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.
Upper Crust Bakery - Tuesdays, Bldg. 31
The Upper Crust Bakery will sell
their delicious goods every Tuesday in the Bldg. 31A
Lobby, from 10:30am – 1:30pm. For sale will be a
variety of breads and cookies. Upper Crust Bakery
has become a popular addition and the feedback from
NIH employees has been amazing. If you haven’t
purchased from them yet stop by and sample one of
their many tasty treats.
Treats Galore Featuring Fudgie
Wudgie
Comes to Bldg. 31 February 9th & 10th
The tasty sensation that has
people talking and mouths watering comes to the
Bldg. 31A Lobby from 10am – 2pm on Thursday,
February 9th and Friday, February 10th. Choose from
a variety of fudge flavors such as, Ultimate Oreos,
and sugar free chocolate products. Fudgie Wudgie
products do NOT contain additives, preservatives,
eggs or wheat. They are gluten free, have 0g Trans
Fat, and contain 30% less sugar.
Giant Microbes Are
Infecting
R&W Stores This Holiday Season
Winter is here and contagious viruses start affecting almost
everyone. Be disgustingly funny this holiday season
by giving someone you love a virus. R&W stores
carry a variety of plush GIANT Microbes. Imagine
the stories you can share about how you gave The Flu
to someone you love, how a co-worker passed along
The Common Cold, or how you gave your teenager
recovering from Mono a strand of the microorganism
that is 1 million times its actual size. Not only
are these toys cute but they’re educational as they
provide facts about the viruses and the precautions
to avoid becoming infected. Contract your virus at
an R&W store today.
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.
Get Your Re-Usable
R&W Bags
Effective January 1st, a
$.05 tax will be implemented by retail
establishments on all paper and plastic bags
throughout Montgomery County. To help you save that
extra change the R&W is now selling re-usable R&W
logo bags for $1.30. Use them every time you shop
at R&W stores or take them with you when you do your
shopping elsewhere. Either way the savings will add
up fast.
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.
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.
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
NEEDLES
and HOOKS Knitting Club
Do you knit, crochet, needlepoint,
embroider, crewel, cross stitch, latch hook or do another form of
needlework? Are you interested in joining a needlework group?
Would you like to share ideas or perhaps learn a specific kind of
needlework? On the first Wednesday of each month, bring your
projects to Bldg. 10 at 1pm, and meet, learn and generally have fun
with fellow needle crafters. For more info contact Laurie Steiger
at steigerlm@mail.nih.gov.
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…
Toll Brothers Home Discount
Toll Brothers’ White Flint Station is
proud to offer our Preferred Partner Employee Home Purchase Program*
to employees of Federal & Military Employees Recreation Associations
Group agencies. White Flint Station features luxury condominiums
from the upper $300,000s. Located in the heart of North Bethesda,
Maryland—on Old Georgetown Road, just East of Rockville Pike—this
spectacular community is convenient to Bethesda, Rockville, and
Washington, D.C., and minutes from the National Research Council,
National Institute of Standards and Technology, Bethesda Medical
Center, and the National Institutes of Health. Enjoy onsite
amenities that include pool & spa, fitness center, Club Room,
concierge, and secure on-site parking; and the convenience of White
Flint Metro, restaurants, shops, and nightlife just minutes away!
Call (301) 468-0300 or visit WhiteFlintStation.com/GOV. *Subject to
certain terms, conditions & restrictions. Program subject to change
or rescission at any time without notice. See sales rep for details.
The
Galaxy Apartments in
Downtown Silver Spring
Discounts Offered for Preferred
Employees…Lease Today! In appreciation of your service to the
community, The Galaxy Apartments are now offering all Government and
Military employees a discount on rent on the apartment home of their
choice. The Galaxy is Metro accessible, yet a world away from the
ordinary. The Galaxy means you're home. Choose from brand new 1 to
2 bedroom plus den floor plans, many with balconies overlooking the
courtyard. You’ll love the convenience of The Galaxy’s sleek lobby,
stunning interior courtyard, state-of-the-art fitness center and
cyber café. The Galaxy is the best of Downtown Silver Spring, right
here on Earth! Contact our leasing specialists for more information
and to determine if you qualify for the preferred employee discount.
Visit www.thegalaxyapts.com
or call 877-269-6454.
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!
Hungry and in a
Hurry?
Grab
a GoPicnic Meal To Go!
