Order your department's Agency Logo Items through R&W!!! We can provide top quality
merchandise at great prices, for NIH and NOAA quantity logo items.
For quotes and samples call Homaira at 301-496-4585 or email hamidh@ors.od.nih.gov.

R&W Newsletter Editor: David Browne
Contact Number: R&W Office 301-496-6061
E-Mail: nihrw@ors.od.nih.gov

February 2012

February Calendar

 This March the Circus Is “Fully Charged”

15th Annual Children’s Premiere Night
With Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
Benefiting the NIH Children’s Charities

Mark your calendars because this very special show is back again!!!  Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® and the NIH/NOAA R&W invites Children of All Ages to join the Ringling Bros. team in the ALL-NEW, ALL-LIVE 141st Edition of The Greatest Show on Earth!  Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® comes to the Verizon Center on Wed., March 14th, with Fully Charged, where megawatts of thrills explode off of the arena floor with breathtaking dare-devilry, superhuman stunts and never-before-seen performances that energize the audience.  With a spark of pure imagination and a powerhouse of performers, The Greatest Show on Earth brings power to the people in the most electrifying edition ever of Ringling Bros.® celebrating performance power that boosts circus-goers excitement and is sure to get you and your family fully charged!  Nothing says “Think Big” more than elephants.  This 100,000 pounds of fun is a breathtaking parade of power and a giant display of agility.  Where others see danger, Tabayara sees family. Sparks will fly as the electrifying and danger-loving Danguirs dazzle you with an intense display of bravery while challenging the balance of power between endurance and gravity.  Prepare to be captivated as this high-voltage high-wire adventure hums with excitement and buzzes with energy.  When it’s time to “pump up the energy” the Stiltwalkers will flip, fly and slam-dunk their way through a fast paced basketball game and the Big Bike Act will display unique acrobatics combining precision timing, feats of athleticism, and comical high jinks in a one-of-its-kind performance.  Excitement takes an extraordinary turn to new heights as the fearless Fernandez Brothers generate hair-raising thrills and spine-tingling stunts on the Twin Turbines of Steel.  Feel the velocity and the momentum as the energy builds throughout this high-speed, turbo-charged synchronized spectacle!  Spirits soar and adrenaline surges as the show takes to the air in a high-flying extravaganza of aerial flare!  Just when you think you’ve reached maximum capacity for thrills, chills, and laughs, the performers pull out all the stops to deliver a finale that gives the audience new-found energy, memories to last a lifetime and that has left everyone Fully Charged. 

Your escape from the everyday begins one hour before show time when you make your way to the arena floor.  The FREE All-Access Power Up Pre-Show, allows families to interact with the stars, mingle with an amazing group of acrobats, aerialists, animals, clowns, jugglers and more.  There’s so much the Pre-Show has to offer and the show hasn’t even started!  So grab your cotton candy and be prepared to be whisked away into a whirlwind of action and adventure.  Join us for the 15th Annual Children’s Premiere Night hosted by the NIH R&W, benefiting the NIH Charities on Wednesday, March 14th at 7pm with the FREE Pre-Show at 6pm.  You won’t hear about this on the radio or television because this night is only for special invitees from the NIH R&W…and you and your friends and family are invited!!   This event is a fundraiser for the NIH Charities and is a wonderful opportunity for the R&W to provide a magical evening to many special needs children in the local metro area.  Over the years, with your help, we have treated over 25,000 deserving children to the circus.  The NIH R&W has a goal to fill the entire Verizon Center with friends and family, so we need your help.  Pass the word along to all your friends and family and have them join you for this special evening.  You can only experience this current of excitement at Ringling Bros. Fully Charged! Tickets available include Circus Celebrity - front row/interactive seating where you become part of the show $80 (reg. $110), Front Row $55 (reg. $75), VIP $40 (reg. $55), Section 111 & 112 (best seats) $24 (reg. $35).  Purchase your ticket for high-voltage fun at the R&W Activities Desk in Bldg. 31 Rm. B1W30 or call 301-496-4600.  Orders can be placed for tickets at any R&W store.  Don’t delay…we have the best seats in the house for this special R&W hosted evening, but they won’t last long!  We’ll see you at the circus!

Visit Our New Travel Portal!!!

