Newsletters
President’s Corner: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness
PROMISSORY NOTE
Our nation will celebrate its 250th birthday this month with fairs, fireworks, festivals, and other special events across the Washington area. While much of the world’s attention seems to be focused either on the displays or the ironies of the moment, I find myself thinking about what Reverend King once called the “promissory note” in the opening paragraph of our founding document: the idea that every person without exception deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, have the freedom to make meaningful choices, and enjoy a life enriched by purpose, friendship, and community.
ERCV’S MISSION
These ideals are reflected in the mission of our Village and are put into practice every day as volunteers help members remain independent by providing rides, friendly visits, technology assistance, and practical support. Just as importantly, our volunteers help create opportunities for us to connect with each other through walks, meals, cultural outings, exercise classes, interest groups, and countless casual conversations.
THANK YOU
A few weeks ago, hundreds of neighbors gathered for East Rock Creek Village’s annual Jazz on the Plaza. Some came for the excellent music; some came to spend time with friends—and many of us met someone new before the day was over. Thank you to our many wonderful volunteers who planned the event, welcomed members and first-time visitors alike, and helped everything run so smoothly. Together you helped create a idyllic afternoon showcasing the best of our Village.
DEMOCRACY IN ACTION
We were recently reminded of another privilege too many of us take for granted: the right to participate in our democracy. Earlier in the year, ERCV offered programs to help us understand DC’s new ranked-choice voting system. Thank you to everyone who made these sessions possible. Kudos to all who voted in the June primaries and special election. Participating in the democratic process is one of the ways we strengthen our communities and our country. I also want to congratulate our own Ward 4 Councilmember (and friend of ERCV), Janeese Lewis George, on becoming the Democratic Party’s nominee for Mayor.
SUMMER IN THE CITY
As another hot Washington summer settles in, I encourage you to take good care of yourself —and of one another. Stay hydrated, check in on friends and neighbors, and don’t let the heat keep you isolated. Come join an ERCV Monday morning walk, Happy Hour, Lunch Bunch, Senior Cinema, field trip, or chair yoga online. You don’t have to know anyone before you come. Just register and show up. We’ll be glad to welcome you.
INTERDEPENDENCE
While independence is something we all value, few of us truly pursue happiness apart from others. The colonies that declared their independence from England knew they needed each other to succeed. In much the same way, we as individuals thrive when we acknowledge and embrace our interdependence. As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, I’m grateful to be part of a community where neighbors continue to care for, encourage, and strengthen one another. Thank you for helping make East Rock Creek Village such a special place.
President’s Corner: Springing to Life
April brings us a welcome lightening of mood. After an unusually cold winter, our neighborhoods have begun to welcome spring: trees are budding, flowers are blossoming, and our neighbors are returning to sidewalks, parks, and familiar gathering places. There is something restorative about this season in Washington. It’s a reminder that after (and even during) difficult stretches—due to weather, personal struggles, or troubling news at home or abroad—there can still be moments of beauty and connection close to home.
At East Rock Creek Village we strive to create a series of these moments, whether by our volunteers’ acts of service and kindness or by our members organizing opportunities for us to connect with each other. All deserve our thanks.
UPCOMING EVENTS
On Monday, April 6th, we have two special opportunities to enjoy Rock Creek Park in bloom—a morning wildflower walk guided by Beth Allaben and an afternoon walk guided by Michael Rollinson—to mark the arrival of spring flowers. The walks will be followed by some of our favorite ways to gather: a Happy Hour at Olive Lounge on Thursday, April 9th; Breakfast Club at Parkway Deli on Tuesday, April 14th; and our Neighborhood Cleanup and Lunch on Friday, April 17th, a chance for us as neighbors to care for our shared spaces together. On Sunday, April 19th, we’ll gather to celebratelongtime members who have moved beyond our service area. Our ever-popular Lunch Bunch will tear injera together at Nile Ethiopian Restaurant on Wednesday, April 22nd. And on Thursday, April 23rd, those who join us for our field trip to the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Japanese art during a docent-led tour.
