Dear Fellow Retired Sergeant,
I would like to welcome an early Spring. This symbolizes the return of our snowbirds. On a positive note: On January 24, 2024, the RSA held our Florida General Meeting on the Westcoast in Punta Gorda, Florida. A special thanks to our National Secretary Thomas King for securing the location. The event was a great success, once again we were met with an overwhelming attendance. In attendance were the SBA, two former Deputy Commissioners, Presidents and Board members from 10-13’s, FOP’s and the Retired Lieutenants Association.
We continue to work very closely with all active and fraternal police organizations. We recently donated toys to the Ronald McDonald House, for the families who have children battling cancer. We were joined by the SBA, Police Women’s Endowment, Nassau County PD, 105 Precinct and FOP Lodge 69. Also present was Sean Landeta, two time Super Bowl Champion with the NY Giants who entertained the children, parents and staff. It was a very emotional and rewarding day.
A big shout out to the membership for all the donations that we have received. I wish I could list each and every one of you but I would need to publish a separate Newsletter. Approximately 50% of our membership make a voluntary donation. These are very helpful in running the organization effectively. I have mentioned previously that all other organizations are raising dues but we will not. Please, take the time to purchase JetBlue tickets, these raffles also help offset the operational costs. Additional JetBlue raffles can be obtained by emailing us at: rsa@rsanypd.org.
I’m sure we have all seen the video of two cops being kicked and punched while attempting to make a lawful arrest. This is so disturbing to watch. Back in the day, we were able to police the streets of NYC. Today, the men and women in blue have their hands cuffed and are not supported by City Hall. We need to change the political climate. ST. MICHAEL, please pray and watch over our police officers and all law enforcement.
The Board is currently working with the NYPD Health and Welfare Section in regards to conducting welfare checks for our older members. Our membership ranges from age 32 to 104. We receive many non-job related phone calls. Please remember our phone lines are open to our members daily. We have also received numerous phone calls and emails in regards to turning 65 and collecting Social Security. Please see article in Newsletter and retain a copy for your records.
On January 31, 2024, I had the pleasure of being invited to an event to honor our Department Chaplains. Please remember they are a great resource. We are fortunate enough to have Monsignor Romano as our organization’s Chaplain. I cherish his friendship and guidance.
The RSA 2nd annual Fishing Trip will be held on April 3rd, in Clearwater Florida. So far, the S.S. Minow is near capacity. There is no cost for our members other than a $10 registration fee. We believe that social events are important to an involved, effective, and successful fraternal organization. This is why we have added the Florida fishing trip and a New York Golf Outing. We will continue to have events throughout the year. Please feel free to contact us with any ideas.
On April 17, 2024, we will hold our General Meeting in Staten Island. It will be held at A Taste of Honey at Nansen Park @ 6:30PM. Please come and join us.
I want to thank departing Trustee Joe Santiago for his six years of dedicated service to this Board, enjoy your new coaching career. I would like to welcome Retired Sergeant John Schwartz as our new Trustee. As a retiree, John assists the NYPD with the walk-out retirements. He will be a great asset to the RSA Board. If any member is interested in joining the board as a Trustee or volunteer, please contact us.
I want to say “THANK YOU” to the membership, the Board, the SBA and all the people who make this organization great. We are proud to serve you, but it takes all 4000 of us to make this work. Stay Safe and Stay Healthy.
Fraternally,
Robert Cotumaccio
President