Whether you forgot to bring your lunch,
need to grab a quick bite before a meeting, or have been working so
hard you that time got away and the Rockledge or EPS Cafeteria is
now closed, you can get a delicious meal for a cost-efficient price
at the R&W with GoPicnic meals. GoPicnic offers a wide variety of
nutritious ready-to-eat meals to help keep you going. Small enough
to fit in a briefcase, backpack, or purse, a quick and tasty
GoPicnic meal will refuel you, anytime, anywhere! What really
counts is what’s packed inside each handy, compact GoPicnic box.
Every nutritionally balanced, shelf stable meal combines a
satisfying mix of protein, fiber, and fruit, and each bite, from
crackers to hummus to applesauce to delectable dark chocolate, is
full of wholesome ingredients. That means no trans fats, no high
fructose corn syrup (HFCS), no added monosodium glutamate (MSG), and
no artificial flavors or color whatsoever. These tasty meals are
available at the Rockledge and EPS stores.
NIH
Logo and Nurses
Christmas Ornaments
Decorate your tree, home or office with
any of the affordable holiday decorations at R&W stores including a
variety of Christmas ornaments. Some of the most popular ones
include a brass NIH logo ornament for only $7.50 and ornaments that
are perfect for the nurses at NIH or in your life. The nurse
ornaments are scrubs with cute sayings such as “Is My Shift Over
Yet?,” “Scrubs Are A Fashion Statement,” “E.R. Nurse Trauma Queen,”
and “Don’t Make Me Drug You.”
An Offer From
LutherSales
Exclusively for Federal Employees
Where can you find the most
comprehensive selection of fine furniture, appliances, electronics,
computers and more? Why at LutherSales, of course! Indulge yourself
with “Luxury Made Easy!” For over 40 years LutherSales has provided
top quality, brand name products by using flexible payment options
tailored to fit within your budget. From Bedroom Sets, to 3D TV's,
to iPads; you have access to what your family needs through
different means. LutherSales has three convenient alternatives to
choose from:
Luther EZ Finance Program - Offers you
low monthly payments through the convenience of direct deposit or
payroll deductions.
Full Interest Rebate - Receive a 25%
discount on all purchases paid-in-full within 6-months of delivery.
Pre-pay Option - Receive a 35% discount
on all pre-paid orders.
No matter which option you choose, all
prices include free nationwide delivery. Visit
www.luthersales.com and
begin your journey of Luxury Made Easy! Call a personal shopper,
toll free, at 800-358-6466 to learn how easy it is. We make it our
priority to provide you with true world class customer service.
The
Old and the New Mix Easily in
Lancaster County, PA
Located in the heart of Pennsylvania
Dutch Country, Lancaster County is a wonderful blend of urban style
and rural splendor, with a rich culture stretching from the Amish to
the arts. Travelers can take in the vibrant downtown city life –
featuring galleries, great dining, theaters, specialty shops, and
live music – or explore surrounding towns and villages to get a
sampling of the Amish heritage, food, craftsmanship, and visitor
attractions for which Lancaster is famous. Lancaster is also long
on value – as your travel budget goes further here than in most
other Northeast and Mid-Atlantic destinations – and is perfect for
group events, reunions, or meetings. Lancaster has the offerings of
a big city, but with a unique charm and scenic backdrop all its
own. Visit
www.padutchcountry.com today. Call 800-PA-DUTCH and mention
“RecGov” to receive discounted government rates.
The NIH
Farmers Market
Now at Two
Locations
Make sure to attend the NIH Farmers
Market every Tuesday from 10:30am – 1:30pm on the Bldg. 31A patio or
from 10am – 2pm in front of the Neuroscience Center at 6001
Executive Blvd. At both markets you can purchase fresh fruits and
vegetables as they come into season from Licking Creek Bend Farm
from Needmore, PA. Also at the Bldg. 31 location make sure to
purchase tasty breads and other assorted baked goods from Upper
Crust Bakery from Colesville, MD. Please come show your support and
also bring your own plastic or recyclable bags. We hope to see
you weekly for your fruit and veggies.
Thank You for Joining Us
At the CFC Events!
