CHEYENNE - On Friday, Feb. 2, 2007, Gov. Dave Freudenthal and other state leaders will honor four groups and individuals from around the state for their extraordinary contributions to the arts in Wyoming.

For more than two decades, the Governor's Arts Awards have provided a forum to recognize those who dedicate their time, passion and financial support to Wyoming*s cultural life, as well as the importance of the arts in daily life. Those selected to receive awards this year will be honored at the February dinner and awards ceremony in Cheyenne. Details are available from the Wyoming Arts Council at 307.777.7742.

"I am delighted to be able to say that the arts are flourishing in Wyoming, and that is because of the contributions of organizations and individuals like these," Freudenthal said. "I am very much looking forward to the awards ceremony as a chance to provide them the public recognition they so richly deserve."

Recipients include:

*Razmick Sarkissian of Sheridan: A longtime orchestra teacher, Sarkissian was supported in his nomination for the award by elected leaders, parents, colleagues and students, whose signatures filled up three pages.

*Ark Regional Services of Laramie: Letters in support of Ark's nomination and selection refer to it and its programs alternately as "life-changing," "long overdue for recognition," "a model for communities in both Wyoming and the Rocky Mountain region" and a "very worthwhile program."

*Candra Day of Jackson: Candra works toward recognizing and applauding diversity through the arts and was a driving force behind the ambitious new Center for the Arts in Jackson.

*Barbara Smith of Rock Springs: Sweetwater County and the surrounding area have benefitted by this poet's work at encouraging senior citizens* artistic endeavors, organizing readings, mentoring new writers and making poetry a part of the life of those communities.

*I'm extremely pleased at the number and quality of nominations and in the diversity, dedication, and skill represented by the four honorees during this special 25th anniversary year," said Milward Simpson, director of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources. "The Arts Council received some of the strongest nominations ever, and the selection process was very challenging.

"I understand the Arts Award celebration is expanding this anniversary year and will feature some added sparkle, including a surprise or two. It promises to be one of the premier events of the year and I*m very much looking forward to it."