The official publication of the R&W Association and FedESP.com
Top Kids Toys Hot Gifts Turkey Trots Holiday Craft Fairs NYC for the Holiday
Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 1
November/December 2015
Recreation & Welfare
2 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
R&W Magazine
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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.
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 | November/December 2015 3
table of
contents
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
6
Turkey Trots and Fun Runs
8
Extraordinary Dining: Vin 909
10
Take a Bite of Broadway
14
Radio City Music Hall
15
Madison Square Garden
16
5 Ways to Sustainable Celebrations
17
Top 10 Toys for Kids
18
Holiday Festivals of Lights
20
Holiday Craft Fairs
22
Hot Gift Ideas
24
Time to Ski
25
Ringing in the New Year
29
R&W Discount Tickets
30
NIH Clubs & Organizations
34
NIH Charities
35
R&W Membership Resources & Shopping
4 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 5
Turkey Trots and Fun Runs
by Brendan A. Dell
-2015-
Cooler temps make for ideal running conditions, and the holiday season is a great time to get out and get active. There are a slew of events on tap for those looking to maintain fitness, spend some time with family and friends, and have a good time. Rachel Cooper, Washington, D.C. expert for about. com, recommends the following;
From runningintheusa.com, these suggestions;
Thanksgiving Day Trot for Hunger November 26, 8:30am, begins at Freedom Plaza, between 13th St., NW and 12th St., NW, Washington, D.C. A 5K fun run and family walk, sponsored by SOME (So Others May Eat.)
Turkey Burnoff November 28, 8:00 a.m., Seneca Creek State Park, 11950 Clopper Rd., Gaithersburg, MD The Montgomery County Road Runners Club sponsors this 10 mile/5 mile/kid’s run.
Cranberry Crawl 5K/10K Run and Race Walk November 21, 7:50 a.m., East Potomac Golf Club, 972 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, D.C. Sponsored by the Potomac Valley Track Club Turkey Chase Bethesda - Chevy Chase YMCA November 26, 8:30 a.m, 9401 Old Georgetown Rd., Bethesda, MD 10K race and 2 mile fun run, benefits YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase, and Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club Foundation. 6 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Thanksgiving Morning 5K Turkey Trot November 26, 8:00 a.m., McCullough Field, 8th and Montgomery St., Laurel, MD 5K Race and 1 mile walk to benefit Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services, Inc. (LARS)
Holiday Recipe:
Thanksgiving Cranberry Casserole A traditional Thanksgiving feast must include a cranberry dish. The cranberry was present at the original feast in the Autumn of 1621, a staple of the Native American’s diet at that time. Here is the recipe for a favorite: •
1 bag fresh cranberries
•
4 or 5 peeled and chopped apples
•
1 or 2 teaspoons flour
•
1 ½ cup sugar
Mix and press in greased oblong pan, 13x19 Topping - melt one stick of butter, add 1 cup quick oats, ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup flour; sprinkle on casserole Bake at 350° for 1 hour Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 7
Extraordinary Dining
VIN 909
by Brendan A. Dell
8 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
On a fine fall evening, I was finally able to sample the offerings of VIN 909, located in the community of Eastport in Annapolis. This restaurant has generated quite a buzz since it opened, with Zagat rating it “extraordinary to perfection” and Washingtonian Magazine naming it to it’s Top100, two years running. VIN 909 lives up to the hype. VIN 909 is located in a house setting, giving the restaurant a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The cuisine is American, with influences from Italy, New England, and the Mediterranean, via California. The menu changes seasonally. My dining companions and I enjoyed a number of appetizers, including brussel sprouts with poached apple and bacon from the Vegetable Sides menu, and a sampling of mozzarella cheese. The mozzarella is made in-house, fresh, and it is out of this world. Other Vegetable Side selections available include Roasted Butternut Squash, Slow Roasted Beets, and Fast Roasted Potatoes. The menu includes other appetizer selections, salads, sandos (brick-oven sandwiches), and Plates. From the Plates menu (described as “bigger than appetizers slightly smaller than entrees”) we ordered the Cast Iron Skillet Steak. The steak, with a spicy Moroccan sauce, was superb. Other offerings from the Plates portion of the menu include Steamed Littleneck Clams, Spaetzle, Berkshire Pork
Sliders, and other dishes. The brick-oven pizzas are not to be missed. These pizzas are culinary masterworks, from The No-Skimp Basil Margherita, to the Duxelle (wild mushrooms, Pecorino, Fontina, Grana Padano, garlic, leeks, thyme), the Spotted Pig (Alps spicy soppressata, wild boar meatballs, yum), to the Johnny Appleseed with bourbon glazed pork belly, rosemary and sage apple cream, cheddar, and poached apple), each one an absolute rockstar. Vin is French for wine, and VIN 909 excels in this area. With wines priced between $6 and $12 are glass, there is a vintage for every taste and budget. The beer menu also features an eclectic assortment of brews for craft-beer enthusiasts. Owner Alex Manfredonia and Chef Justin Moore, with the help of a friendly, attentive staff, have cooked up something truly special in Eastport. If you are looking for a dining experience that you will savor long after the last bite, come visit this gem. VIN 909 is located at 909 Bay Ridge Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland, 21403 (410) 990-1846; info@vin909.com; Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner; lunch Wednesday through Friday, only; Reservations not accepted; first come, first serve.
Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 9
The Big Apple: Take a Bite of Broadway
by Brendan A. Dell
New York City draws folks from all over the world for a variety of reasons: commerce, iconic landmarks, history, food, and of course, entertainment. When it comes to entertainment in NYC, the first thing that comes to mind is Broadway! This season, there are a lot a great shows to choose from. Here are just a few. The Book Of Mormon From the comedy genius duo of Matt Stone and Trey Parker comes this winner of 9 Tony Awards®, hailed by Ben Brantley of The New York Times as “the best musical of this century.”
10 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
The Color Purple Jennifer Hudson brings her talents to Broadway in this amazing adaptation of Alice Walker’s http://deals.fedesp.com/ novel, which won both the 1983 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and The National Book Award for Fiction. Les Miserables The days of The French Revolution are brought to life in this adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel, seen by millions over the years. Never has a stolen loaf of bread brought so much drama. Kinky Boots Winner of the 2013 Tony Award® for Best Musical, this musical is based on a true story, which later became an indie film. The Phantom of The Opera Come see Broadway’s longest running show, adapted from Gaston Leroux’s novel. This Andrew Lloyd Webber musical is sure to leave you breathless.
R&W Member Deals & Discounts
The holidays are a great time to travel. Whether you are spending a weekend in Manhattan, taking the kids to Orlando, or heading out to Las Vegas, you can find amazing savings through the Member Deals & Discounts available to R&W Members. Let’s say you are heading to Manhattan and you need a room. Just click the Member Deals icon on the website, and presto! There are hundreds of hotel options in New York, all at your fingertips. The website lets you refine your search, so you can select by price range, rating, or just
browse alphabetically. Once you find what you are looking for, just click and book. It’s so easy! Member deals are also available on great California getaways, like San Diego, Anaheim Disney© Hotels and San Francisco. R&W members also get discounts on the major attractions in those cities. Get deals and discounts on passes to Disneyland®, Universal Studios® Hollywood, and Sea World® San Diego. So if you are packing a bag this winter, take a look at what R&W membership can save you!
Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 11
Special GovEmployee
FR
INSTAL
ON ALL NEW GU AND WINDOW Made in the USA from a single sheet of the heaviest gauge aluminum. Not a topper placed on an existing gutter.
GREAT FINANCING AVAILABLE!
Independent Survey shows 93% of our customers would recommend LeafGuard to a Friend. -GuildQuality surveys 5/2014-5/2015. Lifetime transferable warranties on the entire system. A permanent, clog-free solution! Installed by our company employees. No subcontractors!
US C ALL A TOD IY TARY L I M FOR EDER AL & F OYEE E M P I A L S! SPEC
Locally owned and operated DC Metro area business. VA 2705116122A, DCRA 420214000130, MHIC 121787
LeafGuardGutters.com 12 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
(202) 753-3117
Discount Guide Offer!
REE
LLATION!
UTTER SYSTEM W PURCHASES FREE ESTIMATES! CALL NOW!
NAT-32559-2
Season after season, for 69 years, the Beldon Family has been oering the very best in home improvements. Our windows are no exception.
Unbeatable Prices backed by our PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE
Energy Efficient saving you money on your energy bills
Lifetime Warranty for both frames and glass breakage VA 2705116122A, DCRA 420214000130, MHIC 121787
TeamWindow.com
(202) 510-9259 Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 13
Holiday In New York:
Radio City Music Hall
The holiday spirit. You know it when you feel it. You feel like dancing, despite your advanced arrhythmia. You wear antler headgear, unabashedly. Complete strangers become yuletide friends after brief, intense arguments at the mall over just whose parking space that really is.