This year’s CFC events have been lots of
fun. The NIH community showed that charity is in their code by
attending the various events. We hope the enthusiasm seen so far
will trickle down to all of the members of your offices so that we
can set a new record for CFC contributions. If you have not made
your contribution yet, please see your Keyworker. Also don’t forget
to enter the R&W’s drawing. To enter see your Keyworker for entry
forms. This year prizes include cookbooks signed by Paula Deen and
Guy Fieri, tickets to see Lady Antebellum or Patty LaBelle, 5 books
from the NY Times Best Seller List, Kindle, $100 gift certificate
for the Bethesda Restaurant Week, day trips to NYC, a Year in Sports
Package, and many more. You must have your form into your Keyworker
by December 14th and the drawing will take place on Friday, Dec.
16th. Winners will be notified by e-mail. See more info (including
full descriptions of the prizes) at
http://cfc.nih.gov. Thanks again to those of you who came out
to the CFC Kickoff, the Fall Festivals, the NIH Director’s Challenge
– Photo Contest, and the Halloween event. Everyone had a blast and
we hope you will join us next year for these important CFC events
that showcase various charities that need your support.
Al-Anon
Provides Help for Those
Involved With Substance Abuse
Al-Anon, an organization for family
members of people with alcohol abuse, now welcomes
family members of individuals with narcotic abuse
problems to attend weekly group meetings. Al-Anon
holds two weekly group meetings; Mondays and Thursdays
at noon in Building 31, Room 1B63.
The
R&W Is Moving into the 21st Century
“Like” Us
on Facebook
It seems today that everyone is using
social media to connect with friends, family and for networking. In
an effort to continue to promote our efforts at NIH as well as get
word out about who we are and what we do, the NIH/NOAA R&W has now
joined Facebook. We will use this platform to remind people of
upcoming events, pass along the latest R&W news and more. So make
sure to “LIKE” us at
http://www.facebook.com/pages/NIH-NOAA-Recreation-Welfare-Association/149024978510005
and suggest us to your co-workers, family and friends who are on
Facebook.
Mental Silence Meditation
Take
a deep breath. That is how easy it is to start
learning to meditate. Mental Silence meditation is
a simple, time-honored technique that is easy to
learn. It helps reduce stress and increases
wellness. It brings better focus and helps people
became centered and better balanced. Anyone can do
it. Thursday Mental Silence Meditation Series take
place in the CRC of Bldg. 10, Room 3-1608 from
5:30pm - 6:30pm. Relax, Recharge and Feel the
Inner Energy. For more information contact Jasmin
B. Czarapata at 301-435-7645.
Deep
Discounts at Office Depot on
Printing, Toner, Furniture, Paper & More
Office Depot & Baltimore Washington
Corridor Chamber is proud to announce an exciting discount program
available to all RECGOV association members and all employees of
Federal & Military agencies. Just go to
www.recgov.org and START
SHOPPING. Get black & white printing for $.02, $.39 for color
copies and 40% off Design Print & Ship services. Recognizing the
value of your time, we have developed a quick & easy ordering
process. You have access to see the Best Savings Supply Core List
(up to 30% off) & the How to Order Instructions once you’re in
RECGOV. You can also shop at any of our stores, just present your
RECGOV Store Discount Card – cards have no expiration. If you have
no card just register your personal credit card to the account and
receive savings every time you shop in store or online at RECGOV.
For questions contact Jill Johnson at 443-643-6832, or
jill.johnson@officedepot.com,
Customer Service 888 263-3423.
Do You Need Help Paying
for Child Care?
For many families the cost of child
care can be their first or second highest monthly expense. The NIH
wants to assist families afford quality licensed child care. If you
are a Federal Employee and your total adjusted family household
income is $60,000 or less per year, you may be eligible to receive a
child care tuition subsidy. Your child or children must be enrolled
with a licensed child care provider.
|
Eligible Employee’s Total Adjusted
Household Income |
Percentage of eligible child care
expenses paid by plan |
|
More than $60,000 |
0% |
|
$45,001- $60,000 |
20% |
|
$30,001-$45,000 |
40% |
|
$30,000 or less |
50% |
· Total Family Income refers to
total adjusted gross income on IRS Tax Return Form 1040, Line 37.
· This program includes a
benefit cap of $5,000 per family per year, and participant’s
benefits under this plan will be reduced by the amount received by
other State or local child care subsidies received.
· Child care subsidy tuition is
paid directly to provider.
If you are an NIH Federal employee and
think you may qualify, please visit the Office of Research Services
Child Care website,
http://does.ors.od.nih.gov/childcare/ , or call the Division of
Amenities and Transportation Services child care staff at
301-402-8180 for eligibility and enrollment information. Apply
today!
