On the Job with PORAC (PORAC)

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz visit the Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) headquarters in Camdenton, Missouri to talk with C.O.P.S. Executive Director Dianne Bernhard about line of duty death coping and what her nonprofit organization has to offer to help.

 

About C.O.P.S.

Each year, between 140 and 160 officers are killed in the line of duty and their families and co-workers are left to cope with the tragic loss.  C.O.P.S. provides resources to help them rebuild their shattered lives.  There is no membership fee to join C.O.P.S., for the price paid is already too high. C.O.P.S. was organized in 1984 with 110 individual members.  Today, C.O.P.S. membership is over 54,000 survivors.  Survivors include spouses, children, parents, siblings, significant others, and co-workers of officers who have died in the line of duty according to Federal government criteria.  C.O.P.S. is governed by a national board of law enforcement survivors.  All programs and services are administered by the National Office in Camdenton, Missouri.  C.O.P.S. has over 50 chapters nationwide that work with survivors at the grass-roots level. C.O.P.S. programs for survivors include the National Police Survivors' Conference held each May during National Police Week, scholarships, peer-support at the national, state, and local levels, "C.O.P.S. Kids" counseling reimbursement program, the "C.O.P.S. Kids" Summer Camp, "C.O.P.S. Teens" Outward Bound Adventure for young adults, special retreats for spouses, parents, siblings, adult children, extended family, and co-workers, trial and parole support, and other assistance programs. C.O.P.S. knows that a survivor's level of distress is directly affected by the agency's response to the tragedy.  C.O.P.S., therefore, offers training and assistance to law enforcement agencies nationwide on how to respond to the tragic loss of a member of the law enforcement profession.  C.O.P.S. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.  C.O.P.S. programs and services are funded by grants and donations.

On this special corporate sponsorship episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and VP Damon Kurtz sit down with Danny Van Attenhoven, Jill Alves, and Logan Thompson of CAHP Credit Union to talk through the variety of low-rate lending products they provide to officers around the state as well as the financial education they offer!

CAHP Credit Union will also be the presenting sponsor at our POREF Open Golf Tournament on June 2, 2023, and will be a highlight at the 2023 Symposium event that precedes. Click Here to learn more about Symposium and POREF Open.

Registration information will be announced at a later date!

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About CAHP Credit Union

Founded in 1969 as an exclusive organization, CAHP Credit Union was originally formed to serve employees and members of the California Association of Highway Patrolmen (the Association). In the 1990s, the CAHP Credit Union expanded eligibility to include other members of California’s law enforcement community, namely through the Peace Officers Research Association of California – PORAC.

Their mission has remained constant throughout the years. They are devoted to helping officers and their families keep more of their money, maintain a high credit score, and stay on the road to financial freedom. CAHP Credit Union is as deeply committed to serving you as you are to protecting and serving the public.

Visit CAHP Credit Union website for more info!

On this special episode of On the Job With PORAC Podcast, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite Randy Perry, from Aaron Read and Associates to the show. Randy, PORAC's legislative advocate in California, discusses the upcoming COVID-19 worker's comp legislation (AB 664) and the plan to reopen the state capitol. 

For more resources and link to our Hazardous Exposure Listing Program (H.E.L.P.) please visit our PORAC COVID-19 page.

 

 

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite in CalPERS Board incumbent Margaret Brown and nominee Tiffany Moran, who are both candidates for two CalPERS board seats. Marvel and Kurtz discuss the importance of CalPERS, their seats, and why PORAC endorses their nominations.

Brown is currently up for re-election while Moran would be serving her first term if elected.

Elections are currently open. Cast your ballots by September 27, 2021.

 

Margaret Brown's Profile

(Provided by CalPERS)

Margaret Brown is serving her first term on the CalPERS Board of Administration.

She is retired from the Business Services division of the Garden Grove Unified School District (GGUSD), where she was director of facilities, responsible for the planning, funding, and construction of large-scale capital projects. Under her leadership in capital planning and energy stewardship, the district received a Zero Net Energy Schools Leadership Award from the New Buildings Institute.

Over the course of her 30-year career, Margaret administered billions of dollars in school capital program expenditures for school construction and rehabilitation, real estate acquisition, and property management. She managed financial records for review by boards, state auditors, and independent citizen oversight committees.

In the past, she served on the board of directors for the Coalition for Adequate School Housing, a non-profit founded in 1978 to advocate for K-12 facilities funding and improve school facilities in California. In addition, she chaired the Facilities Professional Council for the California Association of School Business Officials.

Margaret earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of California, Riverside, and holds business and real estate degrees from Chaffey College.

Margaret's Facebook Page

Margaret's Website

 

Tiffany Moran's Profile

(Provided by Tiffany4CalPERS.com)

"My name is Tiffany Emon-Moran, and I seek your vote to the CalPERS Board to ensure the longevity and stability, of our retirement system. My goal is to provide efficacy while strengthening financial health and diversity. As a member of the Board, I will be a voice of reason and common sense, and an advocate that shows compassion and determination for those I serve."

Moran retired from the San Bernardino Police Department in 2017 as a detective assigned to financial crimes. She earned her Master's Degree in Public Administration and has a Bachelors Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. She is in progress on an additional degree in accounting and is a Certified Fraud Examiner. Presently, Moran work for a Southern California law firm.

Despite being a retired member, the passion to continue to be of service remains. Moran is confident that her education and experience in complex financial investigations will be beneficial to the CalPERS Board and its members. The sustainability of CalPERS is important. As an elected board member, Moran will make sound decisions with an eye toward future goals.

"Members place their trust in CalPERS, and I want to be a central component of that trust."

Tiffany's Facebook Page

Tiffany's Website

In this episode, President Brian Marvel and Vice President Ben Therriault sit down with Legislative Advocate Randy Perry to discuss the end of the legislative session in Sacramento.

00:00 - Intro & Looking at the Past Two Years

03:35 - What Legislative Advocates Do

08:30 - Bills From Past Two Years of Legislative Session

19:15 - Shifts in Legislature Moving Forward

Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ziglI2CNgzp-HQ0ufm49FMc07HHYKrj7TNs7MZDdpg4/edit?usp=sharing

Connect and Learn More:

Randy Perry

Website: https://www.aaronread.com/

Brian Marvel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/

On this special episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite PORAC Training Coordinator Cathy Knape into the studio to provide an overview of what training classes our PORAC Institute is offering for the remainder of the year and 2022.

To learn more about the training classes offered, what to expect from these sessions, and how to attend, visit our PORAC Training Page today!

In this two-part series, we welcome to the podcast two of our featured Symposium IMPACT 2022 speakers. In Part 1 you'll hear from Jason Schechterle, author of Burning Shield and motivational speaker with uplifting messages of survival and hope.

Visit Jason’s Webpage for more info!

 

In Part 2 we're joined by Lieutenant Colonel Robert Darling to talk about his experiences on September 11, 2001, inside the White House bunker, where he worked alongside Vice President Dick Cheney and National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice.

Visit Lt. Col. Darling’s Webpage for more info!

Welcome to the PORAC YouTube channel! In this video, we bring you an essential legislative update that you won't want to miss. The Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) is committed to keeping you informed about the latest developments in legislation that affect law enforcement professionals and public safety. Our team of experts has been hard at work, diligently tracking and analyzing the bills, policies, and regulations that impact the law enforcement community in California. In this informative update, we'll provide you with the most up-to-date information on key legislative changes, initiatives, and discussions that directly affect your profession. Whether you're a dedicated law enforcement officer, a concerned citizen, or simply interested in staying informed about the issues that shape our communities, this video is for you. We'll cover a wide range of topics, from proposed reforms and funding allocations to the latest changes in laws and regulations affecting law enforcement agencies statewide. Stay ahead of the curve, gain valuable insights, and join us as we navigate the complex legislative landscape together. Your voice matters, and staying informed is the first step toward making a positive impact on the future of law enforcement in California. Don't forget to like this video, subscribe to our channel, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on all the crucial developments in the world of law enforcement. Feel free to share this video with your colleagues, friends, and fellow community members, so they can stay informed too. Thank you for your continued support, and together, we'll work towards a safer and stronger California. Stay tuned for more PORAC updates, and as always, your safety is our priority! #PORAC #LegislativeUpdate #CaliforniaLawEnforcement #PoliceAssociation #PublicSafetyUpdates #LawEnforcementPolicy #PoliceOfficerUpdates #PoliceReformUpdates #LawEnforcementAdvocacy #LegislativeChanges #PORACNews #PoliceReform #CaliforniaLegislation #PoliceOfficerRights #PublicSafetyAdvocacy #PoliceNews #LegalChanges #LawEnforcementNews #LawEnforcementLegislation #PORACAdvocacy #LawEnforcementUpdates #CaliforniaPolice #PoliceLegislation #PoliceAdvocacy

In this episode, guests Mark Nichols and Juan Viramontes of the California Peace Officers’ Memorial Foundation (CPOMF) discuss the Ceremony on the State Capitol grounds honoring fallen law enforcement officers before National Police Week, May 12-18. They also highlight the work CPOMF does to support the families of officers killed in the line of duty.

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Connect with Host Brian Marvel

● https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

● https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

● https://twitter.com/BrianMarvel

● https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Connect with Co-Host Damon Kurtz

● https://www.instagram.com/damonkurtz/

● https://www.facebook.com/damon.kurtz.1

● https://www.linkedin.com/in/damon-kurtz-681921172/

Connect With CPOMF and AOCDS

● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capeaceofficersmemorial/

● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAPeaceOfficersMemorial

● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aocds/

● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AOCDS

● X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AOCDS1

Resources:

● CPOMF Scholarship Program

     ● https://camemorial.org/scholarship-program/

● POREF Scholarship

     ● https://porac.org/about/peace-officers-relief-and-education-foundation-poref-porac-scholarship/

● PORAC Fund-A-Hero

     ● https://porac.org/members/fund-a-hero/

● National Police Week

     ● https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/

#porac #peaceofficers #nationalpoliceweek #police

Mental health challenges have been long overlooked in law enforcement. Despite increased awareness and resources, we continue to see alarming suicide rates among officers nationwide. Recent research suggests there may be a critical missing link – the connection between repetitive head trauma and mental health conditions.

