Holiday Choir Performances at the Utah State Capitol

Courtesy of t.spang at Flickr

This year, enjoy the holiday season at the Capitol by catching one (or more) of the many upcoming choir performances. During the month of December, choirs and professional choral groups perform in the echoing expanse of the Capitol rotunda. Whether accompanied by piano or sung a cappella, these performers are sure to please.

Thursday, Dec. 6
Preston High School, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Toole High School, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 7
Ability and Choice Services Choir, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Dixie High School, 3:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 12
Paradigm High School, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 14
Butler Middle School, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

Murray High School, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. 

Pine View High School, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. 

Hurricane High School, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 21
Snow Canyon Choir, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Hark and the Holly Berries, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

In the Capitol Gallery: Threads of the Silk Road

The history of the Silk Road is filled with legendary explorers, wandering armies, pilgrims, spies, merchants, and mercenaries. Its vast 7000-mile network of trade routes from China to the Mediterranean existed for almost 2000 years, connecting the Far East to Europe. This collection of evocative photographs by Edgar Gomez-Palmieri, along with a selection of hats and headdresses, depicts surviving remnants of this great ancient highway and descendants of the historic peoples along its route.

About the Artist

Edgar Gomez-Palmieri worked in Asia as the director of international outreach for the Utah-based Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation. During his travels, he took thousands of photographs along the ancient caravan paths known as the Silk Road, from China through the Near East to Europe.

This exhibit is supported in part by Zions First National Bank, a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, and by funds from the Utah Division of Arts and Museums. Now through December 20, 2012, on the fourth floor of the Capitol. Admission is free. Visit our website or call 801-538-1800 for more details.

Martha Hughes Cannon: First female senator in U.S.

News reports from yesterday’s election indicate that a record number of women will be serving in the U.S. Senate in 2013. But did you know that one of the first U.S. political barriers to be broken by a woman happened right here in Utah?

In 1896, Martha Hughes Cannon was the first women to be elected to a state senate seat in the United States. Born in Wales in 1857, “Mattie” came to Salt Lake with her family in 1861. Mattie had great ambition and determination, working as a schoolteacher and typesetter in order to earn money for college. She received a degree in chemistry from the University of Deseret in 1875, and she went on to attend medical school at the University of Michigan. In 1882, she received a degree in pharmacy from the Auxiliary School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania. She also studied oratory, with the goal of becoming a strong public speaker on issues of health.

Mattie returned to Salt Lake City after graduation, where she worked as a resident physician of Deseret Hospital. Mattie was also actively involved in local politics, particularly on the issues of public health and women’s suffrage. In 1896, the same year Utah attained statehood, Mattie ran for state senate on the Democratic ticket. She was one of five Democrats running from Salt Lake County; her husband, Angus M. Cannon, was among the Republicans running for the same seat. Mattie won the election on Nov. 3, 1896, and she served two terms as a strong advocate for children’s welfare and public health.

For more information on Mattie’s fascinating life, please visit Utah History to Go and KUED.

Happy Halloween! Ancient critters at the Capitol

Halloween is a holiday full of mythical creatures and ancient symbols, from greedy ghouls to flame-lit gourds. But did you know that the Capitol has some of its own mythical creatures and ancient symbols?

The head of a ram adorns light fixtures throughout the Capitol, symbolizing solar energy and fire. Rams were valuable sacrificial animals in ancient times. When used classical architecture, they represent determination, leadership, and authority - fitting for a government building!

Can you spot the oval shapes underneath the light? This classical molding pattern consists of alternating eggs and darts, perhaps to symbolize the duality of life and death. Eggs are ancient symbols of new life, luck, and health; darts can be quite lethal.

Kids love finding the eight wyverns that crouch in the corners of the Capitol atrium. In medieval heraldry, a wyvern was a guardian figure with magic powers of protection for warriors serving a powerful lord in battle. The Capitol wyverns are fierce two-legged dragons with serpent tails and bright orange wings.

And check out the egg-and-dart molding underneath the wyvern!

