Utah State Capitol Seeks Volunteer Docents

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALT LAKE CITY—Do you have an interest in history, art, architecture, or government? Do you harbor a passion for learning or enjoy meeting new people? If so, the Utah State Capitol Visitors Center would love your help. 

Volunteer docents lead visitors on engaging, informative tours about the history, art, and function of the Capitol building. Tens of thousands of students, citizens, and tourists visit the Capitol each year, and volunteers provide an indispensable service by sharing their knowledge of and passion for the building.

In return for volunteering their time and commitment, Capitol docents receive the benefits of meeting visitors from across the globe; developing new skills and areas of expertise; attending volunteer socials and recognition events; and cultivating a special connection with the Capitol community. 

“The Utah State Capitol is a living legacy for all Utahns,” said Allyson Gamble, executive director of the Capitol Preservation Board. “We are grateful for the docents and the time and energy they spend sharing the ‘People’s House’ with visitors from near and far.”

Volunteers are asked to commit to 4 hours every other week. Guided tours of the Capitol are given on the hour between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Volunteer training begins on October 1, and includes workshops on early Utah history, the building’s construction, architectural and artistic characteristics, the restoration project, and government processes.

To learn about becoming a Capitol docent, please contact Sara Howard at 801-538-1800 or capitoltours@utah.gov.

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Volunteer of the week: Beverly Barrett

At the Utah State Capitol Visitors Center, we couldn't survive without our volunteer docents. Each week, we will feature a new docent to show our appreciation for the fantastic individuals who make our free guided tour program a reality.

For four hours every week, Beverly Barrett takes visitors on detailed tours of the Capitol building. A dedicated and loyal volunteer, Beverly has been a Capitol docent for more than five years.

"Beverly has equal passions for politics and people," said Sara Howard, manager of public relations and visitor services.

Beverly comes back from her tours glowing with tidbits about the people she met and the stories they shared.

"The experiences I have here are so interesting, and they are something I will cherish all my life," Beverly said.

Beverly enjoys starting her tours with the current exhibit in the Visitors Center, Step Back in Time: A Centennial Celebration of the Capitol Construction. The exhibit features historic photos and informative stories of the Capitol construction.

A passionate supporter of the arts, Beverly also works for the Sandy Amphitheater. 

Movie Under the Stars weather update!

The weather is threatening, but the show will still go on. Movie Under the Stars will take place inside the Capitol tonight. What better setting for Hotel Transylvania than the dimly lit interior of the Capitol on a stormy night?

We are setting up our movie screen under the majestic dome of the Rotunda, on the second floor of the Capitol building. The Heartstrings will take stage at 7:30 p.m., as planned. Hotel Transylvania will begin immediately after their performance.

Please bring extra blankets, pillows, and cushions, as the Rotunda floor isn't as quite as soft as the Capitol lawn! If you bring chairs, please make sure they are low-backed. Chairs must be set up off of the glass floor in the Rotunda.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us at 801-538-1800.

Last But Not Least: Hotel Transylvania featuring The Heartstrings

The Heartstrings

On August 23rd, 7:30 p.m., the Heartstrings will open our final Movie Under the Stars night of 2013. The Heartstrings are an indie rock group based in Provo, Utah. Just 6 short months ago, the Heartstrings came together as band full of songwriters and music lovers. They found their sound through a mixture of pop, folk, and even Motown. The Heartstrings blend these genres together to create an electrifying collection of songs. Their upbeat melodies and catchy lyrics will have you singing along in no time! To learn more about this incredible group, check out their Facebook page. 

Hotel Transylvania

The final film of the summer rolls at sunset tonight! We all know the story of Count Dracula, but the fact that he built a high-end hotel for monsters usually isn't included in his bio. Dracula builds this resort to keep his daughter, Mavis, safe from the frightening humans that monsters are forced to scare away. However, Dracula's plan is foiled when a 21-year-old human backpacker, Jonathan, stumbles upon the hotel just in time for Mavis' 118th birthday party. They fall in love, which leaves Dracula without a plan.

