Memorial Services - To have a Military detail present at funeral services for a veteran of any branch of the United States Armed Forces, call 1 800 827 1000

From Executive Secretary Harry Hassler:  For any member or retiree wishing to join "The Retired Police Association of the State of New York" contact by phone: 516-294-4488 or at www.retiredpoliceassociationstateofnewyork.com 
The association is open to retirees, as members, or their family members and friends as "Supporting Members." Information and service is provided to members, as well as aid and assistance to their widows and children. The retiree dues are $25 and family members dues are $15 annually.

If you missed this year’s reunion, you missed one of the best.  This was the first time we held the reunion at this hotel in Cape Canaveral, Florida.  The hotel was great and they loved our group.  The food & service was excellent. 

Woody and I walked out of the hotel Monday with a contract for 2011.  This was the 1^st time in the 14 years when we contracted for the next year's reunion and we didn’t get a price increase.  The dates for next year will be June 10^th to June 12^th. 

Mark that date on your calendar and try to make it.  I would like to reach out to the classes of the 1980’s & 1990’s to attend.  You are the last people to be part of the Transit Police, so reach out to your former classmates and friends and “Come on down” in 2011.

Louie Hollander

President Ed Russo stated: "I would like to thank all who attended the meeting and inform all others of the very successful affair. The attendance was outstanding as is all of our other meetings and events. The food was spectacular and never ending."

After the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for our departed fellow officers and Armed Forces, Ed Russo gave a short talk and was followed by Executive Secretary Harry Hassler who gave a benediction then introduced the Association's Police Surgeon, Dr. Douglas H. King, DDS.  Dr. King gave a humorous and entertaining talk to the membership as to his affiliations with various Police Departments throughout the City and the availability of his services to our members. He also mentioned a program being started with Interpol regarding dental recognition.  This program utilizes dental charts for the proper identification of persons who may be involved in major catastrophes.  He will be publishing this article in our next newsletter and when further details come out, we will inform our members.

Recording Secretary Mike Lanning was about to give his talk when a motion to waive the reading of minutes was passed from the floor.  Sorry, Mike, but we know you tried. But Mike did mention that there will be a memorial Mass for the late Past President Marty McKeon to be celebrated at St. Francis Hospital Chapel on Sunday, May 16th.  Contact Mike at mikedor2@aol.com for further details.

Next was the Treasurer's report by yours truly. Financially, the Association is in good shape and despite some members passing away, we still have been adding new members as recent retirees and even former officers who, for one reason or another, never joined or had left and now re-joined the organization.  To all, we welcome you aboard! I also took this opportunity to give praise to a few members of the board, notably our editor, Frank Crisa, for the hard work he put into the publishing of our largest ever newsletter issue, and to our Sgt-at-Arms Ed Wilko and his assistant, Dave Crean, for their untiring work dealing with the members coming to the meetings and the 50/50 tickets sold at the door. Thanks, 'fellas!

1st Vice President Ron Forte next spoke of the main topic of the meeting, the issuing of the Mets baseball game tickets for August 1st and...the recent acquisition of game tickets for the May 21st game between the NY Mets and the NY Yankees.  The 60 August game tickets were given free of charge to all paid members who had requested them and several were held off for the June meeting in The Bronx.  The 25 Mets - Yankees game tickets were offered at the $56 cost we paid for them through the Mets Organization. All this was done through the tireless efforts and connections of Ron Forte and to him we thank for his hard work. Well done, Ron.

President Russo then spoke of the need to increase the food charges at this and future meeting to cover the rising costs to the Association.. This evening, the charge was $15 for members and $20 for guests.  Similar increases will take place at the Brooklyn and Bronx meetings.  As for the meetings at the NY State FOP hall, it will still be free pizza and beverages.  Starting in 2011, as reported in the newsletter, the annual dues are to be increased to $30, a modest increase of $5 over the current fee, again to cover increasing costs.

Financial Secretary Ron DiMaio spoke of HR 218 and the availability of training and certification still being offered by Rockland County P.D.  It must be pointed out that this certification is not sanctioned by New York State and is not recognized by several states if you intend to carry a firearm across state lines.  You literally are taking a chance of being arrested and charged with unlawfully carrying a firearm, so make sure you know the consequences before you think of carrying.

Legislative Director Tony Piazza spoke of the ongoing efforts to achieve finalization of a bill to award the VSF to all eligible members of the Transit and Housing Police Departments.  With the close support of Sen. Andrew Lanza, Tony, along with Joe Rini and Phil Reilly, will be traveling to Albany on May 18th in an effort to take this legislation further along to completion. He also mentioned the letter (below) from Past Transit PBA President Bill McKechnie regarding the history of the efforts to get the VSF along the lines of "Parity."