Some scholars say that Halloween has roots in ancient Celtic harvest festivals. The pine cones shown above are ancient symbols of agricultural growth and bounty of the earth. In the architectural style of the Capitol, the pine cone stands for spring and rebirth.

While all of those symbols were purposefully included in the Capitol architecture, some appeared quite by accident. On the second floor, large panels of diamond-cut Georgia marble boast beautiful symmetrical patterns. These patterns are nothing more than the natural swirls and veins that develop during rock formation, but some people like to look for pictures in the marble.

Do you see anything peculiar in the marble pattern, above?

Photos taken by Joanna Oldham, Director of Visitors Services. Blog post inspired by Romy Mahyera, Capitol Docent.

See Utah landscapes all year with a 2013 calendar

The days in Utah are getting chilly and, believe it or not, 2012 is reaching its end. Even though digital calendars make the transition to a new year seamless, I still love printed calendars. Brilliant calendar photography can brighten up any home or office wall, and flipping the page each month (to a new, gorgeous photo) feels like a fresh start.

The 2013 edition of the Utah Life Elevated® Scenic Calendar is no exception. A colorful photo of Thor’s Hammer at Bryce Canyon National Park, taken by photographer Ed Riche, graces the cover. Nearly 80 images appear throughout the calendar, including all five national parks, national forests and recreation areas, many of Utah’s state parks, ski resorts, metropolitan attractions, annual events, and various outdoor activities.

Both professional and amateur photographers contributed to the calendar, and most of the production work was done "in-house" by the Utah Office of Tourism. 

Now in its 41st year, the Utah Scenic Calendar is recognized annually for design and photography by the National and World Calendar Awards competition. The 2012 and 2011 editions were honored with 13 awards in the competition, including a Gold Award for Best Graphic Design.

The gorgeous calendar is a great gift for clients, family, and friends - or a simple treat for yourself! Calendars are sold at Council Hall, and online at www.uotstore.com. 

If you have questions, please contact the Utah Office of Tourism at (801) 538-1900 or visit www.visitutah.com.

Utah Voter Education & Outreach Campaign

Yesterday was National Voter Registration Day, and with Election Day just 41 days away, the Utah Lt. Governor's Office launched its mass media campaign to encourage all eligible Utahns to register to vote and become informed voters.

"More than ever before, Utah voters have robust resources to educate themselves about candidates and issues on the 2012 ballot, as well as many options to cast their ballots," said Lt. Governor Greg Bell.

"We want to ensure that all eligible Utahns are able to participate as well-informed voters."

The Lt. Governor's Office operates vote.utah.gov, the state's premier source for election-related information. Utahns who visit the site can register to vote, view and update their registration information, request an absentee ballot, find their polling place, research candidates and issues, review a personalized sample ballot, see Early Voting locations and times in their county, and more.

Building on the momentum of its previous award-winning outreach campaign, the Lt. Governor's Office is utilizing a series of dynamic television, radio, and online ads, as well as billboards, to encourage Utahns to visit vote.utah.gov. Created by Salt Lake-based Love Communications, the campaign shows how anyone can be a "hero" by educating himself or herself about the 2012 election.

Important upcoming dates related to the 2012 election:

• October 9: Deadline to register to vote by-mail
• October 22: Deadline to register in person or online 
• October 23: Early Voting begins 
• November 2: Early Voting ends; last day to request a by-mail ballot
• November 6: General Election Day

Register to vote today!

Sneak Peek: Filmed in Utah

What do Planet of the Apes, Footloose, and Forrest Gump all have in common?

That's right. They were each filmed - either all or in part - in Utah! 

Come check out the new Filmed in Utah exhibit in the Capitol's fourth floor gallery. This unique display celebrates the vibrant history and modern industry of Utah film. Catch a glimpse of Forrest Gump's running shoes, Jack Sparrow's compass, and other film finds.

Exhibit courtesy of the Utah Film Commission. On display now. Admission is free. Visit our website or call 801-538-1800 for hours and details.

