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In Episode 32 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo engages in two impactful conversations. First, we hear from Frank Ray, a former police officer turned country music star, as he shares his journey from New Mexico law enforcement to Nashville's music scene and discusses his ongoing support for first responders. Second, Tina Scott, President of Chapter 10 of the Police Unity Tour, provides an emotional and detailed account of the annual event aimed at honoring fallen officers, including insights into this year's ride starting in Spring Lake, NJ. Both segments offer inspiring stories of dedication, transition, and the deep bonds shared among members of the law enforcement community.

00:00 Introduction

00:47 Frank Ray: From Patrol Car to Country Star

02:22 Frank Ray's Musical Journey and Law Enforcement Ties

06:44 Tina Scott and the Police Unity Tour

08:07 The Emotional Ride and Its Impact

13:24 Challenges and Preparation for the Unity Tour

18:41 Arriving at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

20:59 Supporting the Unity Tour and Final Thoughts

24:43 Conclusion and Outro

Segment 1 Info:

Instagram - @frankraymusic

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frankraymusic/

Country’d Look Good On You - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QdOi4RTCB4

Segment 2 Info:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Police-Unity-Tour-Chapter-10/61567124101813/?_rdr

Instagram - @police_unity_tour_chapter_10

https://www.policeunitytourchapter10.com/

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In Episode 31 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo takes listeners through two events. First in segment 1, Vinny talks with Frank Cavallo, the Delegate from Hackensack Local 9 about their annual unique fundraiser, a car show, which supports various charity efforts and replenishes the Local's funds. The conversation covers the event's history, benefits, and details on participation and sponsorship.

Following this, in the feature segment, Vinny hosts live from Trump National in Bedminster, during the NJSPBA Survivor and Welfare Golf Outing. The day unfolds with Vinny's on-the-ground commentary, live interviews, and the camaraderie among officers and supporters, culminating in a picturesque day of golf, all in support of the Survivor and Welfare Fund. Highly lauded for its unique format, this episode captures the essence of community spirit and high-class fundraising events.

00:00 Introduction and Segment 1

00:44 Fundraiser Event Details

01:27 Beneficiaries and Fund Allocation

01:52 Event Logistics and Participation

03:37 Sponsors and Vendors

04:22 Unique Features of the Car Show

04:59 Feature Segment: Transition to Golf Outing

05:36 Golf Outing Introduction

06:59 Live Coverage from the Golf Course

15:27 Interviews and On-Course Commentary

25:18 Live Commentary at Hole 16

26:18 Golfing Challenges and Triumphs

28:20 More Live Shots and Player Interactions

34:43 Rainy Weather and Golfing Resilience

36:00 Engaging with the Audience

37:51 Final Shots and Measurements

48:06 Wrapping Up the Event

Segment 1 Info:

www.pbalocal9.org/events

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/smack-that

License code: PTGWR5IW4AEJUPMJ

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In Episode 30 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo and NJ COPS magazine founder Mitchell Krugel conclude the State of the Union: One Year In short series by diving deeper into the key issues facing the New Jersey State PBA. President Andreyev and Executive Vice President Michael Freeman discuss the team-first leadership philosophy, and the significant efforts made in education, peer support, and collective negotiation training to strengthen the union. The episode also covers the strategic initiatives for the coming year, including healthcare cost control and pension stabilization. The discussion highlights the importance of transparency, member engagement, and cooperation with other public safety unions to ensure the continued progress and stability of the PBA.

00:00 Introduction and Recap of Part One

01:14 Team First Leadership Philosophy

01:45 Strengthening Leadership and Education

05:36 Innovative Training Programs

09:32 Gubernatorial Candidates at the Mini Convention

19:19 Year Two Goals and Initiatives

23:35 Member Engagement and Involvement

28:35 Conclusion and Outro

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

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In the inaugural Special Episode of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo introduces a special segment called Digitizing the Locals, focusing on local and county-level activities. The episode features interviews with delegates Matt Rogers from Atlantic City PBA Local 24 about their upcoming golf outing, and Tommy McKenna and event planner Josue Martinez from Hudson County Prosecutor's Office PBA Local 232 discussing their bourbon and cigar-themed fundraiser. These segments highlight various community outreach efforts and fundraising events aimed at supporting local causes and members in need.

00:00 Introduction to the Initiative

01:48 Segment One: Atlantic City PBA Golf Outing

05:40 Segment Two: Hudson County Prosecutor's Office Bourbon and Cigar Event

11:33 Conclusion and Outro

Segment 1 Info:

The 3rd Annual Golf Tournament hosted by AC PBA #24 and the Atlantic City Police Foundation, taking place on Thursday, May 15, 2025. The event will be held at McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links in Egg Harbor Township, NJ, with a shotgun start at 9 AM. Entry is $700 per foursome and includes an awards luncheon. Prizes will be awarded for achievements such as Hole in One, 1st–3rd place teams, Closest to the Pin, and Longest Drive. For more information, participants can contact Jules Schwenger at jschwenger2@gmail.com

Segment 2 Links, Info and Sponsors:

Thursday, May 22, 2025 at The Avenue A Club in Newark, NJ from 6p-10p, includes 2 Premium Cigars and Bourbon/Whiskey Tastings along with Portuguese buffet style dinner as well as beer/wine/sangria.