 Join The R&W LISTSERV

Are you interested in R&W programs but don’t always have time to read the newsletter or website? What about all the special the R&W offers in between print dates of the paper? Well now, the R&W will be able to email you right at your desk about upcoming events, R&W store specials, vendor discount programs, travel opportunities, special ticket offers, early bird offers and much more. Anyone is welcome to join including NIH employees, contractors, family members, and friends (and you don’t have to be a member of the R&W to be on the listserv email program). If you would like to join the listserv, visit https://list.nih.gov/archives/r_w_assoc_list-l.html . Just “join the list” with your name and email and the information will begin to flow. If you are having trouble adding your name to the list, email nihrw@ors.od.nih.gov  and we will assist you. We look forward to your participation. Please note, all new R&W members will be placed on the List serv.

Monster Jam at 1st Mariner Arena

SUNDAY!  SUNDAY!  SUNDAY!  USHRA Monster Trucks including Grave Digger®, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Brutus, Spike, Stone Crusher, Monster Magic, XXX, and Mountaineer roll into the 1st Mainer Arena in Baltimore on Sunday, February 26th at 2pm.  They’ll race, freestyle and tear up the yards of dirt that’ll fill the arena floor.  The energy will be high, the sound will be loud, and most importantly, The Trucks will be huge!  R&W has tickets for $20 (Adult) and $15 (Child) and tickets come with Pit Party Passes.  To order tickets stop by any R&W store or call the Activities Desk at 301-496-4600.

Disney’s Beauty & the Beast

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress.  If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out.  If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.  Featuring the animated film’s Academy Award®-winning score, Beauty and the Beast has played in front of 35 million people in 13 countries and now you can see the show at the National Theatre.  The R&W has Orchestra tickets for $82.50 on Thursday, June 21st at 7:30pm.

Focus on You Wellness Lecture Series
February Heart Health Month

Join us at Bldg. 45, Conference Room G1/G2 from 1pm - 2pm on Thursday, February 16th in observance of February Heart Health Month with Ms. Janet DeJesus, M.S. R.D. Nutritionist National Heart Lung and Blood Institute to discuss heart healthy tips.  The session will be videocast live and archived at: http://videocast.nih.gov.  The seminar series is sponsored by the Office of Research Services, Division of Amenities and Transportation Services Wellness Program and the NIH Health and Wellness Council.  For further info please contact Chris Gaines at 301-451-3631 or gainesc@mail.nih.gov

 Buy NIH Logo Merchandise Online

You can find many of the popular logo items that we carry in our stores online at www.recgov.org/nihshop.  Don’t see something or have a suggestion for items we should carry in-store or online?  Contact Homaira Hamid at hamidh@mail.nih.gov and give your suggestion.

They’re Creepy, They’re Cooky,
Mysterious and Spooky
and Coming to the Kennedy Center

The smash-hit musical comedy, The Addams Family, which brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and, of course, Lurch to spooky and spectacular life, comes to the Kennedy Center this summer.  The show’s original story is every parent's nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become a young woman, and what's worse, has fallen deliriously in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. Yes, Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has a "normal" boyfriend, and for parents Gomez and Morticia, this shocking development will turn the Addams house downside up.  The R&W has Orchestra seating for the Sunday, July 15th showing at 1:30pm for $89.  Come meet the family. They'll leave the lights off for you…

R&W Store Spotlight:
Executive Plaza South

The R&W store in the Executive Blvd complex is located at 6120 Executive Blvd, Rm. 150C and is open from 9am – 3:45pm, Monday – Friday.  Select from a variety of NIH logo items and gift items that are perfect for all occasions.  This store also carries a variety of different snack foods and lunch options.  Customers can also order tickets, please allow a day or two for delivery, and purchase movie tickets at a discounted price.  If you have questions regarding store merchandise please call the store at 301-402-4331.


