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What You’re Looking For… • NIH R&W Fitness & Wellness Program……………..…………………………….…….pages 3 - 4 o FREE Fitness for You Schedule…….…………………………...………….……...page 3 o Health Screenings (Mobile Mammography, Vision)…………………………page 4 • R&W Spring Bazaar, Spring Into Wellness………………………………………………page 5 • R&W Community Market ……………………………..………………………………….…..pages 7 - 9 o Farmers Market Corner, Recipe ……………………………………………………page 7 o 2019 Market Food Truck Schedule .………………………………………………page 8 o Farmers Market Vendors ……………………………………………………………..page 9 • Bike to Work Day, Spring Research Festival……………………………………….…...page 11 • Camp Fantastic BBQ, Collective Goods Gift Show.………………………………....page 13 • NIH Take a Hike Day, NIH Police Day……………………….……..…………………page 15 • Tickets & Member Deals……………………………………………………………………….pages 17 - 19 o Costco, Luray Caverns, Baltimore Aquarium, Sesame Live…..………….page 17 o 2019 Park Sneak Peak (Kings Dominion, Six Flag, Sesame Place)….…page 18 o TicketsAtWork (Movie Tickets, Sporting Events, Concerts)……………..page 19 • Chevy Chase Acura R&W VIP Program………………………………………………….page 20 - 21 • Calendar……………………………………………………………………………………………….page 22
FREE “Fitness for You” May 2019 Events Date
Day
Time
Location
Program
Trainer
5/6
Monday
12:15pm - 1pm
The Loft (T-39)
Cardio Sculpt
Alex
5/7
Tuesday
11am - 11:45am
RKL II Rm. 9112/9116
Zumba Toning
Michelle
5/7
Tuesday
12pm - 12:45pm
Bldg. 31 Rm. B4-C18
Tabata
Ashley
5/9
Thursday
5:30pm - 6:30pm
The Loft (T-39)
Total Body Burn
Susana
5/10
Friday
12:15pm - 1pm
RKL II Rm. 9112/9116
Interval Training
Lisa
5/14
Tuesday
11:30am - 12:15pm
RKL II Rm. 9112/9116
“Ask the Trainer”
Shannon
5/14
Tuesday
5:30pm - 6:30pm
The Loft (T-39)
Power Yoga
Aleksandra
5/15
Wednesday
12pm - 12:45pm
Bldg. 31 Rm. B4-C18
Zumba
Eloise
5/15
Wednesday
5:45pm - 6:15pm
The Loft (T-39)
Indoor Cycling
Judy
5/16
Thursday
12pm - 12:45pm
Bldg. 31 Rm. B4-C18
BANG “Power Dance”
Linda
5/17
Friday
6am – 7am
The Loft (T-39)
Functional Fitness Training
Eddie
5/17
Friday
12:15pm - 1pm
The Loft (T-39)
Tabata
Ashley
5/21
Tuesday
12:15pm - 1pm
RKL II Rm. 9112/9116
Total Body Circuit
Shannon
5/22
Wednesday
11am - 11:45am
Bldg. 31 Rm. B4-C18
Yoga for YOU
Shannon
5/22
Wednesday
12:15pm - 1pm
The Loft (T-39)
H.I.T.
Susana
5/23
Thursday
12:15pm - 1pm
RKL II Rm. 9112/9116
WO! (Weights Only)
Charissa
5/29
Wednesday
6am - 7am
The Loft (T-39)
Functional Fitness Training
Eddie
5/30
Thursday
10am - 2pm
Bldg. 31 Rm. 2
Vision Screenings (by Appt. only) Registration: natalia.purdy@nih.gov
POB
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2019 Mobile Mammography Screening
The George Washington Breast Cancer Center will make four visits to NIH for our 2018 Mammography Screening. All NIH employees, their families, contractors, visiting scientists and others associated with NIH are eligible to participate. The screening dates are as follows: Thursday, May 30th – Building 45 Thursday, August 22nd – Building 10, Lot H Thursday, November 7th – Building 10, Lot H The van will be on-site from 9:30am - 3:30pm taking prescheduled appointments. Reservations can be made no more than 1-month prior of screening date. Reservations for the May screening can be made beginning April 30h. There is a minimum requirement of 15 participants for the screenings to take place and a maximum of 25 per date. Each screening is conducted by a female technologist, and a board-certified radiologist specializing in mammography will interpret the images. Appointments should take approximately 20 minutes. Most insurance companies will cover the cost (approx. $350) of the screening. To see if your insurance is accepted or to make an appointment, call 202-741-3252. If there is no answer, please leave a message with your name and phone number. The GW Mammovan staff will call you back and schedule your appointment. Please have your insurance card and doctor’s information available when calling to make an appointment. Who is Eligible? Any woman IS eligible if she meets the following: • She is age 40 or older • She is not pregnant or breast-feeding • She does not have breast implants • She does not have any prior history of breast problems (patients who need a 6 months follow up must get a Diagnostic mammogram not Screening) • She is not having symptoms such as a lump in either breast or unusual breast pain • She has a referring physician or doctor of record (Ex. Medical Doctor, OBGYN doctor) • She has not had a mammogram within the last 12 months Individuals with disabilities who need Sign Language Interpreters and/or reasonable accommodation to participate in this screening should contact the R&W at 301-496-8746 and/or the Federal Relay 1-800-877-8339 or email David Browne. Requests should be made at least 10 days in advance of the appointment. For more information about mammography, breast cancer, or other types of cancer call the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER or see www.nci.nih.gov. 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 Bldg. 31, Rm. 1B50.
