The National Retired and Active Federal Employees Association is the driving force, which continues to fight for retirement benefits established by the U.S. Congress. Currently Congress is continuing negotiations over the 2014 budget, sequestration and the debt ceiling.

A congressional committee is currently considering a move of determining annual cost-of-living adjustments by a new method, which will result in a lower cost of living allowance and hurt seniors who are already facing increased living expenses.

It is estimated the average Civil Service Retirement System annuitant will lose $48,000 during his or her retirement years under the new proposal.

The Lehigh Valley NARFE Chapter 1371 is a local source of help for all active and retired Federal workers who are interested in protecting their benefits. If you are a Federal retiree and are concerned about your future retirement, contact Marie Nader, membership chair, at 610-231-0237 and join the local chapter, which meets monthly in Allentown.

NARFE national headquarters are located at 606 N.Washington St. Alexandria, Va. 22314. The telephone number is 703-838-7760.