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Tickets Available at R&W
The holidays are here, family is in
town, and getting out and entertaining them isn’t always easy. Why
not take them to Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, located at
Arundel Mills in Hanover, MD, and get both dinner and
entertainment? Travel through the mists of time to a forgotten age
and tale of devotion, courage, and love. Don’t miss the pageantry,
romance, and excitement of the new show at Medieval Times Dinner &
Tournament, North America’s most popular dinner attraction.
Purchase discounted tickets at any R&W store today. Once you have
received your ticket it is recommended you call ahead to the
Medieval Times box office to reserve your show and time. Attempting
to go to the box office just before the show, without reserving your
date and time, is not recommended. See page 22 for prices.
Congratulations NIH!
NIH CFC Campaign Tops $2.6 Million!
NIH aimed high and
cleared their goal. This year the NIH community contributed over a
remarkable $2.6 million to local, national and
international charities they care about. Over the years of the
campaign, NIH has shown that it is a strong community filled with
people who want to make a difference. A special thank you goes out
to all CFC Keyworkers and other volunteers whose efforts make a
difference. The R&W thanks you and congratulates you for another
successful campaign.
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).
Long Fence Attic Mirror
Stay Warm, Save Money
As the temperatures start to drop, your
energy bills begin to rise. With the cost of heating your home on
the verge of impacting your financial stability, now is the time to
invest in attic mirror, a thin layer of temperature-resistant
material also known as radiant barrier, from Long Fence and Home.
Made from the same material as NASA spacesuits, Long Attic Mirror
is now used to create a shield in your attic to prevent heat from
escaping while at the same time reflecting the cold air out of your
home. One of the fastest ways to create savings on your energy
bill, attic mirror is actually more cost-effective than new
insulation and results in instantaneous savings. What makes this
home improvement item even more enticing is that, when summer rolls
around and the sun is beating down on your home once again, the
effect of the radiant barrier is reversed and the cold air is kept
in your home while the hot air is reflected away. It keeps you cool
in the summer and warm in the winter! For year round savings and
comfort, visit
www.longfenceandhome.com/government or call 1-800-464-3100 to
set up your free consultation today.
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!
Learn About the Newly Opened ICC
The State Highway Administration (SHA)
will be on the NIH campus providing information about the new
Intercounty Connector (ICC), also named MD-200, which is an 18-mile
highway linking Interstates 270 and 95 providing easier access from
Montgomery to Prince George's Counties. The six-lane highway has
nine interchanges and one intersection. The ICC is Maryland’s first
all-electronic toll road where tolls are collected at highway speeds
using E-ZPass® technology. Stop by the SHA tables, from 11:30am –
1:30pm on Tuesday, December 13th in the Bldg. 38A Cafeteria or
Wednesday, December 14th in the Bldg. 31A Lobby, for info about the
ICC and also commuter options using the ICC Bus Routes.
Nationwide Is On Your Side
Icy roads, heavy snow, tree damage –
all factors in unexpected incidents that can cost you dearly if
you’re not protected correctly. The NIH/NOAA R&W and Nationwide
Insurance are here to help you avert grand financial losses when
disaster strikes. Through this partnership employees of NIH/NOAA
are offered a discount on their auto insurance. Taking advantage of
this offer is simple, call your current Nationwide agent and ask for
the R&W Affinity discount. A 3% discount will be applied to your
policy. If you are not insured with Nationwide or have questions on
your current Nationwide policy contact Corrigan Insurance Nationwide
Insurance 301-623-3121 or 301-474-4111 or 410-792-8090 or
800-213-1634 Email:
corriganagency@natonwide.com.
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.
Ship Your Mail from the
Convenience of Your Workplace
The holidays are fast approaching and
standing in the long lines to mail packages just adds to the stress
one gets at this time of year. Save time by mailing your packages
from your workplace with help from the R&W and International Ship
Masters. Mail items to anywhere in the world via any of the
delivery services UPS, FedEx, or DHL, it’s your choice! Every
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 10am – 1pm, you can bring
your packages to the Bldg. 31A Lobby and have them shipped out
without the hassle of standing in the long lines you’d find at other
mail facilities. This will be a huge time saver for mailing holiday
gifts, birthday items, and even your tax returns come tax time.
