Pull Tabs for Charity

Pull Tabs for Charity is a non-denominational, non-partisan, and not-for-profit organization focused on helping raise children’s awareness of the value of giving to others and supporting the NIH Charities.  PTFC believes in the simple notion that children’s lives may ultimately be enriched if they’re able to grasp the inherent value of giving to others and the importance of grass roots recycling.  Collecting and recycling the ubiquitous aluminum pull tab (previously only marginally thought of in terms of actual utility) is a simple and effective means to engage and challenge children to give to others, promote recycling and help support the NIH Charities.  Support the cause by collecting pull tabs or by purchasing Pull Tab accessories by Escama online or at R&W Gift Shops.  For more info visit http://www.pulltabsforcharity.org/

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Buy NIH Logo Merchandise Online

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

Focus on You Wellness Lecture Series
Two Lectures in May    

The Office of Research Services (ORS), Division of Amenities and Transportation Services, and the NIH R&W Fitness Center are proud to announce the continuation of our interactive wellness initiative, "Focus on You: Promoting Employee Health and Well-being at NIH"  with two May lectures.  The first lecture, in partnership with the National Eye Institute “Your Eyes are the Windows to Your Health”, by Dr. Rachel Bishop (NEI) will be on Tuesday, May 8th from 12pm – 1pm at Bldg. 45, Conf. Rm. F1/F2.  On Thursday, May 17th the Office of Research on Women’s Health, in observance of Women’s Health Week, will be giving a lecture entitled “Incorporating Mindfulness into Day-to-Day Life” by Dr. Rezvan Ameli from 11am – 12pm in Bldg. 45 Balcony C.  All lectures are videocast live, and available in the videocast archive’s “Focus on You Wellness” section, at http://videocast.nih.gov/PastEvents.asp?c=182.  For a listing of future topics and lecture locations, please contact Chris Gaines at 301-451-3631. 

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Click Here For Your Printable Discount Card

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

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

R&W Night with the
Bethesda Big Train

Enjoy an inexpensive and exciting night out with the family at the neighborhood ball field watching local talent play the game they love…Baseball!  Join the R&W as the Bethesda Big Train hosts the Alexandria Aces on Wednesday, July 18^th at 7:30pm at Povich Field.  The night’s promotion will be a “Hometown Heroes” with ESPN baseball analyst Tim Kurkjian.  More details on this night’s promotion will be provided in the June R&W Newsletter.  Tickets will be $3.50 for adults and $1.50 for children; that’s HALF PRICE!  Join us for a great night!  The Big Train and the Cal Ripken Baseball League are official affiliates of Major League Baseball. 

 

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For a Discount use the code "GA29953"

2012 R&W Preferred
Memberships Now On Sale!

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

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Laugh Riot for MobileMed – May 4th

On Friday, May 4th Laugh Riot for MobileMed will be held at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda Ballroom (7400 Wisconsin Ave.) from 7pm – 9pm.  Performers include Dave George, Jon Mumma, and Chris Coccia.  Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by emailing info@mobilmedicalcare.org, visiting www.mobilemedicalcare.com or calling 301-841-0825.  The Daily Grill will offer select meals for $40 and Morton’s Steakhouse will offer select meals for $59.

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Orioles Group Games

The R&W will host group outings so see the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday, May 19^th in Section 104 for $26.50 per ticket, and New York Yankees on Saturday, June 16^th in Section 108 for $52.50.  More details on these tickets will be available in the April R&W Newsletter and on the R&W Listserv. 

NIH 2012 National Day of Prayer

This year’s NIH National Day of Prayer will be held May 3rd from 11:30am – 1pm. Come out and join fellow NIH’ers, patients, and friends as we celebrate this day Congress has set aside for our country.  Federal and military compounds all over the country will have their National Day of Prayer program on this very same special day with guest speakers, music, and prayer. Bring your friends and family. Mark your calendars. All are welcome!! Location: In front of Bldg. 1 on the NIH campus. This event is not sponsored by or associated with the NIH/NOAA R&W.