In these uncertain times, choosing to step outside, join a walk, lend a hand, share a meal, or celebrate neighbors can be more than mere participation—it can be an affirmation of ourselves and our community. I hope you’ll join us this month, whether for a tour, a stroll, a meal, or simply the pleasure of sharing a bit of this beautiful time on earth together.
Finally, the first week of this month for many of us is a time for reflection, connection, gratitude, and celebration. I wish all who commemorate Passover and Easter a joyful and meaningful holiday.
President’s Corner: Anticipating Light
As we enter a chilly December, autumn’s last leaves are falling, daylight wanes, and we find ourselves at the beginning of the holiday season—reflective, grateful, and anticipating the lengthening light that’s just ahead. In 2025 we have witnessed profound challenges to our republic and the norms that so many of have taken for granted throughout our lives, but we have also seen a defense of those values coming from many of our judges, elected officials, and millions upon millions of our fellow citizens. As we approach the winter solstice, we’re reminded that even though seasons of growing darkness continue, there is also the expectation of returning light.
Holiday Cheer
We hope you’ll join us for one of the brighter moments of our year: ERCV’s Holiday Party on Sunday, December 7th, 2:00–5:00 pm at Tifereth Israel Congregation. It’s our chance to celebrate our Village, welcome new members and volunteers, and honor those who’ve been with us through the years. There will be good food, festive music, familiar faces, and new friends to meet. Please come help us close out the year with joy and connection.
On Thursday, December 4th, we are returning to Oohhs & Aahhs, this time at 4:00-5:30 pm for a Happy Hour. And, since it was such a hit in November, our new Breakfast Club will gather for the second month in a row at Parkway Deli, 8:30-10:00 am on Tuesday, December 16th. Come if you can!
Organizational Updates
I’m also pleased to welcome Village member and volunteer leader Lillian Spuria to the ERCV Board of Directors. Thanks go to recent Treasurer Roberta Hammond as she steps off the Board, as well as to long-time Board member Peter Kramer, who has agreed to serve as ERCV’s newest Treasurer.
Year End Gifts
As 2025 draws to a close, I hope you’ll consider a year-end gift to support our work. Your generosity helps us provide the neighbor-to-neighbor services, programs, activities, and social events that keep this community connected. Every contribution—large or small—strengthens our organization and is greatly appreciated.
Looking forward to the new year, we’re already excited: 2026 will mark ERCV’s 10th anniversary. We’re planning a full year of celebration, storytelling, and connection—alongside renewed efforts to ensure that our Village remains strong, sustainable, and welcoming for years to come.
Wishing you peace, warmth, and light this season — and a heartfelt Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas, and Joyous Kwanzaa to all who celebrate. May the month and the holidays bring us comfort, connection, and hope for the year ahead.
President’s Corner: Showing Up
We’re in the midst of autumn, and our neighborhoods have taken on softer hues this year — a quiet kind of beauty. Even in uneasy times, there’s comfort in familiar streets, crisp mornings, and the company of neighbors.
The recent “No Kings” protest — large, exuberant, and peaceful – was a reminder that millions of Americans can still meet in the public square and make their voices heard. Yet, the government shutdown continues into its second month, leaving thousands of federal workers in our area unpaid. Beginning this month, over 100,000 Washingtonians are expected to lose federal food assistance. ICE, the FBI, and National Guard units continue to roam the city, adding to the tension in our communities. And the abrupt demolition of the East Wing of the building known for centuries as “The People’s House” seems simply one more cherished institution being torn down in the name of change. Amid all this, our Village keeps doing what we do best: showing up for each other.
Last month it was great to see so many of you at our Members & Volunteers Picnic and first-ever Visual Artists Show & Sale. Thanks to gracious hosts Roger & Linda, and Shirley & Clyde — and kudos to Shelley and the many volunteers who made both events such a success.