Learn
About Photography
With the NIH Camera Club
For over 60 years, the NIH Camera Club
(NIHCC) has been the place to learn about photography. The club
meets on the second Tuesday of every month, from September through
June. An expert on some aspect of photography starts off the
meeting with a didactic session about photographic technique, which
is exemplified by samples of his/her work. The speaker also serves
as a judge for the monthly competition, which is based on an
assigned theme or specific photographic skill. Categories include:
slides, projected digital images, B&W prints, and color prints.
During the competition, the judge provides tips for improvement. To
facilitate the learning process (and to just have fun), the club
also has a series of field trips and workshops, which, unlike many
of the other area camera clubs, continue through the summer months.
The club also has a long history of travelogue slide shows because
so many of its members have wanderlust. Club members have
participated in photographic exhibitions at Black Rock, Penn Camera,
and the Washington School of Photography; one even has a permanent
exhibit at Strosnider’s Hardware Store. You can learn more about
the club by coming to a meeting, visiting the website
www.nihcameraclub.com, or reading the newsletter, Cameraderie,
which was just awarded the top prize for a club of its size from the
Photographic Society of America! Despite the name, the club is open
to everyone; you don't need to work at NIH to join. The club even
has virtual members!
Your
Glovebox is Key
to Coping with Winter Accidents
Wet roads can mean difficult driving
conditions for everyone. Even the safest, most experienced drivers
can fall victim to a mishap that could lead to an accident, and it
is important be prepared for this possibility. GEICO has compiled a
few tips to help drivers make the best of a bad situation. In the
confusion of the moment, a driver involved in an accident may forget
a few things. Print a list of items needed and tasks to do during a
fender-bender and store it in the glovebox for reference. When it
comes to the checklist, think GECKO:
• Get yourself and your vehicle to a
safe location (the shoulder of the road, a well-lit area). Your
safety and the safety of your passenger(s) is the first priority.
• Exchange insurance information with
other drivers involved.
• Call the police for assistance.
• Know where the vehicle will be towed,
if you are unable to drive it yourself.
• Once you and your vehicle are safe,
call GEICO at 1-800-861-8380 to report the accident.
Other important things to have handy
include the car insurance ID card, vehicle registration, a list of
emergency contacts, a flashlight, flares, a first-aid kit, and a
disposable camera, if a cell phone isn’t available with one
built-in. Many of the steps in the accident checklist can be done
with ease through the use of the GEICO GloveBox, GEICO’s free mobile
app that makes managing an accident easy. The GEICO GloveBox app
has useful, convenient features like the Accident Helper, which can
assist those involved in accidents with contacting emergency
services and provides an immediate place to store and upload
accident photos from a cell phone. Among GEICO GloveBox’s other
useful features is a handy Roadside Service locator, which finds
nearby tow services and gas stations to help drivers with their
vehicles if necessary. Visit GEICO.com weather driving tips and to
download the GEICO GloveBox app.
Long Fence & Home
Providing Year Round Savings & Comfort
As the temperatures start to drop
around Washington, DC, your energy bills start to rise. With the
cost of heating your home on the verge of impacting your financial
stability, now is the time to invest in attic mirror, a thin layer
of temperature-resistant material also known as radiant barrier,
from Long Fence and Home. Made from the same material as NASA
spacesuits, Long Attic Mirror is now used to create a shield in your
attic to prevent heat from escaping while at the same time
reflecting the cold air out of your home. One of the fastest ways
to create savings on your energy bill, attic mirror is actually more
cost-effective than new insulation and results in instantaneous
savings. What makes this home improvement item even more enticing
is that, when summer rolls around and the sun is beating down on
your home once again, the effect of the radiant barrier is reversed
and the cold air is kept in your home while the hot air is reflected
away. It keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter!
Visit www.longfenceandhome.com/government or
call 1-800-464-3100 to set up your free consultation today.
Volunteer to Tutor English at NIH!
The Volunteer Program for English
Proficiency (VPEP) at NIH is looking for tutors to lead beginner
level classes. Teaching is both low stress and fun and provides an
opportunity to share and interact with NIH housekeeping staff
motivated to learn English. Volunteer instructors do not need to
have teaching experience or know another language, just a desire to
reach out and help. All teaching materials and training will be
provided. The only requirement is a commitment to teach class
during one lunch period every week. The classes are currently held
Monday - Thursday from 11:30am - 12:30pm, in Bldg. 31 and in the
library of Bldg. 10. The program hopes to recruit new volunteers
for these sites, and also to expand to other buildings on campus and
other NIH sites. If you are interested in volunteering or would
like more info, contact Maria G. Hessie
mhessie@niaid.nih.gov or
Rob Rivers robert.rivers@nih.gov.
