The music was perfect, starting with local singer, songwriter Jeremy Serwer. Walking into the new Verity Credit Union on 5711 24th Ave NW across the street from QFC was more like walking into a hip local restaurant than a credit union. When entering, on the left in a glass case is a beautiful display created by artist Robert Bellm, whose paintings and sculptures move the heart. The excitement was steady, with laughter and great conversation - all with the background of a vocalist playing his guitar beautifully. The delicious food prepared by local Ballard catering company, Skillet - delighted the palate.

Later in the evening, local artist Marina Christopher, bassist, vocalist and composer delighted everyone with a deep, soulful voice that was accompanied by the bass she played. Never in the life of most everyone in that room had they been to a party given by a financial institution to let the neighborhood know how blessed they feel to be there. Kids had a fun area to play in, and over 200 people over the course of the evening, enjoyed talking to their neighbors and socializing with the Verity staff. John Zmolek, CEO and President of Verity Credit Union was heard talking about the new branding that highlights the heart of Verity - "...we are In the Community, By the Community, For the Community. It is about trust, and that's what the word "Verity" means."

"One of the great things about being in Ballard is they love their artists like we do. The people are community focused; which aligns with us - we want to be a part of the excitement, and to be the neighborhood credit union that people trust and want to visit," said Meghan Costello, Ballard Branch Manager.