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Click below 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 New 11-16-23 Iris West, Benefits Advisor 410-337-7577 ext. 162 iwest@sfandc.com For more info Click Here |
March 20 11:30
NOVA Lunch |
March 20 12:00
Chambersburg Lunch |
March 21 12:00
Annapolis Lunch |
March 28 11:00
S. MD Lunch |
March 17, 2024
The RFA regret to announce the death of RFA Member Samual W. Malachi Jr.. Brother Malachi passed away March 16, 2024 at the age of 84. Brother Malachi was appointed to the DCFD on 10-13-1963 to E-29 and retired on 9-12-1990 T-6 Sgt. Funeral Arrangements will be posted once they are available. March 15, 2024
Latest DCFD Personnel Actions below:
Feb. 1, 2024
Message from L-36 Hello, Local 36 Members! The next edition of the Capital City Firefighter magazine is just around the corner, and we want to have a section dedicated to Local 36 members and their crews. Whether you've captured a memorable crew moment at your last holiday gathering or after your latest fire, we want to see it and share it with our readers! This goes for all of the Platoon 5 gatherings too! Share Your Crew Pictures Here: Submit Your Crew Pictures Share Your Incident Pictures Here: Submit Your Incident Pictures We believe every picture tells a story; your crew photos are no exception. Your team's camaraderie, dedication, and shared moments will be featured in the heart of our magazine. If you're passionate about publishing or have a creative talent, we invite you to get involved in the magazine production process. Feel free to contact Joe at joseph.papariello@iaff36.org if you have any questions or want to contribute your ideas and talents. Let's make the upcoming edition of the Capital City Firefighter a testament to our solidarity, pride, and the exceptional work we do when we unite! Thanks for your help. Jan. 3, 2024
A message from President Partridge: First I’d like to start off saying that I hope all of you had a very Merry Christmas and I hope everyone has a prosperous New Year! I’d like to recognize Tom Scherer for his many years of service on the Executive Board serving as Secretary and the last 6 years as President. He guided us through some difficult issues and pointed us in the right direction to move forward into the future. He also was huge support net for the families of our brothers and sisters that have passed on. I’d also like to thank him for his mentorship preparing me to take his place. I literally have big boots to fill! Thank You Tom. I’d also like to thank the membership for trusting me to guide us forward into the next couple of years. That being said, we have work to complete and I’m sure, new issues to face. We will continue the battle for our members that are still affected by the pension reduction, we have some housekeeping items to take care of regarding the Constitution and By-Laws, we a couple of committee vacancies we have to fill and I have a few ideas regarding the Honor Guard that will hopefully expand the participation and take some of the burden off of members that participate now. I’m looking forward to the coming year and with your continued support, myself along with the Executive Board, of which without, I’d be totally lost, will keep us pointed in the right direction moving forward. The first meeting is this coming Monday, January 8th 2024 at the Union Hall. As always lunch will be provided. Hopefully the weather will cooperate, there is snow in the forecast. If in fact the snow materializes and the Prince George’s County Schools close for the day, the meeting will be cancelled. Until then, everyone please stay safe and if you need assistance from the association, please contact any member of the Executive Board. Jimmy P Dec. 12, 2023
Message from Ed Smith: It's time to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset Social Security provisions. Retired brothers & sisters can tell their lawmakers to advance the Social Security Fairness Act. Simply click on the link and follow the instructions. https://www.iaff.org/advocacy-center/ More info in the link below: https://www.iaff.org/news/repealing-wep-and-gpo-social-security-offsets-gains-momentum/ Below is the letter received from Congressman Daniel Webster of Florida. This might explain it a bit. December 8, 2023 Dear Friend, Thank you for contacting me regarding the Social Security Fairness Act. On January 9, 2023, Representative Garrett Graves (R-LA) introduced H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act of 2023. It has been referred to the Committee on Ways and Means for further review. I am a co-sponsor of this legislation. The bill amends the Social Security Act to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) with respect to computation of an individual’s primary insurance amount and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) applicable to spouses. The WEP reduces the Social Security benefits to workers who also have pension benefits from employment not covered by Social