Become a Utah State Capitol Tour Guide

The Utah State Capitol Visitors Service program is seeking volunteers to join its dynamic, motivated docent team.

What is a docent?
The word “docent” derives from the Latin word “do oere,” meaning “to teach.” For more than 100 years, docents have been a vital link between the history and collections of public buildings and their visitors.

What does a docent do?
Our docents help visitors learn about the Capitol through guided tours that highlight history, artwork, artifacts, exhibits, and events.

In addition to providing an indispensable service to thousands of Capitol visitors, docents gain the opportunity to meet people from across the U.S. and around the globe. Docents learn the ins and outs of the Capitol community, attending quarterly training workshops and volunteer socials.

Sign me up!
To find out more about volunteering at the Capitol, please call the Visitor Services Center at 801-538-1800 or email us at capitoltours@utah.gov.

In the Capitol Gallery: Dean Fausett drawings of the infamous Major Powell expedition

Art Meets History
On May 24, 1869, ten men in four boats left Green River, Wyoming, to explore one of the last unmapped areas of the United States: the Green and Colorado River systems, and the Grand Canyon. Three months later, six men and two boats came out of the canyon, making their way into history.  

This expedition, led by Major John Wesley Powell, has become one of the most important events of exploration in the West.  Filled with hardships and peril, the expedition accomplished what was perceived to be impossible.

In 1964, the United States Bureau of Reclamation commissioned artist William Dean Fausett (1913-1998) to record the pioneer spirit of Major Powell and the majestic grandeur of the country he explored. Now on view in the Capitol's fourth floor gallery, Fausett's sepia drawings provide a captivating look into the Powell expedition.

About the Artist

Born and raised in Price, Utah, William Dean Fausett (1913-1998) studied at Brigham Young University, New York's Students League, and the Beaux Art Institute of Design.  He painted award-winning murals in the nation’s Capitol building in Washington, D.C., and his works are represented in many of the finest art collections in the country.

Exhibit courtesy of the Utah Division of Arts and Museums. Now through September 18, 2012. Admission is free. Visit our website or call 801-538-1800 for more details.

Final Movie of the 2012 Season

This season of Movie Under the Stars has been the best yet! We are so excited to have the world famous Desert Wind open for Sandlot this Friday. 

Wind gives a world beat with a jazz-rock twist that will sweep you off your feet. They are highly acclaimed throughout Middle Eastern/Mediterranean dance markets with 12 CDs currently selling worldwide. Desert Wind is made up of very talented musicians who not only play music but live it as well. This Friday the band will include Alan Scott Bachman, Keyboards / Vocals, Terence Hansen, Guitars / Vocals, Vincent Oles, Trap Drums, Andalin Bachman, Flutes / Wind Synth, Rajab Juma, Middle Eastern Percussion and Shawn Vincent, Bass. Desert Wind is an independent, self-produced recording label created by Alan Scott Bachman. To learn more about them visit their website and facebook page: http://www.desertwindmusic.com and http://www.facebook.com/desertwindmusic. 

The locally filmed movie, The Sandlot, was one that we simply could not pass up showing for our last movie. Not only is it widely know for it's classic one-liners, but also for the meaningful story of summer friendship. 

Please join us this Friday evening as we watch this classic Utah film. All musical performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Then at dusk, we will begin our featured film.  FREE popcorn has been provided by Harmons Grocery and is available while supplies last.  Come and enjoy the magic of Movie Under the Stars!!

Round 2!!

On July 13th the forecast for Salt Lake City said 30% of rain. With rain on the mind, we went forward with Movie Under the Stars. As rain clouds came we hung tight, covering our equipment to wait out the storm. We soon called Kevin Eubank to get his take on the weather and were given to “green light” to show the movie.  Due to rain however, our performer Beau Stephenson, was unable to preform. As a result of this we have brought him back to preform this Friday!!

