Wyoming Needs the Arts

This week, the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) began terminating previously awarded grants for the 2025 funding cycle, cutting support for arts organizations in every corner of the country—including Wyoming. This decision, citing shifting federal “priorities,” lands hard on arts organizations like ours that rely on public funding to ensure the arts remain accessible, inclusive, and rooted in community.

At the Laramie Plains Civic Center, NEA support is foundational. Visual and performing arts programs, educational opportunities, and facility support are core to our mission of building a welcoming, vibrant, and expressive community. As home to over 50 artists and 13 nonprofits, the community within our historic property is bolstered by public funding from organizations like the NEA and the National Endowment for the Humanities, whose own funding cuts were announced in April.

The League of American Theatres and Producers shared with its membership—including the Civic Center’s Gryphon Theatre—that this wave of NEA grant cancellations includes theatre companies across the nation. Many of these organizations had already received awards and begun planning seasons, hiring artists, and building community-centered programs. Theaters from New York to Oregon have had grants revoked, including companies serving historically excluded communities and rural regions much like ours. NEA funding was previously earmarked for 148 theatres nationwide.

An email from the Wyoming Arts Alliance (WAA) announcing these funding updates stated:

“Just this past weekend, many NEA direct grantees received official notices terminating their grants. This is a devastating blow to the cultural landscape in Wyoming. Without this support, numerous community-based arts programs will be forced to shut down, reducing public access to the arts and eroding the creative fabric of our communities.”

WAA is urging those affected by the cuts to contact congressional representatives and to share anticipated financial and staffing impacts through a national survey from Americans for the Arts, linked below:

NEA dollars create local jobs, catalyze partnerships, and foster spaces where communities gather around the arts. The termination of this funding threatens artists, arts administrators, and public access to cultural experiences across the country.

While we await further clarity on the specific financial impact to our nonprofit, the Civic Center is actively exploring alternative funding sources to sustain the programs and artists supported by our theatre, pottery studio, gallery, and arts education spaces.

If you’re in a position to give, please consider supporting local arts organizations now facing even greater uncertainty. Local 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts agencies that have partnered with the Civic Center include:

▪️ Laramie Public Art Coalition
▪️ Jackrabbit Workshop
▪️ Laramie Youth Justice Institute
▪️ Wyoming Arts Alliance
▪️ Artillect

From century-old stages to today’s vibrant studios, the Laramie Plains Civic Center has been a home for the arts in all forms, past and present.

Aging Creatively: Jim Jereb and Students Present Printmaking Showcase

On Friday, May 9, the Laramie Plains Civic Center’s Gorgon Gallery will debut “Printmaking: Exploring the Process,” a Creative Aging Showcase featuring works of the 16 adult students of Laramie artist Jim Jereb. 

This showcase celebrates the culmination of a printmaking workshop series hosted in partnership with the Wyoming Arts Council through the Creative Aging Project Grant. The program provided older adults in the community a no-cost opportunity to learn and engage in the creative process of printmaking, from initial concept through final artwork. 

“The studio atmosphere permitted complete strangers to work alongside each other: meeting new people and learning new things,” Jereb said. “This, I think, is an important aspect of the Creative Aging program: working together in a supportive, positive, and dynamic learning center.”

Jereb teaches a printmaking cohort in 2024 in the Laramie Plains Civic Center Workshop. This year’s class and culminating gallery event were his second time participating in the Wyoming Arts Council supported program, which provides free arts education for individuals 55 year and older.

The workshop series and resulting exhibition not only aim to nurture artistic skills but also foster meaningful community connections and mental well-being among older adult participants.

“The Creative Aging printmaking class is every artist’s dream. It was a great way to learn new techniques and processes I’ve never had the opportunity to explore,” Jodie Atherton, one of Jereb’s students from this year’s printmaking course, said. “ I am grateful for the friendships I found and for the chance to expand my artistic vision.”