This month I hope you’ll come to our Happy Hour at Olive Lounge on Thursday, November 6th, and join our field trip to The Phillips Collection on Tuesday, November 11th. We’ll be holding our first Breakfast Club on Tuesday, November 18th., at the Parkway Deli. If there’s interest, this can become a regular ERCV gathering. Our New to DC and our Visual Artists interest groups continue to grow; and, as usual, there are on offer our regular neighborhood walks and wellness classes throughout the month.
Looking ahead, please put Sunday, December 7th, the date of our annual Holiday Party, on your calendars. It will be a festive afternoon of music, food, and community in the ERCV tradition. Please register early to help with our planning.
As we enter this season of thanksgiving, I’m grateful, as always, for our many volunteers and donors. Our neighbors who volunteer to call, deliver, drive, teach, and share of themselves make East Rock Creek Village the strong, spirited community it is — and our donors give us the means to support their work. If you’re able, please consider a year-end gift to help sustain our programs and services in the year ahead. Every contribution, large or small, helps our Village thrive. Thank you.
President’s Corner: Up & At ‘Em
These are unsettling times in our city. The presence of National Guard, ICE, and FBI agents on our streets is a constant reminder of how fragile our freedoms can be. As I write this column, the threat of a government shutdown looms, and free speech is under strain as public voices are silenced and media powerhouses bow to pressure. Thankfully, our Village remains a place of connection, joy, and resilience.
Autumn is here, brightening our neighborhoods with color and crispening the air. We would like to celebrate the changing of seasons and the beginning of ERCV’s new fiscal year. Please register and join us for our Fall Picnic for Members & Volunteers this coming Sunday, October 5th, 3:00–5:00 pm in the beautiful backyard of Roger and Linda Glass. We’ll provide the food and drinks; you bring yourself, your energy, and good cheer. Your presence will make the day complete.
With Medicare Open Enrollment season starting October 15th, ERCV will host a Medicare Open Enrollment information session via Zoom on Tuesday, October 21st, with a colleague of mine, Mark Gottlieb, to help members learn about their options. I hope you will come with questions.
October also offers other excellent opportunities to get together. Toast your neighbors at our Happy Hour at Olive Lounge on Thursday, October 9th. I am especially pleased that we will be celebrating the talent of our senior artists at ERCV’s first Visual Artists Exhibit & Sale on Sunday, October 12th. And, on Wednesday, October 22nd, our Lunch Bunch will meet at the soul food restaurant Oohh’s & Aahh’s. Plus, throughout the month there will be on offer walks, chair yoga, and Otago balance classes.
Whether as a member, a volunteer, or both, I hope you’ll stay connected and invite neighbors to join us. Together, we show what community can mean in difficult and unusual times: caring neighbors helping each other, laughing together, and finding added strength side by side.
–David Mackoff
P.S. I want to thank everyone in our community who sent (or, had they known, would have sent) their kind wishes and offers of help while I was incapacitated this summer. My back surgery went well: I’m on the mend and look forward to visiting many of you in person or seeing you at ERCV events in the months to come.
President’s Corner: There’s Something Happening Here
September brings change: cooler mornings, crisper evenings, and the first hints of autumn in our neighborhoods. This year, though, the change feels weightier.
FREE DC
Many in our community are feeling deep concern and anger as we witness the abrupt federalization of our city’s police department, the presence of thousands of armed National Guard and FBI patrolling our streets, and masked ICE officers removing people from vehicles, businesses, schools, and homes. This heavy-handed, broadly performative show of force is not what DC asked for, nor what it needs. I know that many of our members are worried, especially for the most vulnerable among us. Please know: East Rock Creek Village is here as a steady touchstone of connection, compassion, and helpful information. We will continue to support one another and stand together.