Beau is from Southeastern Washington and grew up with a bug to play. Taking chances along the way to perform in choirs, plays, and in various musical groups, it allowed Beau to grow as a performer and musician. Having battled a series of lung setbacks, Beau is healthy and happily married and singing hard. Keeping a sense of humor and a bright disposition on the forefront, his music is about life, love, and laughter. Beau has also competed on  American Idol. Last year he competed in an Official American Idol Competition in Florida and was runner up singing “Ain’t No Sunshine”.

This Friday’s movie tells the story of war-weary, former military captain John Carter who is inexplicably transported to Mars where he becomes reluctantly embroiled in a conflict of epic proportions amongst the inhabitants of the planet, including Tars Tarkas  and the captivating Princess Dejah Thoris . In a world on the brink of collapse, Carter rediscovers his humanity when he realizes that the survival of Barsoom and its people rests in his hands.

All musical performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Then at dusk, we will begin our featured film.  FREE popcorn has been provided by Harmons Grocery and is available while supplies last.  Come and enjoy the magic of Movie Under the Stars!!

Wayward Molly and The Muppets

This Friday we are excited for Wayward Molly to open for our featured film, The Muppets! When 3 Muppet fans learn that Tex Richman wants to drill under the Muppet Theater for oil, Gary, Mary and Walter set out to find the Muppets who have been split up for years so that they can put on one last show and save the Muppet Theater.

Wayward Molly is Jani Gamble, Allison Ottley, Nicki Singleton and Mona Stevens. The three vocalists were thrown together for a one time performance in 2009, and although they come from varied musical backgrounds, they blended so well and had such a blast that they decided to give it another go.  Their sound is based on tight three part harmony enhanced by varied instrumental acoustic accompaniment, drawing on an eclectic mix of folk, Celtic, and whatever else they feel like.  Wayward Molly had their "coming out" concert in March 2012 to a packed house and two standing ovations while raising funds for the American Cancer Society and recently performed at the Ogden Music Festival in June.



 All musical performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Then at dusk, we will begin our featured film.  FREE popcorn has been provided by Harmons Grocery and is available while supplies last.  Come and enjoy the magic of Movie Under the Stars!!

AS……YOU…...WISH…..

 

We are so excited for this Friday’s movie, Princess Bride. Opening for us this Friday evening is the ever to very talented, Beau Stephenson!

Beau is from Southeastern Washington and grew up with a bug to play. Taking chances along the way to perform in choirs, plays, and in various musical groups, it allowed Beau to grow as a performer and musician. Having battled a series of lung setbacks, Beau is healthy and happily married and singing hard. Keeping a sense of humor and a bright disposition on the forefront, his music is about life, love, and laughter.

 

The Princess Bride is a wonderful story. A kindly grandfather sits down with his ill grandson and reads him a story. The story is one that has been passed down from father to son for generations. As the grandfather reads the story, the action comes alive. The story is a classic tale of love and adventure as the beautiful Buttercup, engaged to the odious Prince Humperdinck, is kidnapped and held against her will in order to start a war, It is up to Westley (her childhood beau, now returned as the Dread Pirate Roberts) to save her. On the way he meets a thief and his hired helpers, an accomplished swordsman and a huge, super strong giant, both of whom become Westley's companions in his quest.

All musical performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Then at dusk, we will begin our featured film.  FREE popcorn has been provided by Harmons Grocery and is available while supplies last.  Come and enjoy the magic of Movie Under the Stars!!

Governors of Utah

Heber M. Wells (R) 1896-1905

John C. Cutler (R) 1905-1909

William Spry (R) 1909-1917

Simon Bamburger (D) 1917-1921

Charles R. Mabey (R) 1921-1925

George H. Dern (D) 1925-1933

Henry H. Blood (D) 1933-1941

Herbert B. Maw (D) 1941-1949

J. Bracken Lee (R) 1949-1957

George D. Clyde (R) 1957-1965

Calvin L. Rampton (D) 1965-1977

Scott M. Mattheson (D) 1977-1985

Norman H. Bangerter (R) 1985-1993

Michael O. Leavitt (R) 1993-2003

Olene S. Walker (R) 2003-2005

Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. (R) 2005-2009

Gary R. Herbert (R) 2009-Present

For more information on our governors, visit our Hall of Governors webpage.

