Diamond in the rough

As no surprise, spring and warmer weather has not yet come to our high altitude plain. We had family come and visit last week and the kids were dying to get out and play in the park.  However, between the cold wind and spitting snow this was not the most desirable option.  I decided to stop by the Laramie Plains Civic Center.  I remember coming over from Wheatland to play basketball when I was in Junior High School and later frequented the gyms in college as a volunteer 5th and 6th grade basketball coach.  


I asked about the possibility of using one of the gyms as a place for the kids to run, play and bounce balls.  The staff was quite welcoming and accommodating.  There happened to be unreserved time open for this opportunity.  The kids were delighted to be turned loose in the north gym.  
  

Don't forget about this wonderful resource!  The gyms and some of the rooms are available for rent.  There are also open gym hours.  Summer will be here before we know it, and "fun in the sun" will prevail, but this building is a great option when weather proves less than cooperative.


Furthermore, if history is to your liking here is a bit of information about this beautiful historical gem:

"The historic Laramie Plains Civic Center (LPCC) is an impressive building located in the heart of Laramie, Wyoming. The LPCC is the oldest school building in the state, originally built as the East Side School in 1878. In addition, the LPCC was also the first stone building in the Wyoming Territory. Following the original construction, the building had two major additions completed in 1928 and 1939. The building has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since March 17, 1981. 

The LPCC began making significant contributions to the city of Laramie from its inception. The largest contribution of the building was made through educating the community's youth for 100 years until 1979, as well as providing a meeting place for the local members of the community. As a point of comparison, the LPCC has a longer history than the University of Wyoming, which was established in 1886. These historic pasts demonstrate that the LPCC is one of Laramie's irreplaceable treasures.

The LPCC has continued to grow and adapt to the needs of the Laramie community, serving to fulfill the role of education, recreation, retail, entertainment, and workplace."  Laramie Plains Civic Center, History

In addition, there is a rich and interesting line up of acts scheduled in the exquisite auditorium ranging from Baxter Black and ballet performances to burlesque shows and didgeridoo music and story.   Take a look at the schedule of events planned at this historic place:  Events  

710 E. Garfield

745-8000

This "diamond in the rough" has opportunities for community members to donate, sponsor and volunteer.  


Due to my fortuitous reintroduction with The Laramie Plains Civic Center, I have a renewed interest in the building and all that it offers and all of its potential.  What a true gem located right here in Laramie!