July/August 2015
Recreation & Welfare
The official publication of the R&W Association and FedESP.com
Travel: West Virginia Best Hiking Spots in Mid-Atlantic Local Glass Maker: Take a Class! Chesapeake Bay Programs Tea Time Kayaking & Canoeing
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R&W Magazine
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Recreation & Welfare Magazine Editorial Brendan Dell brendan@rwpublishers.com Creative Services Siloquent, LLC Advertising Sales Dave Bontempo, RW Publishers dave@rwpublishers.com (301) 358-5994 Questions or Comments? Email us at stacia@rwpublishers.com Visit us on the Web at: www.fedesp.com
R&W MISSION STATEMENT The Recreation and Welfare (R&W) Association serves as an employee-services 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 National Institute of Health’s staff, patients, and patients’ families as well as the communities of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The R&W team of dedicated and hard working employees and volunteers accomplishes this mission by providing and offering their communities a variety of retail, fitness, leisure and charitable fundraising activities.
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table of
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Destination: West Virginia R&W Member Deals Five Cool Ways to Cool Off A Vision for a Better a Bay Real Estate Profile: White Sulphur Springs, WV Real Estate Profile: Deep Creek Lake, MD RV News Al Fresco Dining... A Summer Treat Tech Top Ten Tea Time Ten Hot Spots for Hiking Sailing: Wednesday Night Racing Discount Tickets The Kayak, the Canoe and You Nine Health Perils of Summer The Art of Glass NIH Safety, Health & Wellness Day NIH Clubs & Organizations NIH Charities R&W Membership Resources & Shopping
East Coast Hiking 4 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
We offer a special discount on car insurance for R&W members. Tell us you are a member and see how much more you can save. At GEICO, we know the only way to build stronger communities for tomorrow is to invest our time and energy today. We call it our insurance plan for the future, and it’s a policy we’re proud of.
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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2015. © 2015 GEICO
Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 5
Destination:
West Virginia by Brendan A. Dell
M
ontani Semper Liberi. This is the state motto of West Virginia and it means, “Mountaineers are always free.” If you have ever visited our 35th state, you recognize how central the mountains are to West Virginia life, and how they
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define the people. But there is more, much more, to West Virginia than the subliminal beauty of the mountains. Here are some can’t-miss things to do and places to see: Cass Scenic Railroad State Park Cass began as a company town, named after Joseph Kerr Cass, co-founder and vice-president of the West Virginia Paper and Pulp Company. The town, founded in 1901, housed the skilled laborers who worked the logging operation on nearby Cheat Mountain. The cut timber was brought by steam-driven locomotive to Cass. Today, visitors can seemingly step back in time to 1901, the year of Cass’s founding. In addition to exploring Cass, you can board the train for an excursion up the mountain to
Whittaker Station, a recreation of a 1940’s era logging camp, then on to Bald Knob, the third-highest elevation in the state. New River Gorge National River In the mood for some whitewater rafting? This 53-mile stretch of river has some of the best rafting in the country. The New River is one of the oldest rivers in North America, with the New River Gorge National River being a unit of the U.S. National Park Service. It runs from Hinton to Hawks Nest State Park, near Ansted. The best spot for whitewater rafting is between the Cunard take-in to the Fayette Station take-out. The Mystery Hole Just fifteen minutes from the New River Gorge Bridge in Ansted, West Virginia lies this curiosity. Just what the heck is it? The Mystery Hole is a group of rooms, with radical architecture that gives the impression of defying gravity. This, along with other attractions, makes this a fun stop. Capitol Music Theatre Wheeling, West Virginia is the home of this largest theatre in the state, which is also known as
Capital Music Hall. The theatre opened in 1928. Both the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra and Jamboree USA called the theatre home for many years. Jamboree USA was a live program held on Saturdays that brought such country music greats as Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, and many others. After being briefly shuttered, the theatre reopened in 2009 and features diverse acts from many genres. Snowshoe Mountain Located in Pocahontas County, Snowshoe Mountain is home to Snowshoe ski resort. While the mountain is known for its great skiing, it also features a mountain bike park, The Raven Golf Club at Snowshoe Mountain, a Gary Player-designed 18 hole PGA Championship course, Polaris RZR Tours, sporting clays, guided horseback tours, and much much more. Ansted The town
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of Ansted was founded in 1891, and named for Englishman David Thomas Ansted, a noted geologist and writer. It is situated between Lewisburg and Charleston, with Ansted serving as stop-over for those journeying by carriage. Located in the high bluffs on the Midland Trail, it is a wonderful destination for hikers, and hosts the Ansted Culture and History Museum as well.
improvements coming in 1859. This bridge is a marvel of pre-Civil War design and construction, and a must-see for those interested in history, engineering or architecture.
Wheeling Suspension Bridge A National Historic Landmark, this bridge was completed in 1849, and was the largest suspension bridge anywhere until 1851. It spans the Ohio River. In 1854, strong winds tore up the decking. The bridge was rebuilt, with further
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The Member Deals button will show you the exclusive offers available to R&W Members. You will find great deals on fabulous destinations, both here in the states as well as in Mexico and the Caribbean. Need a hotel room in New York City? Taking the kiddies to see Mickey Mouse? Need movie tickets? Looking for a deal on Las Vegas attractions and events? It’s all right there at your fingertips.
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Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 9
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Five Cool Ways to Cool Off
by Brendan A. Dell
H
ot enough for ya’? (Don’t answer, it’s a rhetorical.) Summer, in all its sadistic glory, ain’t done with us yet. In an attempt to bring some coolness, here are 5 ideas to beat the heat: Elevate Outside of the city, find mountains with green places and lakes to cool off. Lakes and Mountains vacation packages are now available on the new Deals section of the R&W website. A camping trip to the mountains is also an opportunity to get back to nature, cook by a campfire, and see the stars as they were meant to be seen. For all your outdoor excursion needs, check out Camping World, also featured on the R&W Deals site. Get Wet Get ready for big fun at the Kalahari Resort, a new family-friendly waterpark in Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania. With over 100,000 square feet of water fun, as well as restaurants, lodging, and a full-service spa, this hot destination was featured recently in LivingSocial, available to R&W members through the R&W Deals site on the website. Cool Movies In a world of searing heat and merciless humidity, there is only one place to go for a cooling respite. Sit back, relax with a gigantic tub of popcorn and a cold drink in a darkened, air conditioned environment, a catch up on this summer’s hottest Hollywood hits. Discount movie tickets are available on the R&W Deals site. Toes In The Sand The breeze coming off the ocean in Aruba or Cancun just might dampen that faint sheen of perspiration setting your brow aglow. And even if it doesn’t, you’re still in Aruba or Cancun, so who really cares? Check out the R&W Deals site for the Riu Hotels available cheapcaribbean.com. Vegas, baby Frank Sinatra once noted, “The problem with Las Vegas is that there is nothing to do between eight and nine o’clock in the morning.” If you can manage to put up with that, why not head to Sin City to get cool. While it may seem illogical to head to the desert to escape the heat, Vegas has been at it for decades now and has mastered the art of keeping its visitors comfy. Check out the bargains for travel to Vegas in the R&W Deals section of the R&W webpage. Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 11
A Vision For A Better Bay: Phillips Wharf Environmental Center by Brendan A. Dell Inform. Inspire. Involve. Those words are the heart of the mission statement for the Phillips Wharf Environmental Center (PWEC). Located on Tilghman Island on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, PWEC was by founded by Kelley Phillips Cox, who serves as its President and Director. The organization, a non-profit 501(c) 3 environmental organization, is named in honor of her father, Garland Phillips, owner of Phillips Wharf Seafood. The goal is to: “Inform, inspire, and involve those who live 12 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
near the Chesapeake Bay to take action by becoming good stewards of the Bay and its inhabitants. Through hands-on learning experiences we teach children and adults how the plants and animals of the Chesapeake Bay are impacted by the decisions humans make every day.” History: When Hurricane Isabelle hit Tilghman Island in 2003, a seven-foot storm surge wiped away about 200 feet of dock that had been used by Phillips Wharf Seafood. After the storm, Kelley, a marine biologist, ”had a vision
for the property to preserve my family’s five generation watermen heritage and teach the public the importance of being good stewards of the Bay.” In 2005, the vision of the Phillips Wharf Environmental Center became a reality. Today, the hands-on learning experiences offered by PWEC include It’s A Crab’s Life, the Fishmobile, and Spatutti. Other programs and initiatives are Tilghman Islanders Grow Oysters (TIGO), Buffer Garden, and Oyster House Project. It’s A Crab’s Life: This program is intended for kids in grades 1 - 7, and consists of a one day field trip to the Phillips Wharf Environmental Center to learn about the Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab. Highlights include a one-hour cruise on the Chesapeake Bay and Choptank River to watch watermen at work, crab races, demonstrations on how to catch crabs with a net and a chicken neck (get the net low!) and other fun stuff. Fishmobile: A classroom on wheels, the Fishmobile is designed for children Pre-K through 3rd grade. The program is designed to educate students about the Bay’s environmental issues. The Fishmobile is available for camps, schools, clubs, community events, and birthday parties. For more information regarding the Fishmobile, e-mail info@pwec.org, or call (410) 886-9200. Spatutti: This program teaches youngsters in grades 4 - 7 about an organism critical to the Bay’s health, the oyster. Participants will get on board Skipjack Rebecca Roark for a one-hour sail. Captain Wade Murphy will also show how an oyster bar is dredged, allowing students to see an oyster up close. Tilghman Islanders Grow Oysters (TIGO): This program is part of Maryland Grow Oysters, a citizen-based oyster restoration initiative. PWEC is the local coordinator for this effort, which involves over 1,000 waterfront property
owners, along with 30 Coordinating Groups. The program operates by having the property owners tend to oysters that are grown in mesh cages, for the first year of life. The oysters are then gathered and planted on a sanctuary bar in Harris Creek. Buffer Garden: In partnership with the University of Maryland Extension Master Gardener Program in Talbot County, this program showcases a model “Buffer Garden,” used to create a healthier bay by reducing the effects of runoff and pollution through the best use of native plants and gardening techniques. Oyster House Project: The goal of the project is to expand the existing educational initiatives into the realm of economic development through programs in aquaculture, conservation landscaping, as well as seafood marketing. Oyster House Project involves the purchase of the Harrison Oyster House at the Knapps Narrow Bridge on Tilghman Island. The Phillips Wharf Environmental Center is located at 6129 Tilghmans Island Rd., TIlghman Island, MD, 21671. It is open from mid-April to November 30, Thursday through Monday 10-4. Telephone: (410) 886-9200 E mail: info@ pwec.org Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 13
Take The Plunge
Welcome to a taste of the good life. Ever yt h in g is possible here at The Perry.