Word of the Day

Colonnade – A row of columns, supporting an entablature and usually one side of a roof. When a colonnade stands before a building it is called a portico, and if it surrounds a building is called a peristyle.

Movie Under the Stars: Puss in Boots and The Lovecapades

This Friday evening the Capitol Preservation Board, in partnership with the Utah Film Commission, will be hosting Movie Under the Stars. The first movie of the 2012 season will be Puss in Boots.  We all know the story of Shrek but this story takes place long before Puss ever met Shrek and his noble steed, Donkey. 

Also, before the movie begins on Friday evening, The Lovecapades will be performing live at 7:30 p.m. The Lovecapades have the whole package: quality music, a loyal growing fanbase (on five continents), a hugely impressive live show, and a powerful image. The band is an award-winning British/American alternative pop rock group that is attracting the attention of industry insiders. The band has spent the past two years successfully touring the States and the UK, taking time out only to record a full-length record. Check out their facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/thelovecapades

All musical performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Then, at dusk, we will begin our featured film. Come enjoy free popcorn provided by Harmons Grocery and enjoy the magic of Movie Under the Stars!

Utah Law Enforcement Memorial

This memorial to Utah’s law enforcement replaced a smaller one previously displayed inside the Capitol prior to the preservation project from 2004-2008. It was sculpted by Utah artist Lena Toritch and depicts three individual scenes in bronze. On the stone wall behind the sculptures are the names of 115 officers that have died while protecting Utah citizens. The photo above is the centerpiece of the monument and is laid in the ground to honor those who served our great state. The words, "all give some, some give all" remind visitors of the sacrifice made my Utahns all over the state.

Utah Trivia

Did you know that the completion of the world's first transcontinental railroad was celebrated in Utah at Promontory where the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads met on May 10, 1869? It is now known as Golden Spike National Historic Site, and it is just a day's trip from the heart of Salt Lake City. Want to brush up on more Utah trivia? Follow this link to learn about Utah's symbols, landmarks and more! http://www.50states.com/facts/utah.htm

Movie Under the Stars!

The Utah State Capitol Preservation Board is proud to announce the 2012 Movie Under the Stars feature event. With summer just around the corner, the Capitol Preservation Board and Utah Film Commission have teamed up to bring locals an enjoyable event for all ages. Movies will run on the southwest Capitol lawn five times throughout the summer and are scheduled as follows:

• June 29 – Puss in Boots
• July 13 – Princess Bride
• July 27 – The Muppets
• August 3 – John Carter
• August 17 – The Sandlot

Live music from local bands will start each night at 7:30 P.M. and continue until the sun has set and movies begin. Admission is free and space is on a first come, first served basis. There will be free popcorn from Harmons and barbecue style dinner will be available for purchase from the Salt Lake Community College Culinary Arts Program at every event. Bring friends, family, snacks and a blanket. For questions or comments, please contact the Capitol Preservation Board office at 801-538-3074 or capitolscheduling@utah.gov or visit our website at www.utahstatecapitol.utah.gov.

Movie Under the Stars

The time has finally come!!! We are more than pleased to announce the schedule for Movie Under the Stars 2012:

June 29th: Puss in Boots
July 13th: Princess Bride
July 27th: The Muppets
August 3rd: John Carter
August 17th: Sandlot

Make sure to put the above dates on your calendar. Free admission and popcorn!

WORD OF THE DAY

Chamfer - A flat surface made by cutting off the edge or corner of a block of wood or other material.

Become a Capitol Docent!

If you want a fun summer activity, think about becoming a docent at the Utah State Capitol! We have hundreds of tours every year and it is because of people like you that make this possible. Please contact the Visitor Services office for more information. capitoltours@utah.gov, 801-538-1800. Don't forget about our upcoming "Movie Under the Stars" at the Utah State Capitol events as well. Our movies will be released soon!

Word of the Day

Tuscan Order - The simplest of the Orders of Classical Architecture. The shaft of the column is never fluted, and the capital has a square abacus. *For definitions of other words, see our older posts.