FALL PREVENTION
Amid such uncertainty, it helps to focus on what is directly within our reach: our health, our safety, and our ties to our community. September 22-26 is Falls Prevention Awareness Week — a timely reminder that small actions can make a big difference in our overall well-being. ERCV offers its own ongoing Otago Fall Prevention Exercise Classes, and this month first-time participants will receive a free ERCV tote bag or coffee mug (while supplies last). Details and photos are in the Health Update section of this newsletter.
ERCV ACTIVITIES
We also provide opportunities to connect in person and online. On Thursday, September 4th, come to ERCV’s Happy Hour at Olive Lounge and catch up with friends and neighbors. On Thursday, September 11th, travelers-at-heart will head to Provence, France, as part of our continuing Armchair Travel series. On Wednesday, September 24th, our Lunch Bunch will meet at the Whole Foods Market at the Parks. For more information, see our calendar.
THANKS & GRATITUDE
Before we leave thoughts of summer, I want to recognize everyone who made our August Jazz on the Plaza such a success. It was a hot day accented by the cool jazz of James Zimmerman and his band. Thanks go out to ANC4A, to our wonderful partners at The Parks at Walter Reed, and of course to our dedicated ERCV volunteers.
As the season changes and new challenges emerge, let us continue to show up for one another with kindness, courage, and connection.
I hope everyone had a good Labor Day weekend. I wish my father, Benjamin Mackoff, a happy, healthy, joyous 92nd birthday. And I wish all who celebrate the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, shanah tovah umetukah, m’vurechet b’shalom: a good and sweet year, blessed with peace. This, of course, is my wish for us all.
August 2025 President’s Corner: Summer Vibes, Village Ties
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.
President’s Corner: Hot Days & Cool Connections
We are being reminded, last month and this, just how intense DC summers can be—sweltering heat one day, sudden downpours the next. I was certainly sorry that the unpredictable weather forced us to postpone our June Jazz concert. We’re now looking at weekends in August or early September to try again and will let you know as soon as we have a date nailed down!
JULY CONNECTIONS
Despite the weather, ERCV is going strong. Come cool off at our happy hour at Jinya on Thursday, July 10th or join our Lunch Bunch at Mi Rancho on Wednesday, July 23rd. The next day, Thursday, July 24th, we’ll explore a new art gallery in the old Newseum building, now part of Johns Hopkins University. We invite you to join our weekly walks, fall prevention exercise classes, and chair yoga sessions. Please take a look at the calendar section for details on these and all our other activities.
INTERDEPENDENCE
As we mark Independence Day, it’s worth noting the contrast with last month’s Flag Day military parade here in DC and the “No Kings Day” events across the country. It’s a good time to reflect on both our political and personal independence as well as our interdependence—the ways we care for and rely on each other. If you’ve been thinking about getting more involved with ERCV, please consider becoming a volunteer. We offer training and flexible opportunities to help others in ways that will work for you. Whether it’s a ride to the doctor, a friendly visit, or helping with events, every act of kindness matters.
A DECADE OF SERVICE
Looking ahead, ERCV is approaching a milestone: its 10th anniversary in 2026! We’re beginning to plan how to celebrate and how to build support for our long-term sustainability, especially with reductions in DC funding anticipated. As always, I’m sure we’ll meet the moment creatively with the help of our incredible community.
Wishing you a comfortable, safe, and connected July. I hope to see you soon!
President’s Corner: The World We Want to Live In
As spring gives way to summer, our neighborhoods are especially lovely, with their tree-lined streets and colorful gardens, and with longer days inviting us to come outside. But this season’s brightness is accompanied by a swirl of uncertainty: political norms are in flux, a costly military celebration looms, and a sweeping federal “Big Beautiful Bill” threatens to transfer wealth upward while cutting services to the most vulnerable and fraying the threads of democracy. Many of us are trying to balance these concerns with a natural desire to rest, travel, and savor summer.