FOP Lodge 317 President Joe McGarry spoke of the recent dinner dance commemorating the 15th Anniversary of the "Hostile Takeover" and thanked the Retirees Association for the support we gave to the affair. To all the 350 plus who attended, a commemorative "Challenge Coin" was given.  The photos below show the front and back of the coin with the first and last shoulder patches and the years in existence of the NYC Transit Police Department. If you are interested in purchasing one of these coins, please contact Tony Lomanto at alomanto@optonline.net  or Joe McGarry at fopeagle@aol.com .  The cost is $10 each and there is a limited supply.

The meeting was adjourned after the 50/50 prizes were awarded.

A memorable video put together by Ret. Sgt. Bill McMillen can be found on YouTube here:
YouTube - shield4754's Channel#p/a/u/0/TRWC3tY-wKI
and photos taken by our own Joe Conway can be found here: http://classic.kodakgallery.com/ipa2delegate

Lou Hollander sent this e-mail of his thoughts on the affair:

Kudos to Joe McGarry and his wife Kris for their hard work in  putting together another great affair. Over 350 people attended the 15^th anniversary of the Hostile Takeover that was held at Antun’s in Queens Village.  This was a very special time for me as I was honored as Transit Police Memorial Lodge FOP #317’s “Man Of The Year.”  I can’t begin to tell you how proud and honored I was to receive this honor.  I thank my wife Barbara, my son Lou, and all my friends who attended for sharing this honor with me.  FOP President Joe McGarry presented me with a plaque and my wife with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.  I was also presented a plaque from Ed Russo, President of the Retiree’s Association and a plaque from Ret. PO Henry Melchiona on behalf of the Melchiona family, friends & The Transit Police Family. The night started out with The New York Shields Pipes & Drum Band. Needless to say they preformed “Great.”  Louie Croce and Mike Fanning did a super job of emceeing. 

Once again I would like to say thank you to all who was there to share this honor with me.

Lou, it was a well deserved honor for all you do.  So stay well and take care and stick around for many more years to come.

Mr. Edward Russo
President, NYC Retired TPO Association
PO Box 345
East Rockaway, NY 11518-0345

Dear President Russo;

   It was a pleasure seeing and chatting with you the other night at the FOP 317, “Hostile Takeover Dinner”. While at the dinner, I was able to see so many old friends, some of whom I had lost contact with. When speaking to some, I became aware that my record in regards to the VSF/DB is totally misunderstood, and in fact over the years, may have been purposely distorted.

   I am writing with the hope that I can set the record straight and that you will be kind enough to reprint it in “Beyond the Line” so your members can at least hear my side of the story and make their own judgment.

   Let’s start by recognizing that had it not been for me and the members of my board, the Transit Police, in all likelihood, would never have received the VSF. Remember, at the time, the only bill vetoed more often than our VSF was the death penalty statute. Due in large measure to the relationship I enjoyed with Governor Cuomo in 1987, he agreed to sign our VSF into law.

   Secondly, from day one until the day I left office, it was our position that notwithstanding when the bill was signed into law, as a matter of parity, the VSF application was to start back to 1968. My record on this is clear and irrefutable. When Mayor Koch tried to force a merge, we insisted at that time that we receive a VSF back to 1968. After our bill was passed into law and we met with representatives of NYCERS, our date of implementation was stated as 1968.

    I do not wish to speak ill of the dead, particularly because the person is not here to defend himself, but it is my belief that the distortion of my record was a product of Mike Spadafora. Prior to Mike’s administration, the PBA always enjoyed a very good relationship with the Retirees Association.

    During his entire administration while I was still in office, he did nothing but try to poison members against us and distort the facts. On one occasion he actually set out to try and publicly embarrass the PBA and myself at a Retirees Association dinner. There are members on your board such as Tony Lomanto who can verify this. From that time forward I stated I would do all I could for our retirees but I would not deal or recognize the Association as long as Mike was president.

     Ed, as you know first hand from the day you were elected president, I have offered my services to help in any way you see fit. Obviously, because I no longer live in New York, I am somewhat limited in what I can do.

    Let me close by saying in the record for those who want to look at it should be patently clear as to who my administration intended to benefit from the VSF we got passed in the legislature. Our position then, and still is, one of parity.     What was done after I left office, I believe, was short sighted and wrong. The PBA, regardless of who was there, should have been one of parity. Nothing more and nothing less. They had an opportunity before agreeing to the merge to reinforce this and they did not. Thank You.