Word of the Day

Doric Order - The Classical Order characterized by sturdy proportions, a simple cushion capital, and a frieze of triglyphs and metopes.

Summer Events

Summer is gearing up at the State Capitol! Between the many events scheduled by the public and our summer feature event, Movie Under the Stars, it looks like it will be a great summer! Are you planning on visiting the Capitol this summer? If so, check our Facebook to find out about exciting events!

Our Facebook pages:
Capitol Preservation Board
Utah State Capitol
Movie Under The Stars

Word of the Day

Dentil (Root "dent" means tooth): A small rectangular block used in a series forming a moulding under an Ionic, Corinthian or Composite cornice.

Movie Under the Stars

Movie Under the Stars is 2 months away!! What movies would you like to see at Movie Under the Stars this season?

Word of the Day

Word of the Day: Corinthian Order - The most ornate of the five Classical Orders, characterized by a slender fluted column having an ornate, bell-shaped capital decorated with acanthus leaves.

Word of the Day

Corbella Arch - In architecture, a "false arch" bridging a gap by means of overlapping blocks of masonry.

Word of the Day

Eaves - The lower edge of a pitched roof which overhangs the face of a wall. An eaves cornice is a cornice in that position.

Word of the Day

Mural - A painting on a wall, or a monument which is fixed to a wall.

Word of the Day

Band - A face or fascia. A flat, low, square profiled molding encircling a building or running across its facade. The strip from which dentils project.

Word of the Day

Colonnade - A row of columns, supporting an entablature and usually one side of a roof. When a colonnade stands before a building it is called a portico, and if it surrounds a building is called a peristyle.

Word of the Day

Abacus - (Ab-a-kis): A slab on the top of the capital (the head or crowning feature of a column or pilaster), crowning the column and supporting the entablature.

Movie Under The Stars

Planning for Movie Under The Stars is underway! If you are interested in preforming at Movie Under the Stars please send an email to jbradshaw@utah.gov. Please include the band's name, all contact information and samples of your music. Don't forget to like "Movie Under The Stars at the Utah State Capitol" to find out about our upcoming events. Click this link for our Facebook page: Movie Under The Stars

Word of the Day

Monolithic Columns – The shaft of each column is made of one, continuous polished piece of marble. These interior columns, at nearly 26 feet tall, utilize several features of the Ionic Order, namely, spiraled volutes, elegant bases, and egg-and-dart moldings.

Salt Lake City

The picture above is a view from the Utah State Capitol of Salt Lake City with the surrounding beautiful mountains in the background.

This photo is compliments of one of Capitol Preservation Board's staff members. If you have a great photo and want to share it with us, email it to capitoltours@utah.gov.

Thanks,

-Capitol Preservation Board staff

Word of the Day

 Laylight – Glass ceiling features transmitting light through the roof level skylights. Extensive use of natural light through the use of many windows is a unique feature of Kletting’s design. The laylights of the building’s vaulted atriums and the House, Senate, and Supreme Court chambers, are ideal examples of this feature.

Word of the Day

Rosettes – noun: A carved decorative floral pattern.  Rosettes can be found on the underside of the four rotunda arches inside square coffers.

Word of the Day

Word of the Day: Rusticated Stone– noun: Masonry cut into large blocks with the surface left rough. The stone outside the ground floor of the Capitol is rusticated in order to give the building’s foundation a look of rugged strength.

Visit the Capitol!

Looking for a fun activity for the family? The Utah State Capitol has lots of educational information to offer. Visit the new displays on the first floor, see where the State Legislature works, visit our beautiful Gold Room or see the featured art exhibit on the fourth floor. Whatever you're looking for, we have something for everyone. For questions, call Visitor Services at 801-538-1800.

Word of the Day

PEDIMENT – A triangular space above a door, window or colonnade. A pediment is often adorned with decorative sculptures; however, the Capitol’s pediments are empty because the initially proposed sculptures that were to be placed inside them were too costly.