Jereb, who has worked in the field of printmaking for over forty years, has taught professional and amateur students of all ages. This was his second Creative Aging cohort. 

“Working with this group was a pleasure: from the very first minute to the last second; a great confirmation of the saying about how time flies when you are having fun,” Jereb said. “Experience levels ranged from complete novices to those with years of using printmaking techniques. Various processes were introduced that challenged everyone to learn new viewpoints and understand themselves better as they worked through the class projects.”

The Creative Aging Project Grant, administered by the Wyoming Arts Council, promotes high-quality arts learning experiences for adults aged 55 and older. This year, free programs in various artistic media have been hosted by teaching artists throughout the state, with funds provided by the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies in partnership with E.A. Michelson Philanthropy and the Wyoming State Legislature.

A reception for the artists and works from “Printmaking: Exploring the Process” will be held on Friday, May 9th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Gorgon Gallery, a free, public gallery located in Room 332 of the Civic Center. 

Training and funding details for 2026 Creative Aging programs have not yet been released by the Wyoming Arts Council.

Jereb chats with gallery show attendees who came to view the works of his students in 2024. A reception for 2025’s class will be hosted on May 9th at 5 to 7 p.m. in the Civic Center’s Gorgon Gallery.

Laramie Rivers Conservation District Supports Community Courtyard Rehabilitation

A contribution from the Laramie Rivers Conservation District’s (LRCD) Community Enhancement Grant will help advance the Laramie Plains Civic Center’s (LPCC) goal of creating a vibrant, sustainable outdoor space for community use in Summer 2025.

Since 1945, the Laramie Rivers Conservation District has served Albany County by promoting the conservation and responsible management of natural resources through education, technical assistance, and targeted funding. LRCD’s programs support water conservation, land stewardship, soil health, and community education initiatives throughout the region. Their involvement in the Courtyard Rehabilitation Project aligns with both agencies’ missions to enhance and protect the resources that make Albany County a thriving place to live and work.

The Civic Center seeks to transform a currently underutilized area into an accessible green space featuring native plants, improved landscaping, sustainable water management practices, and outdoor gathering areas. The project will not only beautify the facility but also create new opportunities for community events, outdoor learning, and recreational enjoyment.

LPCC is actively seeking funding to complete the Courtyard Rehabilitation Project. Community support from local funders, businesses, and individuals will allow the public-serving project to come to life. At present, the project has received just over half the required funding to complete the project in Summer 2025.

LPCC is actively seeking additional funding to complete the Courtyard Rehabilitation Project. Community support from local funders, businesses, and individuals will help bring this public-serving project to life. To date, the project has secured just over half of the necessary funding for a Summer 2025 completion.

“We are honored to have LRCD's support and partnership in bringing this vision to life,” said LPCC Executive Director Jessica Brauer. “Their investment underscores the importance of public green spaces and the role they play in supporting healthy, connected communities.”

LRCD’s contribution, a $4,200 grant, will be paired with public donations, in-kind support from Common Outdoor Ground, and pending grant support from additional regional agencies. A volunteer workday, coordinated by Common Outdoor Ground, is scheduled for May 31. Interested participants can learn more here.

Civic Center Joins National “Two Lights for Tomorrow” Commemoration Honoring the Spirit of Civic Unity

On the evening of April 18th, 2025, the Laramie Plains Civic Center (LPCC) will take part in “Two Lights for Tomorrow,” a national moment of reflection marking the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s ride. Inspired by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s iconic poem, the initiative calls on Americans to display two lights as symbols of unity, vigilance, and a shared commitment to a more perfect union.

Founded in 1878 and long dedicated to public service, the Civic Center embraces this opportunity to honor the past while fostering civic dialogue in the present. Two lights will be illuminated on the building’s Garfield Street façade the night of April 18 as part of the national display.

“The spirit of the Two Lights for Tomorrow campaign echoes the heart of the Civic Center and its legacy as an educational institution,” said Executive Director Jessica Brauer. “It’s a chance to reflect on 250 years of community, courage, and connection and to join others across the country in lighting the way forward.”

