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This page is designed to keep the retired members up to date on issues, from a "Sick List" to Pending Legislation and anything else we can think of. Hopefully anyone reading this will pass the word around to all other retired members. This is here for your use.
Contact Web Master We now have a page just to address the pension problems
Click Here to go to that page To sign up for our e-mail blasts scroll to the bottom of this page and fill out the form. Hit the subscribe button only once!
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Supplemental Dental and Vision plans will be with "United Healthcare"
Contact Customer Service 800-876-7768 For more info Click Here |
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Aug 30 11:00
S. MD Lunch |
Aug. 30 17:00
Gilson Dinner |
Sept. 30 12:00
RFA Cookout/Reunion |
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Aug. 17, 2017
Bouncer Smith sent the following update: Bobby Harrington (E-12 Ret) fell at home last week. After laying on the floor for 24 hours, paramedics responded and transported him to Peninsula Regional, Salisbury, Md. He has been diagnosed with possible ALS, among other health issues. He has been told he will not be returning home, but will be transferred to a rehab center. He is undergoing extensive testing at this time. Keep Brother Harrington in your thoughts and prayers. His current phone number at the hospital is 410-912-2800 RM 5020 
Aug. 12, 2017
The Retired Firefighters Association regrets to notify our members of the death of Patrick T. Dempsey on Aug 7th from complications from a stroke and heart attack. Brother DEMPSEY was appointed APRIL 28, 1968 and retired APRIL 22,1983 as CAPTAIN of TRUCK CO. 13. Below is his obit from the Funeral home: Patrick T. Dempsey of Ocean City, MD died peacefully with his family by his side on Monday, August 7th from complications of a stroke and heart attack. Patrick was born on January 8, 1946 in Altoona, Pa. He spent his early years with his mother and grandparents, Jim and Cecelia Strong, living in Altoona where he garnered attention as a gifted athlete. His teenage years were spent in Oxon Hill, Maryland where he continued to excel as both a baseball and basketball star. Upon graduating from high school, he earned a combined baseball and basketball scholarship to the University of Maryland. He is also a veteran whom served in the Army during the Viet Nam war and a retired Captain from the Washington D. C. Fire Department. Throughout his adult life, Patrick has been a devoted Washington Redskins fan whom was constantly yearning for a return to the former glory and success of the ‘80s. His mother, Betty I Johnson, and his beautiful daughter, Cara Dempsey, preceded Patrick in death. He was married to Maria C Ruiz on January 17, 2013, and enjoyed many happy years residing at the shore with her. He is also survived by his sons, Ryan and Michael Dempsey of Pasadena and Laplata, MD, as well as his former wife, Courtney Hari of Swan Point, MD and one sister Lora Lane (Danny) of Annapolis, MD. His love of country, passion for sports, and great sense of humor will be deeply missed by all whom knew him. A memorial service will be held at Burbage Funeral Home at 108 William Street, Berlin, MD 21811 at 11:00 am on Friday, August 11th. Friends may call one hour prior to the service. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com Aug. 1, 2017
Michael Gilson is retiring after over 28 years of service at Truck 6. A dinner to Honor Mike will be held at the quarters of E-11 T-6 BFC 4 on Aug. 30 5 to 9 PM dinner served at 7 PM. Cost $20.00 per person. RSVP gilsonRSVP@yahoo.com 
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Aug. 17, 2017
Report from the Annuity Committee: In January of 2015 approximately one hundred and thirty-six (136) retired members of the Department received notices from the United States Treasury Department indicating that their pension benefits were being changed effective March 1, 2015. The Treasury Department indicated that the changes were a result of errors made by the District of Columbia Government at the time of the employee’s retirement. These errors involved computing annual leave, sick leave, military leave, cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), base pay vs. average pay at retirement and the 80% clause. In most cases, not all, the Government indicated that the retirees were over payed and as a result would have to repay the Government. Additionally, the Treasury Department indicated that they were going to issue a 1099-C to the retiree Because of the Government action President Joe O’Neil, Retired Firefighters Association, formed a committee (Annuity) to review/investigate and form a strategy on behalf of the membership. The committee has been working for approximately 2 ½ years to provide some relief for the membership. It is extremely difficult and time consuming in trying to get answers from both the Federal and District Governments. Because of the efforts of the Committee and retirees contacting their local politicians the Government has rescinded their demand for repayment for all members using the Age of Error Standard (AES). In some cases, involving sick leave, annual leave and correction of other alleged errors members have had their annuities recalculated. A few even received increases. The Retired Firefighters Association formed a partnership with the retired Police Officers Association in seeking a legal opinion from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding the 1099-C for alleged overpayment. Just recently the Association received a notice that a favorable ruling was issued. The ruling was on behalf of a single individual and the Attorneys are working on providing a document to be used by all affected