For a Discount use the code "GA29953"

2012 R&W Preferred
Memberships Now On Sale!

Did you know…All NIH & NOAA employees, contractors and their families are eligible to become Preferred R&W Members?  For $7 per year, preferred members have access to discounted tickets (entertainment, sporting events, children’s shows, etc.), movie rentals, discounted dry cleaning, gift items, fitness center programs and classes, recreational clubs, community discounts and much more.  To sign up, stop by any R&W store, or complete the form at www.recgov.org, click NIH, click membership and mail it with a $7 check payable to R&W.  Mail to: R&W Attn: Membership, Building 31, Rm. B1W30.  Upon receipt we will send you a membership guide, along with a membership sticker/card.  If you are renewing, please remember your current membership will expire December 31st of this year.  Renew at any store but remember to hold onto your red plastic membership card.  Each year we will give you a new valid sticker for your card.  You will be charged a fee for a replacement card.  Additional contributions to support the R&W mission are appreciated. For the latest news on R&W events, tickets and more sign up for the R&W ListServ at https://list.nih.gov/archives/r_w_assoc_list-l.html

. 

It’s Time to Ring
In the New Year…2012 Is Here!

The R&W serves as an employee-service organization that provides affordable, top-quality and well-directed services and programs that are diversified, beneficial, and focused on enhancing the health and well-being of the NIH staff, patients, their families, and the NIH and NOAA communities.  We have multiple gift shops as well as three Fitness Centers located on and off the NIH campus.  Our goal is for you to have fun, make new friends, save money and hopefully create experiences that you will remember throughout the year.  The R&W is here to serve you, whether it is to relieve stress, obtain a discount, or to provide an opportunity for you to participate in one of our programs.  We want to listen, and be attentive to your needs, so feel free to email schoolsr@mail.nih.gov if you find a new program or service that will benefit your fellow employees.  

                As we begin 2012, we would like to take a moment to thank you.  We appreciate all of the time and talent that many of you have given to us throughout the year.  The year 2012 will be the 67th year of R&W and as an organization, we are rich in service to others, providing not only assistance to others off campus, at organizations like Bethesda Cares, but also assistance to three charities on the campus of NIH, Children’s Inn at NIH, Special Love-Camp Fantastic, and Friends of the Clinical Center.  These charities serve patients in their time of need.  The charities assist the families with their recreational and entertainment needs as well as providing comfort while they are undergoing treatment for their illnesses.  Last year the Children’s Inn served over 1,500 families, who stayed for 14,541 nights and since it opened in 1990, over 10,000 families have stayed there.  Special Love-Camp Fantastic, this year, celebrated its 29th anniversary, and serves over 400 children per year from medical centers in the Mid-Atlantic States.  Friends of the Clinical Center, continues to give $50,000 to $100,000 per year assisting patients with their emergency needs while they are undergoing treatment at the NIH Clinical Center.

                This year will also mark the 16th anniversary of our partnership with Comcast in the production of our Outdoor Film Festival which over the years has had over 715,000 attendees at our movie sites.  In addition to the movie festival, the R&W coordinates events such as the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus Premiere Night, in which we partner with the Easter Seals.  Each year we treat over 4,000 children, who normally would not have an opportunity to visit the circus.  Other R&W events include the Health’s Angels Halo Chase, the RecGov.org Fair, the Redskins Celebrity Golf Tournament, led by former Redskins’ player Mark Moseley, the NIH Farmers Market, the NOAA Fish Fry, the NIH Institute Relay, Back to Bethesda, the Bethesda Row Arts Festival, CFC events on and off the campus, and the NIH Research Festival with the Food and Music Festival.  In 2012 we look forward to giving leadership to the USA Science and Engineering Expo which will be held at the Washington Convention Center on April 28 and 29th.      

For R&W news all year long visit www.recgov.org, then click NIH, pick-up the monthly R&W Newsletter and join our ListServ at https://list.nih.gov/archives/r_w_assoc_list-l.html .

                The R&W board, staff, and our volunteers in leadership positions hope 2012 will be a special year for you and your families.  We thank you for your support and wish you well.  

 

Holiday Music**Holiday Music**Holiday Music

Manchester String Quartet

Concerts in Building 10

Please join us for the twentieth seasonal performance of the Manchester String Quartet.  The concerts are free and begin at 12:30pm in the Masur Auditorium, Bldg 10.  Future concert dates include:

Monday, February 6
Monday, March 12
Monday, March 19
Monday, April 16

This series is made possible by The Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences (FAES).  Please contact Sharon Greenwell at 301-496-4713 or email sg115f@nih.gov for reasonable accommodation needs.