Join us for The World's Fastest Indian, featuring Shrink the Giant

Shrink the Giant

For our third Movie Under the Stars this Friday, August 9th, we'll start the night off at 7:30 p.m. with a performance by Shrink the Giant. Described as "Metric + Paramore / Foster the People", Shrink the Giant is an indie-alternative pop-rock group that has been playing together since 2010. This trio puts on a charged performance that will leave you wanting more. Shrink the Giant won X96's Battle of the Band in 2012 and has opened for Neon Trees, Imagine Dragons, and AWOLNATION. They are currently working on their sophomore album, which will prove to be just  as electric as the first. Their first album is available on iTunes. For more information check our their Facebook and listen to their incredible album here!

The World's Fastest Indian

Based on a true story, The World's Fastest Indian depicts the life of Burt Monro, played by Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins, who fulfilled his dream of setting the world land-speed record. Munro spends years building a 1920 Indian motorcycle, and once he completes the motorcycle, he embarks on a journey to the Utah Salt Flats to compete in an international race. He faces many obstacles along the way, but doesn't get discouraged. In 1967, he arrives in Utah and accomplishes his dream of setting the land-speed world record. We hope you will join us for the screening of this inspiring film on Friday, August 9th.

Photo recap: Movie Under the Stars Night 2

Our second Movie Under the Stars, held on July 26, was another great success! The crowd topped 1500 guests, and people visited from as far as Canada and Mexico. 

Crowds arrived as early as 6 p.m. to set up for the evening’s activities of music, games, prizes, and outdoor screening of Wreck-it Ralph.

Many families came early to picnic and play games with their loved ones before the festivities began. We had more than 7 guests celebrating their birthday with us that night! The Salt Lake Community College also provides a concession stand where hamburgers, fruit, cookies, bratwursts, and a variety of candy can be purchased. 

Local music duo Chad & Kristo  gave an outstanding performance for an hour before the movie began. Check out this clip of their performance!

Thanks to all of those who came out, and we hope to see you on August 9.

Wreck-It Ralph featuring Chad & Kristo

Chad & Kristo

At 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 26, Chad & Kristo will launch our second night of Movie Under the Stars. Chad & Kristo is a folk-inspired duo based in Salt Lake City. Both Chad and Kristo have been playing local shows individually for about 10 years, but in 2011 they joined forces to create the musical sensation of "Chad & Kristo". A wise man once said that if Chad & Kristo's music were medicine we'd finally have a cure for ugly. That statement is as true today as ever. So sit back, relax, and prepare yourself for some ear candy that would make even Willy Wonka jealous. They have recently released a new CD, and we are delighted to have them perform at our screening of Wreck-it Ralph. For more information on Chad & Kristo, visit their facebook page and check them out on iTunes. 

Wreck-It Ralph

We are excited to screen Wreck-it Ralph, a family-comedy. Ralph is an arcade game villain who strives to become a hero. He rebels against his traditional role as a villain, and in doing so he creates a dire threat to the arcade that he and his friends call home. He must prove to everyone that he has become a hero by eliminating the threat that he created. Nominated for the Golden Globe Award for best Animated feature, as well as the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, this movie is sure to delight. The movie will begin after sunset.

Photo recap: Movie Under the Stars, Night 1

Last Friday marked the beginning of Utah State Capitol’s 2013 Movie Under the Stars series. Although the evening’s activities weren't scheduled to start until 7:30 p.m., families began arriving as early as 4:30 to lay out their blankets and chairs in preparation for the evening’s events of music, games, prizes, and an outdoor movie.

Missed the event? Here are a few of our favorite photos from the evening.

Date night at Movie Under the Stars.  The best part about this date idea is that it’s FREE!