Security. The GPO reduces Social Security benefits to spousal benefits and survivors of retired, disabled, and deceased workers who have earned retirement benefits through participation in federal, state, or local government pension programs, and also qualify for Social Security spousal benefits. As of December 2012, over 81,000 Social Security beneficiaries were affected by WEP, while the GPO affects approximately 24,000 recipients, many of whom performed vital public service throughout their career. I am committed to supporting legislation to protect the Social Security benefits that retirees in Florida and throughout the country earned. Thank you again for taking the time to contact me. To stay updated on what’s happening in Washington, sign up for my weekly Webster Wire. Thank you for allowing me to serve as your U.S. Representative. Your servant, Daniel Webster Member of Congress Sept. 1, 2021
Proposed By-Law change to be voted on at the Oct. 2021 meeting Removing the following language: ARTICLE II SECTION 2, BOARD OF DIRECTORS The duly elected representative of the retired Fire Fighters on the D.C. Retirement Board, provided that such a representative be a member of the Association in good standing, shall compromise the Board of Directors. As President Scherer stated at the June meeting, the elected trustee to the DCRB is voted on by ALL retired members not just DCRFA members. Non-members of the DCRFA should not have any impact on the elected officers of the DCRFA. There is now a Washington DC Fire Fighters Memorial Foundation this is a 501c non profit. They are collecting money to put up a permanent memorial to the Fallen DC Firefighters. They are looking for sites, getting permits, hiring an artist to design the memorial. It is all in the early stages, but money is needed to get things moving.
https://www.dcfallenfirefightersfoundation.org
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Feb. 5, 2024
Mark your calendars: FALL REUNION PICNIC RFA Fall reunion Picnic Saturday, October 19, 2024 12:00 -5:00 PM American Legion Post 238 6265 Brandywine Rd Hughesville, MD 20637 Cost - $25. per person Mail Checks made out to the RFA to Joe Healy 7511 Woodville Rd. Mt. Airy, MD 21771-9209 You are encouraged to bring any sides and/or desserts. No outside alcohol allowed. County law. Feb. 11, 2024
Message from President Partridge: Brothers and Sisters, On Wednesday, February 7, 2024, I had the pleasure to testify on your behalf in front of the Maryland State Senate committee on Taxation regarding SB 588. Our intent was to have language added to the bill proposed by Maryland State Senators Bailey and Jackson to include “the District of Columbia”. SB 588 was introduced to increase the Tax Credit up to $20,000 for retired Firefighters, EMS workers and LEOs under the Hometown Heroes Act. As of right now members that retired from DCFD do not qualify for the tax credit because of interpretation of the language. The intent was there originally to have our group included but the way it was written, it has been the basis of denial of the benefit. We currently have 436 members this effects. I’d like to thank brother Ed Smith for recording the testimony. He also submitted written testimony. I’d also like to thank Willam “Bink” Griffin and JC Carrol for taking the time to testify live as well. They did a great job! I believe our testimony was well received by the committee and that they are very aware of the need to codify the change in language. Below is the recording of the testimony. Thanks, Jimmy P Jan. 26, 2024
Blue Cross Blue Shield New Prescription Plan Update from Butch Oliff: You can opt out at any time. If you opt out before the 15th of any month, the opt out will take effect the following month. Butch also found a number to the RX plan and you can talk to a human and get answers directly from them. 888-338-7737 Several members who signed up for the new Blues RX plan had their drug prices go up exponentially. To opt out, the member has to either mail, or fax a letter expressing to opt out, and include your name, and Member ID number. The Fax number is 855-865-1817 Contact Butch Oliff if you have any questions Nov. 9, 2023
District of Columbia Police Officers and Firefighters’ Retirement Plan Summary Plan Description 2023 See attached file below
Feb. 22, 2023
Explanation of COLA, and Equalization Police & Fire: Cost-of-Living Adjustments If there is an increase in the yearly cost of living, your retirement benefit may be adjusted to reflect such an increase. The increase (if applicable) is payable in April each year. To establish if a COLA is paid, at the beginning of each calendar year the Mayor determines the percentage of change in the Consumer Price Index – All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) for the previous calendar year. The determination is based on the difference between the CPI-U published for December of the year that just ended (the preceding year) and the CPI-U published for December two years prior (the second preceding year). Where the determination indicates a rise in the CPI-U, you may receive a COLA. The increase in your annual retirement benefit is calculated as follows: • If your retirement is effective on or before March 1 of the preceding year, you will receive the full percentage COLA adjusted to the nearest 1/10th of 1%. • The COLA for Tier 3 members is capped at 3%. Below is an attached documents explaining Equalization written by Kenny Cox Jan. 28, 2022