Bridge
Street Extended Stay
Government employees have unique
housing and deployment needs - short and long term assignments
happen frequently, requiring comfortable temporary quarters.
BridgeStreet offers short term and extended stay apartment options
that blend the services of a luxury hotel with the space, comfort,
and privacy of home. Through BridgeStreet's years of government
travel experience, we have gained an understanding of per diem
lodging regulations and specific government agency procedures for
all travel types. BridgeStreet's 5-star Residences, 4-star Serviced
Apartments and 3-star Suites combine the best of apartment living
with a variety of service packages to offer guests more choices
based on their lifestyle and budget. Call 800-278-7338 or visit
http://www.bridgestreet.com/serviced-apartments/government-lodging.html
to learn more about BridgeStreet extended stay apartments.
Grand Canyon University
Founded in 1949, Grand Canyon
University is a premier, private university with a 60-year
reputation for academic excellence. As a regionally accredited
university, GCU offers a wide variety of online and campus-based
degree programs for service members and civilians, including degrees
in public safety and emergency management. With a special military
tuition, per-credit costs are covered by military assistance
programs. In addition, federal employees receive a 5% tuition
discount.
NIH
Housing Guide
The R&W is your Housing Headquarters!
Are you looking for a new place to stay? In the market to buy or
sell a home? Time to upgrade your furniture? Need help financing a
housing project? Find the answers to all of these questions and
more in the 2011-2012 NIH Housing Guide. These guides are available
at all R&W stores and outside many of the cafeterias. If you would
like one sent to you contact David at
browned2@mail.nih.gov or
call the R&W Office at 301-496-4600.
Give to the Max &
Give to The Children’s Inn at NIH!
The Children’s Inn is participating in
“Give to the Max Day,” a one-day fundraising event on November 9th
that will unite local Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC
residents to support nonprofits in the region. The goal is to raise
more than $3 million in just 24 hours! Mark your calendar and
donate to the The Inn at
http://give2max.razoo.com/story/Thechildrensinn. Once you
donate, spread the word – encourage your friends, family, and
coworkers to give to The Inn when they give to the max!
The NIH
Jazz Improv Combo Workshop
The NIH Jazz Improv
Combo Workshop is a new organization intended
to bring together musicians who want to play improvised
jazz in a small combo setting. This is a long
range project with a specific goal. If there are
already a sufficient number of proficient players,
then this will be primarily a venue to play music,
standards in the American Songbook (otherwise
known as "The Real Book") as well as
tunes contributed by members. If there is a range
of abilities and experience in jazz then the intention
is that the more advanced players can take turns
leading the lab with tutorials so that eventually
a critical mass will be reached. All instrumentalists
and vocalists are welcome, and there is hope for
a rhythm section (piano, bass, and drums) but
that can be circumvented with the use of other
equipment. If the entire turnout consists of players
that know their instruments but have never played
any jazz, something will be organized to fill
at least 1 year of weekly club meetings and yield
several "road worthy" players at the
conclusion. All skill levels are welcome, but
proficiency on your instrument and some basic
knowledge of harmony is desired. At this time
the particulars are not completely finalized.
If you are interested, email your name, contact
information, instrument and a three sentence bio
describing your proficiency on your instrument,
knowledge of harmony and experience with playing
jazz to Grant Izmirlian at
izmirlig@mail.nih.gov.
R&W
Shipping Service
The shipping service
provided by International Shipmasters will be
moving to the Bldg. 31A Lobby from 10am – 1pm
on Tuesdays. Ship any personal mail from the convenience
of your workplace via any of the delivery services
that you prefer including, UPS, FedEx, and DHL.
For more info call 301-881-3999 or email info@internationalshipmasters.com.
Springhouse of Bethesda Care
Givers Corner…
Taking care of your mom or dad as they
age can be one of the most rewarding times of your life. It can
also be frustrating trying to juggle family life, your job, and “me
time” while “fitting” in time for your loved one which often include
scheduling and taking them to doctors appointments, shopping and
running errands, managing their medications, making sure their bills
are paid for….and the list goes on. Now it is summer and it is time
to take a few days to relax with a vacation. But what about mom or
dad? They do not have the energy to spend the day at an amusement
park or museum, and sitting at the pool or beach all day is just too
much for them. Leaving them home alone is not an option. The
solution may be respite care. Respite care, a short term stay from
a long weekend to a month, is offered at many assisted and
independent living communities. It can give you the peace of mind
that your parent is well taken care of while you enjoy your time
away. Furnished apartments with cable and television, varied
activities, twenty four hour staff and nursing, housekeeping,
laundry, meal options might be the perfect solution. For
information on Respite Care call Springhouse of Bethesda,
301-652-1445, located at 4925 Battery Lane, Bethesda, Maryland
20814.