FREE Vision Screening Thursday, May 30th
The R&W Fitness and Wellness Program is pleased to provide FREE Vision Screenings in Bldg. 31, Rm. 2 on the 1st floor of the E-wing on Thursday, May 30th from 10am – 1:45pm. Screenings, glaucoma and visual acuity, will be provided by Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington. To register for screenings please contact Natalia Purdy. Screening appointments will be limited but we hope to offer more throughout the year.
Shop for Your Mom, Wife, Graduate or Self at the R&W Spring Bazaar is May 7th
Get ready to shop! The R&W will be hosting a Spring Bazaar on Tuesday, May 7th on the Bldg. 10 South Lobby from 10am 2pm. This year’s show will feature a diverse array of merchants selling a variety of products such as jewelry, handbags, and clothes, and more. Scheduled to appear are In-jeen-yuhs, Tibet Sky Emporium, Grand Illusions and Hidden Creek Artisans, Lazaro, Native Spirit, RareGlo, WINKology Lashes, Wonderland Knits with LuLaRoe, Rozzie Jewelry, Bracelet 4 Cancer, Allison Berland Jewelry, Nita Creations, TORO MATA, Bethesda Fine Stationary, D’s Exquisite Finds, Keche LLC and more. This event is perfect timing for your Mother’s Day and graduation shopping. The NIH Farmers Market will also be taking place with all of your favorite market vendors on the South Lawn of Bldg. 10. Mark your calendar and plan on attending this popular show. It’s a one stop shopping spree!
R&W Notary Services to Assist NIH Employees
Need a notary? The R&W has a list of NIH employees who are notaries and can assist you with getting documents notarized. If you are notary you’d like to offer your services, free of charge, contact David Browne with your contact information and a copy of your notary certificate. Become a notary public.
R&W Store Inventory Closings
Please Note, the R&W annual inventory will take place Friday, June 28th. The Bldg. 31 and Rockledge. More details will be available in the June Newsletter. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause.
Spring into Wellness
Your success at work and home is dependent on several diverse and interrelated factors: from managing your finances, creating and keeping a strong social network, and how well you take care of your physical and mental health. The Gallup study "The Five Essential Elements of Wellbeing" is a comprehensive global study of more than 150 countries that revealed the following five universal, interconnected elements that shape our lives: 1) physical, 2) financial, 3) social, 4) community, and 5) career wellbeing. The study concluded that only "66 percent of people are doing well in at least one of these areas and just 7 percent are thriving in all areas." During the months of April through June, the Office of Research Services (ORS) and the Office of Human Resources (OHR) are again partnering to offer a one-stop shop experience to support your personal and professional well-being! The Spring into Wellness campaign is intended to support all five essential elements and will highlight numerous events, both new and existing, including: * The Financial Fitness Fair - May 16th * Take a Hike Day - June 12th For a full calendar of events and additional info, visit the campaign website which will be updated with new events throughout the campaign, so check back regularly. Please follow @NIHEmplSrvcs on Twitter for more info about services that can assist you with balancing work and family, as well as other programs and employee services to improve your well-being. If you have any questions about "Spring Into Wellness," please contact SpringIntoWellness@nih.gov.
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Every month, and a variety of weeks and days each month, has its own designated food awareness. Every month the R&W highlights these dates and includes recipes and highlights which Community Market vendor you can purchase ingredients from.
National Food & Health Days
• Chocolate Parfait Day (May 1st) • Truffles Day (May 2nd) • Raspberry Tart Day (May 3rd) • Crepes Suzette Day (May 6th) • Roast Leg of Lamb Day (May 7th) • Empanada Day (May 8th) • Butterscotch Brownie Day (May 9th) • Shrimp Day (May 10th) • Mocha Torte Day (May 11th) • Apple Pie and Fruit Cocktail Day (May 13th) • Coquilles St. Jacques Day (May 16th) • Cheese Soufflé Day (May 18th) • Quiche Lorraine Day (May 20th) • Strawberries & Cream Day (May 21st) • National Taffy Day (May 23rd) • Grape Popsicle Day (May 27th) • Coq Au Vin Day (May 29th) • Mint Julep and Macaroon Day (May 30th) A full list of National Food Days can be found here.–
National Food Weeks • • • • •
Herb Week (May 5th - 11th) Raisin Week (May 5th - 11th) Food Allergy Awareness Week - (May 12th - 18th) Vegetarian Awareness Week (May 13th - 19th) Frozen Yogurt Week - (May 27th - 31st)
National Food & Health Months • • • • • • • • •
Barbecue Month Hamburger Month Salad Month Salsa Month Strawberry Month Egg Month Asparagus Month Chocolate Custard Month Beef Month
Eat Healthier, Be Healthier Try New Recipes Every Month
Look for a variety of new recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts and snacks every month in the Fitness Section of our website. Commit to get fit by eating healthier and working out.