“It is exciting to see the Laramie Plains Civic Center take part in the national Two Lights for Tomorrow commemoration. As a historic cornerstone of the Laramie community, this simple, yet inspiring, display connects our community to the past, our nation, and a brighter future,” said Megan Stanfill, Executive Director of the Alliance for Historic Wyoming and LPCC tenant.  

Local businesses, organizations, and residents are encouraged to participate by placing two visible lights on their homes or properties. Two Lights for Tomorrow originated in Virginia and grew to include participants nationwide. 

To learn more about the initiative and see a map of participants, visit va250.org/two-lights.

Wyoming Needs the Humanities

This week, the National Endowment for the Humanities abruptly terminated its grant to Wyoming Humanities and all other state humanities councils. This decision, based on an Executive Order aimed at reducing “non-statutorily required activities,” is already having a chilling effect on cultural organizations nationwide.

For the Laramie Plains Civic Center, this isn’t just abstract policy—it’s personal. Wyoming Humanities has been a key partner in programs that spark dialogue, deepen understanding, and connect our community.

You can find the mark of Wyoming Humanities in all corners of our historic property today:

• In the powerful performances of Relative Theatrics,

• In the current Gorgon Gallery exhibition, Mirgración: Betabeleros, celebrating the history and culture of migrant beet workers

• In youth-made artworks created after meaningful, facilitated dialogue in the Phoenix Ballroom with 2023 and 2024’s Youth Justice Institute

These aren’t “ extras”—they are the very heart of our connected community.

We’re grateful that Wyoming Humanities’ current grants are protected by state support. But these federal cuts threaten the long-term sustainability of programs that give voice to the diverse experiences of our neighbors.

We urge our community to speak up, call your representatives, donate if you're able, and send extra love to this beloved entity and their team as they navigate this loss.

To our friends at Wyoming Humanities—we see you, we thank you, and we’re with you. The work you’ve helped make possible here in Laramie has brought people together in powerful ways—and that impact will endure. Thank you for all you do.

You can read more from their team about what to expect and how to help at: https://thinkwy.org/seeking-public-support-amid-funding.../

First Phase of LED Lighting Upgrades Completed at Civic Center, More Sustainability Improvements Ahead

Fremont Electric installs upgraded light fixtures as apart of Phase 1 of the LED lighting upgrade project in the Civic Center’s South Gym. The South Gym hosts Open Gym and the Play Library as a free space for Laramie families to gather in the open space adjacent to Sunshine Coffee five days a week.

The Laramie Plains Civic Center (LPCC) is pleased to announce the successful completion of Phase 1 of its LED lighting upgrade project. This milestone was made possible through a combination of funding sources, including a $15,000 grant from the Albany County Recreation Board (ACRB) and Rocky Mountain Power’s energy efficiency incentives. These funds enabled LPCC to modernize lighting in the North and South Gyms, as well as shared spaces such as stairwells and restrooms.

The historic building that has served as a cornerstone for community events and programs for decades, is committed to preserving its legacy while embracing modern energy-efficient solutions. By upgrading to LED lighting, LPCC not only reduces its environmental footprint but also ensures the building’s future as a vibrant, sustainable space for local tenants, organizations, and residents.

Technicians from Mechanical Systems Inc. guide pieces of a new boiler system into the basement boiler room by way of the historic building’s coal shoot. The original portion of the Civic Center, built in 1878, was formerly Eastside School, the territory’s first brick school house predating Wyoming’s statehood and the University of Wyoming.

“These upgrades are a critical investment in the long-term sustainability of the Civic Center,” said Jessica Brauer, Executive Director of LPCC. “The utility costs for our large building are substantial, and these improvements will significantly reduce that burden and allow us to continue to keep our spaces accessible for the community.”