In our latest "On the Job with PORAC" podcast episode, we explore this vital topic with Stephanie Samuels, Founder of CopLine and a psychotherapist specializing in law enforcement mental health.

For anyone in need of immediate support, the CopLine Hotline (1-800-267-5463) is available 24/7 and is the only hotline addressing the connection between head trauma and officer mental health.

Transcript - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vgDyfgg7bxAHuLreV98CVx-AaE3CfpSEWqVQyFa9n5U/edit?usp=sharing

Connect and Learn More

CopLine

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/copline__/

X: https://x.com/COPLINE__

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/copline-inc-/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/copline/

Website: https://www.copline.org/

Brian Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/

Resources

Concussion Legacy Foundation First Responder Resource: https://concussionfoundation.org/helpline/emergency_responders/

CopLine Hotline: 1-800-267-5463

Article: "Repetitive head impacts and trauma: The missing piece in suicide prevention" by Stephanie Samuels (October 2024): https://apbweb.com/2024/10/repetitive-head-impacts-and-trauma/

California Youth Football Act (AB-1): https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200AB1

CNA Report: "Law Enforcement Deaths by Suicide" (March 2024): https://www.cna.org/reports/2024/03/Law-Enforcement-Deaths-By-Suicide.pdf

60 Minutes - A dad's mission to uncover brain injuries after Navy SEAL son's suicide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILC54W36HNE&rco=1

PORAC’s research brief on officer health & wellness: https://porac.org/wp-content/uploads/PORAC-Research-Brief_Officer-Health-Wellness.pdf

#porac #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #lawenforcement #publicsafety #OfficerWellness #MentalHealth #HeadTrauma #SuicidePrevention

In this episode, hosts President Brian Marvel and Vice President Ben Therriault speak with Stockton POA Vice President Chris Sherman and David E. Mastagni with Mastagni Holstedt APC about Measure N, which would give binding arbitration in their City Charter and could have statewide implications if passed. They explain the measure, what it intends to do, and why it is beneficial.

Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-L_2vMULcPoxU7Dx8zur5pYtYocoIsGUG5F8w0jehKw/edit?tab=t.0

Connect and Learn More:

Brian Marvel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/

Resources:

https://keepstocktonsafe.org/

https://www.mastagni.com/

#porac #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #lawenforcement #publicsafety

In this month’s episode, Brian Marvel and Damon Kurtz sit down with Wade Stern of the Federated University Police Officers’ Association (FUPOA) and Matt Kroner of the Statewide University Police Association (SUPA) to discuss the challenges faced by university police departments in responding to on-campus protests that turn violent, such as restrictive university policies, anti-police bias among faculty, and staffing shortages.

Discussion Topics

● The Role of Campus Police

● Challenges Faced by University Police in Responding to Violent Protests

● Balancing First Amendment Rights with Public Safety

● Proposed Solutions for Ensuring Peaceful Protests and Campus Safety: A Collaborative Approach

00:00 - History of Campus Protests

04:50 - Relationship Between Campus Admin and Law Enforcement

08:15 - Campus Protests and Professional Agitators

16:00 - Campus Security Guards vs Police Officers

22:10 - What Can Be Done to Keep Campuses Safe?

Download the full transcript of the episode here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kkFEXw_ml7yMLTlFR49c8hoN1HyGX5kt/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=110396220408817199408&rtpof=true&sd=true

Guest Bio – Wade Stern

Wade Stern is President of the Federated University Police Officers’ Association, which represents over 250 police officers over the 10 campuses of the University of California Police Department. Wade is a police corporal with the University of California Police Department, where he has served for the last 22 years.

Guest Bio – Matt Kroner

Matt Kroner is president of the Statewide University Police Association (SUPA), which represents California State University police officers, corporals, and sergeants from all twenty-three CSU Police Departments from San Diego to Humboldt. Matt has been president since 2021 and is passionate about serving SUPA’s members. Matt is a sergeant with the Sacramento State Police Department and has over twenty-three years of experience as a sworn police officer with the CSU PD.

Connect and learn more about SUPA, FUPOA, Brian, and Damon

SUPA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SUPA.CSU/

Twitter: @CSUSUPA

FUPOA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FederatedUniversityPOA/

Instagram: @federateduniversity.poa

Brian Marvel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Damon Kurtz

Instagram: @damonkurtz

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/damon.kurtz.1

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damon-kurtz-681921172/

Resources:

● Debating Police Tactics in Response to Campus Protests

     ● https://www.npr.org/2024/05/08/1248935672/campus-protests-police-arrests

● Pro-Palestinian Protests Spreading Across California Campuses

     ● https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-05-01/pro-palestinian-protests-tensions-spread-across-california-college-campuses

● At U.C. Berkeley Ceremony, a Student Protest Draws in Hundreds

     ● https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/11/us/uc-berkeley-protest-graduation.html

● Police Tactics at Campus Protests Reveal Disparities in Approached to Public Order and Lessons Learned Post-George Floyd

     ● https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/police-tactics-at-campus-protests-reveal-disparities-in-approaches-to-public-order-and-lessons-learned-post-george-floyd/ar-BB1lQCe2?ocid=BingNewsSearch

● Police Carry Out Complex Choreography in Campus Protests Response

     ● https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/police-carry-out-complex-choreography-in-campus-protests-response/ar-AA1o6Wfk?ocid=BingNewsSearch

● University of California Police Union Blasts UCLA Admin for ‘Lack of Response’ to Violence at Campus Protests

     ● https://www.foxnews.com/us/university-california-police-union-blasts-ucla-admin-lack-response-violence-campus-protests

#porac #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #protests #campusprotests

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz meet up with actress and documentarian Tracy Melchior in Las Vegas to discuss her upcoming law enforcement documentary "Monochrome."

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz talk with PORAC Executive Committee Member Marshall McClain and PORAC Inland Chapter President Rich Randolph to discuss PORAC's new coalition called United for Positive Reform, which brings together organizations and community members to find a better way to make change that is not politically charged. McClain is the chairman of the coalition while Randolph is the Vice-chairman.   For more information, visit their website at http://united4positivereform.org/   Check out their social media pages as well! Facebook: @united4positivereform Twitter: @united4reform Instagram: @united_4_positive_reform YouTube: United for Positive Reform LinkedIn: @united-4-positive-reform

In this episode, we introduce our newly elected Vice President, Ben Therriault. Ben joins the podcast to discuss his background, his journey in law enforcement, and his vision for the future of PORAC. We'll explore his leadership experiences, key priorities for his tenure, and his commitment to advocating for peace officers across California. The goal of this episode is to allow listeners, PORAC members and others, to get to know Ben and to provide valuable insights into Ben’s vision for the direction of our organization.

Episode Transcript:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Rh9bXSwZh4xDSxCAs6qMYevB0QfrxVuPIw-k-CEdOHg/edit

Connect and Learn More

Brian Marvel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/

Resources:

Ben Therriault – PORAC Profile

#porac #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #lawnenforcement #publicsafety

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with PORAC Legislative Advocate Randy Perry of Aaron Read & Associates to discuss the November 2020 election results in California.

On this latest episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz host a Zoom discussion with Paul Mitchell and Evan McLaughlin of Redistricting Partners to examine California's redistricting process and what the future of the state's lines look like.

 

ABOUT REDISTRICTING PARTNERS

Redistricting Partners has been working for the last 10+ years on redistricting, racially polarized voting analysis, California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) implementation, and mid-decade redistricting work, primarily in California, for the past decade, with GIS and political experience that goes back more than 20 years.

Redistricting Partners was formed with a focus on engaging in the statewide redistricting process under the new California Redistricting Commission in 2011. This work quickly moved into local municipal redistricting, advising and implementing transitions from at-large election systems to districted election systems for dozens of community college districts throughout the state.

For the last decade, much of our work has been with cities, community college districts, school boards and other kinds of agencies, such as hospital districts, water boards and other special districts.

Our work has also extended to outside organizations working to ensure a fair redistricting process, and protect communities.  This includes groups like Equality California, who have sought to preserve the power of LGBTQ communities within redistricting.

Redistricting Partners is headed by Paul Mitchell, a data consultant based in Sacramento.

Mitchell has conducted the redistricting for more than 75 states, cities, school boards and community college districts, including the State of New York Independent Redistricting Commission, the Los Angeles City Council Redistricting Commission, the Long Beach Independent Redistricting Commission, commissions in Oakland, Berkeley and Mesa Az.  His firm’s work on racially polarized voting analysis and demographics has aided dozens of agencies as they navigate the California and Federal Voting Rights Acts.

Mitchell also works with nonprofit organizations, such as the Irvine Foundation, American Civil Liberties Union, the Advancement Project, Common Cause and others in building community engagement and working throughout California and Nationally on elections and voting issues, including advising in the State of New Mexico’s inaugural redistricting commission, working with the State Ethics Committee on guidelines for commissioners and evaluating the final maps.  In total, Mitchell and his firm has worked in more than 15 states around the country advising on statewide redistricting.

Mitchell has been regularly cited in the media as an expert on elections and redistricting, including as the subject of a CNN Presents special on the decennial redistricting process, being interviewed on the PBS News Hour election coverage in 2020, participating in the 538 Podcast series on redistricting reform, and as a regular analyst on California-based network TV election coverage.

For the past 10 years, Mitchell has also served as Vice President of the bi-partisan Political Data Inc where he works with both political parties, campaigns, nonprofits and universities, with a specialty in polling and survey data. Mitchell earned his associate degree from Orange Coast College, an undergraduate from American University, and a Master’s in Public Policy from USC.

Vice President of Redistricting Partners, Evan McLaughlin most recently served as Chief of Staff to California Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez, where he managed legislative efforts to expand voting rights and empower underrepresented communities.

Before his work in the State Capitol, McLaughlin was Political and Legislative Director at the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, where he advised a coalition of community organizations in the region on the statewide, county and city redistricting processes that took place in 2011. In 2020 he led a project of analyzing potential districting plans under a California Voting Rights Act conversion and working with a coalition of agencies to help them understand the impacts of potential scenarios.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Redistricting Partners.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with Marc Bailey of National University to learn more about the opportunities of higher educational learning it provides to PORAC members and how they can enroll. National University is a 2021 PORAC Corporate Sponsor and will be present at our upcoming 69th Annual Conference of Members in Monterey, CA.