Federal Tax deduction info for retirees below
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No RFA Meeting in March!! Next Meeting will be on April 1
Feb. 29, 2024
Golfing Opportunities During the Florida Reunion: We have been able to secure a limited number of Tee Times for Golf Opportunities during the Florida Reunion on a First-Come, First-Served basis on both Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13 at the following venues: Saturday, April 13, 2024: Twin Isles Country Club 301 Madrid Avenue Punta Gorda, FL 33950 (10 minutes from our venue) Tee Times begin at 0830. Cost: $125.00 PP inc. Tax, Green Fees and Cart Friday, April 12, 2024 (For the Early Arrivals): Deep Creek Golf Club 1260 San Cristobal Avenue Punta Gorda, FL 33983 (13 minutes from our venue) Cost: $80 PP inc. Tax, Green Fee and Cart. Anyone attending the Reunion wishing to take advantage of either/both golf opportunities should contact John Lee at 703.915.6994 (phone/text) or by email at jlee1257@gmail.com nlt March 30. 2024 RFA Florida Reunion info in flyer below!
Feb. 24, 2024 Update!! Only 6 room left!! April 12, 13, 14, 2024 Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, Florida 33950 Room Rate $ 139.00 Call 941-637-6770 Ask for the Retired DC Firefighters Association (or use Code DC1682) to receive the discount To get the group rate reservations must be made by April and, 2024 Feb. 26, 2024
2024 COLA The following message was on this months pay statement. COLA: The 2024 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will be 3.4% for police and fire members hired before Nov. 10, 1996. For police and fire members hired after on or after Nov 10, 1996 will receive a capped 3.0% cost of living adjustment. Individuals who retired after March 1, 2023 will received a pro-rated COLA amount. This COLA will be applied to eligible recipients, effective March 1, 2024 and paid beginning with your April 1, 2024 monthly annuity. 1099-R: The 2023 forms 1099-R were mailed to the address listed on file with the DC Retirement Board. To request a duplicate copy, you may contact DCRB's members services center at 202-343-3272 Monday through Friday 08:30 to 5:00. Also for your convince, your 1099-R is available for digital download at DCRB's self-service portal. dcrb.dc.gov/page/dcrb-self-service Feb. 12, 2024
Update on Yearbook photos: D.C.F.D. Yearbook project The following was excerpted from Special Order 6, 2024 is provided for your information and possible participation. “The Department is creating a yearbook in partnership with Heritage Portraits and Albums, based in Anniston, Alabama. The yearbook will honor past and present members, while spotlighting significant incidents that have shaped our organization since the last edition was published 27 years ago. • Photo Submission for Consideration: Members are invited to submit good quality photos (fires or personal) for consideration in the yearbook to the address above. • Portrait Purchases: Individual members will have the option to purchase their portraits. Further details on the purchase process will be communicated in subsequent communications. The Department is excited about this opportunity to commemorate the rich history and dedication of our organization.” Retired members may wear their dress uniforms, if they still have them, or any other appropriate attire. Members may also submit an appropriate photograph (Passport or similar) for possible inclusion in the yearbook. The deadline for submitting photos is March 15 2023. Retired Fire and EMS Expectations for year book portraits: Solid Background Facing Forward Cell phone portrait is okay: Image will be transposed in front of an American flag to match active members. Still working out email issues. 2/9: 0800 – 1500 2/10: 0800 – 1500 2/12: 0800 – 1500 2/13: 0800 – 1500 2/14: 0800 – 1500 2/15: 0800 – 1500 2/16: 0800 – 1500 The Location for the retired photos is P.R. Harris school 4600 Livingston Rd. S.E. Also, we are looking for "Legacy firefighters" pictures...photos of firefighting families...If they are still alive and are willing, get a portrait taken together. If they've passed, submit photos of them...we'd like to finally show some of the past of the department's history Retired members may contact Rick Moore (202)-359-0013 or James Gordon (Gordo) 571-238-5901 for additional details……Sorry for the short notice…Thanks….Rick Jan. 24, 2024 The DCFD is putting together a new yearbook after 27 years. They want to include retired members in the book. Location for photos PR Harris