Healthy Butterscotch Brownies
INGREDIENTS • 2 cups of all-purpose flour or spelt flour • 1/2 cup of carob powder • 1/2 teaspoon of salt • 1 cup honey, agave nectar or splenda • 1 cup of cooked white beans or chickpeas (you can use canned beans as well) • 1/4 cup of canola oil • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract • 1 cup of chopped cashews, walnuts, or bittersweet chocolate chips (optional) DIRECTIONS • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. • In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, and carob powder. • Puree beans in a food processor till smooth. • Add honey, oil, and vanilla extract. • Mix wet ingredients with the dry ingredients. • Fold in nuts or chocolate chips. • Spread into a greased 13×9″ pan. • Bake at 350 degrees F. for 25-27 minutes. • Then cool on wire rack and cut into squares.
New Arrivals to the R&W…look for a new order of Big Place, Lots of Smart People Mugs, NIH t-shirts, hat/t-shirt combos and more.
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The R&W Community Market South Lawn of Bldg. 10
The R&W Community Market is back outdoors! Join us Tuesdays from 10am – 2pm on the South Lawn of Bldg. 10. Participating vendors are as follows: Linda Vista Farm: Purchase a variety of in-season produce thru the fall. The Caramel Kettle: Handcrafted popcorn and sweet treats. Specializing in kettle corn, specialty flavored popcorn, and seasonal treats for special occasions, gifts and every day. Eat Ojas: Freshly made energy bars and bites. Real ingredients, taste, and flavor! Products are vegan, soy free, preservatives free, chemical free, dairy free, and contain no artificial flavors, preservatives, chemicals or protein powders. Tag Team Kitchen: A wide variety of fully-baked pizza crusts in small and large sizes made with seasonal, locally grown produce, or our gluten and grain-free options. Pizza kits of sauce and a shredded cheese blend also available. RavenHook Bakehouse: Highest quality artisan breads, from Cheddar Jalapeno to Rustic Italian, all-natural sweets (cookies, scones, and pound cakes) and specialty items for different occasions. From grain forward breads and seasonal sweets to special jams there is something for all.
Community Market Food Trucks
Food trucks will be part of the R&W Community Market every Tuesday thru October 29th. This year you can expect to find the following trucks at our market. Balkanik Taste: Tasty Balkan cuisine from Bulgaria, Serbia and the rest of the Balkans. Big Cheese Truck/Java Cruiser: Purveyors of fine grilled cheeses, with nearly 20 different flavors throughout the year. CapMac: Is indulgence without regret from mac and cheese and gourmet pastas to fresh vegetables. Carnivore BBQ: Serving the best BBQ in the nation’s capital. Chix ‘n Stix: Specializes in crisp, fresh, deliciously fried chicken wings and tenders, to all beef quarter pound hot dogs, and specially seasoned “Flavor Fries.” The Crab Cab: Bringing fresh, tasty seafood. El Pollo Submarine: Serving Salvadoran comfort with a twist. Many menu items are vegan or gluten-free. Firehouse Subs: A variety of hot specialty subs GoGanics: A colorful menu with organic ingredients that are affordable and healthy. Different cooking options for customers looking to reduce calorie intake is offered.
Cupcakes Lounge: Delicious cupcakes, pound cakes, granola and other baked goods. Products contain as much local eggs and fruits as possible. Gluten-free available.
Greek on the Street: Serving authentic Greek cuisine.
The Chocolatiers Palette: Delicious gourmet fudge and Belgian chocolate. Fudge is preservative, gluten, corn syrup and artificial flavor free.
Jimmy’s Famous Seafood: Baltimore’s premier and historic restaurant and crab house offers their great tasting seafood from their truck.
Chocolate Moonshine: A variety of fudge and over 40 flavors of Artisan Chocolate Bars, each hand painted with French Cocoa Butter. Create their own personalized 10-piece or 20piece gift box assortment. Low sugar, gluten-free, made with Belgian and French chocolates with natural and organic ingredients, including fresh fruits and roasted nuts.
PhoWheels: Offers a modern interpretation of traditional Vietnamese cuisine, where comforting favorite dishes blend seamlessly with bold new flavors that will entice your palate.
Randalia Bee Hives: Local raw and cream honey, pollen, hand crafted beeswax candles, bar soap, infused botanical liquid soap, beeswax body salves body lotions, lip balms, tints, salt scrubs and natural deodorants from the Eastern Shore. Phil’s Dills: A variety of flavors including wasabi, fire garlic, sweet and spicy, Old Bay and black pepper, and kosher dills.
Holy Crepes: Serving sweet and savory flavored crepes that will melt in your mouth.
Spunkie’s Soul Food: offer a mix of southern style foods. From Fried/baked chicken, mac & cheese, baked beans, yams and other foods and desserts. Swizzler Hot Dogs: Grass-fed beef hot dogs with a twist. Taco Bar: Offering tacos, quesadillas, and burrito bowls. Ben & Jerry’s: Enjoy scoops of ice cream, waffle cones, ice cream bars, and root beer floats.
District Spice: Blends are made in DC, and contain no salt, no anti-caking agents, and no preservatives.
