Forgive me if this has been brought up before or has had it's own post somewhere previously.

I am somewhat suprised that there has not been such an undertaking to date. Perhaps the wounds are still too fresh but there can be a healing process. Let's face it, there are going to be ongoing projects that reflect on AIC and Layne, you can't stop that. I understand how territorial people can be with Layne and his memory but I see plans for other books, articles, movies and so on. Some of the quality of these projects, well , sucks. My feeling is that if a project is done, it should be done right, with a heavy hand of those closest to the band. Egos have to be checked at the door for this project.  For the longest time, the presentations of the band to the public have been mostly through the medias eyes, and not very flattering at times. Honor this band, its members, their work, their families, and the fans. A historical and documentational perspective. Formal and informal gatherings. Common ground alas.   

When there has been an outlet for fans such as the Staley Fund events, there has been support and it seems to be growing. There have been some good things to come out of that project, I think a museum(for lack of a better word) would even take this to another level. I would hate to think that this will be done 20 years down the road with no input from the band or family. It would be a shame for an opportunity for such a project to drift away.  That would just not be right.  

If I was a visitor to Seattle, the selfish side of me would love to have the opportunity to visit a centralized location that honors this band. Critical components would have to be the band members and the Staley family. My personal preference, though it matters not much, would be a holistic take on this band and ALL of it's members, including Jerry's solo stuff, Mad Season, AND through the current day. It should be inclusive of all the links in the chain, instead of exclusive. ALL of this music put out by the members of this band is  very relevent today. This music and it's impact on people's lives continues and is still growing to a new generation. It is a continuum . 

There are many  items like posters , equipment, awards, lyric sheets, art work, letters from fans, pictures(list goes on and on) that could be displayed. Time to unpack some hardware. It would be nice to see various tangible items related to this band to find a common ground "home". Otherwise, these items are piecemealed, sliced and diced away and many will be lost to the sands of time.  Have one room large enough for the occasional jam session just in case.

I am sure Layne's family have not been totally thrilled with all the ways Layne has been presented, they perhaps would have more of an interest in participating in the project to make sure it was done correctly. There are different methods to raise funding and I am sure there are individuals willing to make contributions. Sell engraved bricks as a fund raiser and put them in a big ass AIC logo at the entrance! It could be a non profit entity or whatever. There are many bright, creative, and sensitive people that could slowly come together. Do not let the nay sayers defeat you. People  will come out of the woodwork in Seattle to volunteer, participate, and provide some further ideas and guidance. It is a creative process. I do not expect everybody to agree, but would enjoy others input and thoughts.

If the families and band are not interested, I would be bummed but would respect their decision without the need for explanation.

There is still some fragmentation that lingers in the air about this band, that is evident as I peruse the various comments on this board.  It would be nice to see people rise "Above" and establish a project where fans can collectively visit . A place that documents and honors the band and all of it's members in a respectful way. 

Would it be easy? No. Would it be worthwhile in the greater scheme of things? My vote would be yes.