Movie Under the Stars is great for all ages. Children, teenagers, and adults love it!

The band LoveCapades started the evening off with a rockin’ performance. Listen to their music and learn more about the band.

Marshall Moore, director of the Utah Film Commission, hosted trivia games about movies filmed in Utah.  The audience members on stage were competing for tickets to the 20th anniversary special screenings of The Sandlot, taking place July 19-20.

Doing a voice impersonation of “plaaaaaay ball” from The Sandlot.

The Amazing Spider-man begins. Our event features two screens, all the better to accommodate more than 2,500 audience members.

Our next Movie Under the Stars night will be held on July 26. Stay tuned for our next blog post, and see you there!

We Present: The Amazing Spider-Man!

The LOVECAPADES

At 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 12, the Lovecapades will kick off our first Movie Under the Stars evening of 2013. The Lovecapades are an emerging pop rock band based in Utah. In the past 18 months, the band has released two albums, and they have opened for mainstream acts such as The Rocket Summer, Hoobastank, He Is We and Hellogoodbye. The Lovecapades performed three tours; one in Southern California (including a show at the Hard Rock Cafe in San Diego), one in the western U.S. and one in the United Kingdom. Taking inspiration from bands such as The Killers, Oasis, Led Zeppelin and U2, the Lovecapades' energetic live show is not to be missed. Click here to hear more about this local treasure!

The Amazing Spider-Man

After sunset, the film begins! Watch Spider-Man, one of the world's most beloved superheros, take on Dr. Curt Connors, mad scientist. You will be on the edge of your seat as you see Peter Parker make the transition from typical teen to teenaged hero as he saves New York from the havoc Dr. Connors imposes on the city. Based on the Marvel Comic Book, this movie is sure to thrill and is great for all ages.

Movie Under the Stars 2013

The Utah State Capitol Preservation Board is excited to announce this year's Movie Under the stars feature event. Now that summer is upon us, the Capitol Preservation Board and the Utah Film Commission have teamed up to bring locals an enjoyable night filled with entertainment and music, perfect for all ages.

2013 Movie Line-up

• July 12: The Amazing Spider-man
• July 26: Wreck-it Ralph
• August 9: The World's Fastest Indian
• August 23: Hotel Transylvania

Event Information

These screenings will take place on the southwest corner of the Capitol lawn. Local bands will perform live shows starting at 7:30 pm, continuing until dusk when the movies begin. Admission is free, and seating is available on a first come, first served basis. Feel free to bring friends, snacks, and a blanket. Chairs are also allowed, as long as they are low to the ground and won't disrupt the view of other guests.

For questions or comments, please contact Visitor Services at 801-538-1800 or check out our facebook page. We can't wait to see you there!

The Great Utah ShakeOut!

Emergency preparedness is a priority here at the Capitol, which is why we will be participating in The Great Utah ShakeOut! on Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at 10:15 AM. This event helps prepare citizens of Utah with earthquake safety. Should the day come when an earthquake occurs, Utahns who participate in the ShakeOut! will be prepared with the proper maneuvers: Drop, Cover, and Hold On.

Over 800,000 people are currently registered to participate in the ShakeOut! statewide. Are you? Click here to find out more.

Lone Peak's Basketball Team Shoots Hoops with the Governor

On the way to get recognized

Lone Peak High School men's basketball team is ranked first in the nation among high school teams after winning the 5A State Championships. Utah is proud of the success of these students. To honor these students, Governor Herbert arranged to shoot some baskets with the team in the State Capitol Rotunda. The young gentlemen were also acknowledged in the House and Senate Chambers during session.

Setting up the court 

Congratulations on your season, Lone Peak High School men's basketball team!

Rural Legislative Day

Rural Legislation Day at the Capitol is put on annually by the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development. This event is used to address the concerns of the rural community with presentation space in the rotunda and scheduled meetings between business owners and organizations, and their legislators. 

