Katy YMCA drops Lay's name

The Katy YMCA branch named for former Enron Chairman Ken Lay has changed its name after Lay sent a letter asking that his name be taken off the facility. The YMCA of Greater Houston's board voted unanimously to rename the branch the Katy Family YMCA based on the contents of the letter, the contents of which aren't being released:

"Mr. Lay's comments were so sincere and deeply personal that we're not giving out the contents of the letter, except that he did state that it was in the YMCA's best interest to remove his name," [YMCA spokeswoman Trazanna] Moreno said. "I would say it's a done deal. Everyone supports his request, and his request will be honored."

The board was planning to look into a name change after Lay was convicted of fraud and conspiracy in connection with the fall of Enron, but officials said they decided to make the move now after getting Lay's letter. Though the Y's full board must ratify the name change when it next meets, the Katy branch is already using the new name and has ordered a stone marker with the new moniker.

Lay also sent another letter to the YMCA of Greater Houston board resigning his position as a board member of the Y's foundation. Moreno said Lay has been a volunteer with the Y for 20 years.