Captain Cookie and the Milkman: DC sweetest superheroes are a mobile bakery and dairy bar serving fresh-baked cookies, local creamery milk and made-to-order ice cream sandwiches.
All Things Olive: Real, fresh extra virgin olive oil. Shop from a variety of extra virgin olive oils, barrel-aged wine vinegars from Napa Valley and 18-year old balsamic vinegars from Italy.
IceGreen Snowballs: An icy classic with a unique Southern snowball charm. Choose from over 30 tasty flavors.
Apple Valley: Apple butter, sauces, jams and seasonal produce.
Quinn’s Ice: Specializes in lactose-free soft serve, milkshakes, ice cream sandwiches, Belgian waffle sundaes and more.
PINKAVA Coffee Company: A variety of flavors available in whole bean and ground. Try a sample.
Tamo Smoothies: Delicious combinations of layered and blended fruit smoothies
Miscellaneous: Look for jewelry and craft vendors, NIH protocols, corporate sponsors and more.
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May 17th is Bike to Work Day
Join the NIH Bicycle Commuter Club (NIHBCC) in celebrating National Bike Month and Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 17th, from 7am - 9:30am at NIH-Bldg. 1, 6:30am – 8:30am at Rock Springs Business Park (Marriott HQ) and 6:30am – 9am Rockville-Fallsgrove (pit stop close to the NCI Shady Grove building). These buildings will be featured among many local pit stops supported by the Washington Area Bicyclists Association in a salute to bicycle commuting. NIH often wins the Metropolitan Washington Council of Government's (COG) award for being the area's biggest employer of Bike to Work Day participants. Complete your free registration and help us defend our proud title this year by identifying your employer as “National Institutes of Health” no matter which pit stop you register for. You must pre-register for the pit stop you plan to visit to receive a Bike to Work Day 2019 T-shirt; available while supplies last. At the NIH pit stop, all employees and contractors who show up riding a bicycle and wearing a helmet may enjoy breakfast snacks and participate in a raffle drawing. If you have never tried commuting by bike to NIH and aren't quite sure how to begin, visit NIH Bikes and click on the “Commuting” link. Bike to Work Day is a rain or shine event. Volunteers are always appreciated to help with preparations before Bike to Work Day or on the day of the event. If you would like to help, please email Vernon Anderson. Bike to Work Day participation enhances awareness of the myriad benefits bicycle commuting brings to personal health, the community, and the environment.
May is Physical Fitness and Sports Month See a list of FREE Fitness Classes on page 3.
Spring 2019 NIH Research and Taste of Festival – May 22nd & 23rd
The annual Spring NIH Research Festival will take place on the South side of Bldg. 10 in Lot 10H on Wednesday, May 22nd from 10am – 3pm and Thursday, May 23rd from 10am – 2:30pm. A variety of vendors will be on hand to inform the NIH Community of equipment, supplies and services related to biomedical research. While there on Wednesday, stop by the “Taste of” event featuring a variety of local restaurants who will be offering a sampling from their menu. Lunch will be sold from 11:30am - 1:30pm for $10 and will include 2 meal options, one dessert and one drink. Two food trucks will be onsite from 11am – 2pm on Thursday.
Are You Looking to Save Some Money?
GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) was founded in 1936 and is the second-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States according to the 2016 A.M. Best market share report, published May 2017. It provides auto insurance coverage for over 15 million policy holders. NIH R&W Members could save even more on auto insurance with a special discount from GEICO. Go to the special GEICO R&W discount page to see how much more you could save today!
Be a Big Train Host Family
The Big Train is looking for dedicated families to share their homes with a Big Train player during the 2018 season. Players stay with families from late May through late July or early August. If interested, please contact Host Family Coordinators, Emily Waldman or Anne Fletcher.
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Vanpooling Is Economical and Environmentally Friendly
Eric Sofranko has openings in his vanpool. The vanpool departs the Jefferson, MD Park-n-Ride/Firehouse at 5:30am and arrives at Campus/Bldg. 31 by 6:30am. The van departs Campus/Bldg. 31 at 4:15pm and arrives in Jefferson at 5:15pm. If you are interested in this Jefferson-to-Campus vanpool, contact Eric at 240-627-3585. Kathy Manigo-Lewis has openings in her vanpool. The van is scheduled Monday - Friday, 9-hour days, with AWS. It departs the Route 17 Commuter lot in Fredericksburg, VA, at 4:40am and arrives at Campus by 5:40am. The van departs campus at 3:45pm and arrives at Route 17 Commuter lot in Fredericksburg, VA by 5:15pm. Those interested contact Kathy at 301-451-1205. Tripp Wray has openings in his vanpool. The van departs Trinity United Methodist Church in Mount Airy at 5:45am and arrives at Campus by 7am. The van departs campus at 4:30pm (flexible) and arrives at Trinity United Methodist Church around 6pm. Those interested should contact Tripp at 301-496-9539. Richard Buckland has openings in his vanpool. The van departs the Sharpsburg Pike Park-n-Ride, by the outlet mall at 4:30am and arrives at Campus by 5:30am. The van departs campus at 4:15pm and arrives at Sharpsburg Park-n-Ride at 6pm. If interested should contact Richard at 304-582-3113. Stacy Coleman has openings in her vanpool. The van departs from the Oxon Hill Park-n-Ride at 6:30am and arrives at Campus and Bldg. 10 by 7:10am. The van departs campus at 4:05pm and arrives in Oxon Hill Park-n-Ride at 5pm. Those interested should contact in Stacy at 301-435-4693. There are three openings in the vanpool from Ellicott City. The van leaves at 6am from Long Gate Park-and-Ride in Ellicott City and leaves at 3.30pm from Bldg. 10. South Entrance parking lot. Please contact Mukesh Garg 443-803-1234. 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 on Monday & Friday at NIH in Bldg. 31 Rm. B4BN09 (near the NIH Fitness Center). The meetings are free and confidential. For more info call the EAP at 301-496-3164.