The newly installed LED fixtures are a part of a building-wide upgrade plan that projects to improve the facility’s lighting quality while reducing energy use by an estimated 60%, according to ROI Energy, Rocky Mountain Power’s contracted partner for efficiency upgrades. In addition to lowering energy consumption, the upgrades extend the lifespan of the lighting system, decreasing maintenance costs and improving reliability.

LPCC is committed to broader sustainability efforts beyond lighting improvements. Other ongoing energy efficiency projects include heating system enhancements, window upgrades, and water conservation measures. To further these sustainability goals, LPCC secured a $25,000 Wyoming Energy Authority Grant last winter. The grant will support additional energy efficiency projects based on the findings of a recently completed Level 2 Energy Audit by Iconergy of Denver, CO. This audit assessed potential energy savings and identified key facility improvements, including the replacement of the building’s aging boilers. Thanks to a generous donation from local philanthropist John Evans, one boiler replacement is already underway, with installation expected to be completed by mid-April.

With Phase 1 of the LED project now complete, LPCC continues to seek funding to expand these critical upgrades throughout the entire facility. Additional improvements will replace lighting fixtures in tenant spaces, hallways, and gathering areas—further reducing energy costs and enhancing the experience for all who use the Civic Center.

Organizations, businesses, and individuals interested in supporting the next phase of LPCC’s energy efficiency efforts are encouraged to reach out for partnership opportunities.

For more information, please contact:

Jessica Brauer
Executive Director, Laramie Plains Civic Center
(307) 745-8000 ext. 101
jbrauer@lpccwy.org

Engineers work with Civic Center staff in a building at asbestos and lead paint identification as part of the Wyoming Department of Quality’s Brownfield Assistance Program. This program helps investigate, clean up, and reuse brownfield properties, which are often demolished or abandoned to become community eyesores.

Civic Center Launches "Spring Fever" Fundraiser to Revitalize Historic Courtyard

The Laramie Plains Civic Center (LPCC) is thrilled to announce the launch of its "Spring Fever" fundraising campaign, an initiative dedicated to revitalizing the historic courtyard at the heart of the former school building. The campaign aims to raise funds for improvements that will transform the space into a welcoming, accessible, and vibrant outdoor gathering area for the community.

Through a partnership with Common Outdoor Ground, LPCC plans to rehabilitate the courtyard to increase public use, support tenant activities, and enhance the creative and cultural life of Laramie. This first phase of renovations will focus on clean-up, new landscaping, and seating areas, laying the foundation for future enhancements.

"This courtyard has long been an underutilized space with incredible potential," said Jessica Brauer, Executive Director of LPCC. "With support from our community partners, we can create a beautiful, functional outdoor space that serves as an outdoor hub for art, collaboration, and connection."

LPCC invites local businesses, residents, and community members to get involved by donating, spreading the word, or volunteering during upcoming workdays. Supporters can contribute online and follow LPCC on social media for updates and engagement opportunities.

How to Support the Campaign:

• Donate Online: Contributions can be made on the campaign page.

• Sponsor a Feature: Businesses and individuals can fund specific improvements. Is your business interested? Contact us.

• Join a Workday: Volunteers will help bring the vision to life. Stay tuned for volunteer sign-ups from Common Outdoor Ground.

• Share the Mission: Follow LPCC on social media and help us spread the word!

This project is a step forward in LPCC’s ongoing efforts to provide accessible, inclusive spaces for artists, nonprofits, and the wider Laramie community.

For more information, please contact Jessica Brauer at jbrauer@lpccwy.org or (307)745-8000 Ext. 101.

Exploring Migration, Labor, and Legacy –Migración: Betabeleros Opens at Gorgon Gallery

Stickers featuring the exhibition’s migrating homes will be available for sale in the gallery to support the continuation of Migración: Betabeleros through the Front Range.

The Laramie Plains Civic Center’s Gorgon Gallery will host local artist Ismael Dominguez’s installation Migración: Betabeleros, an evocative new exhibition exploring the histories, resilience, and cultural contributions of migrant agricultural workers in the Rocky Mountain region. The show will run from March 8 to April 30, with an opening reception on March 8 from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring artist talks and community discussions with the University of Wyoming’s linguistics scholars, Drs. Escalante and Domenech. 