Words of the Day

Word of the Day: DELEGATE- noun: (del·e·gate) a person acting for another: as a : a representative to a convention or conference b : a representative of a United States territory in the House of Representatives

ANOTHER WORD OF THE DAY: CAUCUS-noun: (cau·cus) a closed meeting of a group of persons belonging to the same political party or faction usually to select candidates or to decide on policy; also : a group of people united to promote an agreed-upon cause

Word of the Day

Word of the Day: BIPARTISAN - adjective: (bi-par-ti-san) of relating to, or involving members of two parties ;  specifically : marked by or involving cooperation, agreement, and compromise between two major political parties .

Session 2012

Well, the 2012 Legislative Session has come and gone. We have thoroughly enjoyed these last few weeks and we are sad to say goodbye to many of our Legislators, interns, lobbyists, visitors, staff and other employees who made this session fantastic. Thank you to everyone, and may peace be with you until next year.

-Capitol Preservation Board staff

Word of the Day

Word of the day: DRUM - noun: The cylindrical wall just below the dome.  It often incorporates windows that give light to the space inside the dome. : a round wall or structure that supports a dome.
From: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drum

Word of the Day

Word of the day: DOME - noun: 1:archaic : a stately building : mansion
2: a large hemispherical roof or ceiling

A dome is a curved roof structure on a circular base.  The neoclassical dome of the Capitol is an element of architecture that has become a common symbol of democracy in America.  The outer dome stretches 250 ft, 10 in. from the base of the grand stairs on the south side of the Capitol building.  The shell of the dome is made of copper, installed in 1980, to replace the original copper covering after portions were blown off in a heavy windstorm.

Word of the Day

Word of the day: Cupola – A small tower topped by a turret or dome that rises from the roof of a building. It often has windows that let in sunlight.

Come see our Cupola outside of the Capitol building! 
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cupola

Museum Day

If you didn't make it to the Capitol today, here is what you missed:

Museum Day 2012

Look at the bird's beautiful wings!

Eagles and owls came to the Capitol for a visit.

Our community came to the Capitol to see the amazing things presented  at museum day.

Along with birds, skeletons of animals were brought from museums across the valley.

Busy day at the Capitol.

We had a lot of legislators come for a visit. Can you find yours?

Yes, that is a snake.

Beautiful paintings.

Hanging out at Museum Day!

Word of the Day

CARILLON - (pronounced car·il·lon) -noun:
A set of fixed chromatically tuned bells sounded by hammers controlled from a keyboard
(from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carillon)

Please come visit the Utah State Capitol and hear our Carillon at the top of the Capitol building play patriotic music related to Utah or it's history! It rings at 8am, 10am, noon, 3pm, and 5pm. Enjoy!

Carillon - Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary

www.merriam-webster.com

Capitol Art Exhibit

Please visit the Capitol's 4th floor featuring the beautiful exhibition,

20 Works from the State Fine Art Collection

On view through August 5

On the closing day of the 3^rd Utah Legislature on March 9, 1899, Senate Bill 89 sponsored by Representative Alice Merrill Horne was passed to create the Utah Art Institute (now known as the Utah Division of Arts and Museums) as the first state-sponsored arts organization in the United States.

The twenty artworks displayed here on the 4^th floor of the Utah State Capitol are selected works from the State Fine Art Collection initiated by Representative Alice Merrill Horne’s vision.  These artworks, spanning 123 years of Utah artists and their work, honor the directive to develop and preserve the arts and artists in Utah.

 **Image is Skating Party, by Irene Fletcher. It is courtesy of the Utah Arts Council.

Have You Played Capitol Bingo?

If you are visiting the Utah State Capitol with children please feel free to download the Capitol Bingo sheet on the  Utah State Capitol Website.  Groups of 15 or less are invited to complete the bingo sheet and stop by the Visitor Services Office for a very special treat. The Capitol Bingo Sheet is a great way the help children learn about the Utah State Capitol by encouraging them to look for the symbols and important artwork that can be found throughout the Capitol.

We offer FREE guided tours on the hour between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with the exception of state holidays.