Inspired by the surrounding environment and history, The Perry is designed with thoughtfully selected decor, hand-chosen fixtures, soothing colors and a blend of comfortable textures. The modern construction means homes are equipped with keyless entry and USB outlets as well as a Nest programmable thermostat. Rich wood-like flooring flows from the entry way into the living room and gourmet kitchen where you’ll find granite countertops, glass backsplash, chrome fixtures and stainless steel appliances. The Perry offers 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom floor plans. Choose your preference from our website to view more detailed layouts! Live a balanced lifestyle with the convenience of a concierge-attended lobby and entertainment lounge with game room, billiards and big-screen TVs. The Perry features something for everyone, from a fitness center with yoga room and cool down lounge to a fence community dog park.
Spend your afternoon relaxing at the luxury pool with expansive sundeck or scenic Zen garden then go out on the town to experience the nearby hotspots, including entertainment venues, restaurants and shops, which are in Park Potomac Urban Development and surround Potomac. • Wine Harvest, offering events, such as wine tastings, special discounts, specialty wine and selection of beer, cheese plates and sandwiches, is less than a 5-minute walk away. • Restaurants within walking distance include MoCo’s Founding Farmers, Zoes Kitchen, SuGo, Elevation Burger, Grand Fusion, Amici Miei Ristorante and Brooklyns Deli & Grill. • Additional restaurants and retail will be located on the ground floor of The Perry buildings. • Potomac Woods Park, a 42-acre park with sports facilities, picnic areas and a playground set amid trees and rolling lawns, is within a 10-minute bike ride. • Minutes from Bethesda, Rockville and I-270 & 495.
Contact us today! NOW LEASING 14 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare 240-399-0555 * https://theperryapts.com
Profile: White Sulphur Springs, WV Real Estate
White Sulphur Springs is a city in Green-
The city’s identity as a tourist destina-
briar County, West Virginia. According to
tion shapes its workforce makeup. White
The town itself measures about two square
and blue-collar workers, with many of its
the 2010 census, the population is 2,444. miles. Nearby is the Greenbrier Resort, a
National Historic Landmark. White Sulphur Springs is a very small city, and the real es-
tate is predominantly residential, with some small commercial buildings.
The city has been called “Queen of the
Watering Places,” to reflect the mountain
Sulphur Springs employs both white-collar residents employed in the service industry, according to NeighborhoodScout. Many
are employed as sales people, office workers, and in administrative support. The
crime rate is among the lowest in the United States, NeighborhoodScout reports.
As this is a small rural community, many
springs that saw the area become popular in
of the activities available to residents and
built nearby to capitalize on the influx of
canoeing, hiking, cycling, and horseback
the early-1800s. The Greenbrier Resort was tourists who came to White Sulphur Springs to escape Virginia’s summer heat and humidity.
visitors involve the outdoors. Fishing and riding are among the multitude of ways
visitors and residents alike enjoy what White Sulphur Springs has to offer.
Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 15
The nearby Greenbrier resort offers many
other activities, as well. The resort has golf, a spa, casino, retail shopping, and a full calendar of events for many ages.
The real estate is divided, with White Sul-
phur Springs real estate being at one end of the spectrum and the properties in or near
Greenbrier at the other. For White Sulphur
Springs, the 2012 estimated medium condominium or house value was $100,297, ac-
cording to City-data.com. The real estate in
White Sulphur Springs is comprised of single family homes (74.3%), mobile homes (16%),
as well as town homes and apartments. The Greenbrier communities tend to
feature newer, larger, and more luxurious
dwellings. Greenbrier Summit Village 5, for
example, lists a 3,456 square foot, four-bedroom, four-bathroom and ½ bath mountain
home for $1,995,000. The area also features a large number of sites available for building.
The area can reached by motor vehicle
via U.S. Interstate 64. Amtrak’s Cardinal route also offers service to the area.
Profile: Deep Creek Lake, MD Real Estate
Deep Creek Lake lies in Garrett County,
land’s largest lake. The lake, along with
Maryland. Covering almost 3,900 acres,
nearby Wisp Ski Resort, make the area a
with almost 69 miles of shoreline, it is Mary-
popular tourist destination.
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Deep Creek celebrated its 90th Anniver-
lion. These stunning vacation homes feature
sary this past June. The lake is the result
as many as six bedrooms, five and one half
of a dam that was built across a tributary of
baths, in secluded coves with private docks
Youghiogheny River.
and exotic woodwork and custom features.
Deep Creek Lake is close to the town of Oakland, Maryland. The average price of real estate in Oakland is $168,434. Oakland’s average rental price is $656. In
Lake access homes are also available, and are generally much less expensive than lake front homes. The area is has plenty to offer for out-
keeping with its environs, Oakland is a rural
door enthusiasts. Summer means fishing,
town.
with stocked trout, bass, yellow perch, and
For those looking for a nice lake home getaway, there are a variety of real estate options for prospective buyers. There are breathtakingly beautiful luxury lakefront homes available, from $500,000 to $3.5 mil-
walleye to be found in abundance. Boating, kayaking, and jet skiing are other popular activities. There are also a large number of trails in the area for hiking. In the winter, skiers head to nearby Wisp Ski Resort.
Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 17
RV N
H
ere is the latest news from the world of the Recreational Vehicle...The RV industry forecasts that 2015 will see a 6.5% increase in RV shipments over 2014 levels, with growth continuing into 2016. Mac Bryan, Vice President of the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA), presented the group’s report at an industry luncheon held on June 2 in Washington. “The first, and perhaps most important, is the deeply held preference for the RV lifestyle,” said Bryan, when talking about the two biggest 18 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
factors behind the growth. “The second is that we’re in the largest expansion of the market for new RVs in our lifetimes.”... Allen, from Hinton, Alberta, shares this story from www.everything-about-rving.com: “My wife and I were two weeks into a seven week trip to the western states and had stopped for the night in Idaho... We gathered some deadwood and built a fire and were relaxing before going to sleep... A short while later another couple coming down the highway pulled in and
ews
camper. On that note, the evening was over, so the rest of us went to bed.”... In the Class B retail van category, Winnebago has grabbed the top spot, according to a report from Statistical Surveys Inc. (SSI). Winnebago has captured 30.6 of the market share with its Class B touring coaches in that category, reports SSI. Products such as its Travato® have fueled the growth. Designed for an active lifestyle, the Bluetooth©-connected, maneuverable Travato has both bike and kayak racks available, perfect for the outdoor enthusiast… Melissa Popp, writing about RV travel for About.com, says that joining the Good Sam Club is a wise move for RV owners. “The Good Sam Club is one of the largest RVing communities in North America. The Good Sam Club was founded in 1966 alongside Camping World, its sister company. It offers gas discounts, RVing events, and other membership benefits to its community.” You can join the Good Sam Club through the Deals section on the R&W website… Vocabulary time: Walleydocking. Walleydocking consists of “urban stays outside the RV park,” whether such a stay is “stealth camping””front yard camping” ”Flying J/truckstops” ”Wal-Mart/retail parking lots” and other similar situations,” per the good people at walleydocking.com. Walleydocking. Cool word. In other RV developments…
by Brendan A. Dell asked us if we would let them stay with us in the little cove for added security, and of course we welcomed them and invited them to sit around our fire. We sat for an hour or so talking and swapping our background stories. The woman stated that she was enjoying the night air and the nature sounds of crickets and she commented on the birds flying around over our heads and I chuckled and answered “BIRDS DON’T FLY AT NIGHT”. She had a shocked look on her face and asked what was flying overhead. I answered “BATS”, she shrieked and ran for their
From www.rvjokes.com, “A RVing couple, both born the same year and month, were celebrating their 60th birthdays. During the celebration, a fairy appeared and said that because they had been so loving she would grant them each one wish. Very excited, the wife said that since she had already visited most of North America in her RV she would like to visit Europe. The fairy waved her magic wand; airline tickets instantly appeared in her hand. Then it was the husband’s turn. He paused for a moment, then said with a sly look, “Well, I’d like to have a woman 30 years younger than me.” The fairy waved her wand, and presto, he was 90.” Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 19
Al Fresco Dining... A Summer Treat D
ining out in the summer can take on a whole new dimension beyond four walls with al fresco dining (“eating outdoors.”) It’s a great way to take advantage of the weather and the opportunity to enjoy the fresh air. Dining alfresco tends to be more casual, often with a celebratory, party atmosphere, making a meal even more memorable. Diners have choices, whether it is a sidewalk cafè, rooftop dining, a lovely water view or a picnic. Here are a few things to think about when considering al fresco dining. Sidewalk cafès Whether you are traveling or right in your own hometown, take a look at which restaurants feature outdoor seating. (OpenTable.com can provide that information.) Many large American cities feature neighborhoods or districts that allow for outdoor dining during warmer months, or have attractions (such as a Riverwalk or Harborplace) that will offer a variety of restaurants with outdoor seating. Rooftop Dining Some large establishments will feature tables, a bar, even a stage, on the roof. In addition to the fresh air and additional space afforded here, there is often a great view of the city to boot.
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Pets This is a growing trend, as restaurants try to appeal to the legions pet-lovers out there. The practice has met with some opposition, and it is an option only if Fido plays well with others and can control the urge to leap up and snatch somebody’s entrèe. Europe and California allow pets at outdoor dining establishments, while a bill is in the works in New York to allow it.
Waterfront Dining outdoors in a waterfront setting can make for a meal that gets talked about for a long time to come, “Remember that time we went to…” Keep in mind that the water temperature may be lower than that of the air, making for a chilly evening. Bring a jacket, especially early in the summer. Great for seafood lovers and boat owners. Picnics Sometimes, you just want to get away from it all. That’s when you pack up a nice picnic basket and a cooler, and head out to your favorite spot for a day with the family or that special someone. The beauty of the picnic lies in both the variety of venue, whether it is on the bank of a mighty river, the overlook of a scenic mountain drive, or your favorite park just down the block, and the fact that you can bring whatsoever you please. Always make sure to leave the area clean and picked-up after you’re done. Bon appètit!
Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 21
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Tech Top Ten
be the starting point for any discussion of wearables. Scott Stein, writing for cnet.com, called it, “A bold, beautiful watch, with complications.” His impression was that its first-generation “shortfalls make it feel more like a fashionable toy than a necessary tool.” Bear in mind, smartwatches are not stand-alone devices, but are paired with a smartphone. As the kinks get worked out and other players enter the market, wearables may be a better option in a year or so.
The consumer electronics industry has seen an explosion of growth and innovation in recent years. Last year, for example, the U.S. Patent Office issued a record number of patents, 277,835. The 2015 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) was held this past January in Las Vegas. From the amazing minds of the digiratti, here are ten hot trends in the tech world:
Consumers are increasingly looking for robots to do household chores, such as vacuuming. Consumer Reports, in its July 2015 edition, rated the Roomba 880 from iRobot as the top performing robotic vacuum. The use and application of increasingly more advanced robotics is expected to multiply.
1) The Internet of Things (IoT) At the 2015 CES in Las Vegas, all of the major tech companies were deeply engaged in the Internet of Things (IoT). Basically, IoT allows objects to have their own “unique identifiers” and to share information over a network, without the need for human-to-computer input or processing. The CEO of Samsung Electronics, Boo-Keun Yoon, has stated that within five years all of its products will be connected to the internet. Intel’s new chip, Curie, is designed to enhance and expand this burgeoning trend. 2) Wearables The Apple Watch must
3) Drones and Robots The number of different kinds of drones available is expanding, although Dean Takahashi of VentureBeat.com reports that, right now, the market for drones is still small. He reported that there were drones galore at the show. As civilian applications of drone technology evolve from entertainment and selfies to other areas, that market will expand.
4) Streaming By the end of this year, it is estimated that 6.23 million households in the U.S. will go without subscription television, according to Convergence Consulting Group of Toronto. Streaming video from the internet is already strong, driven in large part by the emergence of Netflix. HBO rolled out its streaming service in April, with others sure to follow. The trend of the cable cord being cut is expected to increase. Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 23
5) 3d Printers This technology is nothing short of revolutionary, particularly for artists and product designers. It is part of the creative wave of new technology that will have a profound effect with regard to the creation of new companies in many different fields. Harry Abramson, Director of Art & Digital Fabrication at Direct Dimensions, Inc., says, “3d printing at the industrial level has been around for decades. The emergence of reliable, affordable desktop and prosumer (the market between professional and consumer) grade 3D printers is just another step of the democratization of design and manufacturing...It’s as game changing as the internet was to communication and commerce, except this is about product development.” 6) Smart Homes Sensors and analytics in every device in your home giving feedback, alerts, and information is the wave of the future. Your drain informing you it is clogged, sensors letting you know who is in your home, and a toothbrush helping you improve your oral hygiene efficiency are all in store, reports Steve Zaagman of WZZ-TV, Grand Rapids. 7) Digital Wallets Electronic commerce can be carried out via the computer or smartphone. Not only does this allow for more rapid transactions, with the advantage of being able to electronically track spending, it frees the user from having to lug around a wallet overloaded with coupons and reward cards. The coupons are increasingly being offered electronically at the POS in a store, or as a promo code online. Google’s Wallet and Passbook from Apple are the biggest names in 24 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
this market, but many other choices are available for smartphone users. 8) Smart Cars
The computing power of the new car computers is staggering. At the CES, Nvidia showcased two new computers for automotive use: one for the dashboard information shown to the driver and the other a navigational system for a self-driving car. These new computers can crunch data at 2.3 teraflops, which is twice the power of the most powerful supercomputer in the year 2000, says Nvidia CEO Hsun Huang.