 

Click Here to learn more about National University today!

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About National University

National University is San Diego’s largest private nonprofit university, founded in 1971 by a retired U.S. Navy Captain. Its mission is to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners. Today, they educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 175,000 alumni worldwide.

For more information, contact: Phone: 844-359-7982 Email: mbailey@nu.edu

Visit their social media pages below!

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

On the Season 4 finale of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz provide a year-end overview of what took place in 2021 at PORAC and what to look forward to in 2022!

On this special episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on our first responders throughout California and the nation. Brian and Damon also update us on what PORAC has been working on since the "Shelter in Place" order was issued to get our law enforcement members the resources they desperately need. 

Click Here for COVID-19 reminders and resources. 

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz bring on PORAC Executive Committee Member Barry Donelan and PORAC Central Coast Chapter Director Mike Pruger to talk about the success of their Fund A Hero campaigns that were hosted by their associations and the benefits they raised.

 

Background

Back in December, Oakland POA was raising money for kids of former Oakland Police Sgt. Mark Dunakin and his wife Angela, who both lost their lives in a 10-year span. Sgt. Dunakin was violently killed while serving as an Oakland Police Officer on March 21, 2009. Within weeks, the goal of raising $60,000 had been reached.

Just south of Oakland, Santa Cruz DSA helped raise over $800,000 for the family of Santa Cruz Sheriff’s Sergeant Damon Gutzwiller, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on June 6, 2020.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite in Congressman Devin Nunes to hear updates from Washington D.C. and his support for California's law enforcement.

 

Congressman Devin Nunes biography: Devin Nunes (born October 1, 1973) has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2003. He currently represents California's 22nd congressional district, which is located in the San Joaquin Valley and includes portions of Tulare and Fresno Counties. He and his wife have three daughters.   Nunes is Ranking Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the Ways and Means Committee. He is currently Ranking Member of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health, having previously served as Chairman of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade. He is the author of the 2020 book Countdown to Socialism and the 2010 book Restoring the Republic. In 2021 he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the nation's highest civilian honors.   Nunes serves as Ranking Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, having been appointed to the committee in 112th Congress and serving as committee chairman during the 114th and 115th Congresses. He was appointed to the Ways and Means Committee in the 109th Congress and now serves as Ranking Member of the Health Subcommittee and a member of the Trade Subcommittee, having served as Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee in the 113th Congress. Nunes previously served as a member of the House Budget Committee during the 111th Congress. In the 108th Congress, his first term in the House of Representatives, he served on the House Resources Committee, in which he was chairman of the National Parks Subcommittee, and on the Agriculture and Veterans Affairs committees.   Click Here to learn more about Congressman Nunes.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz host California Congressman Jimmy Panetta on Zoom to discuss the importance of bipartisanship in Congress, his stance on police reform negotiations, and the Victim Witness Protection Act.

To learn more about the Congressional Football Game For Charity, visit their Facebook page.

 

Congressman Jimmy Panetta biography:  

Congressman Jimmy Panetta is dedicated to public service and proudly serves California’s 20th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.  His district includes Monterey and San Benito Counties, and parts of Santa Cruz and Santa Clara Counties.  First elected 2016, he is serving his second term in Congress.  He currently serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means, the House Committee on Agriculture, and the House Committee on Armed Services.  He also serves as an Assistant Whip in the 117th Congress.

Having grown up on the central coast of California, Congressman Panetta understands the importance of giving back to the community and country that gave him and his family so much. He was instilled with a sense of public service and its importance to our democracy, and has made sure that his work is reflective of the values of the people who entrusted him to be their voice in our nation’s capital. 

During his time in Congress, he has fought for immigration reform, the continued protection of our pristine coastline and environment, affordable and accessible health care, to ensure that our agriculture industry and its farmers and farmworkers are taken care of, to reduce gun violence, for our military installations which are an integral part in our community and our country’s national security, and for our veterans to receive the benefits that they were promised and deserve.  Through policy implementation in Congress and service to constituents, he remains committed to being that bridge for the people of the Central Coast to the federal government and its resources.

  Click Here to learn more about Congressman Panetta.

On this special episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite in PORAC Legislative Advocate Randy Perry of Aaron Read & Associates to discuss the March 3 primary elections and PORAC endorsed candidates on Super Tuesday. Tune in to hear PORAC's take on key races throughout the state of California.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with newly elected Region IV PORAC Executive Committee member Brian Avera. Avera, a member of the San Diego POA and Director at Large, sits down to talk about his new position and upcoming goals with PORAC. Learn about his story of how he became involved in law enforcement and what advice he has for the next generation of Association and PORAC leaders.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite in special guest, Television and Film legend, William Shatner to talk about his career, latest projects and his positive experiences with law enforcement.

 

Be Sure To Check Out Shatner's Latest Projects:

Visit the Hollywood Charity Horse Show Silent Auction Check out The UnXplained Listen to his latest album "The Blues"   Visit Shatner's Social Media Pages:   Facebook Twitter Instagram

On this latest episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and VP Damon Kurtz provide updates and discussions following the June 2022 election results (as of June 9) and the outcomes of their endorsed candidates.

Note: Election results are updated as often as new data is received from county elections offices after the polls close at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. Ballots continue to be counted after Election Day during the canvass period; county elections officials must report the final official results to the Secretary of State by July 8, 2022. The Secretary of State will certify the results on July 15, 2022.

To learn more about the updated results, visit the California Primary Election Website.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite in Assemblymember Jim Cooper to hear updates on California legislation and his support for our state's law enforcement.

 

Assemblymember Jim Cooper's biography:

Assemblymember Jim Cooper proudly represents California’s 9th Assembly district, which includes the cities of Sacramento, Elk Grove, Galt, and Lodi. Cooper currently serves on several committees, including: Public Employees Retirement and Social Security Committee, Governmental Organization Committee, and Insurance Committee. Cooper also serves as Chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 4 on State Administration and the Assembly Select Committee on Community Law Enforcement Relations and Responsibilities. Cooper has also served as the Assistant Majority Leader and Assistant Majority Whip under then Speaker of the Assembly Toni Atkins.

Assemblymember Cooper has an extensive background in law enforcement and local government.

Before joining the Assembly in 2014, Cooper served as a Captain in the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department for 30 years and spent 15 years as Elk Grove’s founding mayor and councilmember. He established solid governing values, balanced the city’s budget, and built a city from the ground up.

Cooper has earned numerous awards, including the Bronze Star for Bravery for actions during the 1991 “Good Guys” hostage crisis. He also spent three years working as the Department’s spokesperson and spent nearly a decade working as an undercover narcotics officer and gang detective –investigating illegal activity to fight drug trafficking in Northern California.

Community service is a significant part of Assemblymember Cooper’s life. He has served on the boards of the Boys & Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Sacramento Children’s Receiving Home.

Cooper grew up in Sacramento and is a graduate of the West Point Leadership Academy and FBI National Academy. He earned a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Saint Mary’s College.

Click Here to learn more about Assemblymember Jim Cooper.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and VP Damon Kurtz invite Legislative Advocate Randy Perry, from Aaron Read & Associates LLC, to discuss current state legislation impacting peace officers in California.

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About Aaron Read & Associates LLC

Legislative Advocacy:

We represent an extraordinary group of clients. In the course of each working day our clients play an important role in making life better and safer for all Californians. We work hard to have our clients believe in us because they have set a standard that allows all of us to believe in them. We take legislation from concept to statute. We have not only written legislation that meets the needs of our clients, we have provided the intense lobbying often necessary for success. We also provide key testimony in committee hearings and educational meetings that led to its passage. As you are experiencing now by tapping into our web page, we have a long history of employing the highest quality methods to deliver our message honestly.

 

Campaigns & Public Relations:

Our staff at our sister company Marketplace Communications has managed every aspect of candidate and issue campaigns. From organizing walks to full Independent Expenditure campaign management, our record of success is unmatched. Framing an issue and delivering the message through a detailed public relations program is how we stay ahead of the ever-changing world of politics under term limits. Linking lobbying to a strong public relations program is often what makes the difference between winning and losing and is a strategy that places us above the rest.

Procurement:

We assist our clients seeking procurement contracts with relationship building, message development, RFP/RFI strategy, and long-term relationship maintenance to ensure a company’s strong, continuing presence in California. After years of working in state politics and alongside many administrations, we have developed relationships with numerous department agencies. From the elected statewide officeholders to middle management staff, our work on behalf of our clients has allowed us to build a trust with those who make decisions on the procurement contracts created to fulfill the needs of the state.

Visit Aaron Read & Associates LLC. for more information: https://www.aaronread.com/

On this Special Federal Episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz video chat with Darryl Nirenberg and Patrick Northrup of Steptoe & Johnson, PORAC's Washington D.C. federal advocates, to provide information on the CARES Act and BJA Grants during our nation's current COVID-19 pandemic.

Find more information about the recent BJA Grants and other resources on the PORAC COVID-19 Resource Page

On this special episode of On the Job With PORAC Podcast, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz provide updates to our nation's law enforcement regarding COVID-19 and what PORAC is doing to help them, including writing a letter to California Governor Gavin Newsom and providing surveys to figure out the needs of California departments.

For more information and resources please visit https://porac.org/covid19/ or email us at covid19@porac.org

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down in the studio to update PORAC members and followers about upcoming events, including sponsored NASCAR Xfinity Series Driver Kyle Weatherman's upcoming race in Las Vegas, PORAC-hosted trainings coming down the pike, and our 69th Annual Conference of Members in Monterey.

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Click Here to learn more about our 69th Annual Conference of Members.

 

Click Here to learn more about PORAC's upcoming training classes.

 

Keep an eye out for Kyle Weatherman's PORAC-Sponsored No. 47 car at the Alsco Uniforms 302 NASCAR Xfinity Series playoff race on Sept. 25 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway! On Saturday, September 25.   The race will be broadcasted live starting at 4:30 PM on NBCSN.  

