AppleScript
I've still not found the ideal Applescript reference for professionals, though quite a few people have sent helpful suggestions.
The most common suggestion was Bruce Perry's book, Applescript in a Nutshell, which I have ordered. Lots of people also recommend MacScripter, an excellent portal.
The Apple documentation isn't bad, but much of it is trying to teach programming. The language guide is adequate but it's a catalog. I know how to program; I'm looking for the short story. The Applescript Sourcebook is a useful, advanced guide to semantics and common wisdom, but it emphasizes commands, not the language per se. Bill Brigg's MacCentral Primer is an intro-to-programming -- exactly what I don't want to puzzle through -- but it does seem well done.