9) Tablets The tablet has proven to be hugely popular with consumers, and that trend is expected to continue into 2015 and beyond. This is a competitive market, and lower prices have allowed the product to find its way into many households. Tim Bajarin of pcmag.com believes that the trend will be for tablets to be positioned as “personel TVs.” Qualcomm’s new LTE chip, due out later this year, is expected to make this a reality. 10) High Quality Audio While new technology has allowed for great volumes of information to be successfully stored and shared, one glaring weakness has been in the realm of audio. Hardcore audiophiles have had much to complain about (you know it when you hear it, that otherworldly non-music noise that crops up from time to time in digital music). If there was ever a man to solve this problem, it’s music legend Neil Young. He introduced his prototype PonoPlayer back in 2012 on The Late Show With David Lettermen, and it is now available. The device has earned praised for its higher-than-CD-sound quality (and much better than MP3 quality audio). Sony has also done a reboot on its Walkman. the ZX2, offering sound superior to CD. This is for the high-end consumer, with a price point of $1,200.
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Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 25
“Who would then deny that when I am sipping tea...I am swallowing the whole universe with it and that this very moment of my lifting
Tea T (Part 1)
the bowl to my lips is eternity itself transcending space and time?” - D.T. Suzuki, Zen and Japanese Culture (This is the first of two articles on tea. Part two, in the next issue, will focus on how to make teas, with interactive video links.) Tea has been with us for a relatively long time, its use originating in China thousands of years ago. It was used first medicinally. A medical text written by Hua Tuo in the 3rd century a.d. notes that “to drink bitter t’u constantly makes one think better.” One of China’s philosophers, Laozi, called tea “the froth of the liquid jade,” believing it to be part of the very elixir of life. As tea’s use became more widespread and accepted in China, legends and myths sprang up around the plant. One legend credits Shen-Nung, China’s famed emperor, as having discovered tea when
26 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
dried leaves blew into a bowl of water he had just boiled. Shen-Nung noticed the change in the color of the water the leaves produced and drank the tea. He found
Time by Brendan A. Dell
tea was introduced to other nations, write Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss in The Story of Tea: A Cultural History and Drinking Guide. During the sixth century, Buddhists monks introduced tea to Japan, where over time green tea became a staple of both the gentry and Buddhist monks alike. Portuguese priests and merchants were introduced to it in China in the 16th century, and tea became popular in England in the 17th century. Later, the English introduced both tea production and consumption to India. At the time, China had a monopoly on tea production and the English sought to counteract this. Today tea is popular all over the world, being second only to water in worldwide consumption. Different societies have developed
the drink to have restorative properties, and was pleased. The plant, Camellia sinensis, originated in southeast Asia and from this “centre of origin”
ceremonies and rituals associated with drinking tea. Afternoon Tea is credited to Anna, Duchess of Bedford, circa 1840. She had developed the custom of tea (and a snack) at about four in the afternoon, to ameliorate “that sinking feeling.” Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 27
Ten Hot Spots N
Here are ten great spots in the region: ext time somebody tells you to go
take a hike, don’t get mad. Take it as good advice, instead. Kara Mayer Robinson (reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD), writing for WebMD.com, writes that that hiking has numerous benefits. Hiking is a great cardio workout, and can; a) lower the risk of heart disease, b) improve both blood sugar and blood pressure levels, c) build bone density (as hiking is a weight bearing exercise), d) strengthen a host of muscles, including the core, e) improve balance, f) aid in weight control, and g) contribute to a good mood. Gregory Miller, PhD, president of the American Hiking Society, says, “Research shows that hiking has a positive impact on combating the symptoms of stress and anxiety.”
28 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail extends over 2,000
miles, from Maine to Georgia. In the Washington, D.C. region, favorite day hikes include Greenbrier State Park, Shenandoah National Park, Harpers Ferry, and many others. Rock Creek Park
Closer to home, Rock Creek Park in Mont-
For Hiking
by Brendan A. Dell
gomery County, Maryland features over 25
for killer vistas and a more physically intense
miles of trails. Trail insertion points are Lake
hike. Run by the National Park Service, Catoctin
Needwood, Beach Drive, and Meadowside Na-
Mountain Park is adjacent to Cunningham Falls.
ture Center. Black Hill Regional Park
Also in Montgomery County, this area has
bike paths, canoeing, and kayaking in addition to hiking. Great views of Little Seneca Lake make this 2,200 acre park a prime location for suburban hikers.
Cunningham Falls State Park
This state park, a regional favorite, is the
home of a 78-foot waterfall. The park has over 5,000 acres, with a 43-acre man-made lake. Great Falls
For a real
challenge, try The Billy Goat Trail at Great
Catoctin Mountain Park
Falls Park. This
Maryland is the home of
is located along
this park, a part of the
the Potomac
Catoctin Mountain Ridge
River in Fairfax
of the Appalachians.
County, Virgin-
With 25 miles of trails,
ia.
Frederick County,
800-acre park
the rugged terrain makes Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 29
Old Rag Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain
summit, is located near Sperryville in Virginia’s
Registered Natural Landmark is located in Fred-
Madison County. Old Rag Mountain is a part of
erick County, Maryland. Better for those not
the Blue Ridge chain and the Shenandoah Na-
new to hiking, this spot rewards the exertion
tional Forest.
with its vistas.
Big Schloss
Ashby’s Gap
tain Range, located in the George Washing-
quier County, and Clarke County lies this wind
ton National Forest, situated on the border
gap in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The hiking
of Virginia and West Virginia. Relatively easy,
loop is long, but without crushing elevation
wonderful scenery, and not as crowded as other
changes. The Appalachian Trail passes through
areas.
here, too.
This popular hiking spot, with an exposed
This peak is part of the Great North Moun-
30 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Privately owned but open to the public, this
At the confluence of Loudoun County, Fau-
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Introducing...
The R&W Local Business Directory Check out the directory for... • Local Businesses • Local Events • Local Discounts
The R&W Directory is just getting started, so check back frequently for updates! Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 31
S
ailboat racing on a Wednesday night has been a summer tradition in Annapolis since 1959. Every Wednesday night at 6:00 at the mouth of Spa Creek, there will be as many as 125 craft from a variety of classes getting ready to compete (weather permitting). The season runs from the end of April through Labor Day, and consists of three separate series of races. There are awards and trophies for the best performances in each series. Wednesday Night Racing was initiated by Annapolis Yacht Club Past Commodore Gaither Scott after he attended a similar race in 1958 at the Greenwich Yacht Club in Rhode Island. The early races featured no awards, or were even scored, for that matter. It was a social event with great sailing and a picnic afterwards. Although the races are now held under the auspices of a Racing Committee, with eligibility for entry determined on the Notice of Race (NOR), the tradition of socializing afterwards continues, with a cookout held after the races at the Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC), which serves as the finish line for the races.
32 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Sail
Wedn Night R
ling:
nesday Racing by Brendan A. Dell
Members of the AYC combine with those of other local yacht clubs to make up the competition. In addition to the weekly Wednesday Night competition, these yachts compete throughout the summer in races to St. Michaels, Solomons Island, and other spots on the Chesapeake. The racing season culminates in Race Week, held over three days on Labor Day Weekend in Annapolis. The course begins at the mouth of Spa Creek, with courses varying in length based on classification. The weather conditions extant at the time of the race also help to determine the course length. The course itself consists of a number of marks, both dropped and fixed, which each vessel must successfully navigate. The boat traffic can become quite congested, particularly around the marks, and there is never a shortage of yelling (“Starboard!� being one such right-ofway exclamation), with the occasional collision. All in good fun! The finish line to the races is in front of the AYC, with crowds of people watching the action from the club, the Spa Creek bridge, and the docks and restaurants in the harbor. Afterwards, the competitors gather for an evening meal and the unofficial start of the weekend in Annapolis.
Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 33
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36 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
The Kayak, the Canoe, and You by Brendan A. Dell Charon ferrying souls across the River Styx.
just the temperature, either. Anyway, the water,
The Mesektet Boat used by Ra, the Egyptian
in addition to being cooler, seems to have that
sun god, in his journey into the Duat, the land
added mystical attraction, Charon, Land of the
of the dead. The Elven ship carrying Frodo,
Dead, etc. But it begs the question, what kind of
Gandalf, and Bilbo to the Undying Lands at the
boat.
end of The Lord of The Rings. The physical act of leaving terra firma for the water has long had a deep mystical and symbolic meaning, finding expression time and again in myths and legends. What is it about the water humanity views as something deeply otherworldly, cosmic? More importantly, how can we come to understand this deep connection with the elemental within our own lives? Sure, we all want summer to be fun, but with
Here’s where having a canoe or kayak can save you some trouble. Now, Charon, he’d take you out on his boat, but he charges a penny. And you have to be dead. So, that’s right out, isn’t it? And Ra, same deal, you have to be dead. Now, in Lord of the Rings, Bilbo and Frodo caught a ride with the Elves. But what if the Elves didn’t want to give them a ride? You know how snooty those Elves could get in Lord of the Rings. Haughty, even. Only reason they
some lasting, deeply personal recognition of the
took Frodo and Bilbo was they owed them, big
entirety of the multiverse and our personal rela-
time, destruction of Sauron and all. But you?
tionship with it, with an aim to moving beyond
Think those Elves would let you ride with them?
mere time and space to something approach-
Forget it.
ing astral projection, the ability to move freely between dimensions, right? Which brings us to canoes and kayaks. So, summer is going along, it’s hot, you
Which takes up back to canoes and kayaks. You don’t need Charon to paddle your own canoe. And you save a penny. Thousands take to rivers, lakes, and oceans to enjoy kayaking,
want have fun, but there is that whole recog-
and they don’t need some Egyptian deity to help
nition-of-the-entirety-of-the-multiverse thing
them along. Tell the Elves to take a hike, be-
going on in your head. What do you do, you go
cause we have our own way of getting around on
boating. Because it’s cooler on the water. Not
the water, thank you very much. Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 37
Nine Health Perils of Summer Summer’s warm weather is an invitation to spend time out of doors. The fresh air, the longer days, and the opportunity to do all sorts of activities all contribute to the enjoyment of the season. The warmer weather and the attendant swell in the time spent outdoors bring with them a number of health concerns. Jennifer LaRue Huget, writing for the Washington Post, noted nine such issues that go hand-in-hand with summer, with suggestions on how to avoid them. Athlete’s Foot The fungus that leads to this condition (if you feel a “scaly, itchy, stinging and burning rash on the feet, usually between the toes,” check it out) thrives on wet and moist surfaces. With this in mind, always wear flip flops at your pool or in a locker room. If you are getting a long workout in, take off your wet socks, and wash and dry your feet upon completion. While athlete’s foot might seem merely irritating, Huget writes, if left untreated it can lead to more serious problems. Coxsackie Virus The virus, found in intestinal tracts, leads to “hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in children,” says Huget. Wading pools are the ideal environment for the virus, and HFMD is at its height in the summer. There is no treatment for the disease, and those infected de38 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
velop small blisters in the mouth and on the tongue, as well as on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, according to Bonnie Maldonado, professor of pediatrics and infectious diseases at Stanford Medical School. Maldonado recommends that pool use be restricted to chlorinated pools, only, and that infected children be kept away from others. Food Poisoning The heat and humidity of summer provide perfect conditions for the growth of bacteria. The climate conditions, combined with a greater number of people eating and cooking outdoors, “without safeguards such as refrigeration, dishwashers, and food thermometers,” adds greatly to the risk for food poisoning. The executive director for the Partnership for Food Safety Education, Shelley Feist, says that the illnesses that result can have devastating effects on children, due to their immature immune systems. The USDA recommends the following when cooking and eating outside: • Washing hands thoroughly, and bring both jugs of water for food prep and cleaning, as well as moistened towelettes for washing both prep surfaces and hands • Separate raw meats from other foods • Cold foods should be packed in ice in a cooler.
Heat Exhaustion and heat stroke Exposure to high temperatures combined with a failure to take in enough fluids can lead to heat exhaustion. Rebecca Noe, an epidemiologist with the Center For Disease Control’s (CDC) National Center for Environmental Health, says that while all age groups are at risk for heat-related illnesses, the elderly, the young, those who are on medication or have a compromised immune system, and those who spend a great deal of time outdoors, either working or exercising are at a greater risk. Should you feel nauseous, begin sweating heavily, have clammy skin, or feel weak or faint, get to a cool place and begin drinking fluids. Heat stroke occurs when the body temperature hits 106°. If a person has stopped sweating and appears confused, call 911, as this is a serious, life-threatening condition. Noe says that prevention is the key, offering the mantra, “Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay informed.” Heat Rash This condition is the result of sweat glands becoming blocked by excess perspiration. The result is a “red, bumpy, prickly rash,” writes Huget. Wearing loose clothing helps in preventing this, and as the body becomes acclimated to the summer heat, it is less likely to develop. Should you develop heat rash, it can be treated with calamine lotion, anhydrous lanolin, and for the itch, an over-the-counter topical steroid cream. Infections from open cuts Staph. a, E. coli and MRSA are among the bacteria of concern when it comes to tradition of walking barefoot in the summer. These bacteria and other organisms “can live in sand and beach water, and that can mean trouble if they enter your body…” through even a small cut, writes Huget. MRSA is of particular concern, as it is one cause of flesh-eating disease. If you discover a cut on the foot after walking outside, wash it with soap and water. Pay attention to any sign of infection, which may include redness around the wound, warmth radiating from it, drainage, chills and fever. Should you exhibit any of these symptoms, see your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately. Poison ivy The sign of poison ivy exposure is a distinctive linear rash, “a line of bumps, often weepy-looking,” writes Huget. The rash results from an allergic reaction to a substance found in the stem, roots, and leaves of poi-
son ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. Cases where there is exposure to the face, genitals, eyes, or lungs (if the plants has been burned, and the smoke was inhaled) may require a prescription medication. Hikers should stay clear of the plants, and learn to identify them in the wild. Wearing gloves and long sleeves will help, as well. Swimmer’s ear This painful condition results from infection of the skin in the ear canal. Left untreated, the condition worsens, says Dr. Richard Rosenfeld, who co-wrote the latest guidelines for treatment of swimmer’s ear. Signs of infection include a feeling of “fullness in the ear,” along with pain when the tragus (the triangle flap of skin at the opening of the ear) is pushed or pulled. While a doctor can prescribe antibiotics, Rosenfeld says that mild cases can be dealt with on your own. He recommends a solution containing “a 50-50 mixture of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Fill an ear dropper with it and, lying on your side with the affected ear up, fill the ear with the solution. Lie still for a few minutes while the liquid is absorbed.” For those prone to swimmer’s ear, other strategies include drying the ear with a hair dryer (on a low setting) after swimming, and using an ear dropper to administer rubbing alcohol into the ear, to both break up the water and aid in evaporation. West Nile Virus This mosquito-borne infection has occurred every summer in the United States since the virus’s arrival here in 1999, reports the CDC. The CDC goes on to say that in 2014, 2,205 people were reported to have been infected, with 97 deaths being attributed to West Nile virus. There is no cure and no treatment for the virus, although only one in five people who contract West Nile will exhibit symptoms, says Ingrid Rabe, a CDC epidemiologist. The only option for those with symptoms (which include fever, severe (sometimes fatal) neurological problems, such as encephalitis, meningitis, and “acute poliolike disease”) is supportive treatment of those symptoms. Prevention is the key. Avoid the mosquito’s bite through repellent, wearing long sleeves, and avoiding the peak hours for mosquito activity, which are from dusk to dawn. Rid your property of standing water, the breeding ground for mosquitos, and check to make sure all of your window screens are tip-top this summer.
Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 39
The Art of Glass
40 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
T
im McFadden has a passion, and that passion is glass art. McFadden, a Baltimore native, discovered his passion while a student at Salisbury University. While his love of glass art has led him to all the way to Europe, Tim calls Baltimore home, with a studio right off of Eastern Avenue. Tim’s older brother Marty first introduced him to the art of glassblowing in 2001. From that first glassblowing class, Tim went on to win Salisbury’s prestigious Bernstein Business Plan Competition in 2005. This allowed him to open up a studio in southeast Baltimore, now the home of McFadden Art Glass. In 2014, Tim’s work was featured at the Walters Art Gallery Gala. Tim is also co-founder, along with Aric Wanveer, of Zero Gravity Creations. Aric works in metal, and the two have combined their specialties to create unique works. Glassblowing dates to the last half of the 1st century b.c. The earliest evidence of the art was found in Chogha Zanbil, in the Kuzestan province of Iran. From there the art spread throughout the Roman Empire, then the rest of the world. Glassblowing quickly became the dominant form for working glass, and glassworks were established throughout the world. Glass art can be made into an astonishing variety of objects, many of which can be used throughout the home. From chandeliers and lighting fixtures, to bowls and platters, cups and stemware, to glass
sculptures, glass art can add beauty to nearly any aspect of the home. At the studio, Tim offers beginner glassblowing classes, as well as hotshop rental. McFadden Glass art is also great for kid’s field trips and parties, and make-your-own-activities are offered as well. Events include date nights, too! McFadden Art Glass is located at 6800 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland. Phone number: (410) 631-6039. E-mail: info@mcfaddenartglass.com Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 41
42 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
NIH Safety, Health & Wellness Day Wednesday, August 26th
The Best Deals on Tickets!
