the Podcast Experience

22:41 Encouraging First-Time Attendees

23:15 Addressing Misconceptions About Tices Shoal

24:08 Transition to Segment Two

25:11 Experiencing the Event: “LIVE” Commentary

27:59 Conversations with PBA Members Debartolo (#45), Snider (#105), Allegretta (#106)

33:09 Networking and Union Solidarity

37:44 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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In Episode 42 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo reflects on his first year as Vice President of Communications for the New Jersey State PBA and the evolution of the podcast. Assisted by NJ Cops Magazine founder Mitchell Krugel, Vinny discusses the challenges and successes of building the podcast from the ground up, including their growth in audience engagement and significant social media reach. The episode highlights the importance of transparency, storytelling, and giving a voice to PBA members. Vinny also shares his excitement for future episodes, hinting at upcoming interviews and content that will continue to inform, inspire, and unite the PBA community.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

01:00 Reflecting on a Year of Communication

01:31 Building the Union Strong Podcast

02:24 Challenges and Achievements

03:29 The Voice of the Union

07:27 Facing the Pressure

11:31 Engaging with Members

15:31 Social Media Strategies

17:17 The Importance of Social Media Algorithms

18:14 Impressive Growth on Instagram and Facebook

20:00 Debunking Myths and Validating Information

21:53 Podcast Reach and Listener Engagement

24:54 Memorable Podcast Episodes

28:44 Future Plans and Upcoming Episodes

32:30 Outro and Final Thoughts

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In Episode 41 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo interviews retired police sergeant Don Nicoletti, founder of the Santa Response Team Toy Drive. This episode celebrates 'Christmas in July,' highlighting the spirit of giving as Nicoletti shares the inspiring journey of the toy drive he started in 1988. The Santa Response Team provides toys, essentials, and support to children and families facing hardships, involving a network of law enforcement, volunteers, and local businesses. Nicoletti discusses the motivation behind the drive, memorable stories from past events, and the logistical challenges of organizing such a large-scale community effort. Listeners are encouraged to get involved by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word to ensure the initiative continues to bring joy and relief to those in need year-round.

00:00 Welcome to Christmas in July

03:06 Meet Don Nicoletti: The Heart Behind the Santa Response Team

05:55 The Origins and Evolution of the Toy Drive

08:17 The Impact and Expansion of the Toy Drive

16:00 Memorable Stories and Celebrity Involvement

19:21 Logistics and Challenges of Organizing a Countywide Toy Drive

19:32 Organizing the Event: Food Vendors and Logistics

21:03 Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

22:36 Community and Agency Involvement

26:36 Expanding the Toy Drive's Reach

30:52 Personal Reflections and Motivation

35:36 Conclusion and Call to Action

For more information contact:

Lt. Vincent Sarubbi at vsarubbi@closterpolice.org

Don Nicoletti at nico599@verizon.net

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In Episode 40 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo dives into the cultural significance of cigar smoking within the law enforcement community. Featuring guest Chris Dottino from Parsippany PBA, the episode explores the tradition, camaraderie, and relaxation associated with cigar culture. Chris shares personal anecdotes, offers insights into choosing the right cigars, and discusses how cigar lounges serve as neutral grounds for officers. The conversation emphasizes responsible smoking, the importance of personal rituals, and the communal aspect of cigar smoking among officers.

00:00 Introduction

00:41 The Culture of Cigar Smoking in Law Enforcement

01:21 Health Risks and Cultural Significance

01:57 Personal Rituals and Traditions

03:02 Interview with Dottino: Personal Connection to Cigars

05:07 Cigar Culture in Law Enforcement

11:37 The Man Cave: A Personal Retreat

13:30 Choosing and Pairing Cigars

17:32 Memorable Moments and Aging Cigars

21:31 Aging Cigars: Does It Change the Flavor?

22:15 Identifying Patina vs. Mold on Cigars

22:45 Rookie Cops and Their First Cigar Experience

25:00 Cigar Lounges: The Brotherhood and Gathering Spots

27:08 Cigars as Neutral Ground for Law Enforcement

29:14 Public Perception and Pushback on Cigar Smoking

32:55 Advice for New Cigar Smokers

34:52 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

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