Upcoming Esplanade events, plus a bonus video

A few notes about some upcoming events at the Esplanade and in the immediate neighborhood:

• The Esplanade Book Club will meet at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, 9/8 in the community room. The book for discussion this month is The Camel Club, by David Baldacci. Do come whether you've completed the book or not. Wine and snacks are also on the agenda; feel free to bring something to share if you like.

• Sunday, 9/11, will be the annual "Downtown to Defiance" event. This free community event was originally organized so that Tacoma residents could envision a public esplanade that would run from downtown all the way to Point Defiance. Streets are closed along the route from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., allowing pedestrians, cyclists, skateboarders, etc. a wide open, car-free pathway. Click HERE for more information.

• After getting out and walking, running or cycling on Sunday morning, why not sit back in the community room in the afternoon with other Esplanade residents to watch the Seahawks take on the Miami Dolphins? These Seahawks game-day gatherings are very informal, and friendly to both rabid as well as casual fans. People will often bring food to share, although this is in no way a requirement for attendance.

• This is not strictly in the immediate neighborhood of the Esplanade, but it is a little-known perk for Tacoma residents. Wednesday, 9/14 is the first of the fall "free days" at the Point Defiance Zoo. More dates are offered through the fall and winter. Click HERE for more information.

• The next Esplanade HOA meeting will take place on Thursday, September 15 at 6:00 p.m. in the community room. There will be committee reports, budget updates, and time for resident questions. To see an unofficial summary of the last meeting click HERE.

• All residents are invited to join "Coffee and Conversation," at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, 9/17. Residents may bring a breakfast item to share, and may also bring their own coffee mug if they are adverse to disposable cups.

• Finally, a little video of a Foss Waterway evening, just for your enjoyment. The music is a bit dramatic, but watch this video on full screen to best enjoy the visuals.