FedAdvantage
When it comes to benefits, the biggest challenge you may face is understanding what you have and knowing what you need. FedAdvantage was founded in 1992 with the purpose of assisting federal employees in understanding their benefits and educating on how to "fill the gaps” present in their benefits. We are experts in federal benefits and use our knowledge to develop insurance programs that make sense and offer peace of mind to federal employees. What we offer: Long Term Disability Insurance designed to "fill the gaps" in your leave and disability retirement benefits, providing peace of mind in knowing you can protect your income through a comprehensive disability insurance program. An accident can happen to anyone, and recovery can be costly. Accident Insurance provides benefits for covered accidental injuries, related services, and treatments. Critical Illness Insurance provides lump-sum payment for a covered illness such as cancer, a heart attack or stroke. Contact Fed Advantage at 866-973-6605.
Music, Food, Games and More… Camp Fantastic BBQ is June 11th
Gather up your friends and co-workers and come on over to the Annual Camp Fantastic BBQ! Join us Tuesday, June 11th on the South Lawn of Bldg. 10 from 11am - 2pm as we raise money to give children with cancer a summer experience to remember. The afternoon will be filled with great food from Greek on the Street, Carnivore BBQ and Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, live music will once again be provided by ARRA (The Affordable Rock ‘n Roll Act), there will be games to play, photobooth shenanigans (sponsored by Southern Management), our weekly Community Market and more. While enjoying your meal, make sure you take time to check out the silent auction, play some games, and visit our mini vendor fair featuring Southern Management, the NIHFCU, Progressions Salon, AFLAC, Nexus Holidays, Peddicord Plumbing, CORT Furniture, Aldon Management and more. Silent auction prizes have been donated by the Baltimore Ravens, Maryland Live Casino and more. Purchase your meal directly from the food trucks. A percentage of all food sales and proceeds from the silent auction will go to help support the Special Love/Camp Fantastic program. You do not need to be present to win. It costs $700 to send a child with cancer to Camp Fantastic for a week. Come be a part of the event, and bring your coworkers, and make a difference in a child’s life!
Camp Fantastic – Special Love, Inc.
Children with cancer have to grow up much too fast. They feel different from other children and many miss out on activities that healthy children experience daily. This was the reason Special Love was created. Special Love programs, including Camp Fantastic, offer children with cancer the chance to jump, play, explore, laugh, swim and make friends through a community of support, made up of patients, family, and staff who know and understand the trials and triumphs of battling childhood cancer. Your contributions can assist Special Love in their mission. Donations are tax deductible. Make checks payable to the R&W Foundation and send to R&W, Bldg. 31 Rm. 1W08. Together we can make a difference in the life of a child with cancer.
Join the R&W and Fitness ListServs
Get the latest on all things R&W related delivered to your Inbox. Be the first to hear about upcoming events, R&W store specials, travel opportunities, special ticket offers, early bird offers and much more. Everyone is welcome to join, and membership is not required to receive the listserv emails. Just provide your name and email and the info will begin to flow. Also join our Fitness Center listserv to get information on specials, upcoming classes, and any emergency closures.
Order Your Business Cards Thru R&W
The R&W offers business cards produced by AAA Color Card Company, who has provided quality business cards for government and military employees since 1976. Order online and have them mailed directly to you. Prices start at $38.
Just in time For Graduation The Collective Goods Gift Show Will be in Bldg. 31A on May 29th and 30th
Collective Goods, formerly Books Are Fun, will be returning to the Bldg. 31A Lobby on Wednesday, May 29th (10am – 3pm) and Thursday, May 30th (9am – 3pm). Shop from a variety of books, toys, electronics, gadgets, kitchenware, stationary and more. It’s a one-stop shopping bonanza. Find gifts for graduations and weddings or summer reading items for children or yourself. A portion of sales comes back to R&W to allow us to continue offering great programs to the NIH community.
Interested in Learning How to Sail?
NIHSA Basic Training Sailing Course: The NIH Sailing Association (NIHSA), an R&W supported club, offers a Sailing Basic Training course for NIH adult employees, contractors, fellows, and patients, and NOAA employees. The Spring session will run thru May 17th and the Summer session will run from July 16th - August 13th. Registration for Spring is open now, visit NIHSA for details. The in-class sessions are held on the NIH Bethesda campus and the on-board (on the water) sessions are held at Selby Bay on the South River near Edgewater, MD. Participants must be able to provide or arrange for their own transportation to both the in-class and onboard sessions. If you are interested in this course and would like more info email the club. Experienced Sailors: If you are an experienced sailor and would like to be able to charter the NIHSA boats please contact us about joining the club and doing a check-out sail. We are also always looking for experienced volunteers to help with both in-class and on-board instruction.