    Your friend
    Bill McKechnie

The italics are mine to emphasize important items in Bill's letter.  I can totally agree with Bill on the incident he speaks of that occurred at a Retirees Association affair held in Brooklyn, an incident that left me and the rest of the Executive Board in complete confusion. - Tony

Lately, several of our members have taken the time to write articles on the old days of the job and some items that pertain to the present day.  We appreciate the time and effort they have taken and we ask more of our members to participate in similar actions. So...all you members out there start writing or looking for old photos from the "good 'ol days' and send them in.  All I ask is that if you have a computer, please send any stories or articles as a Word document so we can just copy and edit if necessary.

Thanks to all our members and we hope you will enjoy this issue.  Any comments, please forward them to any board member.

The meeting started with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence for our departed fellow officers and Armed Services fighting overseas.  Pres. Ed Russo gave a brief talk about the Association's plans for the year and mentioned once again the upcoming dinner dance commemorating the 15th Anniversary of the "Hostile Takeover" on April 23rd and if interested in attending, to please get your payments in as soon as possible. Ed then turned the floor over to Joseph Tirone, Financial Advisor for the North Shore Financial Group, an office of Met Life.  Joseph and his fellow representatives spoke at length about Long Term Care Insurance and the benefits derived from the policy when care need costs can deplete one's savings in a rapid period of time.  Met Life also picked up a substantial cost of the food refreshments we enjoyed at this meeting and we do thank them.  If you are interested in purchasing such a policy or for any other financial needs, you can contact Joe at his office in Hauppauge at 631-851-5756 or e-mail at jtirone@metlife.com  They will be more than happy to assist you.

As we had no formal meeting in December, Recording Secretary Mike Lanning had no meeting minutes to read to the members.

Executive Secretary Harry Hassler spoke briefly about the prospect of Associate Membership status in the Association. In light of what other fraternal groups have, he feels this opening in the organization would help to increase the membership numbers.  Members on the floor commented as to the current by-laws stipulating membership status as to holding office and voting and since this proposed level of membership would not allow such actions, if passed, it would appear that at some time in the future, there would be more Associate members than regular or Lifetime members and this would dilute the true meaning of the Retirees Association.  Further discussions by the Board would have to take place before such a vote would go out to the membership.  Harry also spoke of the recent gathering of retirees on February 28th at the 40th Anniversary Memorial Mass of the death of P.O. Mike Melchiona.  Henry Melchiona thanked the Association for the support given and to all the members who attended.  He spoke of the total surprise and heartfelt feelings he and his family received at seeing such an outpouring of fellow officers attending the ceremony.

The Treasurer's report followed where I mentioned how financially secure the organization is at this time.  Despite the fact we spent more in 2009 than we actually took in shows how much we are giving back to the members. I also spoke of the very generous donations we have received over the years which indicates how much the members feel about the Association and the work we try to do for our fellow retirees.

1st VP Ron Forte spoke of the upcoming baseball season and the continuing membership benefit of giving out Mets baseball game tickets.  In that vein, Ron spoke of the special game to be played on Sunday, August 1st where the Mets Organization will honor two of their former and famous players, Darryl Strawberry and Dwight Gooden.  As in the past, tickets will first be offered free to dues paid members then any leftover tickets will go at cost to paid members requesting additional tickets for friends and family. We must insist that if you take a ticket and for some reason are unable to use it, that ticket must be returned to the Association so we may pass it on to someone else who may need it.  Failure to do so may result in future tickets being denied that member.  More information on this event will be posted as it is received by Ron.

Financial Secretary Ron DiMaio spoke of the continuing issues of HR 218 and the classes still being given by the Rockland County Police Department.  The cost is $50 for the first weapon and $40 for each additional weapon.  New York City is still against any issuing of permits for retirees.  Pennsylvania and New Hampshire still issue permits which are good in most, but not all, states so you might consider using their resources. For further information, contact Ron at 516-285-5703.

Legislative Chairman Tony Piazza spoke next on the ongoing VSF legislation.  Tony read a letter sent to Sen. Andrew Lanza by our dear friend and fellow retiree, Floyd Holloway, in which Floyd mentions in his past services to the Transit police officers as Vice President and Legislative Director of the Transit Police PBA, he was party to the 1971 negotiations followed by proposed legislation introduced in 1972 where Transit and Housing Police were given parity with NYPD and NYFD in regards to the Variable Supplement Fund/Defined Benefit. This is instrumental in countering the report by City Actuary Robert North where he states the proposed legislation is inconsistent with legislative intent. Floyd also mentions the fact the Transit Authority supported the benefit since 1972 and the fact it wasn't enacted until 1987 does not negate the original intent. Floyd also mentions the fact that this issue should have been taken care of in 1995 during the merger of the three departments. It was done through a Memorandum of Understanding instead of legislation and a lot of important issue were left unresolved. If it can be done, we will ask our Editor, Frank Crisa if he can insert the letters in the next issue now being put together.

