Salt Lake City. Stephanie Teal. Andersen. A2

Dear Stephanie,

Your geo gnome has traveled to Salt Lake City. As the headquarter location of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this city was founded for the purpose of a gathering place for its dominant religion, Mormonism. The Salt Lake Temple took forty years to build. Evidences of Mormon heritage are found throughout this Utah state capital. The seagull is a symbol of faith prominently shown in the downtown area to commemorate the Mormon pioneer history wherein the new settlers survived an insect infestation. Other symbols proudly displayed to highlight Mormon heritage is the reference to the honey bee and the term Deseret and Beehive which refers to the industry and cooperation of the people. ZCMI Center and the term Zion also has historical and religious reference but is applied to business. In 2002, after surviving the scandal of media attention regarding bribery, the Olympics were showcased and hosted in Salt Lake City. The 2002 Olympics highlighted the strengths of the area and gave attention to the natural wonders of the area, such as world-class ski resorts built in rugged mountains. A rapid transit system helped facilitate crowds at these athletic games and continues to contribute to tourism and business in this sophisticated area offering downtown amenities. The Grand America Hotel and other landmarks boast beautiful landscaping, classic furnishings and delicious dining. The Joseph Smith Building, formerly Hotel Utah, is a glamorous, yet historical site, offering restaurants, cultural entertainment, reception facilities, and a world famous genealogy research center. Church office buildings, the Conference Center and Temple Square, home of the Visitor Center and newly refurbished Tabernacle with amazing architecture, acoustics and organs serves as a Mecca for religious visitors, as well as a cultural center where entertainment such as recitals, musical extravaganzas, etc. are offered. However, while definitely a hub for the Mormon faith, other faiths are also represented. Salt Lake City has a zoo, a children’s museum, a planetarium, civic buildings, higher educational opportunities, and an established business and cosmopolitan flavor, as well. All four seasons are experienced here, with mild fall and spring climates, hot summers and cold, snowy winters.