A WINNter Affair to Benefit

The Children's Inn at NIH

 

You're invited to the Young Ambassadors Council's 1st annual fundraiser, A WINNter Affair, Saturday, February 25th, from
8pm – midnight, at Halcyon House, 3400 Prospect Street, NWWashington, DC 20007.  Don't miss this fun night of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and dancing with live music by The Winn Brothers Band!  Party the night away, with fellow Young Ambassadors and friends of The Inn, to celebrate the first year of the Young Ambassadors Council and to raise needed funds to support The Inn's mission and programs.  You can purchase tickets online at www.childrensinn.org.  If you have questions or would like to learn more, contact Lauren Conte at contele@mail.nih.gov or 301-451-9461.  We hope to see you there!

 

New Recruitment Season for Management Interns

The NIH Training Center is pleased to announce the new recruitment season for Management Interns (MIs).  The MI Program is a highly competitive, two-year administrative management career development program for current NIH employees.  MIs come from a variety of job backgrounds including both scientific and administrative.  Upon completion of the program, MIs transition into an administrative management career in one of many areas throughout the NIH enterprise; many MI graduates go on to hold top-level leadership positions at the NIH.  The new MI Program recruitment announcement opens February 24th and closes March 19th.  Current GS-7 through GS-12 NIH employees are invited to apply.  For program FAQs, details about eligibility, the MI selection process, and upcoming information sessions, visit: www.jobs.nih.gov/intern/mi.html.

 

Give the Gift of Health and Fitness

With the holidays approaching, you've probably got gift-giving on your mind.  Stumped over what to get your colleague, friend or relative?  If they have expressed interest in getting healthy or already have an established fitness routine, then a gift certificate to the NIH Fitness Center is perfect!  Who doesn’t want to look better, feel better, and be healthier?  Gift Certificates may be purchased for any amount.  Stop by either Fitness Center today to purchase a gift certificate or call 301-496-8746 for more information.

Get a Head Start on College Savings!

March 13th - Bldg. 31 Rm. 2
March 27th - Rockledge II Rm. 9100/9104
All seminars will be held 12pm – 1pm

SAVE HERE.  GO ANYWHERE!  It’s never too early or too late to start saving for college.  The College Savings Plans of Maryland is the easy, affordable and smart way to save for your child's education at nearly any college in the nation.  The College Savings Plan of Maryland offers two distinct and flexible plans that will help Maryland parents, grandparents, and family friends give their favorite student a head start.  Also, they’re the only 529 plans that offer a Maryland State income deduction for Maryland taxpayers.  Maryland Prepaid College Trust - lock in future college tuition rates at today’s prices, and is backed by the security of a Maryland Legislative Guarantee.  Enrollment is open through April 2, 2012.  Maryland College Investment Plan - managed and underwritten by T. Rowe Price, the plan offers a variety investment options, with no sales commissions or loads, and enrollment is open year-round.  Use one or choose both; as little as $25 per month can get you started today.  Remember, it’s never too early or late to have a plan.  Can’t make the on-site presentation?  Try an informational webinar on March 13th or March 30th.  You can join from your desk or at home as long you have both telephone and internet access.  For information on registering for the webinars, visit www.collegesavingsmd.org/webinar.  We hope you can attend one of the information sessions in person or online!


Use Promo Code "Recgov11" for a 10% Discount!

 

Save On Your Bill - Get Cool Equipment

2012 R&W Seminar Series

 Insure the One You Love – February 14th – 12pm – 1pm – Bldg. 31A Rm. 2 – What do love and life insurance have in common? More than you might realize. The motivation behind purchasing life insurance is love: We buy it because we love people and want to protect them financially. Think of it as the ultimate act of enduring love.  RSVP to: First Command potomacdistrict@firstcommand.com or 703-418-9360.

Can a Roth IRA Help You Be Prepared for a Confident Retirement? – April 3rd – 12pm – 1pm – Bldg. 31A Rm. 2 -

Ameriprise Financial presents, Why a Roth IRA, Why Now?  A confident retirement doesn’t just happen. This informative seminar could help you: cut through the clutter and decide if a Roth conversion is right for you, understand the value of balancing taxable with tax-free income in retirement, and take full advantage of all the benefits of a Roth conversion while avoiding common pitfalls.  Find out which factors to consider before choosing a Roth Conversion.  Join us to see if this strategy can work for you!  This seminar will be presented by Brian W Thoms CFP®, CRPC® Financial Advisor Associate Vice President. RSVP to Crystal Rivers at 240-314-4336 or crystal.d.rivers@ampf.com.  