Following the 50/50 drawing, Rabbi Harry Berkowitz treated us to his enjoyable humorous stories and a blessing to end the meeting.

The Association has made a $100 donation for P.O. Ellis.

Dear Friend
The MTA PBA will be sponsoring a Bone Marrow Recruitment Drive for Sgt. Mike Costanza of the MTA Police Department on February 27th from 11AM to 6PM in Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Terminal.  Mike has been diagnosed with Leukemia as a result of the many hours he spent at Ground Zero after the 9/11 attacks.

Mike has been with the MTA since 1999.  He is 34 years old, a husband and a father of two young boys, ages 6 and 3. Mike has been unable to be matched with a donor from any existing Bone Marrow Donor Database. He is very sick and this is his best chance for survival.

Each test costs $26 and you may sponsor as many tests as you like.  Please make your check or money order payable to the
Terry Farrell Marrow Program and mail it to the MTA PBA office, 76 S. Central Ave., Suite 1D, Valley Stream NY 11580, as soon as possible. All donations are tax deductible as the Terry Farrell Marrow Donor Program is a qualified 501(c)(3) organization.

Thank you in advance for your anticipated participation in this endeavor.

Sincerely,
Ray Gimmler, President

Attention Pensioners: You may have noticed a decrease in your net pension amount. This decrease is due to a change in federal tax withholding. Last year, tax tables were changed as a result of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (“Stimulus Bill”). The tax tables for 2010 have reverted back to the pre-stimulus tax tables.

Please notify our membership that there will be a special Mass for the 40th Anniversary of the death of Michael Melchiona who was killed in the line of duty on February 28, 1970.  At this mass there will be a roll call for all Transit Police officers killed in the line of duty.  The theme of the Mass will be the same as in 1970 ("The Impossible Dream").  The same homily will be read at the Mass and all who attended will remember how it touched all of us.  Mike's children (all grown up) will attend along with his brothers and sisters.  The New York Shields Bag Pipe Band will lead us across the street after the Mass for beverages and food.

The Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, February 28th at 2:00PM at
St. Joseph's RC Church
45 Church St
                                  Ronkonkoma NY 11779

For more information, please contact Hank at 631-467-6091 or hmelch@optonline.net

Henry request that if you are planning to attend this mass to please contact him ASAP so he will know how much food and beverages are needed

On February 28, 1970. at the 50th Street and Broadway station, Ptl. Melchiona encountered a male smoking in the men's room.  As Officer Melchiona was issuing a summons to the male, the culprit pulled a gun on Ptl. Melchiona and took the officer's weapon, then fled to the street.

Ptl. Melchiona gave chase even though he was unarmed.  As he approached the male at 50th Street and Broadway, the culprit turned and fired, killing Officer Melchiona.

Other police officers responding to the scene, shot and killed the culprit. Officer Melchiona left a wife, a 2 year- old-son and a month old daughter. Officer Melchiona's brother Henry, also a Transit Police Officer, retired in 1986.

From Lou Hollander:

Congratulations are most definitely in order to Tommy Strong & John Reeves.  As always they ran a “great” affair, brought old friends together and helped “Keep The Spirit Alive”.  The reunion and Thanksgiving Celebration was held at Antun’s of Queens on Tuesday, November 24th.  I was informed that this was the largest so far. I believe Tommy told me there were more than 300 people in attendance.  Also in attendance were former Chief’s of the Department Mike Ansbro, Bill Bratton, Mike O’Conner, and
Vincent Del Castillo.  Within the next 2 weeks I hope to post photo’s from the reunion on the NYCTP Florida Reunion Web Page.  

Louie Hollander

The NYCTP 2010 Florida Reunion will be held June 4-6, 2010 For more information and to make a reservation click HERE
 

From Honorary Member, Ret. Sgt. NCPD Kevin Matthews:

To Ed and all the great members of the NYC Transit Police Department,

I would like to thank John Reeves and Tom Strong for "planning and hosting" a great Transit Reunion Thanksgiving Party/Dinner at Antuns, Queens Village, on Tuesday (the 24th ).  I was honored to be there with so many great men and women of the Transit Police......you truly are a "brotherhood/sisterhood in blue."  Once Transit, always Transit.

John and Tom, count me in for the reunion next year.  I had a great time.  I enjoyed talking with Lou Hollander, Frank Crisa,
Joe McGarry, Harry Hassler and so many other guests.  I'm sorry if I didn't list all 300 plus attendees...I think I said "hello" to most of you.