JAZZ & MORE
Still, this is a beautiful time of year to appreciate where we live and to celebrate East Rock Creek Village, the community we continue to build together. I look forward to doing both at ERCV’s third annual June Jazz concert at The Parks at Walter Reed. On Sunday, June 8th from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, we’ll gather to enjoy live music performed by James Zimmerman and his band in an open-air setting filled with neighbors, joy, and connection. The concert is free and open to all, so come if you can and be sure to let friends know about it.
There are plenty of other ways to connect with fellow ERCVers this month. On Thursday, June 5th, we’ll return to the Olive Lounge patio for a festive Happy Hour. On Wednesday, June 25th, the ERCV Lunch Bunchwill get together at the Parkway Deli, and on Thursday, June 26th, we’ll head to the National Archives to visit our nation’s founding documents and the “Power & Light” photography exhibit currently on display.
While these events bring us together in joyful, visible ways, our deeper work continues quietly every day. ERCV is built on simple but powerful acts. We are neighbors helping neighbors by offering rides, technology coaching, wellness check-ins, listening, and helping each other where we can. Our volunteers, members, and donors make this possible, and I, for one, am proud to be a part of this very special community.
VOLUNTEERING
As we move into summer, I hope you’ll take advantage of all that ERCV has to offer—and invite someone new to do the same. Whether you’re volunteering, attending an event, or receiving a helping hand, you are part of a community rooted in care and connection. And to those who volunteer—thank you. Every ride, every visit, every moment of help brings our mission to life. If you’re not yet involved but feel inspired, we’d love to have you join us.
I wish everyone a safe and happy World Pride month and Juneteenth holiday. And, in honor of Father’s Day, I want to recognize the caring fathers, grandfathers, and father-figures in our community and in our lives—the ones who guide us and the younger generation with their good example, active involvement, and love.
In complicated times, it matters more than ever to keep showing up for one another and to keep imagining the kind of world we want to live in and build, together.
President’s Corner: In the Light of May
This month, our neighborhoods are bursting with light and color: azaleas in full bloom, leafy trees overhead, and longer days inviting us to come on outside. The beauty of spring in our neighborhoods reminds us of nature’s resilience and constant renewal, even as the world around us may feel uncertain.
We have just passed the 100th day of the new administration. A lot has happened very quickly, and many of us are apprehensive about what is to come. Threats to home rule and to our neighbors’ safety, and concerns about the economy, the rule of law, and the future of our country weigh heavily for some of us – certainly they do for me. In times like these, it’s more important than ever to stay well-informed and connected.
CONNECTIONS
Among the opportunities for connection this month are a Happy Hour at Juneberry Garage on May 8th and a Lunch Bunch gathering on May 28th. On May 22nd our volunteer leaders will be offering a field trip to the National Museum of African American History and Culture to see the multi-media exhibition In Slavery’s Wake, highlighting how Black communities have navigated the global legacies of slavery and colonialism. Additionally, our visit will show our support for one of the many museums facing strong federal pressure to remove artifacts and reconfigure their illustrations of American history.
Also this month East Rock Creek Village is pleased to be a cosponsor of the DC Silver Pride Resource Fair & Tea Dance on May 21st at the Eaton Hotel, celebrating the contributions and stories of older Queer adults. All are welcome. Stop by the DC Villages resource table and stay for the dancing!
Don’t forget: ERCV’s 3rd annual June Jazz at The Parks at Walter Reed is coming! Join us on Sunday, June 8th for an afternoon of good music once again provided by James Zimmerman and his band. Be sure to save the date!
COMMUNITY
And be sure to check out our new Food Box Program that will be getting its trial run this month, as featured in this newsletter. This initiative is exploring another way that we at ERCV might help our members, and I’m quite interested in the results.
Finally, as we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, let us honor the mothers, chosen family, mentors, and friends who have lovingly nurtured, supported, and cared for those in need of some healthy mothering. In the words of Bob Dylan — to every mom — including my own: May your heart always be joyful / May your song always be sung / And may you stay forever young.