The 4th NIH Safety, Health and Wellness Day will be held, rain or shine, at Natcher Conference Center from 9:30am-2pm. The event kicks off with opening remarks at 9:30am. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the activities and learn about safety, health and wellness opportunities at the NIH. The Office of Research Services, Office of Research Facilities, NIH Occupational Safety and Health Committee, IC Safety and Health Chairpersons Committee, Laboratory Sustainability Group and the National Cancer Institute are combining efforts to increase workplace health awareness and promotion. This year’s event will focus employee nutrition, wellness, physical fitness, safety awareness and how to prevent or reduce work related injuries and illnesses. A wide range of activities and exhibits will be presented including health screenings, nutrition demonstrations and tastings, physical fitness activities, NIH Institutes and Center exhibits and heart saver CPR training and an Elder/Adult dependent care information and resources fair. Over 50 exhibitors, including federal agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration, and the Defense Intelligence Agency, will showcase nutrition, fitness and occupational health and wellness information and activities. Stay for lunch and choose from a menu which includes special healthy choices for purchase and an outdoor barbeque. For more info, visit the NIH Safety, Health and Wellness Day website. Individuals who need reasonable accommodations to participate should contact Carole Harman at 301-402-8180 and/or the Federal Relay at 877709-5798. A special shuttle route will run between Bldg. 33, Bldg. 10, Bldg. 29 and Natcher. For staff located off campus, there will be free parking in the MLP-11 parking garage off of Rockville Pike during the event. Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 43
R&W Clubs •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Akido Club Meets Wednesdays from 7:00-8:35pm & Saturdays 10:30am-1:30pm in the Malone Center, BLDG. 31/C, B4, C18. Traditional Aikido techniques are taught combined with other defenses necessary to provide a balanced capacity in self defense. Fridays from 6:308:30pm and a joint session with the Taekwondo Club in Bldg. 31c, B4, C18. Badminton Club Meets Tuesday 7:30-10pm Enjoy the game of Badminton and learn new techniques. Ballroom Dance Club We are starting the new Cuban Rumba classes with Chip Atwood (http://www.chipatwood.com). The 6 week session starts on July every Tuesday. In the Loft - T-39, on Bethesda campus. Classes are on Tuesdays, in the lunch time from 1:15pm-2:15pm. No partner needed!!! The 6 weeks session fee is $60, drop-in fee is $15. Point of contact Olga Vovk –olga.vovk@nih.gov. If it’s too hot or rains we will come into the Building 10 south lobby. Bethesda Little Theatre Website Meets at a BLT member’s home every month on the first Tuesday at 7 pm. Outlet for employees creativity and talents! One major production every year ( 2hours) with road show performances ( 1hour) at retirement facilities and nursing homes the rest of the year. Proceeds benefit the Patient Emergency Fund and the NIH charities. Contact Membership Director, Elaine Hughes, BethesdaLittleTheatre@gmail.com. Phone: (301)5890720. Bicycle Commuter Club Website The club exists to assist and encourage NIH employees in commuting by bicycle and to serve as a link with the NIH administration to ensure that there are adequate facilities for the bicycle commuter. Camera Club Website For over 50 years, the NIH Camera Club has been the place for people who are interested in photography. Through speakers, field trips and workshops, you can 44 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
learn new techniques to improve your photography. Through monthly photo competitions, you can receive expert feedback on your photographs from experienced professional photographers. Through our award winning monthly newsletter, Cameraderie, you can find information on our club activities as well as other area events, classes and workshops where you can learn even more. Our regular monthly meetings are the second Tuesday of every month from September – June and we meet off campus at the Five Star Premier Residence, 8100 Connecticut Avenue, Chevy Chase, Md. 20815. Chamber Singers Small acapella chorus performs 2-3 times a year. Please contact audition coordinator Jill Koshiol (KoshiolJ at mail.nih.gov) for more information. Chinese Martial Arts Club Website Kung Fu is perhaps the oldest of systematic martial arts. Originating from Shaolin Temple, its goal is to bring harmony to mind and body. The training includes physical fitness, internal and external exercises, empty hand and traditional weapon forms. Conscious Dancer Club Do you long to be peaceful, free and passionate? Since the beginning of time our ancestors danced together to celebrate life, strengthen community bonds, heal illnesses and co-create the future. Conscious Dance is a free style movement meditation that revives this tradition. On a journey of inner rhythms, expressive movements and spontaneity it reconnects you to the wisdom of your body and your innate state of joyous wellbeing. No dance experience is necessary. You are a beautiful dancer! Conscious Dancer Club meets October to April on Thursdays at 5:00pm, alternating locations between Rockledge Fitness Center and Building 10. For updates subscribe to ConsciousDancer@list.nih.gov via https:// list.nih.gov/. Golf Association Meets bi-monthly April to Sept. & monthly Oct. to March. The league has stroke play and match play competition with prizes and trophies and sponsors a year-end banquet.
9-Hole Golf League Website Meets Tuesdays at Needwood Golf Course and Thursdays at Falls Road Golf Course. Competitive (match Play) and non-competitive play after work. Fall Outing and Awards Banquet at end of season. Health’s Angels Running Club Website The mission of the NIH Health’s Angels Running Club is to encourage, inform, support, and train the NIH community about running, jogging, and walking as a means to stay healthy and fit. Hiking Club Website Meets monthly for hikes. Hiking and backpacking in the Maryland/Pennsylvania/ Virginia/ West Virginia area. International Women’s Group Website The International Women’s Group: a community of friends, a venue for cultural exchange, a group that provides women with moral and practical support, a community that always welcomes you. Our main purpose is to be a network of friends and facilitate newcomers’ integration in their new community in the Bethesda-Rockville area. More than providing services or activities, we do things together. IWG will be perfect for you if you are a woman with an international spirit, would like to meet friends from all over the world and get a chance to expose your family to foreign cultures. Regular weekly/monthly activities for kids (Art & Craft, singing group, playgroups, meetings at the playground, for ladies (Morning Coffee, book club, English conversation, computer classes) and for families (spring children’s festival, summer splash party, Halloween, Thanksgiving and holiday parties & Various services: Google Group, monthly bulletin, welcome package, newcomer contacts, maternity clothes on loan, various fund raising, etc. Judo Club Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6:30-8pm & Saturday, 8:3010am. Kodokan judo accommodates all levels of skill and emphasizes physical conditioning and mental discipline. Kenjutsu Club Training is offered in the classical Japanese warrior
martial arts traditions of Shindo Muso Ryu Jodo, Yagyu Shinkage Ryu Heiho and Jiki Shinkage Ryu Kenjutsu/ Heiho. These ancient schools train primarily with the staff and sword. (Practice equipment is either wood or bamboo). Madrigal Singers Sing & perform Renaissance period music. Musicians Club The NIH Musicians Club maintains a list of amateur musicians who are interested in playing music with like-minded colleagues. This includes all genres, such as classical, jazz, rock, folk, blues, funk, etc. Members may also organize performances on or off the NIH campus, as well as trips to musical events. This is a new club, so we are anxious to increase our membership. Contact: Rob Tycko, robertty@mail.nih.gov. NIH Asian and Pacific Islander American Organization Asian and Pacific Islander American Organization, also known as Asian and Pacific Islander American Organization (APAO) is an independent organization sanctioned by the NIH Director’s office. It was formed in October 1996 to represent the Asian and Pacific Islander American (APA) employees of NIH. NIH Co-Rec Softball League Provides NIH Employees, contractors, family members, and friends with an opportunity to enjoy playing softball in a recreational atmosphere. Openings next season for individual players or teams. All skill levels are welcome. League season extends from mid-April to early August and teams play once a week (Monday through Wednesday). All games begin at 6:15 and are played at several fields in the Bethesda/Rockville area. Contact Rob Willcoxon, robwillcoxon@me.com. NIH Community Orchestra Website The NIH Community Orchestra began meeting in October 1996 to provide an orchestral outlet for the rich and diverse musical talent of the NIH and HHS research community. In the following year, it added woodwinds and brasses and quickly expanded its size and repertoire. The NIHCO roster often includes employees of numerous other government agencies (including NASA, LOC, DOJ), local high school students and educators, and members of the general community. Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 45