Sign Language Interpreters will be provided.  Individuals with disabilities who need reasonable accommodation to participate in this event should contact Kallie Wasserman 301-496-6061 or wassermankt@mail.nih.gov and/or the Federal Relay 1-800-877-8339 5 days in advance

Orioles and Nationals Ticket Sale

Batter Up!  It’s that time of year again!  The R&W will once again offer tickets to the Baltimore Orioles and Washington Nationals.  Orioles’ tickets will go on sale Tues., March 6th in Bldg. 31, Rm. B1W30 (outside the R&W gift shop) at 8am.  Available will be two regular season tickets (2 seats behind first base – Section 14BBB seat 7-8).  You may buy one set of tickets the first time through the line.  After the initial line ends you may come back through again to purchase additional tickets.  Arrive early to get in line if you have a particular game in mind.  Nationals’ tickets will be on sale on Thursday, March 8th in Bldg. 31 Rm. B1-W30 (outside the R&W Gift Shop) at 8am.  We will have 2 seats in Section 219 Row D.  The process to purchase tickets will be the same…line up outside of Bldg. 31 for sales beginning at 8am.  Remember, you must be a Preferred 2012 R&W member to purchase tickets.  Have your card and ‘12 sticker on hand to purchase your tickets.  R&W preferred memberships can also be purchased at the time you purchase your tickets.  Membership is $7 for the year.

Cirque Du Soliel: Michael Jackson
THE IMMORTAL World Tour

This May, Cirque Du Soleil, comes to the 1st Mariner Arena in Baltimore with Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour.  This show is a riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael's creative world and literally turns his signature moves upside down. The show unfolds Michael’s artistry before the eyes of the audience.  Aimed at lifelong fans as well as those experiencing Michael's creative genius for the first time, the show captures the essence, soul and inspiration of the King of Pop, celebrating a legacy that continues to transcend generations.  THE IMMORTAL World Tour takes place in a fantastical realm where we discover Michael's inspirational Giving Tree - the wellspring of his creativity.  The secrets of Michael's inner world are unlocked - his love of music and dance, fairy tale and magic, and the fragile beauty of nature.  The underpinnings of THE IMMORTAL World Tour are Michael Jackson's powerful, inspirational music and lyrics - the driving force behind the show—brought to life with extraordinary power and breathless intensity.  Through unforgettable performances Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour underscores Michael’s global messages of love, peace and unity.  The R&W has a limited amount of tickets in the 100 and 200 levels for the shows on Saturday, May 5th at 8pm and Sunday, May 6th at 4pm. 

Cookies and Goodies Needed

Valentine’s Day
 February 14th, 5:30 pm

Cookies and goodies are needed for the Clinical Center monthly party!  If you are interested in contributing some goodies for the party please deliver the items to the R&W office in Bldg. 31, Rm. B1W30 or the R&W in Bldg. 10, Rm. B1C06 on February 14th by noon.  Fran at our Rockledge R&W store will also accept goodies if it’s more convenient to drop off there.  Please deliver to Rockledge I, Rm. 4202 by the end of the day on Monday, February 13th.  

 

Spring 2012 Mindfulness Class
Begins March 16th  

This popular class is being offered from 5pm - 7:30pm on Fridays, March 16th – May 4th for 8 sessions and a day-long retreat on Saturday, April 21st from 9am – 3pm and will cost $250 per person.  The course includes guided instructions in mindfulness meditation, gentle stretching and mindful movements, group dialogue, and home assignments.  The course is informed by the work pioneered by Dr. Jon Kabat Zinn at UMASS since the 1970’s.  It also incorporates the work by others such as Thich Nhat Hanh, Jack Kornfield, and Tara Brach.  Class location: Shanti Yoga Center for Harmony 4209/4217 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814.  The Saturday event will take place at NIH.  New attendees are not accepted after the first class.  The class instructor will be Rezvan Ameli, Ph.D., of NIMH, an experienced mindfulness instructor and practitioner, who is volunteering her services.  For more information contact Dr. Rezvan Ameli at Rezvan.Ameli@gmail.com.  To register, contact Kallie Wasserman wassermankt@mail.nih.gov  or 301-496-6061. This is an R&W sponsored activity.