I really enjoyed meeting my friends from over the years when I'd bring my father, Ray, to the meetings.  I loved hearing the "Ray" stories in person by many of his friends - as I previously said in an earlier posting, some stories I want to believe, others I don't want to believe!!!!  (Trust me, those stories stay with me - I'm not sharing them with my siblings - I feel Ray wanted me "only" to know the stories.) It was also great to meet many new friends that shared their prayers and thoughts for the Matthews' family.  Ray will be missed by many, many people; but I know especially by me, his best "buddy.'  

Thank you for allowing me to be an "Honorary Member of the Retired Transit Police Organization".  Count me in as a supporter, in any way that I can help any of our members. 

"And I miss him, the old man" (Phil Coulter).  Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year to everyone.

Kevin P. Matthews (Retired Sgt. Nassau County PD)

Frank Crisa, our Editor, took many photos at the Reunion,  They can be found here: http://share.shutterfly.com/share/received/welcome.sfly?fid=9481858f44442f7c&sid=8AZt2TVk0csme0

VERY GOOD INFORMATION

Here is something everyone should read and act accordingly. If you don't, you're hurting yourself and your email buddies.  Please read right to the bottom.

By now, I  suspect everyone is familiar with www.snopes.com and/or www.truthorfiction.com for determining  whether information received via email is just that: true/false  or fact/fiction. Both are excellent sites.

Advice from Snopes.com Very  important!
 
1) Any time you see an E-Mail that says  forward this on to '10' (or however many) of your friends, sign  this petition, or you'll get bad  luck, good luck, you'll see  something funny on your screen after you  send it, or whatever,  it almost always has an E-Mail tracker program  attached  that tracks the cookies and E-Mails of those folks you  forward  to.

The host sender  is getting a copy each time it gets  forwarded and then is able to get lists of 'active' E-Mail  addresses to use in SPAM E-Mails, or sell to other spammers.  Even when you get emails that demand you send the email on  if you're not ashamed of God/Jesus ....that's  E-mail tracking and they're playing on our conscience. These people don't care how they get your email addresses  - just as long as they get them. Also, emails that talk  about a missing child or a child with an incurable disease  -  "how would you feel if that was  your child"....E- mail Tracking!!!

Ignore them and  don't participate!

2) Almost all E-Mails that ask you to add your name and forward on to others are  similar to that mass letter years ago that asked people to send  business cards to the little kid in  Florida  who wanted to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most cards. All it was,  and all any of this type of E-Mail is, is a way to get names  and 'cookie' tracking information for telemarketers  and spammers - - to validate  active E-Mail accounts for  their own profitable purposes.

You can do your friends and family members a GREAT favor by sending this  information to them; you will be providing a service to your friends, and will be rewarded by not getting thousands of spam E-Mails in the future!

If you have been sending out (FORWARDING) the above kinds of E-Mail, now you  know why you get so much SPAM!
 
Do yourself a  favor and STOP adding your name(s) to those types of listings  regardless how inviting they might sound!....or make you feel  guilty if you don't!...it' s all about getting email addresses -nothing more!

You may think you are  supporting a GREAT cause, but you are NOT!
Instead, you will be  getting tons of junk mail later and very
possibly a virus  attached!  Plus, you are helping the spammers get
rich!  Let's not make it easy for them!

Also: E-Mail petitions are  NOT acceptable to White House, Congress or  any other  organization - i.e. social security, etc. To be acceptable, petitions must have a signed signature and full address of the  person signing the petition, so this is a waste of time and  you're just  helping the Email  trackers.
 
AND MOST IMPORTANT:... don't forget... delete other people's e-mail  addresses on your e-mails and when forwarding/sending use BCC:    You  will notice that the only name up top is yours and mine.

Louie Hollander

The NYCTP 2010 Florida Reunion will be held June 4-6, 2010 For more information and to make a reservation click HERE

Our first report from Recording Secretary Mike Lanning was 'shot down' by a motion from the floor to waive the reading of the last meeting's minutes after which Mike folded his hard worked report and sat down. We're not sure if that was a smile or sigh on Mike's face.

Executive Secretary Harry Hassler then reported on the proposal to amend the By-Laws to have an Associate Membership status included in the Association, similar to that in other fraternal law enforcement organizations.  Harry went on to explain the procedures involved which includes a membership vote on the floor at the next meeting in Brooklyn then if passed there, as it was by a majority at this meeting, the Executive Board will have to vote on it and if so passed, send it out to the full membership for their vote. The idea is to have a person who is favorably 'attached' to law enforcement be nominated by a member of this Association then presented to the Executive Board for approval.  That person, if accepted, would be required to pay dues but will not be allowed to vote or run for office. As a reminder at this time, full membership in this Association is open only to those officers who were appointed as a Transit Police Officer but who retired from either the Transit PD or NYPD.