members. We are unaware of any members receiving a response from the IRS regarding attaching the issued 1099-C to their 2015/2016 tax returns. This effort was at a considerable cost to the Association. Although the Committee has not been able to completely restore all members to their annuity prior to March 1, 2015 we have been able to have some limited success. Most importantly I believe the Government now realizes that the Retirees have an organization that will defend the benefits that were earned during their employment. I would like to offer my appreciation to the members of the committee who have given their time to help with this endeavor. The committee will continue to pursue this matter. If you have any questions you can contact a committee member via telephone or email. Bill Mould Committee Members: William Embrey 703-960-2838 David Kauffman 410-798-5678 William E. Mould 240-417-0970 Joseph O’Neil 410-956-2687 Thomas Scherer 301-609-7923 Harry Subacz Edward Smith – Local 36 Thomas Tippett 301-373-2494 Aug. 11, 2017
Lastest Update on Active Firefighter Dane Smothers from L-36 Brothers and Sisters, Just over one week ago, an unfortunate incident took place on the fire ground at 819 F Street N.E. leaving Brother Dane Smothers Jr. in critical condition at Medstar Washington Hospital Center. The staff at Medstar has performed three surgeries on Dane to date, with more scheduled in the coming days. Although his condition remains critical, the team of Doctor’s and staff responsible for his care are second to none and are working around the clock to make sure that Dane has the best care possible. We will continue to pass on updates as they become available, however, we ask that the membership continue to respect the family’s request for privacy at this time, as Dane is not ready to receive visitors. We also ask that you keep both Dane and his family in your thoughts and prayers. Dane’s family is overwhelmed at the amount of support they have received from our membership and the community. As most of you are aware, the Scorched Souls MC hosted a fundraiser this past Wednesday at the Tune Inn. The attendance was unbelievable and donations poured in throughout the day. As the event concluded, Dane’s family was presented with a sizable donation on his behalf to assist with his impending expenses. The members of the DC Fire Fighters Burn Foundation continue to provide 24-hour support for Dane’s family and their needs. The events that left our brother hospitalized were extremely traumatic for everyone involved in the response. As a department, we must ensure that all of our members are taken care of both physically and emotionally. If anyone is in need of help through these difficult times, please do not hesitate to reach out. There are many resources available to every member of the department and these programs are in place to assist all of us. Recently, the Department published a special order outlining a committee which has been formed to review the entire incident. Although the review process commenced prior to the publication of the special order, members can expect to see the committee make visits to firehouses, conduct interviews with members that were involved in the response, and correspond with partner agencies that were all involved in the review process. Updates outlining progress of the committee will be provided to the membership as they become available. Members of Local 36 have, and will continue to have, a presence on the committee throughout the entire review process. Fraternally, Dabney Scott Hudson President |
Aug. 17, 2017
Samuel Malachi send in an interesting article: FireFighters Are Warning People To Never Leave Bottle Water In Your Car Click here to read the article Aug. 11, 2017
Below are the latest Personal Actions by the Dept. 
Save the Date:
2017 RFA Southern MD reunion/cookout 9/30/17 Noon to Five St. Michael’s Church 17510 Horsehead Rd Brandywine, MD 20613 United States The Church is at the corner of Horsehead Rd. and Aquasco Rd. (Rt. 381) We will start serving food around 1 pm. Mike and Rip will smoke beef outside with hand carved beef for early birds. The church ladies will cook fried chicken, parsley potatoes, rolls and butter. Joe G. will bring fresh tomatoes. Please bring a covered dish. Beer, wine, tea and sodas will be provided. Due to church regulations the past $25. fee will now be a donation. We can not charge a fee and serve alcohol on church property. Directions: Cedarville Rd. is reopened Directions from 301 south 301north thru Waldorf to right Cedarville Rd. right Brandywine Rd. 381 to St. Michael's 495 take Rt. 5 south to left on Rt. 381 about 6 miles to hall on left. 301 south to left on Rt. 381 about 6 miles on left. In August send $25 donation to RFA Joe Healy 7511 Woodville Rd. Mt. Airy Md. 21771 Thanks, Rip New Restaurant and TIME for Eastern Shore Group hosted by Rick Belcher, first Wednesday of month.
Now 12:00 La Tonalteca Mexican Restaurant 28605 E DuPont Blvd (Rt 113) Millsboro De 19966 Phone: 302-934-9111 Feb. 7, 2017
Local 36 attended an event put on by the IAFF regarding retirement, social security and Medicare benefits. This was sponsored by Nationwide Ins.. Nationwide provided forms to fill out and send in. They would in turn send back recommendations for what would be the best options for you. The RFA and L-36 are attempting to get a Nationwide rep to attend an upcoming RFA meeting to give a full overview of the program. Message from Larry Sheldrake (Local 36 Treasurer and RFA member) Here are the Assessment Fact Sheets from Nationwide regarding Social Security and Medicare Benefits. All of the Information can be read on the sheets. The IAFF has endorsed this program for all members. Thanks, Larry Sheldrake Treasurer IAFF L-36, Washington, DC 202-359-4251 Below are the forms to fill out.