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC Podcast, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite Randy Perry, from Aaron Read and Associates to the show to discuss potential California Law Enforcement Legislation. Randy, PORAC's legislative advocate in California, discusses the upcoming articles of legislation:

• Peace Officers Use of Force Policies (AB 1022) from Assemblymember Holden
• Law Enforcement Agency Policies: Use of Force: Protests (AB 1652) from Assemblymember Wicks
• Law Enforcement: Use of Force (Expansion of AB 392) (AB 1709) from Assemblymember Weber
• Public Employment (SB 731) from Senator Bradford

On this latest episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite California Assemblymember Tom Lackey and PORAC North Valley Chapter Director Peter Durfee to discuss the importance of law enforcement officials in elected positions and what they can bring to the table in regards to state legislation.

Peter Durfee is currently running for Butte County Supervisor. To learn more about his campaign, visit his webpage.

 

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ABOUT TOM LACKEY

Tom Lackey has represented California’s 36th Assembly District since 2014. Before joining the Assembly, Tom served on the Palmdale Elementary School District Board of Trustees and the Palmdale City Council. After high school, he served as a missionary for two years before he earned a bachelor’s degree in special education from Utah State University. Tom later worked as an elementary special education teacher before beginning a 28-year career with the California Highway Patrol. He lives in Palmdale with his two children, Justin and Jani.   During his short time as a State Legislator, Tom has championed successful efforts to combat the growing problem of drugged driving and provide increased state funding to support programs for individuals with developmental disabilities. As a result, he was honored as Legislator of Year by the California Police Chiefs Association and Easter Seals—a non-profit dedicated to providing services and advocacy for special needs individuals.   CLICK HERE to learn more about Assemblymember Tom Lackey.    

ABOUT PETER DURFEE

Born and raised in Chico, Peter has spent the majority of his life living and working in Butte County. For the past 12 years, Peter’s distinguished career in the Chico police department has earned him professional accolades for his dedication and commitment to serving Chico residents. In 2016, he was honored as the Chico Police Officer of the Year and in 2021 Peter received the prestigious Lifesaving Medal Award for taking decisive action to save a human life.   In 2021, Peter was promoted to Sergeant. He also serves as a Hostage Negotiator, Crisis Intervention Instructor, Field Training Officer and is an Instructor at the Butte College Law Enforcement Academy. As a former School Resource Officer, Peter worked with students and staff in our schools to help ensure a safe learning environment.   Prior to working for the police department, Peter was a professional baseball umpire and had the opportunity to work in seven league championship series games, three all-star games, and in Major League Baseball.   CLICK HERE to learn more about Peter Durfee's campaign for Butte County Supervisor.

On this special corporate sponsorship episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and VP Damon Kurtz sit down with Curt Conkling of CrossCountry Mortgage to discuss the financial home help they offer to PORAC members and our nation's law enforcement. CrossCountry Mortgage provides you with the best possible advice and benefit to your financial needs while facilitating a straightforward, transparent mortgage process for buyers, sellers and realtors. Their team is dedicated to making the mortgage process easy, stress-free and rewarding.

 

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About CrossCountry Mortgage

Navigating the mortgage process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. When you work with CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM), you’ll collaborate closely with a licensed professional who will make sure you get the mortgage you deserve. CCM's entire team is available to assist you from application to closing and beyond. They work tirelessly to remove the frustration from the mortgage process and provide you with a personalized experience.

CrossCountry Mortgage separates themselves from other mortgage lenders by offering exceptional customer service and a broad selection of home financing products. Their portfolio has an extensive range of products -- from conventional and jumbo mortgages, to government-insured programs for veterans and rural home buyers, to programs that enable you to make full-cash offers -- each homebuyer is different, so CCM makes sure there is a solution for every lifestyle and personal situation.

Visit CrossCountry Mortgage's website for more info!

In this episode, President Brian Marvel and Vice President Ben Therriault celebrate PORAC's historic victory in securing passage of the Social Security Fairness Act (HR 82) while providing members with information about what the law means for their retirement benefits. 

 

Through conversation with Darryl Nirenberg, PORAC’s lead federal lobbyist at Steptoe, who was instrumental in building congressional support for the legislation, the episode will walk members through how PORAC contributed to this major win after 40 years of tireless advocacy. The episode will also outline what active and retired officers need to know about implementation timelines, eligibility, and the restoration of Social Security benefits. 

 

Connect and Learn More

Darryl Nirenberg, federal lobbyist at Steptoe

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-nirenberg-b3a9333/ 

Website: https://www.steptoe.com/en/lawyers/darryl-nirenberg.html 

 

Brian Marvel 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

 

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/ 

 

Resources

• Will the New Social Security Fairness Act Change Your Benefits In 2025? | Kiplinger
• Social Security Fairness Act Signed into Law - California Statewide Law Enforcement Association
• San Francisco Chronicle - Why California is likely to be one of biggest beneficiaries of new Social Security law
• Police 1 - Social Security Fairness Act signed into law, boosting retirement benefits for police, firefighters
• Social Security Fairness Act: Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) update 
• Social Security Administration Contact Information

 #porac #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #lawenforcement #publicsafety 

On this latest episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz take a deep dive into SB2 and its effect on California's law enforcement with David E. Mastagni of Mastagni Holstedt and Timothy Talbot of Rains Lucia Stern St. Phalle & Silver, PC.

 

ABOUT DAVID E. MASTAGNI

David E. Mastagni is a partner with the Labor Department of Mastagni Holstedt, APC He specializes in labor and employment law representation, including trial and appellate litigation in California and federal courts. David is also an experienced PORAC Legal Defense Fund panel attorney and is admitted in U.S. District Court, Southern, Eastern, Northern and Central Districts of California, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Having devoted his legal career to labor and employment litigation with an emphasis on representation of public safety representatives and their members with respect to all aspects of their employment, David has focused on complex civil, class-action, and collective-action litigation matters in labor and employment law, claims arising out of the Fair Labor Standards Act, Public Safety Officers’ Procedural Bill of Rights, the California Labor Code, the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act, and other statutes guaranteeing labor and employment rights to employees. He is experienced in collective bargaining and interest arbitration to establish terms and conditions of employment.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Mastagni Holstedt.

 

ABOUT TIMOTHY TALBOT

Timothy K. Talbot is a principal at Rains Lucia Stern St. Phalle & Silver, PC (“RLS”). He serves as RLS’s co-managing principal, responsible for all firm operations. In addition, he manages the firm’s Sacramento office and is a member of the Collective Bargaining Practice Group. Tim has practiced labor law for more than 25 years. He specializes in representing and advising labor organizations in all aspects of traditional labor relations, including contract negotiations, grievances, unfair labor practices, bargaining unit certifications and modifications, mediation, and arbitration.

Tim has served as chief negotiator for hundreds of public and private sector collective bargaining agreements. In addition, Tim has extensive experience litigating public employee pension and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) matters.  Tim also represents individual peace officers, firefighters, paramedics and other employees in disciplinary matters, internal affairs investigations, critical incidents, Department of Energy security clearance investigations and hearings, and professional licensure matters. Tim has successfully represented clients in hundreds of arbitrations, administrative hearings, state and federal court cases and appellate proceedings resulting in published opinions. Tim has been repeatedly selected for inclusion in the California Super Lawyers list.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Rains Lucia Stern PC.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with social media influencers and PORAC members Deputy Hook'em and Deputy Miss Demeanor. Take an inside look about what it's like to balance humorous skits and police work, and how the two can work hand-in-hand to shine a positive light on our nation's law enforcement.   Deputy Hook'em, his partner Deputy Book'em, and Deputy Miss Demeanor have over 500,000 subscribers across their social media pages. Be sure to check them out below:   Facebook: @hookemandbookem, @deputymissdemeanor   Instagram: @deputy_hookem, @deputy_bookem, @deputy_missdemeanor  

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz bring on Sean Sheppard of the nonprofit organization Embrace to hear updates on how the Game Changer program has been since the COVID-19 March shutdowns.

Game Changer allows community members, law enforcement, members of the judicial system, and elected officials to become better educated about one another and create a change in perception while attending a sporting event. PORAC hosted Sheppard back in February to first learn of the program.

Find out more about Game Changer and how your Department or Agency can plan an event.

Facebook- @GameChangerUSA

Twitter- @GameChanger_USA 

Instagram- @gamechanger_usa

Website- http://gamechanger1.org/about/

 

On this latest episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and VP Damon Kurtz bring on comedian Thom Tran via Zoom to discuss his military background and comedic journey. Tran will be the entertainment at our 70th Annual Conference of Members in November during Saturday Night's Installation Dinner!

 

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About Thom Tran

Los Angeles-based comedian, musician, and U.S. military veteran and advocate Thom Tran started his career as a standup comic after a combat injury ended his career as a soldier.

Thom enlisted in the United States Army at 18 years old before he even finished high school. After joining the Army, Thom spent his entire career as a Communications Sergeant as well as a Civil Affairs Sergeant within the United States Army’s Special Operations Community. In 2003, four days after crossing the border into Iraq, Thom was wounded during a firefight when a sniper’s bullet found it’s way to the back of his skull. He bandaged himself up, continued the mission, and finished his 12 month tour in Iraq. But his wounds would eventually bring an end to his military life. After redeploying to the United States, Thom was medically retired in 2005.

Post-combat, comedy saved his life. After touring the United States as a road comic, Thom moved to Los Angeles in 2008 and two years later created The GIs of Comedy Tour, a Comedic Troupe of Troops that has toured all over the United States and to nearly two dozen different countries performing to audiences both military and civilian, bringing the healing power of laughter to those who need it the most. In 2019, Thom & several members of the GIs of Comedy appeared on the Netflix series, “Larry Charles’ Dangerous World of Comedy.” and toured nearly 30 US Air Force bases across the continental US. The group has raised over $30,000 for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a charity that raises college scholarship funds for the children of fallen US Special Operations personnel.

When Thom isn’t on the road he makes his home in Hollywood, CA performing at The World Famous Laugh Factory & clubs all over SoCal. He also works as the mid-day traffic anchor for SoCal radio station KNX 1070-NewsRadio. And occasionally Thom does some acting, having co-starred on Black-ish on ABC and SEAL Team & NCIS: Los Angeles on CBS.

Recently, Thom’s love of rock and roll finds him back on stage playing lead guitar for a heavy metal band and cover band he co-founded called, The Thom Tran Band, playing bars and nightclubs in Southern California!