In the Treasurer's report, I informed the membership that since the beginning of this year, we have had 39 new members joining the Association.  We now have a total of 1159 members - regular, Lifetime, and Honorary.  I further reported that our Editor, Frank Crisa, is putting the finishing touches on the next issue of "Beyond The Line" which we hope to get out in early November in time for the holidays.  I also pointed out that, prior to receiving the 2010 dues envelopes in January or earlier, members can use the application on the last page to send in their dues for 2010, as only paid members for 2009 will receive this new issue.

Financial Secretary Ron DiMaio spoke of the issues of gun control which this present administration appears to have plans to radically change, and perhaps, not for the better.  Regarding HR 218 - the Law Enforcement Carry Act - despite the passage of the law, many states still do not allow reciprocity or give training to comply with the law.  Ron pointed out that the Rockland County PD still offers a certification class for the permit and to contact them for details.

1st VP Ron Forte spoke of the benefits available to our military veterans at the various VA Hospitals with regards to prescription drugs and examinations and treatments. If interested, contact Ron or your nearest VA facility for complete benefits allowed.   Ron further reported that feedback from the members regarding the outings afforded paid members, such as the Mets games, are important for planning future events.  If you have any ideas that you feel other members may be interested in, please get back to Ron or any of the board members for consideration.

Legislative Chairman Tony Piazza spoke of the ongoing progress of the Variable Supplement Fund (VSF).  At present time, Sen. Andrew Lanza and Assemblyman Joseph Lentol have introduced the necessary bills in their respective legislative houses for the VSF for those eligible members unjustly denied the benefit. The City has maintained their cost factor of $12.9 Million based on 2008 figures which total more retirees than are actually still alive - 1200 Housing and over 2000 Transit.  Approximate counts these days are 467 Housing and 655 Transit, a definite decline in retirees and cost.  The bills will come up in the January, 2010 session.

Our dear friend, Joe McGarry, President of the Transit Police Memorial FOP Lodge 317, spoke to the membership and gave a heartfelt thank you to all who offered their condolences on the recent passing of his 14 year old son, Jimmy. 
Joe then mentioned the Lodge is sponsoring a "Turkey Bowl" on November 21st at the North Levittown Lanes with all proceeds going to the Lodge 317 Hardship Fund that offers scholarships and assistance to its members.  As to membership in the FOP, Joe brought out the benefits of membership include a $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment policy so if you are interested in joining, contact Joe or go to the FOP Lodge 317 web page link on our Links page. See the full details of the bowling and next membership meeting on the Meetings and Events page. Finally, Joe reported possible plans of having a 15th Year Dinner Party in April of 2010 in remembrance of the "Hostile Takeover." More on this as it develops.

Before the meeting adjourned, we had the 50/50 drawing that included several items our President offered in the form of hats, a Mets wristwatch and other 'goodies'.

After refreshments of pizza, beer and soda were served, President Ed Russo started the meeting with the pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for our sick and recently departed members and retirees and for our Armed Forces serving overseas. Ed then went on to thank the FOP for the use of their meeting hall which has shown an increased attendance at the meetings from our old location at the Queens VFW hall. He mentioned the highlight of this year being the Mets baseball game back in May with all the tickets purchased by the Association handed out to the paid members and then the few extras sold to members requesting them for family and friends.  Ed further informed our members of the installation of our new Association Surgeon, Dr. Douglas H. King, DDS.
Dr. King has informed Ed that he plans to attend an upcoming meeting to discuss his availability in assisting our members in their dental needs. To finish his report, Ed mentioned the annual Christmas Party on December 9th at Antun's which again will be given free to paid members and a nominal $25 charge for others.

Recording Secretary Mike Lanning informed the members present that because there was no quorum at the last meeting in
The Bronx, no minutes of that meeting were prepared.

1st Vice President Ron Forte spoke again of the successful Mets game attendance and the strong likelihood that we will again have such an event next year.  He further spoke to those members who are veterans of the Armed Forces on the availability of prescription services at the VA hospitals, the most expensive charge being $8 for a 30 day supply of a generic drug.

The Treasurer's report was next given by yours truly where I reiterated the strong financial standing of the Association and though we have lost several regular and Lifetime Members this year, we have also picked up several new members, notably some who have 'returned' from former membership and others who have joined for the first time. We welcome them all into this fine organization.

Financial Secretary Ron DiMaio spoke of the ongoing HR 218 issues regarding qualifications for permits.  Though New York State will not issue recognize them, training for the permit will still be available at the Rockland County Police Department.  Call that department or Ron DiMaio (number on back of card) for further details.