This exhibition highlights the experiences of betabeleros—migrant laborers who worked the sugar beet fields of Wyoming and the surrounding areas. Through textile-based sculptures, historic photos, and recorded narratives, Migración: Betabeleros sheds light on the enduring impact of these workers and their families, many of whom laid the foundation for today's Latino communities in the region.

Learn more about this project and the history of Betabeleros on Ismael's Website.

“This work is an homage or offering to my ancestors and living family members who carried themselves and our lineage through the fields, of their own volition or not, so I could have the privilege of never having to know that kind of manual labor,” Dominguez says of his installation. “For my family and others who would travel hundreds of miles, chasing the seasons and ripening crops, who packed their homes into a car or bus to travel to an unfamiliar place, I am honored to carry a sliver of their stories forward.”

The Gorgon Gallery, located in Room 332 of the Laramie Plains Civic Center, is dedicated to showcasing identity-based and socially engaged art. Since its opening in April 2023, the gallery has served as a vital space for underrepresented voices, fostering dialogue and connection through the power of visual storytelling.

Visitors can explore Migración: Betabeleros from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday-Thursday or by appointment.  Admission is free, ensuring that all members of the community have access to this important cultural exhibition.  This event has been made possible with partial funding by Wyoming Humanities, Artillect, KOCA Radio La Montenesa, and public donors. 

In addition to viewing the show, the public is invited to contribute their own stories about Wyoming’s sugar beet industry, whether through personal or family histories, memories of working in the fields, or reflections on how this labor shaped local communities. By sharing these experiences, participants help preserve and expand the narrative of the betabeleros, ensuring their resilience and contributions are recognized for generations to come. Stories can be submitted online at lpccwy.org/gorgongallery or by emailing awallace@lpccwy.org.

Stickers featuring the exhibition’s migrating homes will be available for sale in the gallery to support the continuation of Migración: Betabeleros through the Front Range.

For media inquiries, group visits, or collaboration opportunities, please contact:

Aubree Wallace
Visual Arts Director
Laramie Plains Civic Center
(307) 745-8000
awallace@lpccwy.org

This project made possible through partial funding and partnership by:

Local Philanthropist Donates $200,000 for Civic Center Boiler Replacement

The Laramie Plains Civic Center is set to replace one of its historic building’s boilers this winter, thanks to a $200,000 donation from local philanthropist and real estate developer John Evans. The upgrade will restore reliable heating throughout the facility, ensuring the safety and comfort of tenants, visitors, and the community during the severe winter months.

The Civic Center, originally Laramie’s East Side School, was constructed in three phases beginning in 1878. Since then, it has served as Laramie High and Junior High School before being incorporated into the Civic Center and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. Today, the building, stewarded by a non-profit organization, is a vital community hub. It houses more than 85 tenants, including artists, nonprofits, and small businesses, as well as multiple community gathering spaces and arts venues.

While its historical significance is a point of pride, the building's aging infrastructure has posed challenges. The ongoing failure of one of its boilers had jeopardized essential operations and programs during cold weather, underscoring the urgency of the replacement.

Evans, who has a history of supporting community-focused projects, expressed interest in investing in infrastructure improvements for the historic property. His $200,000 gift fully funds the boiler replacement, which is scheduled for completion by March. The work is expected to proceed with minimal disruption to the building’s operations.

“This project is critical to maintaining the functionality of the Civic Center, and we are deeply grateful to John Evans for making it possible,” said Jessica Brauer, Executive Director of the Civic Center. “His contribution ensures that this historic property can continue to meet the needs of our community. It is an investment in both the past and the future of this Laramie landmark.”

The Civic Center has been a focal point for cultural and economic activity in Laramie, providing affordable spaces for tenants and hosting events that draw visitors from across the region. As part of its commitment to preserving its historic character, the organization continues to prioritize upgrades that align with modern needs.