Historic Kanab All Women Town Council visits Utah State Capitol

Each day at the Capitol, we see visitors from all over Utah, the U.S., and the world -- but we never expected to welcome visitors from 1912! Today, Kanab City Mayor Nina Laycook arrived at the Capitol, along with five women elegantly dressed in period clothes, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the historic Kanab All Woman Town Council. 

Kanab City women playing the historic roles of (left to right): Luella McAllister, Blanche Hamblin, Mary Chamberlain, Tamar Hamblin, and Ada Seegmiller

In 1912, Kanab made history when voters elected the first all women town council in the United States. The council served until 1914. For more information on the original council, and the characters the women today portray, check out Utah History to Go.

Linda Alderman with her councilwoman's nametag

Linda Alderman (playing councilwoman Luella McAllister), Dickie Robinson (as councilwoman Blanche Hamblin), Joyce Rhodes (as Mayor Mary Chamberlain), Judy Habbeshaw (as councilwoman Tamar Hamblin), and Nayna Christensen (as councilwoman Ada Seegmiller) came prepared to give a short historical performance as a part of their celebration of service.  

¡Saludos a Guadalajara!

Students visiting the Capitol from Guadalajara, Mexico, were as taken with their costumes and gracious attitudes as we were. You go, girls!

Museums Day at the Legislature

On Thursday, February 28th, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Utah Museums Association and the Office of Utah Museum Services Board will hold Museums Day at the Legislature in the Rotunda. Museums from around Utah will take this opportunity to speak with their legislators. This is their chance to remind legislators of the important role of museums of preserving Utah culture and history.

Some features of Museums Day at the Legislature include live animals from the Tracy Aviary; exhibits from the Hogle Zoo, Living Planet Aquarium, and the Historic Wendover Airfield; and artifacts from the Natural History Museum of Utah. In addition to the exhibits there will be various museums' representation of living history folks.

The Utah Museums Association was founded in 1972 and serves Utah by advocating the importance of Utah Museums, Collaborating with organizations to create a museum network, and continuing to recognize museums as a educational resource for the people of Utah.

The Office of Utah Museum Services aids museums in caring for collections, creating educational resources, allowing researchers access to collections, and acquiring financial resources.

An image from last year's Museums Day at the Legislature

Charter Day on the Hill

The Utah Association of Public Charter Schools gathered in the capitol Monday February 11, 2013 for their event “Charter Day on the Hill.” Their goals for this legislative session can be found here.

Thirty-five of the 88 charter schools in Utah were represented, bringing over 400 students, educators, and administrators to the capitol. The Association of Public Charter Schools believes in giving parents a choice in educating their children, as well as in the benefits of a specialized education for students. 

Charter Day on the Hill was a chance for schools to demonstrate the presence of Charter Schools to their legislators. The event was designed to give attention to the activities of the schools themselves and the bills the Utah Association of Public Charter Schools have sponsored this legislative session.

Arts Day at the Legislature

Utah Division of Arts & Museums

The Utah State Capitol was built to serve not only as a place for government, but as a house of the people. During the Legislative Session community members often assemble, advocating for what they hold important for the enrichment of their shared State of Utah. Some of these gatherings include Museum Day at the Legislature, Rural Legislation Day, and the event held yesterday, Arts Day at the Legislature. Arts Day brought over 100 visitors to the Capitol for their participation.

Event Details

Organized by Art Works for Kids! and the Utah Arts Council Board of Directors, Arts Day at the Legislature on Tuesday, February 5, 2013 occupied the State Capitol Rotunda.

What is the purpose of this event?

This event is held in particular to give attention to those who are receiving enrichment from, have been heavily influenced by, and have overall benefited from public funding of arts. Arts Day enables the community to actively introduce artists to their legislators to remind them of the importance of the arts. This event is also a chance for arts supporters to personally thank their legislators for their continued support of art in schools and the community.

Who puts on this event?

