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Retired Police & Firemen's Association of Essex County, New Jersey, Inc.

The "Retired Policemen & Firemen's Association" was formed by retired Policemen and Firemen with the common interests, pooling their resources and time for the benefit of all.  It was organized on February 18, 1937.  On November 3, 1937, we were incorporated as the "Retired Policemen and Firemen's Association, Inc."  Then on October 10, 1938, the corporation was amended, and the present organization was formed." The Retired Policemen and Firemen's Association of Essex County, N.J., Inc.  The "New Jersey State Retired Policemen and Firemen's Association" (which is a spin-off of the Essex County organization) was formed on December 11, 1952, and on November 24, 1964, it was incorporated.

We meet once a month on every second Tuesday.  The meeting begins at 1:00pm, at the Springfield Elks Lodge #2004, located at 80 Springfield Ave., Springfield Township, NJ.

Members sign in at the Sgt. Of Arms desk.  We require a $2.00 fee that pays for the libation and hit dogs that we all enjoy over conversations of the times that once were.

Additionally, four (4) times a year we have a catered meeting/parties.  In March we celebrate St. Patrick's Day.  In July we have a picnic for Independence Day, October we celebrate Columbus Day and in December we have a Holiday celebration.  For these functions a $5.00 fee is collected.  In September we have our Annual Kenneth C. Melchior Picnic at the Union Elks.  At this event we usually have over 100 members.  The cost is $25.00 prepaid or at the gate.  There are door prizes and a couple of 50/50's.  On the menu you'll find Kielbasa & Kraut, Sausage and Peppers (hot & sweet), Hot Dogs and Burgers.  Salads, beans and clams on the half shell.  Beer and more beer, there is also a cash bar.  And a whole lot of reminiscing and BS, and of card games. 

You will also receive "The Gazette," our newsletter published 4 times a year.