August in D.C. means steamy afternoons, sudden showers, and the kind of humidity that reminds us to slow down. But summer also gives us reasons to savor the season—lush gardens, long evenings, and the joy of coming together as neighbors. Let’s not let the heat keep us from making the most of these last, lively weeks of summer.

AUGUST ACTIVITIES

We’ll kick things off with our Summer Happy Hour Hop on Thursday, August 7th, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. We’ll start at the new Tropical Smoothie Café for smoothies or snacks, then, around 5:00 pm, stroll over to Juneberry Garage for craft cocktails and food-truck fare under the umbrellas. Join us for one stop—or both—and enjoy a relaxed afternoon with friends.

Later in the month, Armchair Travel returns on Thursday, August 21th, from 3:00 to 4:30 pm via Zoom, when ERCV members Ralph Blessing and Debby Thomas will share beautiful photos and stories from their spring adventure through Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Montenegro. And on Wednesday, August 27th, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm, our Lunch Bunch will gather at Cielo Rojo in Takoma Park, a local favorite for fresh Mexican cuisine, including vegan options, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

JAZZ ON THE PLAZA 

But the event we’re most excited to announce is Jazz on the Plaza, rescheduled for Sunday, August 17th, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at Marketplace Plaza at The Parks at Walter Reed. Our June Jazz concert may have been rained out, but with the generous support of ANC4A, we’re ready to bring the music back for a happy, late-summer celebration. We’ll have light refreshments, seating for seniors, and hand fans to keep us cool. Bring a friend—and maybe an extra folding chair—and let’s enjoy an afternoon of live music and neighborly fun.

Please take a moment to register for Jazz on the Plaza and, if you’re an ERCV volunteer, sign up to help out—whether on the day of the concert or by posting flyers in the neighborhood.

Yes, it’s hot—but that’s what summer is all about! Let’s celebrate the season with cool music, laughter, and good company. I hope to see you at Jazz on the Plaza or other events this month.