Art Works for Kids! particularly advocates for continuing the Beverly Taylor Sorenson Learning Arts Programming. The Utah Arts Council Board of Directors is a governing board of Utah Division of Arts and Museums and is in charge of aiding in the development of arts in the community, managing state and federal arts funding, and working as a springboard for arts planning around the state.

Utah State Legislature Resource Guide

Utah State House of Representatives

The 2013 Utah State Legislative Session began this week, and the Capitol Complex is alive with activity. A combined 548 bills are scheduled to be discussed in the House and the Senate, and public events and tours are quickly filling up. We've collected all the best resources to help you find the information you need—whether you're visiting the Capitol, tracking legislation, or attending an event.

Your Legislators

Full rosters of both the House and the Senate can be found on the Utah State Legislature website. If you are unsure who your legislators are, type your address into the interactive map here. The Utah State Legislature website also lists the current Senate Standing Committees and House Standing Committees, as well as the Appropriations Committees.

Tracking Bills and Committee Meetings

Check out the live stream of session if you're curious about what the elected officials are discussing. The legislative website is also where you can find a list of bills to be discussed, and there are links to track specific bills or view bills that have been passed. If your interests are more specific, you can find a clickable calendar with committee meeting agendas here.

Visiting the Capitol

If you plan on heading up to the Capitol for an event or just to visit, check out our directions and parking information. Other useful pages include information on scheduling your own event,  taking a tour, or photographing the Capitol. Not sure where to go once you're in the building? A map of the Capitol buildings and grounds can be found here.

Keeping Yourself Updated

For all the latest updates, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

State Capitol Visitors Center Unveils New Exhibit

Photo courtesy of the Utah State Historical Society

SALT LAKE CITY—One hundred years ago, a lumbering steam shovel bit into winter-cold soil on a hill just north of Salt Lake City. It was December 26, 1912, and Utah’s state capitol was finally being built—65 years after the arrival of the first pioneers and 16 years after Utah attained statehood. 

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of the Utah State Capitol, the Capitol Preservation Board is pleased to present a new Visitors Center exhibit, Step Back in Time: A Centennial Celebration of the Capitol Construction. Using a collection of striking historic photographs, this new exhibit breathes life into the fascinating stories behind the planning and construction of the Capitol.

“We are thrilled to provide a unique and educational opportunity for all Capitol visitors to experience the vibrant history of this wonderful building,” said Allyson Gamble, executive director of the Capitol Preservation Board.

The exhibit opens on January 24, and will be on view weekdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. On January 24, at 10:30 a.m., a special presentation will formally welcome the public to the exhibit.

Admission to Step Back in Time is free. Digital images used in the reproduction of the exhibit’s historical photographs were provided courtesy of the University of Utah J. Willard Marriott Library, the Utah State Archives and Records Service, the Utah State Historical Society, and the Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum.

For more information, please contact 801-538-1800 or showard [at] utah [dot] gov.

New Exhibit: People of Utah, 1892-2011

The Capitol Preservation Board is pleased to announce a new exhibit from the State of Utah Fine Art Collection/Utah Arts Council. The exhibit, located on the fourth floor of the Capitol, features a selection of portraits from the Collection. More than appropriate in the “People’s House,” these artworks reflect a beautifully diverse sampling of the people and artists of Utah

The State Fine Art Collection, also known as the Alice Art Collection, was initiated by Representative Alice Merrill Horne who served in the 3rd Utah Legislature in 1899. She sponsored the legislation that created the Utah Art Institute, now known as the Utah Division of Art and Museums, the first state-sponsored arts organization in the United States.

About the Artists

For more information about the featured artists and their works, please visit the exhibit webpage.

This exhibit is provided courtesy of the State of Utah Fine Art Collection/Utah Arts Council. Now through July 11, 2013, on the fourth floor of the Capitol. Admission is free. For hours and more information, please visit our website.