 

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2012 Park Preview: Kings Dominion

This year Kings Dominion has two new offerings that park goers will not want to miss.  The newest ride is “WindSeeker,” 301-foot-tall tower that spins riders 30 stories above the park. Seated in two-person swings that allow their feet to dangle, riders will slowly begin rotating in a circular motion as the swings ascend the tower.  At the top, the swings will reach speeds up to 30 miles per hour, flaring out 45 degrees from the tower.  The newest attraction allows you to  step back in time to periods between 245 million and 65 million years ago in Dinosaurs Alive! the park’s unique new six-acre animatronic dinosaur park featuring 36 life-sized dinosaurs in a spectacular outdoor Jurassic forest setting.  The multi-sensory and interactive dinosaur park brings inspiration, science and technology together at Kings Dominion where guests also hear the sounds and see the movements made to replicate nearly every feature of the dinosaurs. Each of the animatronic dinosaurs is hand-carved and covered with a skin-like material.  It's a fun and education experience for guests of all ages.   Entry to Dinosaurs Alive! is not included with your ticket purchase.  Tickets for this attraction can be purchased at the park for $5.

18th Annual NIH Police Day

The NIH Police will host the 18th Annual NIH Police Awareness Day on Tuesday, May 15th from 10am - 2pm in front of Bldg. 1.  Many local, state and federal law enforcement agencies will be attending. Law enforcement specialized equipment and vehicles will be on display.  In addition, the NIH police will be serving a delicious lunch for $8.  All proceeds from the lunch will be donated to the Friends of the Clinical Center, and to the Law Enforcement Officer’s National Memorial Fund. Various demonstrations, including one by NIH Police K9 teams, will be held. Other organizations attending will be the NIH Fire Dept., and other NIH service related Divisions.  This event is a great opportunity to showcase the many fine organizations to whom we owe a debt of thanks for our safety.  In the event of rain, the location will be moved to the Building 31A Patio.  Those with questions should contact Matthew Catherwood, NIH Police Community Policing Officer, at 301-496-3020, or at catherwoodmp@mail.nih.gov.  Sign Language Interpreters will be provided. Individuals with disabilities who need reasonable accommodation to participate in this event should contact Matthew Catherwood, NIH Police Community Policing Officer, at 301-496-3020 and/or the Federal Relay (1-800-877-8339).

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12th Annual NEI Food Drive:
“Helping Comes in CANS Not Can’ts.”

Hunger sees no color and it knows no age. More than 640,000 local area residents are hungry. To help our community, the National Eye Institute is holding its annual food drive to benefit the Capital Area Food Bank in Washington, DC.  The Food Drive began on April 30th and will last through June 8th. Please help by bringing in non-perishable food. Look for posters and drop-off boxes throughout NIH campus and Fishers Lane.  If you cannot find one, please contact Donna Wells, 301-496-5248 or dfw@nei.nih.gov for a location nearest you.

LeafGuard

Never clean your gutters again!  Guaranteed!  With gutters from LeafGuard by Beldon, you can simply get it, and forget it!  LeafGuard is the ONLY single-piece, seamless gutter system with the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval.  Industry Best Guarantee - LeafGuard gutters are guaranteed for LIFE not to clog, chip, peel or crack.  LeafGuard by Beldon is a family owned and operated company, which offers simply the very best gutters and legendary customer service.  Call Toll Free at 866-255-9999 or visit www.800gutters.com.

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 If You Like Savings
“Like” Us on Facebook

You “like” us, and we want to show you how much we like you with a token of appreciation.  Anyone that “likes” us on Facebook will receive a coupon for 15% off their entire purchase (some exclusions apply) at R&W stores.  We will use this platform to remind people of upcoming events, pass along the latest R&W news and more.  “LIKE” us at http://www.facebook.com/pages/NIH-NOAA-Recreation-Welfare-Association/149024978510005 and suggest us to your co-workers, family and friends.