Executive Secretary Harry Hassler gave his report on the new issue of the Association possibly starting an Associate Member status.  It would be somewhat different from our current "Honorary" membership whereby such Associate member will be required to pay dues and receive benefits but will not be eligible to vote or run for office.  It is President Ed Russo's contention that in the next 10 or so years, most of our current members will be moved to Lifetime Membership status and since dues will no longer be required, the Association's financial status may be diminished to the point of being unable to afford some of the current expenses we now offer. Associate members may be submitted by a current paid member for approval of the Executive Board.  This all remains uncertain until the Constitution and By-Laws are changed with approval of the membership.

Legislative Committee member Tony Piazza gave his report on the ongoing issue of the VSF.  Although all bills are on hold due to the controversial legislative session earlier this year, Tony mentioned the strong support of State Sen. Andrew Lanza and Assemblyman Joseph Lentol on behalf of the eligible retired Transit and Housing Police Officers who do not get the VSF.  With the close connection of Mayor Bloomberg and Sen. Lanza, Tony feels very confident on our achieving success.

Ret. Sgt. John Reeves, along with Ret. DI Tommy Strong, passed out notices of the 209 Annual Thanksgiving Reunion to be held at Antun's on Tuesday, November 24th.  Full details can be found here.

Sgt-at-Arms Ed Wilko presided over the nomination of officers for the upcoming 2010-2011 term for the Executive Board.  With no opposition brought forth, the current board was nominated.  There will be more nominations at the next meeting if anyone is interested in running.

After the 50/50 drawing in which cash prizes and baseball style caps were awarded, the meeting was adjourned.

"Just wanted to share with you the honor that was bestowed on me at the NYS Association of PBA'S convention last week in Atlantic City , NJ"

Congratulations, Floyd, for an honor that you so well deserve for all you have done in helping the law enforcement communities in New York State and the nation. - Tony

And from Lou Hollander:

The meeting at Antun's started with a grand buffet which never stopped with the food coming out in trays so no one would claim to have left the meeting and still be hungry. After this, the meeting started with the membership standing for the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for our departed fellow retirees and those on the "Sick List" and for our armed forces serving in harm's way.

President Russo then spoke of the upcoming events, in particular, the Mets baseball game against the Atlanta Braves scheduled for May 13th at the new Citi Field Stadium and that this year being an election year, any member in good standing is urged to run for office if they so choose.

Recording Secretary Mike Lanning had the reading of the previous meeting's minutes waived but mentioned the special Memorial Mass for our late Past President, Marty McKeon, which will take place at the St. Francis Hospital chapel on Saturday, May 16th at 8:15AM (details below).

In the Treasurer's report, I reported having sent out 165 letters to all the Lifetime Members in an effort to get any updates in their personal data, such as a change in beneficiary for the Death Benefit.  Past experience necessitated this mailing as we have had recent mailings returned and later research discovered several of our Lifetime Members had been deceased for as many as 5 years and no notifications were made to the Association.  I also mentioned that since the beginning of this year, the Association has increased by several new members, some who retired in the past few years and a few others who retired over 25 years ago but for whatever reasons, never joined.  We welcome all these new members and urge them to continue to keep "Transit" alive and ongoing into the future. Finally, I mentioned our editor Frank Crisa has started the latest issue of our newsletter which we hope to put out towards the end of May.  Anyone wishing to submit stories or photos should contact Frank or myself.

First Vice-President Ron Forte spoke on the 50 Mets game tickets the Association purchased for PAID members.  This annual event has garnered so much praise that Ron (and the Association) cannot stop this or otherwise face the consequences. Ron started issuing the tickets during the meeting and by the end, had either given away or sold all the tickets.  Well done, Ron!

Financial Secretary Ron DiMaio spoke on the HR 218 issue regarding certification.  He mentioned that the Rockland County Police Department is still issuing certificates upon completion of the required firearms course.  For further details, please contact Ron at 516-285-5703.

Executive Secretary Harry Hassler spoke of his recent visit to Ret. P.O. Billy Martin in upstate NY.  If you don't remember the incident, Bill suffered massive head and body injuries back in April 20,1981, when he attempted to wake up a vagrant at 2AM at the Second Ave. station in lower Manhattan. The assailant (later arrested) used Bill's nightstick to beat him up. Harry also mentioned how the Association honored Bill with a plaque and a Lifetime Membership for what he went through. Thankfully, Bill is still around and would love to hear from his former fellow officers. This whole chain of events started when Harry came across several photos of a District 4 roll calls with Billy and others at formation. You can read the entire story on the "Keeping in Touch" page. Nice work, Harry!

Tony Piazza, our quasi Legislative Director, got up and spoke of the recent meetings with legislators regarding the VSF Benefit.  With the strong backing and support of State Senator Andrew Lanza, we await the formal introduction of bills that hopefully will finally award those of us who were unjustly denied this benefit.  The bills await the financial figures from City Actuary North.