School 4600 Livingston Road SE Washington DC Below is a message from Ricky Moore with more information. The following was excerpted from Special Order 6, 2024 is provided for your information and possible participation. “The Department is creating a yearbook in partnership with Heritage Portraits and Albums, based in Anniston, Alabama. The yearbook will honor past and present members, while spotlighting significant incidents that have shaped our organization since the last edition was published 27 years ago. All yearbook-related correspondence, including submissions and inquiries, should be directed to yearbook.fems@dc.gov. ( • Photo Submission for Consideration: Members are invited to submit good quality photos fires or personal) for consideration in the yearbook to the address above. • Portrait Purchases: Individual members will have the option to purchase their portraits. Further details on the purchase process will be communicated in subsequent communications. The Department is excited about this opportunity to commemorate the rich history and dedication of our organization.” Retired members will be able to have their photos taken on Saturday, January 27 2024 between the hours of 0800 and 1500. Location for photos PR Harris School 4600 Livingston Road SE Washington DC Make up dates for photos will be starting on Friday February 9 and continuing on the following dates: February 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 & 17 Retired members may wear their dress uniforms, if they still have them, or any other appropriate attire. Members may also submit an appropriate photograph (Passport or similar) for possible inclusion in the yearbook. Gordo is currently working with the photography company and further details will be provided when available Retired members may contact Rick Moore (202)-359-0013 or James Gordon (Gordo) 571-238-5901 for additional details……Sorry for the short notice…Thanks….Rick May 31, 2023
Message from the DC Retirement Board Annuity Retroactive Increases and Equalization Frequently Asked Questions See Flyer below:
Jan. 17, 2023
The RFA was informed of the passing of the following RFA Life Members. RFA Life Member Harvey W. Poe. Brother Poe passed away 6-24-22 at the age of 100. Brother Poe was appointed to the DCFD on 7-1-1950 and retired 11-1-1965. RFA Life Member Paul M. Ryan. Brother Ryan passed away on 1-1-2019 at the age of 89. Brother Ryan was appointed to the DCFD on 7-5-1950 to E-9 and retired on 5-31-1971 as BFC 3 RFA Life Member John C. Stein. Brother Stein passed away on 10-19-2022 at the age of 92. Brother Stein was appointed to the DCFD 3-12-1952 to T-4 and retired on 1-1-1971 E-14 RFA Life Member Peter A. Tunille. Brother Tunille passed away on 6-29-2020 at the age of 89. Brother Tunille was appointed to the DCFD on 10-3-1955 to T-3 and retired on 1-1-1976 T-3 All funeral have already been held. May 3, 2021
President Scherer proposed an amendment to clarify how to make Life Membership in the RFA. This was proposed at today's meeting and will be voted on at the June 2021 meeting. See amendment below: ARTICLE I SECTION 3: LIFE MEMBERSHIP Such an honor may be conferred upon a member who is considered to have rendered extraordinary service to the D.C.R.F.A. Guidelines to be considered; (a) must be a member for at least 15 years and dues current; (b) must have served as a member of the Executive leadership or as a committee member or have performed other important duties that benefit the organization or has a combination of those duties for an accumulated period of 10 years; (c) a member may be nominated from the floor provided that said nominee’s consideration shall not be further entertained until the next regular meeting at which time the nomination shall be reintroduced or withdrawn, seconded, open for discussion and voted upon. A successful vote will require a 2/3’s vote of those present and voting in the majority. Any member of age 85 who has been a paying member for 25years will also be honored with Life Membership. Members so honored shall be entitled to the rights, privileges, benefits and responsibilities reserved for regular members, except they shall be exempt from the payment of dues. |
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 :
Tom Scherer Joe O'Neil
301-609-7923 410-507-2450
capttom44@outlook.com joeoneil9@hotmail.com
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 :
Tom Scherer Joe O'Neil
301-609-7923 410-507-2450
capttom44@outlook.com joeoneil9@hotmail.com
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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) |
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.
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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
3002 12th St. N.E Washington, D.C. 20017
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
3002 12th St. N.E Washington, D.C. 20017
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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