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Homebuyer Education and Counseling is a Great Step for Aspiring Homeowners
The desire for homeowner-ship in America remains high. In a 2017 NeighborWorks America survey, 93 percent of respondents said homeownership is important, very important or the most important. Homeownership is important to our economy, our families and our communities and a key vehicle for wealth accumulation. Census data cited in the 2017 National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) State of Housing in Black America report says that 69 percent of an American house-hold’s net worth is attributable to the net equity in their home. Becoming a homeowner is an exciting journey, and preparation is a key to success. Home-buyer education and counseling agencies are important resources to help aspiring homeowners prepare for and navigate the homebuying process to be-come sustainable homeowners. Through education and understanding of what to expect, homebuyers can get in a home and be successful homeowners over their lifetime. Homebuyer counseling offers one-on-one sessions with a HUD-approved counselor who tailors interactions to the prospective homebuyer’s situation and homeownership needs. Counseling helps prospective homebuyers gain confidence and information needed to take the next step toward buying a home with activities that include budgeting, identifying credit challenges and guidance to improve their credit score, debt reduction strategies and helping to determine afford-ability based on income and debt. Counseling also helps to dispel common myths about obtaining a mortgage loan, like “a 20 percent down payment is required to own a home.” That is not true and holds many homebuyers back from making the step forward and actually applying for a mortgage.
Homebuyer Education continued…
Homebuyer education focuses on the basic concepts of homeownership but is not specific to a transaction. Also provided by a HUD-approved agency, topics covered in these classes include the homebuying process, how to maintain a home and the importance of good credit. Homebuyer education classes can be helpful for aspiring homeowners who have been approved for a loan but need information on better understanding the process to achieve and sustain homeownership. At Wells Fargo we believe in the value homebuyer education and counseling can bring to those seeking homeowner-ship. It’s a significant component of our $60 billion lending commitment to increase African-American homeownership by 2027. In the commitment we pledged to dedicate $15 million to support initiatives for homebuyer education and counseling for African-American families. In our first year, we have provided more than $1.8 million toward this goal in the first year. Wells Fargo also collaborates with a number of agencies to bring homebuyer education and counseling into communities across the country. Here in Washington, D.C., Wells Fargo has been a sponsor of the DC Housing Expo hosted by DC Housing and Community Development and the Greater Washington Urban League for the past eight years. Homebuyer education is a requirement of the NeighborhoodLIFT program, a national collaboration between Wells Fargo and NeighborWorks America that also provides down payment assistance grants. It’s important to us at Wells Fargo that our customers are successful homeowners. And we believe that homebuyer education and counseling should be components of the homeowner-ship journey, especially for first-time homebuyers.
12th Annual NIH Take a Hike Day Registration Opens May 14th
Walk! Run! Fun! Lace up your shoes and grab a coworker! The Division of Amenities and Transportation Services (DATS) and the NIH Office of Management will host the 12th Annual Take a Hike Day on Wednesday, June 12th, activities start at 11:30am and the race begins at approximately 12:10pm. All NIH staff are invited to walk or run around the perimeter of the NIH campus (approximately 3.25 miles from start to finish) – rain or shine. Not on campus? No problem! You can participate in Take a Hike Day activities at the following off campus locations: Executive Plaza, Fishers Lane, Rockledge, Two Democracy and Shady Grove. New this year is Take a Hike Day at NIEHS Research Triangle Park. In the event’s 11 years there have been over 16,000 participants so let’s continue the tradition. Fun fact! The physical activity guidelines for Americans recommends 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day. Meet your daily physical activity goal and have fun while doing it. The goal is to begin or continue a regular habit of physical activity and create a foundation for long-term behavior changes for a healthier lifestyle. Register for Take a Hike Day! Show your team spirit and sponsor a water station! Tables and water are supplied – you provide the volunteers and enthusiasm. If you would like to sponsor a water station and show your IC spirit, please contact Shuntrice Holloman. Tables will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. Please obtain your supervisor’s approval before registering. Take a Hike Day is a voluntary event. Individuals who need reasonable accommodations to participate in this event should contact Linda Kiefer, 301-4028180, and/or the Federal Relay (1-800-877-8339). Requests should be made at least five days in advance of the event.
27th Annual NIH Police Day
The NIH Police will host their Annual NIH Police Awareness Day on Wednesday, May 15th from 10am - 2pm in front of Bldg. 1. Many local, state and federal law enforcement agencies will be attending. The day will include K-9 demonstrations, various other activities and demonstrations, and a cookout with a menu that will consist of a combination of hot dogs, hamburgers, grilled chicken breasts, Italian sausages with onions & green peppers, baked beans, potato chips, soda or water. This event is a great opportunity to showcase the many fine organizations to whom we owe a debt of thanks for our safety. In the event of rain, the location will be moved to the Bldg. 31A Patio. Those with questions should contact Corporal Alvin Maker, NIH Police Community Policing Officer, at 301496-3020. Individuals with disabilities who need reasonable accommodation to participate in this event should contact the NIH Police Communications Center at 301-496-5685 and TTY 301-496-0063. Make all requests to the attention of Cpl. Alvin Maker. There is no rain date scheduled. If the weather is inclement, the location will be changed to the Bldg. 31A Patio.