Join
the Wellness NIH Listserv at
https://list.nih.gov/cgi-bin/wa.exe?A0=wellnessnih.
A Special Group Discount
For All Kinds of Drivers
The Corrigan Agency offers discounted
rates to NIH & NOAA employees…Nationwide Is On Your Side!
Many of us these days have to count on our car. From Monday
morning traffic to weekends away, it’s part of who we are. That’s
why Nationwide offers auto insurance you can count on.Be
prepared for life’s little surprises. Protect yourself with
Nationwide auto insurance. Special discounted rates that
are not offered to the general public are given to NIH & NOAA
employees through the R&W Association. Call today for auto
insurance rates! It’s good to belong…you can get the most
for your dollar! You can save anywhere from 3%-28% as long as
you mention the NIH/NOAA R&W. For more information contact
Nationwide Insurance – Corrigan Agency, Monday-Friday
8:15am-4:30pm and evenings by appointment 1-800-213-1634. Fax
quoting 24 hours 301-623-3131.
Cholesterol & Glucose Screening
Available to NIH Employees
The R&W and Occupational
Medical Services (OMS) at NIH are working together to offer
both Glucose & Total Cholesterol Screening. This screening
is available in Bldg. 10 in the 6th floor clinic
Rm. 6C306 on Tuesday mornings from 8-11am. The full lipid
profile (cholesterol) test is $16.50 and the glucose test
is $8.25. Purchase a screening ticket at any R&W store
before you plan to be tested and take it with you for any
Tuesday screening. Because this is a fasting test, participants
should not eat or drink anything (except water) for at least
nine hours prior to having the test.
Do You
Have a House or
Apartment to Rent?
The R&W maintains a housing list for the
NIH employees, volunteers, students, and contractors. It is
updated bi-weekly. It is comprised of noncommercial rentals,
rooms for rent in private residences, a nd houses and apartments
to share. The list is posted on our website at or you can
pick up a hard copy from any R&W store.
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.
Top of Page
Does Someone’s Drinking
Bother You?
Al-Anon meets at noon for one
hour Mondays and Thursdays at NIH in Building 31 in the conference
room of the National Institute for Alcohol and Alcohol Abuse
(NIAAA) Room 1B44. The meetings are free and confidential.
For more info contact EAP 301-496-3164.
Al-Anon Provides Help for Those Involved
With Substance Abuse
The
Al-Anon welcomes family members of individuals with narcotic
abuse problems to attend weekly group meetings. Al-Anon holds
two weekly group meetings; Mondays and Thursdays at noon in
Building 31, Room 1B63.
NIH License Plates
Did you know that you can get an NIH personalized
license plate? The R&W has NIH organizational license
plates for Maryland residents. The cost for the plates are
$15 for MVA Non-logo NIH plates with a $5 R&W service
charge. 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 tot eh MVA for $15 and
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 e-mail
nihrw@ors.od.nih.gov
R&W Business Card Service
For your convenience, you can order business
cards at any R&W gift shop. Prices begin at $22. Logos
from NIH, HHS, & FDA are available. Check out for an order
form and logo options, or call the R&W Activities Desk
at 301-496-4600 for detailed information.
Aflac
Insurance
Aflac is
different from Health Insurance. Health Insurance pays for
doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions. Our insurance policies
provide CASH benefits directly to you (unless otherwise
assigned) – with most claims processed within four days! Use
the money for any purpose, including help in paying:
-
Everyday living expenses like mortgage (or rent), car
notes, groceries, and utility bills.
-
Lost Income, particularly if the healthy spouse has to
leave work to care for the recuperating one.
-
Rising deductibles and copayments.
-
The extra cost of going to a medical provider not on
your approved network.
-
Charges beyond
what is reasonable and customary.
-
Travel-related expenses for treatment, including
airfare, hotels, and meals.
Please call Byron Gibson at 240-644-8563 or Amit Jain at
301-641-1153 and mention you're employed with the Federal Government
for your Government Discount.