Hawkeye Elecnor - Event Co-sponsor: https://www.elecnorhawkeye.com/

NexGen Orthopedic Health & Wellness - Event Co-sponsor: https://nexgenortho.com/

Reyes Cartagena - NextHome Prime: https://reyescartagena.thenexthomelink.com/

Witty’s Fine Wine & Liquors: https://www.facebook.com/share/19gy9ftDW8/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://www.instagram.com/thebarreldrip?igsh=bDBqbXhkNDgxcjRr

C Graphics Studio

NJMET Inc.

Hudson Lawn

A&L Sevices

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In Episode 29 of Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo and NJ COPS magazine founder Mitchell Krugel sit down with New Jersey State PBA President Peter Andreyev and Executive Vice President Michael Freeman to reflect on their first year in leadership. This special two-part series, State of the Union: One Year In, explores the progress made, challenges faced, and the future direction of the union. Discussion topics include legislative wins, member health and wellness, political advocacy, contract strategy, and fostering unity within the organization. The leaders share personal anecdotes, significant accomplishments, and address the needs and expectations of their 31,000 members statewide.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

02:07 Reflecting on the First Year

03:17 Key Accomplishments and Legislative Wins

07:54 Challenges and Problem-Solving

13:34 Member Engagement and Communication

18:30 Leadership Philosophy and Team Dynamics

29:05 Conclusion and Outro

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In Episode 28 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo discusses the often overlooked yet crucial issue of mental health in law enforcement. Joined by Luke Sciallo and Dr. Stacy Pytal, creators of the Peer Response Team, the episode highlights the importance of Mental Health Awareness Month and addresses the stigma around mental health struggles among officers. By detailing the structure and purpose of their peer support program, Sciallo and Pytal emphasize the vital role of peer support in maintaining officer wellness and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help. They share insights into how the program works, the mental health challenges officers face, and how seeking help is evolving within the law enforcement community. The conversation aims to encourage officers to prioritize their mental health and make use of the resources available to them.

00:00 Introduction

00:50 The Importance of Mental Health Awareness

01:06 Challenges Faced by Law Enforcement

01:25 Stigma Around Mental Health

02:00 Peer Support Program Introduction

02:11 Meet the Guests: Luke Sciallo and Dr. Stacy Pytal

04:08 Restructuring the Peer Response Program

07:16 How the Peer Response Team Works

18:13 Common Mental Health Challenges

21:10 Breaking the Stigma and Seeking Help

26:00 Accessing Peer Support

28:10 Handling the Program

29:29 Peer Support Resources

30:33 Confidentiality and Legislation

32:16 Research and Testimonials

36:06 Training and Standardization

40:27 Immediate and Long-term Support

44:46 Future of Mental Health in Law Enforcement

47:38 Concluding Thoughts and Advice

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In Episode 27 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo talks with President Peter Andreyev and Executive Vice President Michael Freeman about the crucial New Jersey State PBA Survivor and Welfare Fund. The fund provides immediate financial relief to families of law enforcement officers who die in the line of duty, offering support to beneficiaries. The discussion highlights the upcoming golf outing fundraiser at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster on May 5th, an event aimed at raising much-needed funds for the cause. The episode underscores the importance of donations, Local PBA association support, and community involvement in sustaining the fund. Additionally, it reviews the history, challenges, and impact of the fund, including its origins around 9/11 and efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation emphasizes the significance of solidarity, camaraderie, and continued fundraising to ensure the fund's endurance and effectiveness in supporting law enforcement families in times of need.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:43 Spotlight on the Survivor and Welfare Fund

01:19 Annual Golf Outing Announcement

02:25 Podcast Vision and Gratitude

03:21 History and Importance of the Survivor and Welfare Fund

05:14 Fundraising Efforts and Community Support

11:05 Details of the Upcoming Golf Outing

13:36 Historical Venues and Corporate Support

18:43 Closing Remarks and Future Events

21:39 Outro and Social Media Engagement

For more information:

www.njspba.com

www.survivorwelfare.com

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/smack-that

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In Episode 26 of the Union Strong: NJSPBA Voices Podcast, host Vinny Rizzo introduces retired Chief Pat Montoure, founder of the Police Unity Tour. Chief Montoure, who has had a distinguished career in law enforcement, shares his experience building and leading the Police Unity Tour, an international organization dedicated to honoring fallen officers and raising funds for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. The episode dives into the history of the tour, its mission, the physical and emotional challenges faced by participants, and the significant impact it has on the law enforcement community. Chief Montoure discusses the strong support network, the evolution of the event from 18 riders in 1997 to over 2,100 riders today, and the importance of remembering and honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The episode is a poignant reminder of the brotherhood and sisterhood within law enforcement and the unbreakable bond of those who serve.

00:00 Introduction

00:42 Chief Pat Montoure's Career Journey

01:30 Founding the Police Unity Tour

02:25 The Mission and Growth of the Police Unity Tour

03:40 The Ride Experience and Challenges

10:25 Support and Logistics

19:17 Memorable Moments and Fundraising

25:14 Understanding the Ride's Purpose

26:08 Community Support and Perception

27:38 Honoring Fallen Officers

29:22 Personal Stories and Emotional Impact

33:05 Challenges and Logistics of the Tour

35:29 Getting Involved and Future Goals

40:09 Personal Reflections and Gratitude

45:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

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License code: PTGWR5IW4AEJUPMJ