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with PORAC Legislative Analyst Randy Perry of Aaron Read & Associates to discuss SB 387. This bill, also known as the LEARN Act, would require the Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) commission to work with stakeholders from law enforcement, the University of California, the California State University, the California Community Colleges, and community organizations to develop a list of courses to include as requirements for obtaining a basic certificate, as specified. The overall goal of SB 387 is to have the best trained and educated peace officers in the world by the end of this decade.

Click here to learn more about SB 387

Season 7, Episode 4 – Prop 47 Reform: Addressing California's Retail Theft Crisis

In this month’s episode, President Brian Marvel and our new Vice President Ben Therriault sit down with Legislative Advocate Randy Perry and Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper to discuss the ongoing efforts to reform Prop 47 and address the alarming rise in organized retail theft in California. The discussion covers all the politicking around the multiple different legislative vehicles and the ballot measure aimed at reforming Prop 47, including the controversy surrounding proposed "poison pill" amendments. Guests discuss the need for a comprehensive approach combining legislative action with voter-approved reforms to combat theft-related crimes and enhance public safety.

Learn more, support, and donate: https://voteyesprop36.com/

Connect and Learn More

Randy Perry

Website: https://www.aaronread.com/

Sheriff Cooper

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SheriffJimCooper

Twitter: https://x.com/SheriffJCooper

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheriffjimcooper/

Brian Marvel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/

Resources:

-California Legislature passes bills to curb retail theft over objections from some Democrats https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-08-12/california-legislature-passes-bills-to-curb-retail-theft-over-objections-from-some-democrats

-Gavin Newsom backs down on crime measure

https://calmatters.org/politics/elections/2024/07/gavin-newsom-crime-measure/

-California’s Decriminalization Timeline: 1985 – 2021 (PORAC)

https://porac.org/wp-content/uploads/Californias-Decriminalization-Timeline.pdf

-Office of the Attorney General: The Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act

https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/initiatives/pdfs/23-0017A1%20%28Drug%20Addiction%20%26amp%3B%20Theft%20Reform%29.pdf

-California Democratic legislators announce agreement on Prop 47 reform initiative

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/california-democratic-legislators-announce-agreement-on-prop-47-reform-initiative/ar-BB1pbv8g?ocid=BingNewsVerp

-Newsom, Democratic lawmakers announce rival crime reform ballot measure

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-07-01/newsom-and-lawmakers-announce-rival-ballot-measure-to-stop-draconian-crime-reform

-A look at California's legislative public safety package and Prop 47 reform initiative

https://www.kcra.com/article/california-legislative-public-safety-package-prop-47-reform-initiative/61063743

-California voters to decide future of Proposition 47 – NBC Los Angeles https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/politics/newsconference/newsconference-reforming-proposition-47/3442546/

-Newsom, Dem leaders try to negotiate Prop 47 reform off California ballots, as GOP wants to let voters decide

https://www.foxnews.com/politics/newsom-dem-leaders-try-negotiate-prop-47-reform-off-california-ballots-gop-wants-let-voters-decide

 

#porac #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #lawnenforcement #publicsafety

Could SB 2 affect your career? What really happens during a decertification investigation? Does a complaint automatically mean your job is at risk? These are questions causing significant anxiety among California peace officers since POST gained decertification powers in 2022. In this must listen episode, President Brian Marvel and Vice President Ben Therriault sit down with the POST officials who oversee the decertification process - Bureau Chief Rob Guyton and Law Enforcement Consultants David Peletta, Robby Bringolf, and Kevin Sherburne – to get straight answers about how these investigations really work and what rights you maintain throughout the process.

TRANSCRIPT - https://docs.google.com/document/d/11-GLcwAwdhTUidNEtFlhOe94f0l6MnZHhBV90gze_9U/edit?usp=sharing

Connect and Learn More

POST

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/commissiononpost/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/california-post/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaliforniaPOST

Website: https://post.ca.gov/

Brian Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/

Resources

● Senate Bill No. 2 FAQs: http://post.ca.gov/SB-2-FAQs

● Workshop Registration: https://porac.org/program/sb-2-course/

#porac #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #lawenforcement #publicsafety

On episode 31 of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with Sean Sheppard of the nonprofit organization Embrace. One of Embrace's programs is called Game Changer, which allows community members, law enforcement, members of the judicial system, and elected officials to become better educated about one another and create a change in perception while attending a sporting event. Sheppard explains the concept behind its creation and how it's brought together the community and law enforcement.

Find out more about Game Changer and how your Department or Agency can plan an event.

Facebook- @GameChangerUSA

Twitter- @GameChanger_USA 

Instagram- @gamechanger_usa

Website- http://gamechanger1.org/about/

 

Please Note- 

*The Game Changer event with the Lakers on Wednesday as noted in the podcast has been CANCELED. However, they will host the event ONLINE through Zoom during the same time and day (March 18, 4 p.m.). If you have registered to participate in next week’s event, be on the lookout for an email with instructions on how to participate online from your computer or cell phone. The Game Changer event at the Anaheim Ducks on Friday, March 20 as noted in the podcast has also been officially CANCELED.*

On the Season 5 premiere of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite in PORAC Legislative Advocate Randy Perry of Aaron Read & Associates to discuss SB2 and provide the latest updates regarding California legislature.

Women in law enforcement bring measurable, evidence based advantages to modern policing the data shows female officers experience fewer use of force incidents and more successful de-escalation outcomes. In this episode of the "On the Job" podcast, President Brian Marvel and Vice President Ben Therriault lean into the "R" in PORAC—Research. We discuss how women officers strengthen public safety and the barriers they face in the profession with Dr. Tanya Meisenholder of the 30x30 Initiative and PORAC Board Member Veronica Limon.

Our guests provide insight into how traditional requirements for peace officers can be thoughtfully adjusted while maintaining rigorous standards and opening up the recruiting pool to qualified women who have been historically under represented. For law enforcement leaders, policymakers, and public safety advocates, these insights offer a roadmap to increasing female representation in ways that strengthen departments and better serve communities. The research-backed strategies discussed demonstrate that recruiting more women officers isn't just about addressing historical challenges—it's about enhancing public safety through proven approaches to improve modern policing.

Transcript - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QAzhaax3u4r8MFgT0TxzFXEe-Inq7FMeTix3LR_f0-o/edit?usp=sharing

Connect and Learn More

Dr. Tanya Meisenholder

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-meisenholder/

Brian Marvel Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/

Resources

● 30x30 Initiative Website: https://30x30initiative.org/

● 30x30 Initiative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/30x30-initiative/

● PORAC Women in Law Enforcement Issue Brief: https://porac.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-PORAC-Women-In-Law-Enforcement-Brief.pdf

#porac #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #lawenforcement #publicsafety

In today’s episode, Brian Marvel sits down with Tim Talbot of the RLS Law Firm and David Mastagni of Mastagni Holstedt Law Firm to discuss a significant legal victory in the realm of law enforcement rights and privacy.

00:00 - Overview of the Racial and Identity Profiling Act (RIPA)

03:30 - Filing the Injunction & Aftermath

05:20 - Officer Privacy Double Standard?

08:15 - Other Agencies Involved

10:44 - Recruitment & Long Term Affect

13:10 - Where Litigation Sits Now

● Overview of the Racial and Identity Profiling Act (RIPA) regulations that force peace officers to disclose their gender identity when reporting the outcome of a traffic stop.

● The attorneys who successfully fought against these regulations shed light on the implications of overreaching Department of Justice policies on law enforcement professionals and the LGBTQ+ community.

● The RIPA gender disclosure requirement contradicts the privacy standard AG Bonta declared regarding school teachers and parent notifications of a student's gender identity.

● Implications for officers and how the regulations infringe upon the constitutional rights of peace officers, particularly their right to privacy as well as violate California’s civil rights law and the Fair Employment and Housing Act.

● The impact on recruitment and retention efforts within the law enforcement profession as well as other potential long-term consequences.

● Explanation of the legal intricacies surrounding PORAC’s temporary restraining order (TRO) against the DOJ and pending settlement and next steps in the legal process.

________________________________________

Connect with Host Brian Marvel

● https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

● https://twitter.com/BrianMarvel

● https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Guest Bio - Timothy K. Talbot

Timothy K. Talbot is a principal at Rains Lucia Stern St. Phalle & Silver, PC (“RLS”). He serves as RLS’s co-managing principal, responsible for all firm operations. In addition, he manages the firm’s Sacramento office and is a member of the Collective Bargaining Practice Group. Tim has practiced labor law for more than 25 years. He specializes in representing and advising labor organizations in all aspects of traditional labor relations, including contract negotiations, grievances, unfair labor practices, bargaining unit certifications and modifications, mediation, and arbitration. Tim also represents individual peace officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other employees in disciplinary matters, internal affairs investigations, critical incidents, Department of Energy security clearance investigations and hearings, and professional licensure matters.

Connect and learn more about Tim and RLS:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-talbot-a84277250/

https://rlslawyers.com/

Guest Bio - David E. Mastagni

David E. Mastagni is a partner with the Labor Department of Mastagni Holstedt, APC. He specializes in labor and employment law representation, including trial and appellate litigation in California and federal courts. David is also an experienced PORAC Legal Defense Fund panel attorney and is admitted in U.S. District Court, Southern, Eastern, Northern, and Central Districts of California, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court. David devotes his legal career to labor and employment litigation, with an emphasis on representing public safety representatives and their members in all aspects of their employment.

Connect and learn more about David and Mastagni Holstedt, APC:

https://twitter.com/DavidEMastagni

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mastagni/ https://www.mastagni.com/

________________________________________

Resources:

• PORAC Press Release: ​​Court Grants Temporary Restraining Order Halting Forced Gender Identification Requirements for California Peace Officers
• LGBTQ Nation: California judge blocks new rule that would forcibly out trans police officers
• San Francisco Chronicle: Judge halts new California law requiring police officers to disclose their gender identity

#porac #poracalifornia #ripa #peaceofficers

On this episode of “On the Job with PORAC,” Brian has PORAC’s recently elected Vice President, Damon Kurtz, and recently elected Treasurer, Timothy Davis, on the show to talk about their history in law enforcement and how they are looking ahead to a new year for PORAC.  Damon Kurtz is a 24-year veteran who started as a Deputy in Santa Barbara and has now been with Fresno PD for the past 14 years.  Damon was formerly President of Fresno POA and Chairman of PORAC’s Insurance and Benefits Trust.  Timothy Davis, the son of a police officer and father of police officer, began his career with Sac PD in 1998.  Just two years in the job, Tim joined the Sac POA Board of Directors and three years ago was elected President of Sac POA, while also serving on PORAC’s Board of Directors.  Join us on this podcast as we welcome in our new PORAC leadership and see what’s in store for 2019.  