 

 

 

National Wear Red Day:
Taking Women’s Health to Heart

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute unites Americans in raising awareness about the #1 killer of women: heart disease!  National Wear Red Day is an annual event held on the first Friday in February.  On Friday, February 3, 2012, women and men across the country will wear red to unite in the national movement to give women a personal and urgent wake-up call about their risk of heart disease.  80 percent of women ages 40 to 60 have one or more risk factor for heart disease. A woman’s chance of developing the disease increases because risk factors tend to worsen each other’s effects. In fact, according to research compiled by the NHLBI, having just one risk factor doubles your chance of developing heart disease.  Significant progress has been made in increasing awareness among women, from 34 percent in 2000 to 70 percent.  Awareness is driving action—in 2010 women who reported recently seeing or hearing about The Heart Truth campaign or the Red Dress symbol were substantially more likely than other women to take at least one risk-reducing action as a result (up from 35 percent in 2008 to 57 percent in 2010). While heart disease risk begins to rise in middle age, heart disease develops over time and can start at a young age, even in the teen years.  It's never too early, or too late, to take action to prevent and control the risk factors for heart disease.  Everyone can participate by showing off a favorite red dress, shirt, or tie, or by wearing the Red Dress Pin.  Join this national effort by wearing red on February 3rd, and encourage your family, friends, and coworkers to do the same.  By participating in National Wear Red Day, employees at NIH and NOAA are joining The Heart Truth. The Heart Truth is a national awareness campaign to alert women about their risk for heart disease and motivate them to take steps to lower their risk.  The centerpiece of the campaign is the Red Dress—the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness.  What's a Red Dress got to do with it?  A simple Red Dress works as a visual red alert to get the message heard loud and clear: "Heart Disease Doesn't Care What You Wear, It's the #1 Killer of Women."  The campaign, sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, is reaching women with important heart health messages in community settings through a diverse network of national and grassroots partner organizations.  Please join in and help spread the word about women and heart disease.  Your support of The Heart Truth® campaign is vital to giving women life-saving messages about their risk of heart disease and how to lower it. The campaign partners are working to get the word out to women across the country about their risk of heart disease. Taking action requires the efforts of many groups and individuals, and your involvement is key to delivering the message in your community. There are many ways to partner with The Heart Truth campaign. To have the greatest impact, put your energy, talent, and effort to the best use possible by working with others who share the same goal. How about hosting a Red Dress luncheon with heart healthy foods, organizing a walk around your community to share The Heart Truth with your neighbors, or using The Heart Truth Speaker's Kit to educate others about women and heart disease?  For additional information about National Wear Red Day—including local community activities—as well as The Heart Truth and its Red Dress symbol, please visit www.hearttruth.gov.  Stay informed with “The Heart Truth Red Alert!” quarterly electronic publication the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute distributes about women and heart disease.  Issues contain exciting new information about heart disease research, upcoming events, heart healthy recipes, and campaign news. 

 

  

HeART & Soul: A Special Event to Benefit the Kitchen & Dining Room Renovation at The Children’s Inn at NIH

Join The Children’s Inn at NIH on Wednesday, January 25th, from 6:30pm - 8pm at Huckleberry Fine Art, 12051 Nebel Street, Rockville, MD 20852, for a fun, casual evening of drinks, hors d’oeuvres and dessert to celebrate Valentine's Day and raise funds for their Kitchen & Dining Room Renovation!  Huckleberry Fine Art will have beautiful and unique artwork on display, and The Inn will offer exciting raffle prizes.  Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online at www.childrensinn.org.  For more info or to RSVP, email Lauren Conte at contele@mail.nih.gov.

Baseball Opening Day Auctions

Orioles - The R&W will also be holding a silent auction via email for the Baltimore Orioles 2012 home opener vs. the Minnesota Twins on Friday, April 6th.  We have two tickets in Section 14BBB. The opening bid for the pair will be $100 ($50 per ticket), and bidding will be done in increments of $5.  The email auction will begin Tuesday, March 27th at 8am and end Thursday, March 29th at 3:30pm.

