On Friday, the Ballard Chamber of Commerce and Friends will host the third annual Ballard SeafoodFest Kick-Off BBQ to benefit the Seattle Fishermen's Memorial.

It’s an important event for the Chamber, as well as the community, to honor the industry that made Ballard what it is today. As a charitable non-profit organization, the Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial is devoted to promoting safety in the fishing fleets and easing the emotional and financial burden of surviving family members of fishermen lost at sea.

Established in 1985, the SFM Board is directed by 15 industry volunteers. Since the completion of the monument down at Fisherman’s Terminal, the mission has expanded. They now address grief support, safety training and the fostering of community around those in need.

The SFM Board holds monthly meetings to ensure advancement of the mission through the year. In addition, (and probably the biggest reason to give) the SFM provides financial scholarships to the children of the people who have been lost at sea. Currently the Seattle Fishermen's Memorial are putting 10 children through college and they need all the support they can get.

The event will feature live music by the Sourmash Stevedores, a Johnny Cash cover band, and food by Smokin' Petes BBQ.

Beverages are donated by Maritime Pacific Brewery, Cloud Trading and Café Appassionatto.

There will also be a “Ballard Experience” silent auction with items donated by Ballard businesses.

Tickets $50 per person 21 and older and includes all-you-can-eat food and three drink tickets.

The event takes place Friday, July 8, from 6:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. at Ballard Elks, 6411 Seaview Ave NW.

Tickets can be purchased at brownpapertickets.com.

For additional information email: seafoodfest2011bbq@gmail.com or info@seattlefishermensmemorial.org