On this latest episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite California Peace Officers’ Memorial Foundation (CPOMF) Executive Director Wayne Quint to welcome back the CPOMF ceremonies and National Police Week while also teasing of the new addition to the memorial.

 

About The CPOMF Ceremonies

The California Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremonies are held the first week of May at the California Peace Officers’ Memorial Monument in Sacramento on State Capitol grounds. The ceremonies serve to formally enroll peace officers who have died in the line of duty the preceding year, pay tribute to the over 1500 officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice since California became a state, and to honor the families left behind.

The ceremonies are a two-day event, beginning with a Candlelight Vigil at the Memorial Monument. At dusk families, friends, community members, and colleagues walk in solidarity to the Memorial Monument to remember and celebrate their fallen heroes.

The next morning’s formal ceremonial events include a memorial procession for law enforcement vehicles, a Walk of Honor for department representatives and immediate family members of officers being enrolled, and the Enrollment Ceremony, where the names of newly enrolled officers are formally added to the Memorial Monument. This beautiful and solemn ceremony incorporates many law enforcement traditions including a riderless horse presentation, the folding of the United States Flag, releasing of doves, and concludes with a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps.

Due to very limited seating, the Enrollment Ceremony is a ticketed event for designated family members and guests. Additional seating is provided so all who wish to attend in support of California’s fallen heroes may view the ceremony on an adjacent large-screen television.

Click Here to learn more about CPOMF.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz connect with speakers Lt. Colonel Dave Grossman and Sgt. Jon Davis to get a sneak preview of what's to come when they present at our 69th Annual Conference of Members happening November 19-21 in Monterey.   Lt. Colonel Grossman, who will be presenting on November 19 from 1-4 p.m., will provide a recipe for ensuring that your mind is mentally prepared for combat encounters, and the life after. Titled The Bulletproof Mind, Colonel Grossman's discussion presents various topics such as how violence in our society has become prevalent, the responsibility of on and off-duty cops, how to prepare for and deal with the stress of violent encounters, and the role that law enforcement plays in serving as the protectors to those around them.   Sgt. Davis, who will be presenting on November 20 from 1-4 p.m., will be discussing his topic titled Legally Justified; But was it Avoidable? This discussion analyzes dozens of recent use of force videos and focuses on the totality of the interaction. Attendees will dissect the behavior of the offender and more importantly, the thoughts and behavioral processes of the officer(s) involved.   Click Here to learn more about the upcoming speakers and our 69th Annual Conference of Members in Monterey!   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   About Lt. Colonel Dave Grossman   Lt. Col. Dave Grossman is a former US Army Ranger, paratrooper, and West Point Psychology Professor. He has a Black Belt in Hojutsu, the martial art of the firearm, and has been inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Col. Grossman’s research was cited by the President of the United States in a national address, and he has testified before the U.S. Senate, the U.S. Congress, and numerous state legislatures. He has served as an expert witness and consultant in state and Federal courts.   He helped train mental health professionals after the Jonesboro school massacre, and he was also involved in counseling or court cases in the aftermath of the Paducah, Springfield, Littleton and Nickel Mines Amish school massacres.   Click Here for full bio.   -------------------------   About Sgt. Jon Davis   Jonathan S. Davis is a senior instructor for Calibre Press, a nationally recognized law enforcement training organization that has trained more than 1 million officers over its 40-year history. Jon began his career in law enforcement 20 years ago. He served as a Granville, OH Police Officer for 5 years and has spent the past 15 years with the Ohio State Highway Patrol where he currently holds the rank of Sergeant.   Sgt. Davis has worked with Criminal Patrol Teams, Ohio State Patrol Investigations Division and is an Academy Instructor for the Ohio State Highway Patrol.  He is currently the Course Director for Emergency Vehicle Operations and designed and implanted an Emergency Vehicle Operations Training Program for the OHSP that was so successful, he now instructs other Ohio Law Enforcement agencies in this program.   Jon is a Subject Matter Expert in EVO and assisted in revamping the Ohio Peace Officer Basic Driver’s Training Program designed to decrease agency liability and improve officer safety.   As an Executive Board Member of the nationally recognized “Below 100” campaign, Sgt. Davis has been instrumental in bringing that program to the State of Ohio. Jon is also on the Executive Board for the Association of Law Enforcement Emergency Response Trainers (ALERT) holding the position of Vice President.  Sergeant Davis is a Master Instructor and Train-the-Trainer for numerous training programs.   Sgt. Davis serves as a Subject Matter Expert Consultant for a nationally recognized Fortune 500 company that provides agencies and officers with support and resources designed to improve career and quality of life.   Click Here for full bio.

In this episode, President Brian Marvel and Vice President Ben Therriault sit down with Colonel Hugh T. Clements, Jr., Director of the federal Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office and keynote speaker at this year’s conference. The discussion focused on law enforcement's pressing challenges nationwide - from recruitment and retention to officer health and wellness and unpacked how federal funding and training resources can help state and local agencies tackle these issues head-on.

Transcript - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M3ALlNEFpZ-vFQ1OcjMkSS3OP2bGMS9cMtNw3D4oams/edit?usp=sharing

Connect and Learn More

Hugh T. Clements, Jr.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugh-t-clements-jr-71b311223/

Website: https://cops.usdoj.gov/

Brian Marvel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brian.R.Marvel

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianMarvel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmarvel/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmarvel/

Ben Therriault

Twitter: https://x.com/BenTherriault

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/btherriault/

Resources

-COPS Office Grants Website - https://cops.usdoj.gov/grants

-COPS Hiring Program (CHP) Information - https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp-award

-School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) Guidelines - https://cops.usdoj.gov/svpp-award

-Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) Resources - https://cops.usdoj.gov/svpp-award

-COPS Office Training Portal - https://copstrainingportal.org/

-Grant Application Guidelines and Deadlines - https://cops.usdoj.gov/award-management-materials

#poracalifornia #poracalifornia #peaceofficers #lawenforcement #publicsafety

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel sits down with Law Enforcement Social Media Training Coordinator Tamrin Olden to discuss the importance of how to properly and effectively use social media to market an agency and the dangers of misusing the platforms.

 

Click Here to learn more about Law Enforcement Social Media Training.

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About Tamrin Olden

Tamrin Olden is the Owner and CEO of TOC Public Relations.

SoCal born and raised, Tamrin had a change of heart with her career choice after graduating from Cal State Fullerton with a degree in psychology and ended up working as a law enforcement community relations manager for most of her 16 years on the job before turning her side hustle into her dream job at her own public relations firm!

Click Here for full bio.

 

Visit her social media pages below!

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite in San Joaquin County Sheriff Pat Withrow to discuss membership involvement in elected positions and our current political climate regarding law enforcement.

To learn more about Sheriff Pat Withrow's re-election campaign, visit

www.withrowforsheriff.com

Interested in joining the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office? Visit their recruitment page today!

 

Sheriff Pat Withrow biography:   Sheriff Withrow was elected Sheriff on June 5th, 2018, and was sworn into office on January 7th, 2019. This is Sheriff Withrow’s first term as Sheriff, but it is his 29th year with the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office.   During his tenure, he has worked in almost every division of the department, including five years with S.W.A.T. and 12 years with the Canine Unit and Lathrop Police Services. He has also been nominated five times for the Italian Athletic Club’s Officer of the Year Award, as well as being nominated for the California State Life Saving Award.   Sheriff Withrow graduated from Central Catholic High School in Modesto, California, and attended Modesto Junior College and Stanislaus State University. He graduated from Union Institute and University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Management and graduated from the West Point Leadership Academy.   Click Here to learn more about Sheriff Withrow.     About PORAC's Corporate Sponsor Conkling Team - CrossCountry Mortgage   The Conkling Team’s mission is simple: to provide you with the best possible advice and benefit to your financial needs while facilitating a straightforward, transparent mortgage process for buyers, sellers and realtors. Their team is dedicated to making the mortgage process easy, stress-free and rewarding. Our culture is based on honesty, humility, integrity, and service — whether you’re stuck in the snow on a cold winter night or seeking to achieve the American dream of homeownership.   Who is Conkling Team CrossCountry Mortgage? How can Conkling Team CrossCountry Mortgage help you? Check them out to get answers to these questions and connect with them on social media.    For more information, contact: Phone: 855-847-0975 Email: FirstResponder@myccmortgage.com   Conkling Team CrossCountry Mortgage Website   FACEBOOK PAGE  

Brian sits down with Ed Mullins, President of the New York Sergeants Benevolent Association and Andrew Quinn, the SBA’s General Counsel to discuss the high profile case of NYPD Sergeant, Hugh Barry.  Make sure to listen in to hear how the case against Sgt. Barry turned into political prosecution of extreme measures and why it is critical to have the protection and security of your association.  What happened in New York can happen anywhere, and it will.  Law enforcement must stick together to protect our officers when they need it the most. 

On this episode of “On the Job with PORAC,” Brian Marvel talks with PORAC’s outgoing Vice President, Brent Meyer.  Brent is stepping down from his role at PORAC to go back to where it began as a cop for Sac PD.  Tune in to hear how Brent first got involved in police union politics with Sac POA and followed his calling to be on the PORAC Board in 2010 and then VP in 2013.  Brent brought a bold vision with him to PORAC, which resulted in remarkable membership growth, a new approach to communications, and a goal to ensure that our members have all the resources necessary to do their jobs.  Thank you Brent for everything you’ve done for PORAC.  You will be missed!

On this episode of “On the Job with PORAC,” Brian sits down with PORAC’s legislative advocate, Randy Perry, with Aaron Read & Associates (ARA), to discuss PORAC’s priority bills in the recent legislative session.  ARA monitors the thousands of bills introduced each year to ensure that PORAC is represented at the Capitol on all matters of public safety.  Outside of bills such as AB 931, SB 1421, and AB 748, as we discussed in previous podcasts, PORAC faces many other legislative issues such as peace officer training, workers comp, pensions, bargaining, POBR, and equipment funding and acquisition. 