 

Nationals - The R&W will be holding a silent auction via email for the Washington Nationals 2012 home opener vs. the Cincinnati Reds on Thursday, April 12th.  We have two tickets in Section 219 Row D.  The opening bid will be $100 ($50 per ticket), and bidding will be done in increments of $5.  The email auction will begin Tues., April 3rd at 8am and end Thurs., April 5th at 3:30pm.

If you are interested in participating in either/both auction(s) please email nihrw@mail.nih.gov and note which one(s).

 

2nd USA Science & Engineering Festival

Don’t miss the largest celebration of science in the U.S. at the 2nd USA Science & Engineering Festival.  The festival will feature over 2,000 fun, interactive exhibits, more than 100 stage shows and 33 author presentations.  The finale Expo will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington DC on April 28th & 29th from 10am – 6pm on Saturday and 10am – 4pm on Sunday.  New this year, will be the USA Science & Engineering Festival Book Fair and a Career Pavilion for high-school students which includes a College Fair, Job Fair and a Meet the Scientist/Engineer Networking area.  Science celebrities including Bill Nye the Science Guy and Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman from the hit TV series MythBusters will be performing.  This event is free and open to everyone.

 

The NIH R&W now offers a
Supplemental Group Disability Program
 to all employees working at
NIH, NOAA & HHS  

 

Disability options under your current benefits are limited to annual leave and disability retirement.  


There are distinct gaps in your federal benefits that can threaten your TSP due to a loss of income.  If you are unable to work due to an illness or injury, your options begin with your leave, and, if you qualify disability retirement.  While these benefits can offer you a base of coverage they often times fall well short.

 

The R&W’s supplemental disability program can help close those gaps in your benefit programs.  Our program, underwritten by Met Life, offers guaranteed acceptance and low group rates.  Highlights include:

·         Three plan options to meet everyone’s needs.

·         Return to work services.

·         Vocational and Rehabilitative training.

To learn more about this valuable insurance program, contact fedADVANTAGE at 1-866-973-6868 or ltd@fedadvantage.com.

Mortgages

Mortgages

 

Inaugural Veteran’s Day Reunion
Sponsored by R&W

Did you serve in the military?  Join us for what we hope to make an annual reunion.  We are looking for former members of the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and Air Force, who are working on the NIH campus.  In honor of your service, Hard Times Café will provide lunch; $2 hot dogs, $3 chili dog or bowl of chili; $4 for both, soda and dessert.  We hope to reunite members that served together that are now within the NIH community.  This event will take place from 11am – 1pm on the Bldg 31A Patio.  All veterans who attend will receive a 20% discount at the R&W. 

 With Entertainment Books Available at R&W Stores…
Tis the Season to Save

Saving dollars makes sense.  An Entertainment Book “quickly pays for itself.”  Everybody loves to save money whenever they can and the savings add up.  Whether planning a fun day or a special evening, you don’t have to break the bank when you’ve got the Entertainment® Book.  Save up to 50% at Foot Locker, Quiznos, Michaels, Target, and many more of your favorite stores.  The R&W has Entertainment Books for both MD/Washington D.C. and Northern VA/Washington D.C. for only $30 (reg. $35)!  Don’t miss your chance to purchase this great book of savings on items such as fine and casual dining, family restaurants, attractions, travel and hotels, and other retail services.  As an extra incentive each book comes with a BONUS CARD that contains savings to T.G.I. Friday’s, AMF Bowling, The Greene Turtle, Adventure Park USA, Precision Tune Auto Care and American Airlines.  Stop by any R&W store and pick up the 2012 Entertainment Book today and start saving! These books make for great inexpensive gifts for a friend, family member, or co-worker. The books go fast so buy yours now!

Join the Wellness NIH Listserv

Are you interested in finding out information about upcoming fitness and wellness related activities, healthy nutrition tips, health related advice and information all in one location?  The Office of Research Services, Division of Amenities and Transportation Services in partnership with the NIH Health and Wellness Council, and the NIH Recreation and Welfare Fitness Center have launched the Wellness NIH Listserv.  This service is offered to all NIH employees, staff, fellows and contractors.  Join the Wellness NIH website Listserv at https://list.nih.gov/cgi-bin/wa.exe?A0=wellnessnih. Content will be updated regularly and will include a wide variety of wellness offerings as we continue to focus on the health and well-being of all employees at NIH.  Contact Chris Gaines, at 301-451-3631 with questions or comments.