An annual event since 1933, this 90-minute extravaganza has more than 140 performers. The program of singing, dancing, and Christmas scenes, abounding with humor, has an original score. The highlight of the show is a performance from the legendary Rockettes速.
And nowhere else is the Holiday Season on such extravagant display as in New York City. If you really want to get into the holiday spirit, head on up and get a taste of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
See the famed Radio City Music Hall turned into a veritable winter wonderland. This show will amaze and delight kids of all ages. The show runs from November 13 through January 3. So make plans for some holiday fun in The Big Apple!
14 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Great Venues:
Madison Square Garden In this feature, R&W takes a look at the legendary locations where we cheer on our favorite teams, hear the music from our favorite bands, and much more. In this issue, we take a look at Madison Square Garden. This multi-purpose arena, also known as MSG, or The Garden, is located in Midtown Manhattan, directly above Pennsylvania Station. It opened on February 28, 1968. The venue is home to both The Knicks and The New York Rangers. In addition, it hosts concerts, circuses, ice shows, and other events. Madison Square Garden has also been the sight of some of the greatest boxing matches in modern history. Perhaps the greatest was The Fight of The Century. Held on March 8, 1971, this event saw the champion, Joe Frazier, defeat the
challenger, Muhammad Ali, in a 15-round unanimous decision. The defeat was the first professional loss for Ali. The Garden’s capacity is roughly 20,000 for concerts, slightly less for basketball and hockey games. The building has undergone a number of renovations over the years, with the last series of renovations amounting to over $1 billion. Madison Square Garden’s proximity to other iconic New York City landmarks, such as the Empire State Building, Herald Square, and Macy’s have made it an attractive option for concerts, sports, and other events, with a multitude of hotels and restaurants nearby. So if you are planning a trip to New York, check out the schedule of events at MSG. You’ll be glad you did.
Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 15
Season’s Greenings:
5 Ways To Sustainable Celebrations
by Brendan A. Dell
The holidays are a joyous time of Use Real Plates year. However, the mass of activity While it is tempting to save time with has a detrimental effect on the endisposable plates vironment. Increased airline travel, and utensils, waste associated with gift wrap and why not show off product packaging, and increased the good china energy use all add up to added stress and spare all the on our planet. From Michele Johanwaste? sen, writing for cozio.com, here are five ways to a greener holiday season: Give Battery-Free Switch to LED Lights LED lights Gifts Batteries are not relast loncyclable, so look for ger, are more effi- eco-friendly alternacient, and tive toys. save you money.
Frustration-Free Packaging This service, offered by Amazon, features a recyclable Amazon box, free of plastic bindings, casings, ties, or wires. 16 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Try Alternative Wrapping Use butcher paper, old pages of the Sunday comics (nothing says “Happy Holidays” like Rhymes with Orange or Pearls Before Swine), or recycled gift paper.
For The Kids:
Ten Top Toys
Flying saucers. Little green men from outer space. Alien abductions. Awkward, uncomfortable body probes. Are these stories about life from other planets true? Or are they just the results of the fevered imaginations of a bunch of geeks? No matter which side of this contentious issue you find yourself on, your child will want something to play with during the holidays.
