Renaming of the Franklin County Mental Health and Sunflower Centers - October 27, 2006

The Franklin County Mental Health and Sunflower Centers of Miami County changed their name to "The Elizabeth Layton Center, Inc. For Hope and Guidance." on Friday, October 27th, 2006. Diane Drake who is headed up this task, and asked for anyone in the family to send thoughts on "What this would mean to Elizabeth if she were here". She read these at the ceremony. They also served cake and punch and the great-grand kids got to blow out the 97 candles. What an honor! The ceremony was a family reunion of sorts, Grandma Layton's extended Family is world-wide!

A Special Thanks from Diane Drake: I was touched by the many people who turned out for the celebration. On behalf of the Board of the Elizabeth Layton Center, Inc., we will cherish the gift you have bestowed on our agency to honor Grandma Layton, as well as encourage residents of Franklin and Miami counties. Two buildings in Ottawa and threes buildings in Paola will bear her name. A special thanks to: Steve, Barb and Kurt in making arrangements for Judy Russell Lewis for lending us the drawing for our poster dedication; Greg Nitcher for allowing us to display a pre-contour pen and ink drawing; All the family members for emailing their thoughts for the ceremony, and Last, but not least, to the grandchildren for getting up in front of a crowd to blow out the birthday candles!

Signs Along the Way Book Signing at Tortoise Gallery of Fine Art & Espresso Bar

What a wonderful afternoon we had with all the Grandma Layton fans and family who came out for the book-signing! Nancy Sims-West, the owner of this cozy, colorful gallery, was our gracious hostess, and patiently helped us through our first book signing. Pink lemonade and Oreo cookies were served, and everybody delighted in browsing the hand-crafted jewelry displays, statues, pottery and paintings from local artists. The afternoon was emotionally charged, as we reunited with family members and dear friends, all connected by the love and memories of time spent with Grandma Layton. A big "Thank You" goes out to ; James, Joe and Dane - kids Chase and Shannon our lovely cashier) - and Linda, who supports us in everything we do. And thank you to everybody who bought a book, we know you will be moved!