NIH Blood Bank
Give Red, Save Green

The NIH Blood Bank and the NIH/NOAA R&W have joined together to raise awareness for the importance of blood and platelet donations.  As an added incentive, those who donate will receive a coupon from the NIH Blood Bank for $2 off an R&W membership.  The NIH Blood Bank, an integral part of Bethesda’s health care community, provides a lifesaving service that benefits our citizen’s every day.  The NIH Blood Bank collects blood and blood products, which help take care of and save the lives of patients in our community.  This lifesaving service would not be possible without the generous time and effort of volunteer blood and platelet donors.  The NIH Blood Bank is conveniently located in Bldg. 10 and provides reserved, free parking spaces for donors Monday - Friday from 7:30am - 5:30pm.  Please call 301-496-1048 to schedule your appointment or visit bloodbank.nih.gov for additional information.  Non-NIH employees will be eligible for an official NIH Extended Visitor ID allowing easy access from all entrances for a year.  Thank you for caring…your help is appreciated!

 

File Your Taxes On-Line or
Download Tax Software Here!!! 


 

R&W Tax Preparation Service

It’s that time of year again but don’t fret, we can help!  The R&W is sponsoring our annual Income Tax Preparation Service through an independent accounting firm, Teti and Carswell.  With more than 30 years experience, they can provide assistance in all areas of taxation.  Tax preparation for foreign nationals is also available.  Half-hour consultations will be held on campus, in Bldg. 31 Rm. 9A22, on Thursdays, February 2nd through March 29th between 3pm - 6pm (2/2 and 3/1 will be 4-6pm, no session 2/16).  Call the R&W Activities Desk at 301-496-4600 to schedule an appointment.  Fees will vary according to the required IRS schedules that are needed to be filed.  Call Today!  The earlier you get your taxes done, the quicker your refund check comes back!

NIH License Plates

Are you proud to work here at the National Institutes of Health?  If so, then show it with personalized license plates.  The R&W has NIH organizational license plates for Maryland residents.  Plates are $15 and are MVA Non-logo NIH plates.  There is an additional $5 service fee payable to the R&W.  It’s easy to order, just fill out an application at the R&W Activities Desk in Bldg. 31, show your NIH ID and R&W membership, and drop off two checks (one payable to the MVA for $15 and another payable to the R&W for $5).  Plates take 2-8 weeks to receive.  The MVA will send them directly to you.  For more information about this program call 301-496-4600 or email nihrw@mail.nih.gov.  We will inter-office mail you the application.

AlertNIH

With recent events that have taken place, NIH feels it is necessary to have a way to communicate with all of its employees and contract employees very rapidly.  AlertNIH gives NIH the ability to broadcast messages to all employees or selected audiences more efficiently than mass communication methods already in place.  Alerts can be received on voice or text devices.  For more info pickup a pamphlet at any R&W store or visit http://alert.nih.gov.

New Condos 
in the DC Area!

 Are You Having Trouble Controlling Your Drinking?

Closed (only open to people who have trouble controlling their drinking) Alcoholics Anonymous meetings occur at noon for one hour Monday & Friday at NIH in Bldg. 31 Rm. B4BN09 (near the NIH Fitness Center).  The meetings are free and confidential.  For more info contact the EAP at 301-496-3164.

APARTMENTS


Great Apartments Near NIH

    

Join The R&W LISTSERV

Are you interested in R&W programs but don’t always have time to read the newsletter or website? What about all the special the R&W offers in between print dates of the paper? Well now, the R&W will be able to email you right at your desk about upcoming events, R&W store specials, vendor discount programs, travel opportunities, special ticket offers, early bird offers and much more. Anyone is welcome to join including NIH employees, contractors, family members, and friends (and you don’t have to be a member of the R&W to be on the listserv email program). If you would like to join the listserv, visit https://list.nih.gov/archives/r_w_assoc_list-l.html . Just “join the list” with your name and email and the information will begin to flow. If you are having trouble adding your name to the list, email nihrw@ors.od.nih.gov  and we will assist you. We look forward to your participation. Please note, all new R&W members will be placed on the List serv.