Ballardblog.com

Many Ballardites mourned the loss the Sunset Bowl as one of the places in Ballard that people of all ages and background could go for fun and to run into neighbors.  Although this was another battle lost to developers, there are still places in Ballard where people of varied interests and ages can get together, such as the Loyal Heights Community Center.

I walk by often and there is always a buzz of activity, whether it’s sports games being played on the lower playing fields or a group of toddlers playing “Red Light, Green Light” in front of the building.

There are movie and taco nights for families and a series of summer barbecues.  Inside a wide variety of classes ranging from music to aerobics takes place.  The new summer catalog of classes and events is now available at the center of online at http://www.seattle.gov/PARKS/centers/Ballard/Summer09.pdf

When the monorail debacle was going on, neighbors gathered in the meeting rooms to discuss the issues.  The community center has several meeting rooms which can be rented.  For young couples looking for an inexpensive wedding reception venue, the rooms are available with a liquor license included in the rental.  The biggest event held at the center was a fundraiser for Whitman Elementary with hundreds in attendance.

Although Ballard has changed a lot, I am glad there are still gems like the center that support the true meaning of community.

Note:  The Loyal Heights Community Center will be closed from June 6- June 21st.  Every 4-5 years the center refinishes the floors in the gym and classrooms.

Community Center Information: (206)684-4052
Address: 2101 NW 77th St., 98117