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Honor Guard
In an effort to provide our retired brothers (at the time of their demise) with a dignified, and respectable presence, the Retired Association has decided to organize a "Honor Guard". This will not be a precision - spit and polish - drill team type concept, but simply a list of retired brother firefighters who may have known and worked with the departed, or at least served during the same time frame. Participation by this Honor Guard will be ONLY By request of the family, and only to the extent that the family desires.
To include but not limited to pallbearers, (active or honorary) - liaison between the family and visiting fire fighters, or simply lending a fire service presence.
The "uniform of the day" for this honor guard shall from this day forward be known as the "Lockrow Suit" which will consist of a navy blue blazer, white shirt, gray slacks, and black shoes (properly polished) and official Honor Guard tie issued by the Association.
For those who wish to participate, and do not own a "Lockrow Suit" we have made arrangements with "Men's Warehouse" for a very good discount on the blazer and slacks.
The more members who participate in this honor guard will provide for a large cadre to draw from meaning less travel and less frequent events.
Please give this Honor Guard serious consideration, and join us in providing our departed members with class, dignity, and proper respect.
To volunteer please contact :
Vinny Austin at 410-867-0323 or by e-mail at- woodworker321@verizon.net
To include but not limited to pallbearers, (active or honorary) - liaison between the family and visiting fire fighters, or simply lending a fire service presence.
The "uniform of the day" for this honor guard shall from this day forward be known as the "Lockrow Suit" which will consist of a navy blue blazer, white shirt, gray slacks, and black shoes (properly polished) and official Honor Guard tie issued by the Association.
For those who wish to participate, and do not own a "Lockrow Suit" we have made arrangements with "Men's Warehouse" for a very good discount on the blazer and slacks.
The more members who participate in this honor guard will provide for a large cadre to draw from meaning less travel and less frequent events.
Please give this Honor Guard serious consideration, and join us in providing our departed members with class, dignity, and proper respect.
To volunteer please contact :
Vinny Austin at 410-867-0323 or by e-mail at- woodworker321@verizon.net
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RFA Pocket Badge Order Form
EXAMPLE JOSEPH C. HEALY RETIRED FIREFIGHTER’S ASSOCIATION WASHINGTON DC FIRE DEPARTMENT T-9 Please send a check for $45 with your name and address and the way you want your badge to read to: Joe Healy 7511 Woodville Road Mt. Airy, MD 21771 (A fourth line can be added for an extra $2) 
2014 DCFD Challenge Coin $10 each. Sales benefit DCFD Firefighters Burn Foundation. Contact Elliot 301-807-8192 or dcfirebye@aol.com
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Members of the Retired Association can now order an official Fire Dept. badge on-line. Just click on the site below and find the badge you want and follow the instructions. (The difference between the active badge and our badge is that it has the word "RETIRED" is on the top.)
Thanks to Jimmy Martin, the link has been fixed. They advised that if you are still having problems, to turn off your pop-up blocker. Click Here to order 
Friendship Fire Assn. Celebrates 75 Years of Dedicated Service to the DCFD. Challenge Coin is available for a $10 Donation.Thanks to All For Your Support and the Privilege to be a part of our Great Department , The DCFD. To Obtain Coins Contact Elliot 301-807-8192 , Vito or any FFA Member.
Order Your 2016 White House Christmas Ornament Today Every year since 1981, the White House Historical Association has designed the Official White House Christmas Ornament. These unique collectibles — honoring individual presidents or specific White House anniversaries — have become part of the holiday tradition of millions of American families. The 2016 White House Christmas ornament honors the administration of Herbert Hoover, who served as the thirty-first president of the United States from 1929 to 1933. It is inspired by the fire engines that responded to the 1929 Christmas Eve fire at the White House and the toy trucks presented to children by the Hoovers the following Christmas. The ornament is crafted from shiny brass plated with nickel and 24-karat gold, and the engine carries a Christmas tree for delivery to the White House. Click here to read more.
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Meetings are held the first Monday of each month 11:00 hrs. except July, August and September.
Local 36 Kenny Cox Building
2120 Bladensburg Rd. NE, Suite 210
Washington, D.C. 20018
Snow Policy:
IF SNOW CLOSES OR DELAYS THE PRINCE GEORGE'S SCHOOL SYSTEM , THERE WILL BE NO RFA MEETING THAT DAY.
Local 36 Kenny Cox Building
2120 Bladensburg Rd. NE, Suite 210
Washington, D.C. 20018
Snow Policy:
IF SNOW CLOSES OR DELAYS THE PRINCE GEORGE'S SCHOOL SYSTEM , THERE WILL BE NO RFA MEETING THAT DAY.
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