For more information about the Laramie Plains Civic Center, including current projects, preservation efforts, and how to give, visit lpccwy.org.

Civic Center receives Rocky Mountain Power Foundation grant for Gryphon Theatre upgrades

This fall, the Laramie Plains Civic Center (LPCC) received a grant from the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation to support audio system upgrades for the historic Gryphon Theatre, originally built in 1926.

The Rocky Mountain Power Foundation, established in 1988, has awarded more than $77 million to nonprofit organizations through charitable investments that foster the growth and vitality of communities served by Rocky Mountain Power and Pacific Power.

The grant contributes to the Gryphon Theatre’s comprehensive modernization project, which began in 2022. This multi-phase initiative includes funding from the Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund, Albany County and City of Laramie Community Partner Funds, and private donors. The final funding phase focuses on upgrading on-stage components to enhance audio quality for both performers and audiences.

These improvements reflect LPCC’s commitment to preserving the Gryphon Theatre’s historic character while equipping it with the tools needed to host diverse programming—from community theater and concerts to public forums and educational events.

Regional grant funds like this play a vital role in advancing LPCC’s mission to foster community connections, nurture creativity, and build an enriched future. With these updates, the Gryphon Theatre is poised to better serve as a hub for creativity and collaboration in the Laramie community.

Special thanks to the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation for their ongoing support of projects that strengthen organizations like LPCC and enrich communities across the region.

Celebrate Local Creativing: Artists Sunday Market Expands for 3rd Year

On the Sunday following Thanksgiving, over seventy artists will gather at the Laramie Plains Civic Center (LPCC)’s Artists Sunday Market, inviting the community to celebrate the start of the holiday shopping season and support the creative economy.

Now in its third year, the Artists Sunday Market is part of a national movement celebrating artists as essential contributors to economic and cultural growth. This one-day event, aligned with the broader Artists Sunday initiative, unites over 500 communities across the United States, encouraging residents to support local artists and appreciate the arts. Artists of all mediums will showcase their work, providing unique, locally-made gifts and artwork for holiday shoppers.

This year’s event, held on December 1, is hosted in collaboration with the Laramie Main Street Alliance’s (LMSA) Small Business Saturday. “This season is a crucial time to support local businesses and creative entrepreneurs who bring so much value to our town,” said Jessica Brauer, LPCC’s Executive Director. “Partnering with Downtown Laramie to champion the ‘Shop Local’ mission highlights the impact of buying locally, especially during the holidays.”

Positioned in the heart of the holiday shopping weekend, the Artists Sunday Market follows Black Friday and Small Business Saturday and precedes Cyber Monday. Shoppers will find a wide array of vendor booths offering handmade jewelry, paintings, textiles, ceramics, and more. This year’s market will also feature live music from six local ensembles and soloists, plus seasonal refreshments from Sunshine Coffee.

“We’re thrilled to double the footprint of the market this year, welcoming our largest vendor lineup to date and introducing new partnerships that offer gift wrapping, refreshment options, a photo booth, and youth artist vendors,” Brauer added. “We hope this event inspires Laramie to support our local creatives and discover the unique offerings found right here in town.”

The market runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the North and South Gyms of the LPCC, accessible from Garfield or Custer Street entrances.

The Laramie Plains Civic Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering community connections, nurturing creativity, and supporting an enriched future. Learn more at www.lpccwy.org.

Civic Center receives $25,000 for energy audit & retrofit funding from Wyoming Energy Authority

This fall, the Laramie Plains Civic Center (LPCC) received funding support from the Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA) through its Energy Audit and Retrofit grants.

The Wyoming Energy Authority advocates for and advances Wyoming’s energy economy, powering our nation and securing a prosperous future for Wyoming’s energy and natural resources.