So get these hot kid’s gifts now, before the massive alien megastructures in Ceti Alpha VI release wave after wave of alien spacecraft, bound for this tiny ball of mud we call planet Earth. From the Amazon Top Holidays Kid’s List, here are the gifts they have been asking for. 1. Battat Grocery Cart by Battat Play cart with pretend grocery items 2. Crayola Color Alive Animation Studio by Crayola Animation comes alive 3. Lionel Trains Coca-Cola Holiday G Gauge Train Set by Lionel Classic choo-choo fun 4. Maisto R/C Harley Davidson XI 1200N Nightster with Rider Radio Control Vehicle Radio-controlled motorcycle mayhem for the kids
5. Ideal 100-Trick Spectacular Magic Suitcase by Ideal Includes instructional DVD 6. Mega Bloks First Builders Block Scooping Wagon Building Set by Mega Bloks Construction fun for tykes
7. Zoomer Dino, Jester Interactive Dinosaur by zoomer Jester the Jokesaurus, big fun 8. Bugs in The Kitchen by Ravensburger Board game; catching cockroaches is fun! 9. Cuddlekins Wolf - 30 Inch by Wild Republic Soft stuffed animal, authentic markings 10. SmartLab Spa Lab: All-Natural Soaps Science Kit by SmartLab New, soap making kit
Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 17
Five Great Holiday Festivals of Light 18 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
If ever there is a time for pageantry and spectacle, it’s the holiday season. What better way to celebrate than a parade of lights? Here are five great places to take in a joyous celebration of the season. Disney Both Disneyland and Disneyworld host holiday parties, featuring holiday music, fireworks, as a well as parades of lights. These events run from early November through December. Newport Beach, CA 2015 marks the 107th year of this event. All manner of watercraft, from yachts to canoes, are festooned with lights and decorations for the parade. This year’s theme is “Seas the Holidays,” and runs from December 16 through December 20. Charleston, S.C. The embodiment of southern charm, Charleston’s Holiday Festival of Lights is ranked by Coastal Living magazine as one of the nation’s best. Held from November 14 through January 1 at James Island County Park, this driving tour (o.k., not a parade) features over two million lights, as well as train rides, marshmallow roasting, and an old-timey carousel. Denver, CO This year, the Mile-High City hosts its annual parade on December on December 4th and 5th. Floats, marching bands, Waddles the Penguin and the man in red, Santa, are all part of the fun. Fort Lauderdale, FL Lauderdale is always up for a party, and The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade is part of that fine tradition. The parade of boats all dressed up in lights and decorations will cruise up the Intracoastal Waterway on Saturday, December 12th. Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 19
8 Great Holiday Craft Fairs Nothing says “happy holidays!” quite like having all of the family gathered, enjoying good food and good times in a festive setting. To reach the proper level of holiday splendor, you need to get crafty. A holiday craft fair provides you with everything you need to take your holiday gifts and decor to wherever your imagination may go. Here are a few great events sure to bring the holiday magic. Renegade Craft Fair Founded in 2003, Renegade bills itself as “the world’s preeminent series of events showcasing the best and brightest talents from the modern Maker community,” with shows in London, New York, San Francisco, Austin, Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle. The holiday swing begins in London, November, 7-8, and concludes in Seattle December 19-20. 20 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Indie Craft Experience In Atlanta, Georgia the fun starts with the Indie Craft Experience (ICE) Pop-Up Shop 2015 Opening Party on November 12, with the ICE Holiday Shopping Spectacular being held on November 21-22, featuring over 175 craft and vintage vendors. Echo Park Craft Fair A biannual event showcasing many top east Los Angeles talents, the Holiday fair will be held December 12-13 at Mack Sennett studios in Silverlake. The Handmade Market (Raleigh, NC) The creative collective known as The Handmaidens produces these events, held each May and November, showcasing “handcrafted adornments for body and home.” Held this year November 13-14. Crafty Wonderland
Portland, Oregon is ripe country for the arts and crafts set, so it is no surprise that the Crafty Wonderland is impressive, with over 250 artists showing off the fruits of their passions. The Super Colossal Holiday Sale runs December 12-13.
niture, home decor are all on display here, from over 400 artists. November 20-22 at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, in Gaithersburg.
Holiday No Coast Craft-ORama The snowy north of the Twin Cities in Minnesota hosts this event, which brings over a hundred creators together on December 4-5. The Big Crafty An added benefit of this event is the venue, held in Asheville, North Carolina. The Asheville Art museum is the host, so after a day of checking out everything from ceramics, to jewelry and clothing, you can take in some of the museum’s collection of fine paintings. Held December 6. Sugarloaf Crafts Festival Jewelry, sculpture, pottery, glass, furRecreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 21
tery, and Bookerly, Amazon’s amazing, exclusive font. No screen glare makes this the ideal device for the serious reader.
t o H t o H Hot s a e d I t f i G Looking to put a smile on someone’s face this holiday season? These five wonders from Amazon are sure to make your loved one’s holiday very merry, indeed. 1. Tile (Gen 2) by Tile ($25) Never lose anything, again. Combining a miniature Bluetooth tracker with an app, Tile can be attached to your phone, keys, remote controls, wayward significant other, or other valuables. The more you buy, the greater you save! 2. Kindle Paperwhite by Amazon ($62.99-169.99) E-reader combines a new, higher resolution display with built-in, adjustable light, a longer-life bat22 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
3. Ninja Mega Kitchen System by Ninja ($175)
Need the perfect gift for the foodie on your list? This is it, 2 Horsepower-1500 Watts of awesome. 72 oz blender, 8 cup food processing bowl, nutrient and vitamin extraction modules, bowlin-bowl chopping blade, it’s meal prep made easy.