 

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

 

Save On Your Bill - Get Cool Equipment

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2012 R&W Seminar Series

Refinancing and Accessing the Equity In Your Home - May 29^th - 12pm – 1pm - Rockledge 2 Room 9112/9116 and June 14^th - 12pm-1pm - Bldg. 10  Rm.  2-C116 -  Rates are at historic lows!  Refinance an existing mortgage wisely and you may be able to own your home for less.  And learn how to utilize the equity in your home for home improvements, education expenses and other household needs. RSVP to events@nihfcu.org

Can a Roth IRA Help You Be Prepared for a Confident Retirement? – June 12^th – 12pm – 1pm – Bldg. 31A Rm. 2 - Ameriprise Financial presents, Why a Roth IRA, Why Now?  A confident retirement doesn’t just happen. This informative seminar could help you: cut through the clutter and decide if a Roth conversion is right for you, understand the value of balancing taxable with tax-free income in retirement, and take full advantage of all the benefits of a Roth conversion while avoiding common pitfalls.  Find out which factors to consider before choosing a Roth Conversion.  Join us to see if this strategy can work for you!  This seminar will be presented by Brian W Thoms CFP®, CRPC® Financial Advisor Associate Vice President. RSVP to Crystal Rivers at 240-314-4336 or crystal.d.rivers@ampf.com. 

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

R&W Spring Bazaar & Home Show
May 8^th - 10am - 2pm - Bldg. 10 South Lobby

Get ready to shop!  The R&W will be hosting a Spring Bazaar on Tuesday, May 8^th in the South Lobby of Bldg. 10 from 10am - 2pm.  Crafters will be selling a variety of handmade crafts such as jewelry, handbags, scarves, clothes and much more.  This event is perfect timing for your Mother’s Day shopping.  Mark your calendar now and plan on attending this popular show.  Many new vendors will be participating this year.  It’s a one stop shopping spree!

Disney’s Beauty & the Beast

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

Ethnic Food Fair on NIH Campus

Come join the fun on Wednesday, May 23^rd from 11:30am – 1:30pm, at this annual event sponsored by the NIH Asian & Pacific Islander American Organization (NIH APAO).  It’s a celebration of food, culture and community as part of the NIH’s 40^th observance of Asian & Pacific Islander American Heritage Month.  This springtime event is free and open to the public.  It takes place at the Bldg. 31A patio.  A variety of Asian foods by local restaurants will be for sale.  Try your hand at activities like calligraphy and origami, and get information on APA health-related activities both within and beyond NIH.  With your support, APAO will donate a portion of the event proceeds to the NIH Children’s Inn.  For more info, contact Aaron Bell, 301-451-7898 or bella@mail.nih.gov

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The NIH R&W now offers a Supplemental Group Disability Program  to all employees working at NIH, NOAA & HHS     Disability options under your current benefits are limited to annual leave and disability retirement.

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

 

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

·         Three plan options to meet everyone’s needs.

·         Return to work services.

·         Vocational and Rehabilitative training.

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

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Mortgages Mortgages

2012 Medicine for the Public
Lecture Series

Discover the latest in research and treatment for diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease by attending a lecture with experts from the NIH Clinical Center, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and Suburban Hospital. The first lecture will be Outsmart Diabetes: A Framework for Prevention and Management on Tuesday, May 15^th and the second will be Is It Memory Loss or Alzheimer’s Disease?  Learn the Facts on Tuesday, May 22^nd.  Both lectures will be held from 7pm - 8:30pm at Suburban Hospital Auditorium, 8600 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD.  Register by calling 301-896-3939.  Lectures are free and open to the public.  Light refreshments will be available at 6:30pm.  For more info visit http://clinicalcenter.nih.gov/about/news/mfp.shtml.

 

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37th NOAA Fish Fry

If you have never been to the NOAA Fish Fry you are really missing out!  Do you love seafood, live music, and a great atmosphere?  If so, you will want to get your ticket now!  The 37^th Annual NOAA Fish Fry is scheduled for Wednesday, June 6^th from 6pm - 9pm at the Herbert C. Hoover Main Commerce Building on 14^th St. and Constitution Avenue.  The event promotes public understanding of aquaculture and sustainable marine fisheries.  The event is held in the Commerce cafeteria, courtyards, and the National Aquarium.  The menu includes a wide variety of creatively prepared fish, crab, grilled salmon, shrimp as well as side dishes, beer, wine and so much more.  Tickets for this fabulous event are $30 (purchased in advance).  Tickets for this event often sell out so order your tickets now!  The R&W will have tickets on sale in May and can be purchased by phone with a credit card through the R&W at 301-496-6061.