After the 50/50 drawing, the meeting was adjourned.

President Ed Russo opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance led by our esteemed octogenarian, Lifetime Member Sgt. Ray Matthews,  followed by a moment of silence for our recent departed members of the force and for our Armed Forces serving overseas.  On a side note, Ray will be 88 on March 29th, so a Happy Birthday to you, Ray, from all of us in the Association.

Ed then introduced the Association's newest Board member, Ret. Capt. Harry Hassler as our Executive Secretary.  Harry spoke of his desire to give all he can to help the Association in any of its' endeavors. Best wishes, Harry, and welcome to the Executive Board.  We know you will be a helping hand to the Association.

In my Treasurer's Report, I spoke of the current dues payments that are well ahead of the same time period last year.  The Association has gained a few new members from both recent retirees and from a few who retired back in the 80s and 90s and either are joining for the first time or returning from a previous membership.  Welcome aboard!

Recording Secretary Mike Lanning had no minutes from the last meeting as it was our Holiday Party.  He did speak of one of our newest Honorary members, P.O. Tom Greer, Jr. of the Nassau County PD Highway Unit.  Tom is the son of the late P.O. Tom Greer, Sr., who passed away last year. Tom has a small business with a friend who produces shirts with logos such as Transit, Retirees Association, etc. that can be made available to the membership.  He will bring in some samples at our next meeting in May.

Our first guest speaker, Ret. Sgt. Larry Lombardo, spoke on the membership of the Knights of Columbus and extends a welcome for anyone wishing to join this historic organization.  Membership is open to men 18 years and older and for the Columbiettes, women also 18 years or older. You can e-mail Larry at larry451@optonline.net or for more membership information, you can contact the K of C at kofcmembership@gmail.com  Larry also spoke of the fact that accidental disability retirees from the Transit Police Department are entitled to free prescription drugs related to the injury from the Transit Authority and if your time was used while out on Compensation, you should be paid for that time.  This is as a result of the "Jefferson hearing" and was the subject of a court case titled "Jefferson vs. The Bronx Psychiatric Hospital.".  You may contact Larry for further information on these subject also.

Our second speaker, Ret. P.O. Henry Melchiona, thanked the membership and all concerned who sent notes to Mike and his family on the recent 39th Anniversary of the shooting death of his brother, P.O. Mike Melchiona.  Mike mentioned that next year, 2010, will be the 40th Anniversary and a special ceremony will take place commemorating that tragic event. All details of the event will be posted when they are finalized.

On the legislative front, Ret. P.O. Tony Piazza spoke of the current legislation being formulated for the VSF Legislation.  Along with Ret. Housing P.O. Joseph Balzano, legislation with the support of State Sen. Andrew Lanza has been introduced in the State Assembly.  The team is awaiting the figures from our newest actuary to compare with those of the City Actuary, John North.  Our VSF team wants to make sure the figures are not the same as had been introduced many years ago.  With the ongoing loss of Transit and Housing retirees denied the benefit, there is no way the cost can be as much as it would have been had we been granted the VSF many years ago.  Tony and Joe also are planning to meet with Diane Stavino, the new Chairperson of the Government Employees Pension Committee, who took over from Sen. Lanza after the last elections.  We can only be optimistic as to the passing of these bills and when the bill numbers come out, it will be up to you, the membership, to push for the successful end to our long fight.

After the 50/50 drawing, the meeting was adjourned.

After the party goers satisfied their appetites with the sumptuous buffet and libations, President Ed Russo led the group with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence for our departed fellow officers and friends and for our Armed Service men and women serving in harm's way.

Ed then reported to the members of the retirement from office of our 1st Vice President, John Regan and presented John a plaque for his outstanding devotion and service to the Association.  John will be missed, especially for his time and efforts to get the VSF for those denied the benefit.

Because of John leaving, the Executive Board will be re-organized to reflect the following changes starting January 1, 2009:
Ron Forte will now be the 1st Vice President, Pat Collins will be the 2nd Vice President and Harry Hassler will now be the Executive Secretary. 

After the 50/50 drawing was completed, many members remained to continue talking of their good times from the job with fellow officers, many of whom haven't been seen in years.

Photos of the event taken by Frank Crisa may be seen by clicking on the following link:
http://www.kodakgallery.com:80/ShareLanding.action?c=4xwi1vu7.bmts1nqb&x=0&y=tk45sz&localeid=en_US&cm_mmc=site_email-_-site_share-_-core-_-view_photos_button

Just click on this link:  http://www.kodakgallery.com/ipa2delegate/main/nyc_retired_transit_police_officer_s_a01