4. Echo by Amazon ($179.99) Voice-controlled home device. Information, music, weather, news, sports, all at your command. Compatible with selected devices from Philips, Belkin, SmartThings, and Wink for voice control of lights, switches, etc. in your home. 5. Fire TV Stick with Voice Remote by Amazon ($49.99) No more clicking! Just say the name of what you want to watch, and voila, Fire TV Stick makes it happen. Plugs directly into your HDTV for hours and hours of video entertainment. Enjoy over 250,000 TV episodes and movies on Netflix, Amazon Video, HBO GO and Showtime Anytime, with music, apps, and games to boot. Cut the cable cord!
Visit the Online FedLogoStore! Ordering is Easy!
1. Choose your product (t-shirts, polo shirts, hats, items and much more) 2. Choose your logo (from a library of more than 3. And have it shipped right to your door!
NOAA Merchandise
USB drives, stationary 40 logos)
HHS Merchandise
NIH Merchandise
We are pleased to offer embroidered logos on the Polo shirts, hats and hoodies. A ladies’ cut is offered for the t-shirts and polo shirts. Many of the items can be specially personalized (Pens, USB drives, totes and more)! If your logo is missing or you’d like to see us add a specific product, please contact NIHsupport@fedlogostore.com. If you’d like to order more then ten of a specific item, please contact us for special pricing!
Order your items today on FedESP.com! Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 23
Time to Ski by Brendan A. Dell Skiing has been with us for a long time. The archeological evidence dates back to at least 5000 b.c., with a wooden ski found in Russia. The Boksta runestone of the Viking age, found in what is now Sweden, portrays a figure on skis. Skiing was utterly utilitarian at its conception, simply a more efficient means of locomotion in snowbound milieus. Nowadays, skiing is enjoyed by millions of people around the world, both as leisure and sport. Skiing can be divided into two forms, cross-country and downhill. These different forms require different equipment. Cross-country skiing is done on slightly flatter ground than downhill, and is an excellent cardiovascular workout. A cross-country ski must be able to deal with variations in terrain. As such, these skis are lighter, narrower, and longer than their downhill counterparts. Experience and 24 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
body weight are factors that should also be considered in choosing a cross-country ski. Downhill skiing is done on mountainous terrain. Ski lifts provide transport to the top. Most ski resorts will have trails for beginners, those of intermediate skill, and experts. Ski lessons are recommended for novices, as there is an element of danger to the sport (which is what makes it such a rush!). The downhill ski is built for speed, with a greater variety downhill skis available than those of the cross-country variety. In the United States, there are fantastic opportunities to enjoy skiing at the ski resorts found in mountainous regions. In the Washington, D.C. area, Ski Liberty, Ski Roundtop and Wintergreen Resort offer outstanding value and a just a few hours drive away. So wax up those skis, gather your friends and family, and have a blast.
Ringing in the New Year:
7 Hot Spots
Planning on sitting around like a lump on New Year’s Eve, watching everyone else on planet Earth having fun while your life turns more beige with each passing second? Then read no further. If you still look at life as the grand adventure that it is, here are some ideas on how to bring in 2016 in style. New York City The Grand Pooh-Bah of New Year’s Eve soirees. Times Square? The ball gettin’ dropped? Fugettaboutit! If the crush of humanity is not your thing, consider booking a spot in one of the many restaurants or bars around Times Square.
Las Vegas Looking to go big for New Years? You can’t pick a better destination than The Entertainment Capital of the World. There is no shortage of nightlife in Sin City (why else did Sinatra spend so much time there?), with a wide variety of venues to choose from. Los Angeles With its hip clubs, legendary bar scene, and Hollywood’s ultra-chic Cleopatra’s New Year’s Eve Ball (held at the Egyptian Theatre, of course), the City of Angels is the cool place to usher in the new year. You can also catch the 127th Rose Bowl Parade the next day. Denver The gem of the rockies hosts a number of great venues and parties for bringing in the new year. From the White Rose NYE Party at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House to a concert by acclaimed improv progressive band Umphree’s McGee at Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 25
the Fillmore, there is a little something for everyone in Denver on NYE. New Orleans Gettin’ down and gettin’ funky is the essence of the Big Easy. With more great restaurants and night spots than you can shake a stick at, a New Year’s Eve in ‘Nawlins is one to savor. For a trip off the beaten path of Bourbon Street, try Frenchmen Street. You’ll have a good old time, I guar-uhn-tee. (Thank you, Paul Prudhomme) Miami The Magic City has elevated nightlife to an art form, making it an ideal destination for New Year’s Eve. Bayfront Park in downtown and Lummus Park in South Beach are ideal celebration venues. Dallas Everything’s bigger in Texas, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. Big D boasts a large and wide assortment of restaurants and bars, so no matter what your taste, you are bound to find something to your liking, cowgirl.