Tune in to hear how PORAC and ARA work together to ensure law enforcement has the tools and resources necessary to do their job in the current political climate. 

On this episode of On the Job with PORAC Brian Marvel, Damon Kurtz, Randy Perry (Aaron Read & Associates), and David E. Mastagni (Mastagni Holstedt, A Professional Corporation) dive into the future of use-of-force legislation, compared to last year's AB931. As we’ve heard in previous podcasts, this type of legislation will have considerable impacts on law enforcement officers; therefore, it is critical that we have a seat at the table in getting it right. This is one of the biggest fights the law enforcement community will face this year, so it’s important to understand what’s at stake and what to expect as the legislative session ramps up. Tune in to learn more about our approach here at PORAC and how we’ll all need to work together to see that measures as drastic and dangerous as AB931 don’t become law.

On this episode of On The Job With PORAC, Brian Marvel and Damon Kurtz continue the discussion on use of force legislation - specifically PORAC supported SB 230. This is a plan to address the issue comprehensively with training, updated policies, etc., versus AB 392 which would simply criminalize officers. It’s vital that we all understand what’s at stake here and that everyone does their part to urge elected officials to support this legislation that will actually improve outcomes for community members and officers alike. Tune in to learn more!

On this episode of #OnTheJobWithPORAC, Sacramento POA President and PORAC Treasurer Timothy Davis sits down with President Brian Marvel and VP Damon Kurtz to discuss the Sacramento Police Department response to the Stephon Clark shooting fallout, Department efforts to create better relationships with community members despite media bias, and how comprehensive use-of-force legislation like SB230 is the right answer going forward. Tune in now – you don’t want to miss this one!

It’s finally here! Our special edition of On The Job With PORAC featuring Joe Gamaldi (President, Houston POU) is a can’t miss. We were lucky enough to have Joe as a speaker at Symposium-Impact 2019 this year and Monterey was buzzing for days after his riveting case against pay parity. Brian and Damon sat down with Joe at Symposium to discuss what’s happening in Houston and whether something similar will be just around the corner for California. It’s important to understand how parity impacts a city and everyone in it, listen now to find out why.

To learn more about what’s happened in Houston since we recorded, visit the links below:

https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Mediation-set-between-Houston-police-13785394.php 

https://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Council-approves-layoffs-of-220-firefighters-to-13792153.php

 

On this episode of On The Job With PORAC, PORAC President, Brian Marvel and Vice President, Damon Kurtz sit down with Ron Lawrence, President of the California Police Chiefs Association and Rick LaBeske, President of the California Association of Highway Patrolmen to discuss the latest updates on SB 230 following the major amendments made on April 11th and further amendments on April 23rd. Tune in now to hear more about our statewide law enforcement leadership and collaboration to establish the most profound use of force legislation in the nation!    To learn more about how you can help us pass SB 230, visit the link below:   www.porac.org/sb230

On this episode of On The Job With PORAC, PORAC President, Brian Marvel and Vice President, Damon Kurtz sit down with Jill Alves from the CAHP Credit Union to discuss the importance of managing your finances wisely and how to build your credit capacity. Listen now to find out how you can improve and build financial knowledge.

On this episode of On The Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down to discuss the benefits and importance of being a PORAC member and what the organization represents. Marvel, from the San Diego POA, and Kurtz, of the Fresno POA, agree that the goal of PORAC is not to represent specific locations of law enforcement, but law enforcement as a whole on both a state and nation-wide level.   Click Here to learn more about the benefits of being a PORAC member!

On this episode of On The Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with John Gliatta, an Independent Reviewer for the Fresno Police Department. Gliatta took the time to explain what the position entails, the benefits of working at the Office of Independent Review (OIR) and how he approached the role. Gliatta also provides an overview of his law enforcement background and describes the difference between being a police officer and an independent reviewer.   Click Here to learn more about the OIR and Gliatta's position.

P.O.W.E.R. stands for Peace Officer Wellness, Ethics, & Resilience. In our latest episode, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz talk about our POST Innovations Grant and the importance of creating of our new wellness course. The PORAC POWER Project is a FREE, POST Certified course available to ALL ACTIVE CALIFORNIA Law Enforcement. There are 3 one-day classes scheduled for November 4th, 5th, and 6th of 2019, near San Diego, at the Coronado Community Center. Additional classes will be announced for 2020 soon!  You can find more info and register at https://porac.org/training/porac-power-project/ 

Find more info on Copline at https://www.copline.org/

On this episode of On The Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with TV star Erik Estrada, known for his role in the TV show "CHiPs," to discuss his background with law enforcement and his acting journey from start to finish. 

Don't miss Erik at Conference in the CAHP Booth! register today at www.porac.org

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz bring in special guest Joe Mantegna of the hit TV series Criminal Minds. Mantegna, known for his roles in films such as Godfather Part III and Searching for Bobby Fischer, and TV shows such as The Simpsons, goes through his journey to becoming a television star. His stories include why he originally wanted to become a police officer, why he named his Criminal Minds character after a real police officer, and what he does to support our Nation's law enforcement and military.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with special guest Otis "Odie" Gallop of the hit TV show SWAT on CBS to talk about life beyond the badge. Before becoming an Actor, Technical Consultant, and Costume Advisor for the show, Odie was an actual SWAT officer with the San Diego Police Department. Odie spent 28 years with the San Diego PD and he had various assignments from Patrol, Narcotics, Beach Team, SWAT and even Executive Protection for the city Mayor’s office! Hear about his past with the department and how he impacts the direction of SWAT to bring the most realistic feel to the TV show. 

Be sure to catch SWAT on CBS, Thursdays at 10/9c and follow Odie on Instagram @odiegallop for behind the scenes pics and videos!

We have a special episode of On the Job With PORAC, recorded on-site in Palm Springs during the PORAC 67th Annual Conference of Members! PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sat down with special guest Deputy Police Chief Chris Hsiung of the Mountain View Police Department, who was also one of our training session presenters at Conference. Chief Hsiung commands the Special Operations Division for the department and crafted its digital communications strategy to focus on engagement, trust-building, and real-time crisis communications. Learn about how their model became a standard for law enforcement community communication and engagement across the country. 

Be sure to follow Deputy Chief Hsiung on all his social media platforms for great information and insight on community engagement.

Twitter: @chMtnViewPD

Facebook: @ChrisHsiung.MVPD

Instagram: @chief_hsiung

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishsiung/

On episode five of On the Job with PORAC, Brian invites special guests Sergeant Chesterman and Officer Sundby with SacPD’s Peer Support Unit to discuss their role in the unit and the importance of officer wellness.  With the growing pressure and exposure law enforcement faces on a daily basis, a peer support officer is becoming more and more a vital part of a department.  They are who support an officer, on and off duty.  A peer support officer’s main concern is the health and well-being of the officer and their family when facing issue ranging from officer-involved shootings and traumatic calls to divorce and suicide.  It is a new era for law enforcement and it is critical that we raise awareness of the challenges that come with devoting your life to protecting and serving your communities.

On this episode of “On the Job with PORAC,” Brian and Brent welcome special guest, San Joaquin County Sheriff-elect, Pat Withrow.  Sheriff-elect Withrow discusses the road leading up to his election, his 28 years in the department, his involvement in his union and the importance of PORAC.  Coming from his position as a Sergeant, Sheriff-elect Withrow understands the ins and outs of law enforcement on the street, in custody and the civilian staff.  Tune in to hear how Sheriff-elect Withrow got involved in order to make the necessary changes for his department.  We’re excited to see what’s next for San Joaquin County!

If you’re a California peace officer, you’ll want to listen to this podcast.  On this episode, PORAC President, Brian Marvel, provides an important update on critical legislation that could impact you, including:

• SB 1421 by Senator Skinner, relating to the release of records (on Governor’s desk)
• AB 748 by Assemblymember Philip Ting, relating to the disclosure of video and audio recordings (on Governor’s desk)
• AB 931 by Assemblymember Shirley Weber, relating to use-of-force (held in Senate Rules Committee)

Fortunately, AB 931 was defeated for the year, but the issue remains.   On this podcast, President Marvel discusses PORAC’s commitment moving forward and our determination to continue to highlight the honest and professional work our officers do. 

 

Tune in to get a more in-depth look at these bills and the future of law enforcement. 

On this episode of “On the Job with PORAC,” Brian and Brent invite outgoing Chairman of the Insurance & Benefits Trust (IBT), Damon Kurtz, to talk about his role in the trust and the issues law enforcement is facing in the Central Valley.  Damon is a 24-year law enforcement veteran, current President of the Fresno POA, and has recently been sworn in as a PORAC Director.  Tune in to hear more about PORAC’s IBT, concerns with law enforcement funding and pensions, and what you can do to help.

 

To learn more about PORAC’s IBT go to https://ibtofporac.org/

Join Brian and Brent as they bring on special guest, Peter Durfee (Chico PD, PORAC Director, and past President of the North Valley Chapter of PORAC).  On this episode, Peter talks about the North Valley’s staffing issues and how collaborating with the Chamber of Commerce and local businesses will help grow departments, and in turn, build relationships within our communities.  Peter emphasizes the importance of family, friendships, and why we do what we do.

 

Many of our members have been affected by the California wildfires.  Please consider donating here:

https://porac.org/2018/08/important-information-impacted-recent-fires/

On this latest episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel invites Sacramento County District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, who is currently running for Attorney General. District Attorney Schubert is an internationally recognized law enforcement leader; famous for her successful prosecutions in cases such as the Golden State Killer, the Second Story Rapist, Californian unemployment fraud, and other well-known criminal cases. PORAC is one of many organizations around California that is endorsing Anne Marie Schubert for Attorney General.

 

About Anne Marie Schubert

While Anne Marie Schubert may be best known for the successful investigation, arrest and conviction of the Golden State Killer, she has made a career of protecting kids from sexual predators and human trafficking and making sure violent criminals are held accountable for their crimes. She has aggressively prosecuted major corporations for practices that harm the environment and has worked to get illegal firearms off the streets and is an international expert in DNA investigations.

