We always enjoy a Big Dipper after tight harmonies. And thank the heavenly bodies, Pacific Lutheran University will, for the 15^th year, make our dreams come true.  The college hosts Jazz Under the Stars, an outdoor jazz concert series followed by rare public entry into the Keck Observatory - although the star gazing only goes down Aug. 1, 8 and 15. The series, a different band every Thursday through Aug. 15, kicks off July 11 with the Steve Howland Trio in the college's amphitheater. Dr. Howland teaches jazz and classical guitar at PLU and co-directs the PLU Guitar Festival, so he'll know how to explore the space. Joining guitarist Howland will be Nate Omdal on upright bass and Adam Kessler on drums, playing standards and originals that reflect broad influences and interests. So sit back, take in the music and make a wish on a star (did we really write that?). 

JAZZ UNDER THE STARS, 7-9 p.m., Mary Baker Russell Amphitheater,Pacific Lutheran University, 124th St. S. and 10th Ave. S., no cover, 253.535.7162