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R&W Clubs •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• NIH Democracy II Toastmaster Club Website We meet at 6707 Democracy Blvd, Conference Room 849 (NIMHD conference room), Bethesda, MD 20817 on the first Tuesday of the month from noon-1pm and on the third Tuesday of the month from 5:30-6:30pm. During the meetings, a series of prepared speeches are presented and evaluated, while impromptu speeches give everyone the opportunity to build their confidence. We strive to provide an encouraging, friendly and supportive environment in which members can comfortably and confidently attain their communication and leadership goals. Contact: Derrick Tabor at 301-594-8950 or email us at contact-1200808@toastmastersclubs.org. NIH Evening Speakers Website The NIH Evening Speakers club, which is a Toastmasters club that meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, in Building 10 Room 3-1608, 19:30-21:00. During the meetings, a series of prepared speeches are presented and evaluated, while impromptu speeches give everyone the opportunity to build their confidence. We strive to provide an encouraging, friendly and supportive environment in which members can comfortably and confidently attain their communication and leadership goals. Contact: Vice President of Membership, vpm-3691@toastmastersclubs.org The NIH Philharmonia Orchestra Website NIH Philharmonia is an all volunteer orchestra founded at the National Institutes of Health in January 2005 under the professional musical direction of Dr. Nancia D’Alimonte. The orchestra was established by a core group of NIH scientists and federal workers with the goal to play orchestral music from all genres in free concerts open to the public. The orchestra is always looking for players who are committed to sharing a passion for music with the community. For information on how to join, please email info@nihphil.org or go to the website: www.nihphil.org. The NIH Recreational Volleyball Club Join our easy going and fun group of players of all ages and skills that holds outdoor games on the NIH campus on Wednesdays and/or Thursdays at 5:30 pm during the 46 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
warm season. Join us to get in shape, delight in beautiful sunsets, and enjoy camaraderie! Subscribe to volleyball@ list.nih.gov via https://list.nih.gov/. NIH Sailing Association Website The NIH Sailing Association is a sailing club for NIH and NOAA employees. Our club has been in Montgomery County, Maryland since 1968 and owns five Flying Scot boats in Selby Bay (just south of Annapolis, Maryland) that members can charter. We also offer training, racing and social activities for our members. Come join the fun! Contact: Andrea Balbo at andrea.balbo@nih.gov. NIH Soccer Club Our mission is to bring together NIH employees who share an interest in playing soccer. We have both weekend and week night teams in various leagues in DC, Silver Spring, and Germantown, and we sometimes practice in Rockville. We also occasionally attend DC United games. To get involved, please contact Vance Berger at vance917@gmail.com. NIH Taekwondo Club Website Our club lineage comes from both Kukkiwon and Chung Do Kwon Tae Kwon Do. We are looking for adult and mature teenage members of all ranks, and abilities. No previous experience is necessary! A typical class may include cardiovascular warm up and stretching, basic techniques, kicking drills, forms (Taeguk and Palgwe), self defense, and sparring. Please contact Glenn Daigon, gdaigon@hotmail.com Schedule (Bldg 31, level B4, basement level, of C-wing, Thomas E. Malone Judo and Taekwondo Fitness Ctr): Monday: 6-8pm Wednesday: 6-7pm Friday: 6-8pm NIH Weight Lifting Club Website The NIH Weight Lifting Club’s mission is to promote the sports of Olympic Weightlifting, Power-Lifting and strength training through the use of free-weight based training. We offer a supportive environment for novice and seasoned lifters to learn and share knowledge about
` the core lifts including, but not limited to, the Squat, Dead-lift, Snatch, Clean & Jerk and Press. Qi-Gong Club Meets Wednesday 8-9pm in Malone Center, Bldg/ T-39/ Cwing-B4 level. The NIH Qi-Gong Club has been providing classes at NIH since 1994. Classes are held on a continuing basis on Wednesday evenings from 8:009:00 pm in Building T-39. The initial class is free, and visitors are welcome to watch and/or participate. Classes are taught by Qi-Gong Master Shuren Ma, the chief instructor for Capital Qi-Gong. For additional information visit our Website at capitalqigong.com or call Mr. Ma at 202-409-8490 or Sandy Adler at 301-460-3040. Salutaris: The NIH Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Two Spirit Staff Forum Website Salutaris is an organization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Two-Sprit (LGBTI2S) and Allied NIH Staff members whose mission is to foster an atmosphere at NIH that is open and inclusive of all employees! Salutaris holds regular “Meet and Eat” lunchtime meetings on the 2nd Thursday of the month at Noon in the Building 10 Cafeteria; and an after work social/mixer on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Please join us! Young at Heart Tap Dancers Adult volunteer tap dance performance group. We perform Broadway and rhythm tap dance shows for senior facilities and other community venues. We rehearse two hours twice a week at Joy of Motion Bethesda and Knock on Wood Takoma Park. Always looking for new members and venues to perform for, so if interested in joining or booking please contact us. Contact: Sara Robinson, sara.tapdancer@verizon.net, (301) 229-8776.
19 t h A n n u a l Comcast Free Outdoor Film Festival The 19th Annual Comcast Film Festival is going to be another GREAT event! It will once again take place at the MCPS Board of Education at 850 Hungerford Dr in Rockville, MD. The location was once the site of a drive-in movie theatre so we’re paying homage to the old school and this year’s festival will be a drive-in, allowing you
to watch the movie on a 52-foot wide screen from the comfort of your car. If you wish to watch the movies on the lawn you can do that too, just bring your blanket and chairs (low chairs only please). There will be amusements and games, FREE movies, plus food and drinks will be available to purchase. We’ll be holding a raffle and accepting donations to raise funds for the NIH Charities (Friends of Patients at the NIH, The Children’s Inn and Camp Fantastic/Special Love). Volunteers, teens and adults, will be needed. This year’s films are: Friday, August 21st - How to Train Your Dragon 2 - PG Saturday, August 22nd – Interstellar – PG-13 Sunday, August 23rd - Guardians of the Galaxy – PG - 13 For details on volunteering email Katie at kcurtis. nih15@gmail.com.
NIH Institute Relay A Challenge worth Taking
On Your Mark, Get Set…Go! It’s time for the 32nd NIH Institute Challenge Relay. The NIH Recreation and Welfare Association, members of the original NIH Health Angels and the Division of Amenities and Transportation Services of ORS, invite you to this year’s relay. The Relay consists of teams of five runners each whom run a ½ mile loop around Bldg.1. All Institutes, Centers, Divisions, and Contractors are invited to enter as many teams as they wish. Each team must have either two females-three males or three females-two males. The team with the fastest five runners will have their names on the Allen Lewis NIH Memorial Trophy. The race will be held on Tuesday, September 15th in front of Bldg. 1 at 11:30am. It’s time to put on your thinking caps and think creatively about your team name. Examples from last year include: A Vial Labeled Misc, Lactating Octopus, Scrambled Legs and Hamstrings, employee RELAYtions, and ‘Cuz HR Said So! Register online! The fee is $15 per team. Please provide the name and contact info for one volunteer. Visit our food and event exhibitors as well. To volunteer or for more info contact the R&W office at (301)496-6061. Recreation & Welfare | July/August 2015 47
NIH Charities ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
MAKE A DREAM POSSIBLE BY DONATING TO THESE NIH CHARITIES Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) NIH is one of the leading CFC contributors in the area but we still need your help. We can’t meet our goal without you. Any amount you can give helps those in need! Federal employees are encouraged to designate their contributions directly to as many as five charitable CFC organizations. Support the NIH Charities! The Children’s Inn at NIH The Inn is a private, nonprofit residence for families and their children who are participating in pediatric research at the National Institutes of Health’s Clinical Center. The Inn enhances the opportunities for groundbreaking medical discoveries by providing a free “place like home” that reduces the burdens of illness through a supportive environment including therapeutic, educational, and recreational programming. If you would like someone from The Inn to speak to your employees, contact Lauren Stabert at lauren.stabert@nih.gov. Special Love/Camp Fantastic Special Love provides recreational programs, financial assistance, and a community of support to children with cancer and their families in the Mid-Atlantic regions. Through programs like the week-long Camp Fantastic and BRASS Camp, young patients, siblings, and parents discover they’re not alone in their battle against cancer.