Funding from WEA, combined with contributions from LPCC, will support a Standard Level 2 Energy Audit and enable key retrofit activities identified by the audit. Energy efficiency upgrades have been a strategic priority for LPCC since 2022, aligning with efforts to modernize outdated building systems and mitigate rising energy costs.

Regional grant funds play a vital role in supporting LPCC’s mission to foster community connections, nurture creativity, and build an enriched future. Special thanks to the Wyoming Energy Authority and its partners for their support of initiatives that strengthen businesses and organizations like ours across the state.

Spooky Party at Sunshine Coffee Raises Funds for Civic Center

Come celebrate one year of Sunshine Coffee on Friday, November 1st in the South Gym at 8 PM.

Food, music, drinks, and GHOST TOURS of the Civic Center!

More details to come - all proceeds from this event will benefit the Laramie Plains Civic Center.

(Spooky Party entry is free)

Buy your ghost tour ticket here - https://lpccwy.networkforgood.com/.../77773-spooky-civic...

See less

Free Family Movie: Coco for Día de Muertos

Join us for this FREE family movie showing presented by Laramie Main Street's Día de Muertos and the Gryphon Theatre on Sunday, November 3rd at 3 PM.

A boy named Miguel dreams of becoming a famous guitar player despite the misgivings of his close-knit family. When his lofty ambitions cause him to run afoul of a curse, he must journey into the Land of the Dead to seek forgiveness from his ancestors.

Run time is 109 minutes. Doors open at 2:30 PM

Albany County Recreation Board funds LED light upgrades for Civic Center gyms

This summer, Laramie Plains Civic Center was a recipient of the Albany County Recreation Board’s funding for LED light upgrades to the North and South Gyms.

The Albany County Recreation Board’s (ACRB) primary source of funding is the one-mill recreation levy imposed by the Albany County School Board. The ACRB awards funding for proposals for recreation projects, which may include facilities, construction, programs, equipment, operations, and maintenance to the City of Laramie, Albany County, the Town of Rock River, and Albany County School District No. 1.

LPCC will receive $15,000, which will be leveraged with Rocky Mountain Power’s energy efficiency upgrade incentives to support the addition of LED fixtures. These upgrades will impact the facilities’ quality of light, lower energy use by 60%, and maximize incentives from Rocky Mountain Power. This project is estimated to be completed early in the new year.

LPCC continues to explore funding resources to complete these upgrades building-wide.

Grant funds from our local partners are crucial to the nonprofit’s mission to serve as a community fostering connections, nurturing creativity, and ensuring an enriched future. A special thank you goes to the elected officials who took the time to hear the needs of our rich community of nonprofit organizations.

In the Gallery: Prayers on Fire Solo Exhibition from Kelwin Coleman

Prayers on Fire is a solo exhibition juxtaposing sports based masculine imagery against queer based religious ideology. Through intaglio, cyanotype, relief and drawing based printed 2d works on paper, wrestlers are collaged; they are distorted into submissive poses that harken towards the spiritual. The work is meant to create a direct connection between the aggressive nature of sports and solitude of masculinity by introducing queerness and religious contemplation. 

Violence through sports and competition is viewed as safe whereas violence outside the arena is a crime. What propagates our need to see and facilitate masculine aggression within these acceptable guidelines and what happens when they take on a revised context? The prayers that influence the titles of most of the work in the exhibition are prayers of a submissive nature. They explore the wrestlers pose into acts of contrition and openness to and through vulnerability.

The exhibition will be featured in Laramie, WY 26 years after the death of Matthew Shepard. Although legislation has been passed for processing hate crimes, there remains a disparity between how queer hate is manifested through challenging masculinity and accompanying activities like sports. Our culture celebrates and indulges in controlled physical contact sports; we embrace male brutality within these arenas. Masculinity, when re-contextualized, elevates this brutality to savagery. This exhibition is interested in starting that conversation and asking why?