 

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Park Preview:
Six Flags America

Enjoy a day or summer of fun at Maryland’s only theme park featuring Looney Tunes characters, more than 100 exciting rides, slides, shows and attractions plus Hurricane Harbor Water Park (open May 19^th – September 2^nd).  Mayhem comes, Fri., May 25^th, in the form of the 100-foot mean-machine roller coaster – Apocalypse.  Take a stand against the end of the world in an all-new stand-up, steel, adventure.  Upon approaching Apocalypse, you wind through a queue stepping further and further into an end of the world scenario.  Just when it looks bleak, you will break out to make the final stand against obliteration.  Stand four abreast while making the ascent to the ride's apex. For two minutes, you'll hurtle along the 2,900-foot steel track, feeling the rush of 55mph speeds, hairpin turns, and pulse-pounding inversions.  See page 22 for R&W member prices.  As an added bonus you can even take in a FREE concert on Sat., June 2^nd, Christian Music Day featuring Sanctus Real and Britt Nicole, and Sat., June 23^rd, Praise in the Park featuring Kirk Franklin. 

 

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Join the Wellness NIH Listserv

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

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Join PSA to Sail the Chesapeake

From 12pm – 4pm on April 29^th, at West River Yacht Harbour (Galesville, MD), meet club members, sail at no cost and join the club for a bonus of two free weekday sails (value up to $250).  Through the clubs members improve their cruising and racing skills with small on-the-water classes at a fraction of the cost elsewhere. PSA welcomes inexperienced sailors and will supplement basic “learn to sail” training taken elsewhere.  PSA is a cooperative, recreational sailing club which owns three well-equipped cruising/racing boats of 30 and 34 feet, docked in Galesville, 10 miles south of Annapolis.  PSA is the best sailing value on the Bay!  The first-year fee of $550 includes two-days of on-the-water training or a skipper check-out for experienced sailors.  For more info and reservations, contact info@parklawnsailingassociation.org or 301-681-3142.  For directions to the West River Yacht Harbour, go to www.parklawnsailingassociation.org/directions.html.  In case of inclement weather, a rain date is scheduled for Saturday, May 5^th.  www.parklawnsailingassociation.org

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NIH Blood Bank
Give Red, Save Green

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

 

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

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May 18^th is Bike to Work Day

Join the NIH Bicycle Commuter Club (NIHBCC) in celebrating National Bike Month and Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 18th, from 7am - 9:30am at Bldg. 1, 8am - 9:30am at Executive Plaza, and 6:30am – 8:30am at Rockledge (Marriott HQ – Rock Springs Business Park).  These buildings will be featured among many local pit stops supported by the Washington Area Bicyclists Association in a salute to bicycle commuting.  For the past five years, NIH has won the Metropolitan Washington Council of Government's (COG) award for being the area's biggest employer of Bike to Work Day participants.  Help us defend our proud title this year by completing your free registration at www.biketoworkmetrodc.org.   All pre-registered participants will receive a Bike to Work Day 2012 T-shirt, while supplies last.  At the NIH pit stops, all employees and contractors who show up riding a bicycle and wearing a helmet may enjoy breakfast snacks and participate in a raffle drawing for prizes which include cycling gear, equipment and Fitness Center memberships.  If you have never tried commuting by bike to NIH and aren't quite sure how to begin, visit www.recgov.org/r&w/nihbike/bike.html and click on the “Commuting” link.  Bike to Work Day is a rain or shine event.  Volunteers are always appreciated to help with preparations before Bike to Work Day or on the day of the event. If you would like to help out, please email Diane Bolton (dbolton@nih.gov).  Bike to Work Day participation enhances awareness of the myriad benefits bicycle commuting brings to personal health, the community, and the environment.

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NIH License Plates

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

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AlertNIH

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

New Condos  in the DC Area!

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 Are You Having Trouble Controlling Your Drinking?

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

APARTMENTS

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Great Apartments Near NIH

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Join The R&W LISTSERV

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

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