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Friends of Patients at the NIH Patients of the Clinical Center and their families have enough on their minds. Friends of Patients at the NIH helps NIH patients and their families by providing emergency financial assistance while they are receiving vital treatment during research protocols. They provide money for housing payments, utility bills, transportation etc. The Foundation for the NIH The Foundation for the NIH (FNIH) raises funds for a broad portfolio of programs that enhance NIH priorities and activities. The many partnerships FNIH forms and fosters- among the federal government, corporations, foundations, nonprofit organizations and individuals- support biomedical research, education and training. Donors to FNIH advance scientific discovery, support our next generation scientist and improve human health. Programs the FNIH supports include the Edmond J. Safra Family Lodge and the NIH Medical Research Scholars Program, and others in areas ranging from cancer research, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s Disease, arthritis, sports and health research and other identified priorities. Visit www.fnih.org. We have a goal to collect over $2.2 million for this year’s campaign. If you haven’t made your contribution yet, this is a great opportunity to learn how you can make a difference.
R&W Membership Resources & Shopping •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Discount Auto Insurance R&W and Nationwide Insurance have partnered to offer employees of NIH/NOAA a discount on auto insurance. Call your current Nationwide agent and ask for the R&W Affinity discount, and a 3% discount will be applied to your policy. If you are not insured with Nationwide or have questions on your current Nationwide policy or to shop and compare your current auto and homeowners rates contact Corrigan Insurance Agency at 800-213-1634. Be sure to mention you are a NIH/ NOAA employee to receive your discount. R&W Online Housing & Classified Ads
The R&W has an online Housing and Classified ad page. Listing categories include “Housing,” “Automotive,” “Child Care,” “Elder Care,” “Tutoring,” “Events,” “For Sale,” “Pets,” and “Other Services.” Ads are $25/ listing and run for one month. Buying or Selling a Home? The NIHFCU can help you search for a home, find a Realtor, earn a valuable rebate and get the financing you need all under one roof! Buying and selling a home can be a complicated process. Let us help you along the wayfrom start to finish – saving you time and money with these incredible resources. Powered by CU Realty Services, the HomeAdvantage Program is a no-fee, no-obligation service available to all NIHFCU members. For more details or to enroll, visit nihfcu.org/mortgages or call an NIHFCU Specialist at 855-203-4747. 2015 R&W Preferred Memberships $9 Fee For the Whole Year Did you know...All NIH, NOAA, and HHS employees, contractors, patients and their families are eligible to become Preferred R&W Members? Join the R&W at any time for just $9 and your membership will be good for one year from the date that you joined. Preferred mem-
bers 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. Sign up at any R&W store, or online at www.FedESP.com. NIH R&W Montgomery Aquatic Center (MAC) Corporate Membership Eligibility for MAC Corporate Memberships apply to any NIH staff member who has both a valid NIH ID badge, current NIH email address, and a current R&W membership. This offer doesn’t extend to family members. MAC memberships under this promotion are $140 (savings of over $200). This group membership provides joiners with full access to the MAC, ONLY. The MAC is located at 5900 Executive Blvd; North Bethesda, MD. To join NIH employee can sign up for their membership directly at the MAC. You must present your NIH ID badge, as well as a current R&W membership card with sticker (purchase a new card/sticker at any R&W store location). Registration will open on September 3rd. Call the MAC at 240-777-8070 if you have questions about swim schedules, swim hours, classes, etc. This opportunity is not part of any official federal fitness program, so neither R&W, NIH, nor any other part of DHHS can take responsibility for injuries or related problems that may develop as a result of using this facility. Use of the MAC must also be on employee’s personal time only. Neither R&W, NIH more broadly, nor DHHS is necessarily endorsing the MAC. R&W Beauty and Barber Shop 8:30am - 4:30pm Whether it’s a simple trim, haircut or a new style; the staff at the Beauty & Barber Shop is there to provide services to all NIH employees, contractors and patients. Movie Rentals for R&W Members 1.00 Overnight $2.00 Monday – Tuesday due Thursday $3.00 - Weekends starting Thursday due Monday, or Friday due Tuesday $2.00 - Friday after 12pm Late fees $2.00 per night per movie.
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R&W Membership Resources & Shopping •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• BJ’s Wholesale Club Membership Discounts R&W has BJ’s membership discounts for new members or renewals! When you join BJ’s, you’ll have the convenience of finding all you need in one place – 6,500+ items in stores! And, BJ’s accepts all manufacturers coupons. This special offer is not valid online or at any BJ’s Club locations – it’s only available through only through R&W! To receive an application, contact David Browne at browned2@mail.nih.gov. BJ Memberships Categories: Inner Circle - one year/$40 (reg $50) plus 3 months free Rewards - one year for $80 (reg. $100) + 3 bonus months free and earn 2% back on BJ’s purchases. PayCheck Direct - A Smarter Way to Shop Brought to by the NIH R&W, PayCheck Direct helps you get what you want today and pay for it the easy way, with interest-free financing and worry-free payroll allotment over 12 months. When you shop with PayCheck Direct, you have thousands of choices: furniture, big-screen TVs, major appliances, fashionable jewelry, powerful computers and even toys. PayCheck Direct does not perform credit checks and there are no down payments required. For a PayCheck Direct catalog visit any R&W store and start shopping today at www. mypaycheckdirect.com/nih. NIH’s R&W Dry Cleaning Service The NIH R&W has dry cleaning service available at the R&W stores in Bldg. 10 CRC, and Rockledge. Dry cleaning will be picked-up from and delivered to the store every Monday and Thursday. Laundry service will be $2.20 and dry cleaning will be $6.75 and up. Leather Repair, Bridal Gown Restoration, and Shoe Repair are also offered. Please be aware that if a federal holiday falls on a Monday or Thursday or there is inclement weather, then pick-up and delivery will resume on the following Monday or Thursday as the situation allows. If you have questions regarding the service email us at nihrw@mail. nih.gov or speak with the store manager. The NIH Farmers Market Every Tuesday,10am-2pm, South Lobby, Bldg 10 AND Thursday, 10am-2pm, Bldg 31A Patio 50 July/August 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
We will have a wide selection of goods to purchase from including breads and cookies, fruits and vegetables, olive oils, teas, roasted nuts, organic body lotions and more. Please come show your support and also bring your own plastic or recyclable bags. Please be aware that on days it rains, the market will be held under the awnings in front of Bldg. 31 and at the patio. If you have a suggestion for the market or regarding our current selection, email David at browned2@mail.nih.gov.
R&W GIFT SHOP LOCATIONS Building 10 CRC, 8:00am – 3:45pm Rm. 1N-2582, 10 Center Drive Bethesda, MD 20892 301-451-7708
Rockledge I., 8:00am – 3:45pm Rm. 4202 6705 Rockledge Dr. Bethesda, MD 20817 301-435-0043
R&W FITNESS CENTER LOCATIONS Bldg 31 C, B4 C18 9000 Wisconsin Ave Bethesda, MD 20892 (301) 496-8746 The Loft (T-39) Located by Parking Lot 41 Rockledge, Room 5070 6705 Rockledge Dr. Bethesda, MD 20892 (301) 435-0038 Bayview 251 Bayview Blvd. RM 3C011 Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 558-8300, x7002 24-hour access
Travel & Entertainment Discounts through R&W Member Deals! FedESP.com has partnered with a leading travel and entertainment provider to bring HHS, NIH and NOAA employees money-saving tickets and exclusive deals on entertainment in some of the most exciting and desirable destinations in the US, Caribbean and Mexico. By simply registering on FedESP.com for your free membership, you can take advantage of exclusive access and discounts for shows, theater, theme parks and attractions, movies, concerts, hotels, car rentals and more. Within a few hours of the Washington DC/Virginia area there are nearly 50 saving deals including: Kings Dominion – Save over 30%! Save up to 30% at an AMC Theatre near you! Spirit of Washington Dinner Cruise - Save up to $20 Save up to $40 on Amaluna by Cirque du Soleil
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