2000

Friends of Undine Park (FOUP) was created by residents in response to a proposal from the Laramie Amateur Hockey Club to construct an enclosed ice skating rink in the southeast portion of Undine Park. Over a one-year period, FOUP spearheaded a grassroots campaign to preserve the park’s natural beauty and open space, as well as to protect the historical character of the residential neighborhood.

Driven by the desire to find an appropriate location for a large metal-clad skating rink, FOUP worked cooperatively with the city council and rink proponents to site, design and finance the Laramie Community Ice Arena in the Turner Tract development on the southeast edge of town. The ice arena opened for public use in January 2004.

To read the comments of Laramie residents and city council members, see 10/17/2000 minutes and 11/21/2000 minutes.

2001

FOUP organized neighborhood volunteers to pick up garbage and dog droppings in Undine Park during the city-wide cleanup in April. This activity continues on an annual basis.

2002

FOUP’s board of directors decided to organize an occasional activity to bring public attention to the historic and recreational value of Undine Park, as well as to promote community spirit and a cohesive neighborhood.

2003

FOUP raised $1,000 to open the historic wading pool from July 28th through Labor Day. (Due to city budget constraints, the pool was scheduled to be closed all summer.) FOUP also repaired the wading pool, thanks to local businesses who donated supplies and neighborhood residents who donated skilled labor.

In August, FOUP sponsored an evening barbeque at the shelter on the south side of Undine Park, featuring the fine cuisine of neighborhood residents. Irving’s Hardwood Furnishings donated beverages.

2004

Following removal of the outdoor skating rink from the park’s southwest corner, FOUP volunteers met with city officials to redesign several recreational amenities. We helped select new playground equipment and the new sand volleyball court. In addition, FOUP volunteers offered input regarding the configuration of outdoor lighting, park benches, sidewalks and trees.

2005

Prompted by a request from the Laramie Parks and Recreation Department, FOUP volunteers mowed the new grass in the southwest corner of Undine Park during the summer. The new grass was part of the park’s refurbishment featuring new playground equipment and a new sand volleyball court.

In August, FOUP assisted the City of Laramie by establishing the rope boundary for the new sand volleyball court.

FOUP board of directors met regularly to begin organizing an arts and jazz festival to celebrate Undine Park.

2006

FOUP sponsored the first annual Arts in the Park, Laramie’s first arts and jazz festival on August 5th.

2007

FOUP sponsored the second annual Arts in the Park festival.  There were more vendors, more kids activities and lots of fun. 

2008

FOUP sponsored the third annual Arts in the Park festival with the help of the City of Laramie.  The spiral slide was a new addition as well as the Russin sculpture of a mother and child in the north end of the park.

2009

FOUP sponsored the fourth annual Arts in the Park festival again with the City of Laramie co-sponsoring the successful event.  A splash pad is planned for the spring of 2010

2010

Another successful Arts in the Park festival cosponsored by Friends of Undine Park and The City of Laramie. A brand new splash pad was introduced this year!