As District Attorney, Anne Marie Schubert has successfully put some of the state’s most notorious and violent criminals behind bars, including murderers, rapists, and child molesters. She has aggressively prosecuted major corporations for practices that harm the environment and has worked to get illegal guns off the streets.

CLICK HERE to visit Anne Marie Schubert's website.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite Yasha Nikitin of Huntington Beach POA, retired Workers’ Compensation Judge Steven Siemers and John Ferrone of Adams, Ferrone & Ferrone law firm to discuss Huntington Beach POA’s new IDR Process.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz video chat with PORAC Executive Committee Member and Los Angeles Airport POA President Marshall McClain about the nationwide protests that are taking place in response to the death of George Floyd and PORAC's response to the incident.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz welcome PORAC’s legislative advocate, from Aaron Read & Associates, Randy Perry. As well as two of PORAC’s LDF Panel Attorney's; David E. Mastagni of Mastagni Holstedt, APC and Timothy K. Talbot of Rains Lucia Stern St. Phalle & Silver, PC. This shortened legislative session due to COVID19 produced an onslaught of over two dozen public safety bills introduced. We discuss the outcome of SB 731 (Bradford) as well as the new PORAC Policy Platform and how we chart a new path forward for public safety officers while restoring public trust in law enforcement in 2021 and beyond.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite in RMT Chairman Terry Moore and PORAC Board Representative Tim Davis to talk about PORAC's Retiree Medical Trust and why PORAC members should join the program.

 

About PORAC's Retiree Medical Trust

The PORAC Retiree Medical Trust is a funding vehicle in which to deposit money while you are working, to pay for medical expenses after you retire, pursuant to the rules of the Plan. Any PORAC member association may choose, as a bargaining unit (through collective bargaining), to join the Trust. (You cannot choose to join as an individual; it must be through bargaining by your association.) Currently, we have associations participating from California, Oregon and Washington. That includes both Police and Fire. It is anticipated that we will begin to grow into additional states in 2021.

The Trust’s Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan is a financial tool that allows current employees to save money tax-free to pay for medical expenses they will incur in retirement. The Trust will invest pre-tax contributions, earn income tax-free, and after retirement, reimburse participants tax-free for covered medical expenses and health insurance premiums. Benefits are funded with regular payroll transfers and/or lump-sum transfers of sick and vacation leave. The unions and employers must negotiate a set contribution rate and must transfer the same percentage of each employee’s accrued leave for all members. An individual employee cannot elect to contribute more than what is set forth in their MOU.

Click Here to learn more about RMT!

 

About PORAC's Corporate Sponsor Conkling Team - CrossCountry Mortgage   The Conkling Team’s mission is simple: to provide you with the best possible advice and benefit to your financial needs while facilitating a straightforward, transparent mortgage process for buyers, sellers and realtors. Their team is dedicated to making the mortgage process easy, stress-free and rewarding. Our culture is based on honesty, humility, integrity, and service — whether you’re stuck in the snow on a cold winter night or seeking to achieve the American dream of homeownership.   Who is Conkling Team CrossCountry Mortgage? How can Conkling Team CrossCountry Mortgage help you? Check them out to get answers to these questions and connect with them on social media.    For more information, contact: Phone: 855-847-0975 Email: FirstResponder@myccmortgage.com   Conkling Team CrossCountry Mortgage Website   FACEBOOK PAGE  

On this latest episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz host a discussion with LDF Chairman Fred Rowbotham and LDF Administrator Ed Fishman regarding Plan VI and its introduction.

 

Plan VI Benefits

A Participant whose Member Association has chosen Benefit Plan I, II, or III and has chosen this Benefit Plan VI, shall be entitled to the following services:

a. Legal representation in administrative proceedings involving the revocation or suspension of a certification or license to serve as a peace officer within the state in which the Participant is employed, including investigative proceedings initiated by a certifying/licensing agency and any proceedings before advisory, first-level administrative or appellate administrative bodies, by a Panel Attorney arising from any act or omission of the Participant within the scope of his or her employment, including proceedings brought as the result of the Participant’s involvement in Concerted Labor Activity, subject to the conditions set forth in Section 8 of this Article. Coverage does not extend to post-administrative hearing review, including judicial proceedings.

b. All customary, necessary and reasonable services related to an action described in subsection (a) hereof, including where it appears reasonably probable that such an action will be commenced.

c. Excluded from coverage under this Benefit Plan VI is legal representation to contest facts, charges, allegations, or grounds for revocation or suspension for events which automatically disqualify an individual from holding the position of a peace officer (e.g. conviction of certain crimes, permanent court orders prohibiting an individual from possessing a firearm, being found not guilty by reason of insanity, etc.) where those facts, charges, allegations or grounds have been finally determined or adjudicated in a separate legal proceeding, including where the Participant pled guilty or nolo contendere.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz invite back in PORAC's legislative advocate Randy Perry of Aaron Read & Associates for an annual discussion of recent California legislation and its effects on our nation's law enforcement.

On this episode of On the Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with Curt Conkling of Conkling Team - CrossCountry Mortgage to learn more about the mortgage lender and how PORAC members can save money when purchasing or refinancing a home. Conkling Team - CrossCountry Mortgage is a 2021 PORAC Corporate Sponsor and will be present at our upcoming 69th Annual Conference of Members in Monterey, CA.

 

Click Here to learn more about Conkling Team - CrossCountry Mortgage today!

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About Conkling Team - CrossCountry Mortgage

The Conkling Team’s mission is simple: to provide you with the best possible advice and benefit to your financial needs while facilitating a straightforward, transparent mortgage process for buyers, sellers and realtors. Their team is dedicated to making the mortgage process easy, stress-free and rewarding. Our culture is based on honesty, humility, integrity, and service — whether you’re stuck in the snow on a cold winter night or seeking to achieve the American dream of homeownership.

For more information, contact: Phone: 855-847-0975 Email: PORAC@myccmortgage.com

Visit their Facebook page!

Show Notes: PORAC President Brian Marvel with special guest PORAC Vice President Brent Meyer

-Show Intro

-About PORAC

-Brian's background

-Brent's background

-The positive role PORAC has played in shaping law enforcement policy in California

-PORAC on a national level

-Specialized Law Enforcement

-Biggest takeaways from a trip to Washington D.C.

-Brent's experience as an officer with Sacramento PD

-Brian's experience as an officer with San Diego PD

-Brian's thoughts on PORAC and on the job with PORAC Podcast

During the week of May 13th, PORAC joined their law enforcement family from all over the nation and the world to honor the officers we’ve lost in the line of duty.  On this episode of On the Job with PORAC, President, Brian Marvel, and Vice President, Brent Meyer, discuss PORAC’s involvement in Police Week which coincided with the Executive Committee’s Annual DC Spring Fly-In where they met with our leaders to discuss the critical issues facing law enforcement.  PORAC met with the Attorney General, as well as other policymakers, to discuss public safety officer benefits, active shooter plans for schools and PORAC’s significant role in national law enforcement.  Make sure to tune in to hear more!

In this episode of On the Job with PORAC, Brian and Brent discuss the importance of communication. The PORAC membership (of over 70,000 men and women) is a diverse and multi-generational family; therefore our outreach must cast a wide net.  In a media world that does not sleep, PORAC understands the need to get our message out quickly and effectively.  Tune in to hear how PORAC is increasing our communication on issues that matter by utilizing social media, podcasts, PORAC LE News Magazine, training and, most importantly, input from our members. 

The Supreme Court ruling on the case of Janus vs. AFSCME continues to make headlines as public sector labor unions across the country deal with the implications of the slight majority decision.  On this podcast, Brian invites special guest Bob Bonsall, PORAC’s Corporate Counsel, to share his expertise on the history of labor unions, the ramifications of the Supreme Court’s decision, and the importance of aligning with your associations and unions. 

Although this is a debate that will continue for many years to come, now more than ever, law enforcement is under attack.  This is the time to strengthen our unions in order to maintain a stronger partnership to face the challenges ahead.  Listen in to hear how standing with your union will provide you with the comfort and security you and your family deserve.  

On this special report of On the Job with PORAC, President Brian Marvel and Vice President Brent Meyer discuss Assembly Bill 931 by Assemblywoman Shirley Weber (D-San Diego). 

This bill would limit the use of deadly force by a peace officer to those situations where it is “necessary” to prevent imminent and serious bodily injury or death to the officer or to a third party.   This podcast will provide you with background for this legislation and discuss how this bill would jeopardize the safety of our officers and the community in which we serve.

AB 931 is headed for Senate Public Safety Committee on June 19th, 2018.  PORAC is strongly opposed to this dangerous measure.  Tune in for more.

As the devastating wildfires continue to ravage California, all hands are on deck to keep our communities safe.  Tune in to hear how PORAC is getting involved and how you can help support our members impacted by the fires. 

 

Link to make a California Casualty Claim: https://www.calcas.com/web/ccmc/affinity?id=156687

Donate to the PORAC/POREF Wildfire Relief Fund: https://cahpcu.org/wildfireReliefFund

Attorney General Price Gouging Resource Page:  Click Here or call (800) 952-5225 to file a complaint.

Today, President Marvel and Randy, with Aaron Read & Associates (ARA), talk about PORAC’s 2018 legislative victories.  In a time where law enforcement is constantly playing defense against bad bills, PORAC continues to work with our legislative advocates at ARA to sponsor and support critical public safety measures.  In 2018, PORAC sponsored two work comp bills that made it successfully to the governor’s desk and received a signature. The first bill, AB 1749 by Assemblymember Daly, was a result of the 2017 Route 91 shooting in Vegas.   This bill ensures that California’s Workers Compensation System covers peace officers who acted outside of state boundaries and were injured, regardless of their injuries.  The second successful PORAC sponsored bill is SB 1086 by Senator Atkins which extends the survivor death benefit eligibility to ensure that these officers’ grieving families are not deprived of the benefits they deserve due to an arbitrary and unfair timeline.  Please listen in for more!

On this special episode of On The Job With PORAC, PORAC President Brian Marvel and Vice President Damon Kurtz sit down with Rick LaBeske, President of the California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Ronald Lawrence, President of the California Police Chiefs Association to discuss the passage of AB 392 and SB 230. What happens from here and how will the new laws ensure that California officers receive cohesive training in de-escalation and interacting with vulnerable populations throughout the state.