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Purchase Your R&W Membership Today
If you haven’t already, make sure to join the R&W, for only $9! Memberships are good for 365 days. R&W Members can purchase tickets, join R&W clubs, join Costco as a new member, get discounts in R&W stores and more. Join at the Bldg. 31 or Rockledge R&W stores, or preferably online. After adding a membership to your cart, click on the Cart icon in the menu bar, proceed to checkout, and once you’ve entered the appropriate information on the next screen click Proceed to PayPal to make payment. You do not need a PayPal account to purchase a membership, they will handle the payment transaction with your credit card.
Join Costco and Start Saving Today
Join Costco through the R&W for $55 and receive 3 free items plus over $55 in coupons. This offer is for new Costco members only and exclusive to R&W members. Sign into your account and visit the Member Discounts section to take advantage of this offer.
Discount Coupon for Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is the most popular cavern in Eastern America with guided tours along well-lighted, paved walkways lead visitors through cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10-stories high, towering stone formations, and natural wonders at every turn. R&W Members receive $6 off up to six adult admission tickets to Luray Caverns. Visit the R&W’s Member Discounts.
Discount Tickets to the National Aquarium in Baltimore Available Online Thru R&W
The R&W provides its members the ability to purchase tickets to the National Aquarium in Baltimore. Discounted admission tickets are available to R&W Members thru the R&W website. Save up to $8.
Discount on Gifts and Gift Baskets from Our Gift Biz
Our Gift Biz, located in Rockville, MD, is pleased to offer NIH employees, family and friends a discount of 5% off every day on all orders, gifts and baskets (not including tax and shipping). Gift baskets can be customized to suit your needs. Use code “NIH 2019” to receive the discount. View their selection online and call their gift gurus at 240-406-8701 to help you place your order.
Join the R&W and Fitness ListServs
Get the latest on all things R&W related delivered to your Inbox. Be the first to hear about upcoming events, R&W store specials, travel opportunities, special ticket offers, early bird offers and much more. Everyone is welcome to join, and membership is not required to receive the listserv emails. Just provide your name and email and the info will begin to flow. Also join our Fitness Center listserv to get information on specials, upcoming classes, and any emergency closures.
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R&W members can purchase tickets to a variety of amusement parks, all over the country thru TicketsAtWork.com. Once you register to be an R&W member or have logged into your account, click on Member Discounts and then click on the TicketsAtWork ad. Upon registering for TicketsAtWork you will have access to a variety of different entertainment options. Before purchasing tickets or offers thru TicketsAtWork.com make sure to completely read the instructions for how the tickets work and if they are name specific.
Kings Dominion has a little bit of everything for everyone. From live shows, to thrill rides, to Planet Snoopy and during the summer beat the heat at Soak City. Kings Dominion is a perfect family destination!
At Busch Gardens Williamsburg you can visit England, France, New France, Italy, Germany, Ireland, and Scotland all in one day. New in 2019 is Finnegan’s Flyer, an extreme swing ride in which riders soar high and swing out over the cliffs of the Celtic coast in the park’s Ireland village. This Summer at Water Country USA get ready to hang ten and catch a wave on Cutback Water Coaster™, the only RocketBLAST® coaster on the East Coast and Virginia’s first hybrid water coaster.
Carowinds delivers fun that’s impossible to forget with live entertainment, exciting special events and the tastiest Southern cuisine around. Carowinds has everything you need to make lifelong memories. Giggle with little ones at the antics of Snoopy and the PEANUTS™ gang, grab a friend and scream out loud on spine-tingling thrill rides or on one of 14 rollercoasters and get completely soaked at Carolina Harbor. New in 2019 is Blue Ridge Junction, covering western North Carolina and a sliver of South Carolina's upstate, the Blue Ridge Mountains region offers a majestic landscape, vibrant colors, an undeniable charm and new coaster Copperhead Strike.
From fun rides to family friendly environment such as seeing chocolate made at Chocolate World, viewing over 200 animals in ZooAmerica, and relaxing your cares away at The Boardwalk, Hershey Park has it all. This Summer Hershey Park adds Reese’s Cupfusion which merges the world’s love of chocolate and peanut butter with a dark ride gaming experience to create a sweet sensory adventure for the entire family. Agents are equipped with state-of-the-art gear to protect the factory and earn points on every mission.
Whether you want to ride roller coasters, relax in Hurricane Harbor, or hang with Bugs Bunny and other Looney Tunes characters, Six Flags America has something for everybody. New this year is the all-new coaster experience Firebird! Rising from the ashes of the Apocalypse, this ride will take thrillseekers thru incredible twists, drops and inversions, all while seated in state-of-the-art floorless trains.