Edward J. Kempf defined "gay panic" as a condition of "panic due to the pressure of uncontrollable perverse sexual cravings". The defense of gay panic is often introduced and barred from cases involving queer based hate crimes. Prayers on Fire questions what underlying curiosities exist within masculine sports culture violence. How do we resolve the threat of this panic if not through opening the doors for discourse between these positions of affirmative and submission.

---

The artist, Kelwin Coleman, will be at Gem City Nights at the Downtown Farmer’s Market on September 6 from 5-7 PM hosting a community workshop. Find the Laramie Plains Civic Center tents at the South end of the market by the stage.

In the Gallery: Juntos Florecemos

A NOTE FROM THE CURATOR

"As someone who has grown up Mexican in a very Caucasian small Wyoming town, I've seen and experienced the way us brown folk can be treated and pushed to the outside of the community; I've also seen the incredible ways we've been invited in and included. Through both of these one thing has persisted, that is the community that we find and form in order to bolster each other and raise ourselves up”

"Juntos Florecemos" is an exhibition in celebration of Latiné artists, the art we make, and the ways our support for one another helps us rise above adversity. "

- Ismael Dominguez, 2024

GENERAL INFO

Submissions will be accepted until September 12th and artists will be able to drop off work September 26th from 9am - 3pm (or by appointment).  Drop off is in the Gallery located in Room 331 of the Laramie Plains Civic Center Located at 710 E. Garfield St. If you need to arrange a different date and time please email Aubree at awallace@lpccwy.org.

Juntos Florecemos will be open to the public October 4th - December 5th. 

A public artist reception will be held in the Gorgon Gallery on October 4th from 5-7 pm. Light refreshments will be served.

Wyoming Arts Council awards Civic Center funds for free summer music and arts series

Thank you to the Wyoming Arts Council for awarding funds for the Laramie Plains Civic Center and Gryphon Theatre's free summer music and art series, Gem City Nights, hosted in collaboration with our friends at Laramie Farmers Market!

Gem City Nights is an event series aimed to showcase the vibrant Laramie music and arts scene while enjoying Laramie’s beautiful summer nights. This weekly showcase will offer attendees an opportunity to engage with performing and visual art alongside the Laramie Farmer’s Market’s food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities. Each Gem City Night, hosted Friday evening from August 23 to September 13, will feature two musical acts from 6 -9 PM and a free community art workshop from 3-7 PM.

WAC awarded $6,423 to support this four-week series. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details!

Interested in supporting 2024's event? Contact Adam Bender at abender@lpccwy.org.

Civic Center to Host Rummage Sale on June 7-8

Have you ever thought, "The Laramie Plains Civic Center must be full of treasures!"

You're right! Mark your calendar to join us and shop those treasures on June 7th and 8th in the North Gym (Garfield St. Entrance).

Early birds can shop Friday, June 7th, from 3-6 PM.

The sale will continue on Saturday, June 8th, starting at 8 AM.

Expect antique furniture, trinkets, electronics, building materials, and more! Cash and Venmo sales only.

All sales will benefit the Laramie Plains Civic Center's nonprofit mission to serve Laramie as a community fostering connections, nurturing creativity, and ensuring an enriched future.

---

Would you, your business, club, or service group like to help the Civic Center raise funds and host this June's Rummage Sale? We have volunteer opportunities for hauling, setup, sales support, and more!

Sign up here: https://signup.com/go/euGVXLO

Interested in scheduling a group to help? Contact Jessica at jbrauer@lpccwy.org.

City of Laramie awards Civic Center Community Partner Funds

This May, Laramie Plains Civic Center was a recipient of the City of Laramie’s 2024-2025 Community Partner Funds, allocated by the Laramie City Council from the 5th Cent Sales Tax. LPCC will receive $7,233 to support operations.

Grant funds from our local partners are crucial to the nonprofit’s mission to serve as a community fostering connections, nurturing creativity, and ensuring an enriched future. A special thank you goes to the elected officials who took the time to hear the needs of our rich community of nonprofit organizations.

You can see more details on the many important organizations in our community supported by these funds here.