Ordering NIH business cards is now Faster, Cheaper and Easier! Our new online printing service provides full-color business cards using NIH standards (40+ NIH logos are available). 1. 2. 3. 4.
Choose your quantity (1 box-250 cards) Choose your logo (from a library of more than 40 NIH logos) Complete the brief order form And have it shipped right to your door!
Add a Desk Business Card Holder for Only $7!
NOAA Cards
HHS Cards
NIH Cards Visit FedESP.com 26 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
and select Business Cards under the ‘Shop’ button!
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.
For an auto rate quote 24 hours a day, visit geico.com/fed/r&w or call 1-800-368-2734.
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 | November/December 2015 27
Are You a Federal Employee or Contractor? If so, you need to be a member of the R&W Association, the only organization dedicated to the recreation and welfare of Federal Employees and Contractors! You can join for FREE or become a Preferred Member for just $9/year! Sign up today! Visit FedESP.com R&W Membership Benefits
Membership Type Free Preferred
Access to Member ‘Deals’ Site (Major Merchant discounts, etc.)
•
• • • • • • • •
Receive Weekly Email with Events/Programs/Special Offers/Coupons for R&W Stores
•
•
Place ads on the R&W NIH Online Classifieds
Seminars & Programs to Employee Welfare
• • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • •
Discounts to R&W’s Special Events (Camp Fantastic BBQ, Ringling Brothers Circus, and more!)
•
•
Access to Onsite Fitness Center Programs and Classics R&W Onsite Store Discounts Discount Tickets (theatre, movies, sports, etc.) Discounted Dry Cleaning Discounted Movie Rentals Participation in NIH Clubs & Organizations Discounted BJ’s Wholesale Club Membership
Discounted Entertainment Coupon Book R&W’s Onsite Beauty & Barber Shop R&W Onsite Discounted Tax Preparation Services (February & March) Access to NIH Federal Credit Union Support NIH Charities R&W’s Discounted Onsite Notary Service
28 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
Discount Tickets Through R&W Member Deals ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Member Deals Highlights Free R&W Members and Preferred R&W Members have access to the R&W Member Deals Site!
HOTELS
Save up to 60% off Hotel Bookings all over the country!
The R&W Member Deals site includes discounts for Disney World, Cirque du Soleil, nationwide movie theaters, Broadway tickets, hotels, and much more! A login is required.
Get discount Movie Tickets for more than 15 major theater chains (AMC, Bowtie, Regal, etc.) Save up to 40% on tickets!
Get major discounts on tickets for more than 35 Broadway Shows! Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Aladdin, The Lion King, Chicago, Wicked and More! Save up to 45%!
There are deals in more than 20 major cities as well as some top international vacation spots! Join R&W Today!
Save up to 35% on Cirque Du Soleil shows in 6 major cities!
WATER PARKS
Save up to 50% at water parks in more than 20 states with R&W’s Member Deals discounts!
RENTAL CARS
Save up to 25% on Car Rentals nationwide! Budget, Avis, Hertz, Thrifty and Dollar
Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 29
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 6:30-8:30pm 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)589-0720. 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 30 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
the place for people who are interested in photography. Through speakers, field trips and workshops, you can 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, 8:30-10am. 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 Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 31
`
`
R&W Clubs ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
agencies (including NASA, LOC, DOJ), local high school students and educators, and members of the general community. 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 301594-8950 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 32 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
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 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 8:00-9:00 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 301-4603040. 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.
Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 33
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.
34 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
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. 2016 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 $150 (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. 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 Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 35
R&W Membership Resources & Shopping •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 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. 31 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 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. If you have a suggestion for the market or regarding our current selection, email David at browned2@mail.nih.gov.
36 November/December 2015 | Recreation & Welfare
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
FEDESP.COM Recreation & Welfare | November/December 2015 37