Owen K.
Garriott helps raise money for Leonardo’s to purchase building Leonardo’s hosted a private reception for founder Owen K. Garriott Saturday evening, followed by a walking tour of the World Harvest Church facility next door, which Leonardo’s is in the process of raising money to purchase. The reception began with mingling and the former Enid astronaut signed items for people attending the event. Garriott said a few words to the guests. “My wife and I recently came from the Astronaut’s Scholarship Foundation. One of my reasons for being there was to sign artifacts people had sent in for me to sign,” said Garriott. The profits from the signing were split between the Astronaut’s Scholar-ship Foundation and Gar-riott’s charity of choice, Leonardo’s. “I got about $3,600 from signing those items. The money is going to help purchase the building next door,” said Garriott. Garriott also mentioned Nate Northcutt had opted out of gifts for his birthday, instead having his friends donate money to Leonardo’s. “Nate’s fifth birthday contributions will also go to purchasing the building,” said Garriott. Following Garriott, the group was able to go on a walking tour of World Har-vest Church. “Our general plan includes buying the building in 2009. In 2010 and 2011, we plan to begin work,” said Julie Baird, executive director of Leo-nardo’s. “We plan on making what is currently the sanctuary into an event center and add a commercial kitchen.” Leonardo’s also plans to add offices and classrooms. “The second floor we tentatively planned to put a minimum of four classrooms, two art, two science,” said Baird. The third floor has big arched windows that may become an art area. “We haven’t decided for sure on the third floor. We think it will be a good art loft or art gallery,” said Baird. After the adjacent building renovations are complete the museum will be expanded. “Finally, when we finish all that we will expand the museum to the second floor, where the classrooms and event area are now,” said Baird. More from the Local, state and breaking news section Loading Calendar… (requires Javascript)