Sesame Place celebrates 50 years with new attractions, special photo ops and fireworks. Visit the all-new Sesame Street Neighborhood! The iconic street has been updated to reflect the set now seen on Sesame Street. Explore new storefronts including an updated Hooper’s Store and the iconic 123 stoop. Stroll thru Abby Cadabby’s Garden and pose for a photo in Big Bird’s Nest! Our Street is Sesame Street features the Muppets from Sesame Street, for the FIRST TIME EVER at Sesame Place! See Elmo, Abby Cadabby and Big Bird in this ALLNEW show that will have you singing, dancing and clapping along! Welcome the newest (and biggest!) neighbor to Sesame Place – Mr. Snuffleupagus! Meet and take photos with Snuffy and Big Bird at Abby’s Paradise Theater!
Discounted Tickets Available Year Round
Through the partnership between the R&W and TicketsAtWork, R&W members can purchase tickets to a variety of amusement parks, concerts, sporting events, movies, and more. Once you register to be an R&W member or have logged into your account, click on Member Discounts and then click on the TicketsAtWork ad. Upon registering for TicketsAtWork you will have access to a variety of different entertainment options. Before purchasing tickets or offers thru TicketsAtWork.com make sure to completely read the instructions for how the tickets work and if they are name specific.
Are You Ready to Rock?
Did you miss out on getting your child, though secretly yourself, Taylor Swift tickets? Want to go “on the run” with Jay-Z and Beyonce? Need a laugh and want to catch Martin Lawrence or Gabriel Iglesias on tour? Want to rock out with Bono and U2 or be told you’re amazing just the way you are by Bruno Mars? Tickets are available to concerts all over the world, even if they’re sold out. Surprise that special someone in your life and be their Enrique Iglesias by being their hero baby. Discounts vary!
Attractions Discounts Across the US
As an R&W member you can see the biggest blockbusters at a discounted price. Movie Tickets available to a variety of movie theaters across the country. Save 15% - 45%!
R&W members can reserve a hotel stay through TicketsAtWork at over 225,000 hotels around the world. Get advanced booking savings and last-minute deals. Be on the lookout for the Best Rate Guarantee symbol! Save 10% - 60% off their hotel reservation.
Rental Car discounts providers such as Enterprise, Hertz, Dollar and National. Save up to 25%
Colonial Williamsburg
Did you know that you can purchase tickets to most Sporting Events through TicketsAtWork? Catch the Cubs play at Wrigley Field or the Red Sox play at Fenway, attend the NBA or Stanley Cup Finals, watch the Williams sisters dominate in any tournament. Traveling abroad? How about seeing Manchester United in the English Premiere League or going to the World Cup! You can do any of these and so much more. Discounts vary!
Start Planning Your Next Vacation Now
Don’t just dream of going somewhere relaxing, make it a reality. Through the R&W’s partnership with TicketsAtWork.com, R&W members can save on activities, attractions, and hotels in Hawaii, Mexico, the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic.
Colonial Williamsburg is the only place that takes you back in time to the dawn of America. This isn't just a place where things once happened. They're happening, right now, here in the 18th century. We're the place where the idea of our country is being born; the place where the ideals we stand for as Americans are being defined. Step back in time and meet the people who made America—sing with them, dance with them, eat with them, and have fun with them. For every person who wants to understand this country, this is your place. Tickets include: Admission to the historic area, complimentary shuttle service and free parking at the Regional Visitor Center, Interpreter-led tours of the Governor's Palace, the Capitol Building and all Government Buildings, and admission to our two world-class art museums. Children 5 and under are admitted free.
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May 2019
Visit our website at www.govemployee.com
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Collective Goods Gift Show May 30th and 31st Bldg. 31A Lobby
Vision Screening 10am – 2pm Bldg. 31 See page 4 to schedule an appointment.
Camp Fantastic BBQ Tues., June 11th 10am – 2pm Bldg. 10 South Lawn
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R&W Memberships Buy at R&W stores or online for $9 a year.
Spring Bazaar 10am – 2pm Bldg. 10 South Lobby
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11th Annual
Take a Hike Day Wed., June 12th Bldg. 1
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Registration opens TODAY!
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Wednesday
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Saturday
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For a list of FREE Fitness for You classes, run over to page 3.
8 15 27th Annual NIH Police Day 10am – 2pm In front of Bldg. 1
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Be a Big Train Host Family. See page 11 for details.
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Financial Fitness Fair Bldg. 10 FAES Terrace 11am – 2pm
Bike to Work Day See page 11 for times and locations.
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Spring Research Festival 10am – 3pm
Spring Research Festival 10am – 2:30pm
Food Festival 11:30am - 1:30pm Lot 10H
Food Trucks 11am – 2pm Lot 10H
Order Business Cards thru R&W. See page 5.
NIH Community Market Tuesdays Bldg. 10 S. Lawn 10am – 2pm
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Try recipes on R&W’s website. Some ingredients available at Bldg. 10 Market.
Collective Goods Gift Show today and tomorrow in Bldg. 31A Lobby.
Discount Insurance through R&W. See page 11.
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Mobile Mammography Screening Bldg. 45 See page 4.
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Schedule your appointment at the NIH Blood Bank 301-496-1048!
R&W Fitness Center Closed
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Discount ticket ideas for the summer. The fun begins on page 17.