If you garden, you know our area is described as having a “Mediterranean” climate. Last night at West Seattle Nursery, Mediterranean also applied to the music and food at the 34th District Democrats‘ annual Garden Party/Auction – above, the Sinovi Tamburitza Orchestra, specializing in Croatian music. Another guest star: New York Vinnie returned to West Seattle – more than a year after his move to Pittsburgh – to serve as auctioneer. WSB co-publisher Patrick Sand asked Vinnie what he misses about life here:

Ahead, more photos from the 34th Dems’ fundraiser, outdoors on a lovely summer night, including costumes and shades:

The ever-creative “Costume Goddess” Dina Lydia Johnson would have to have received the costume award if they were giving one out – an outfit fit for a veggie queen. And somebody had to have a toga – below, it’s Chris Porter (with George Cheung and Tibor Horvath):

Many of the district’s elected officials came to the garden party – below, State Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon (left), with Karl de Jong:

Our area’s senior State Rep. Eileen Cody was smiling in the sunshine too:

City Councilmember Sally Clark braved the brightness without shades:

And County Councilmember Joe McDermott was visiting with Vinnie:

From White Center (which, along with Vashon/Maury Islands, is in the 34th too), Liz Giba:

She showed off her WC-pride necklace and suggested a closeup:

The 34th Dems had reason to celebrate beyond the sunshine and friendly company; in last Tuesday’s election, their primary endorsement slate “won” a clean sweep, with everyone/every position on it either winning outright or advancing to the general. If you’re interested in checking the group out, they meet on the second Wednesday of the month at The Hall at Fauntleroy, 7 pm, so the next meeting is September 14th.