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Continuing Education Press Releases

Sense of Place Helps Create Greater Quality of Living

New U of U Series Designed to Help People Connect to Neighborhoods

April 10, 2011 – A strong sense of place not only creates hometown pride – it has been linked to lower crime rates, a more engaging community, sustainability and increased quality of life.

This summer, Lifelong Learning at The University of Utah is opening a new series reconnecting people with their neighborhoods. Beginning in May, six classes will offer guided tours uncovering Salt Lake's cultural marvels, hidden treasures and rich history.

"Salt Lake is more diverse and beautiful than some might think," said Mandy Self, Director of Lifelong Learning at the U. "We're giving people expert insight into the city's gems."

The series kicks off with a tour of the Avenues Cemetery to explore the graves of famous (and infamous) Salt Lake residents, as well as its history, burial customs, wildlife and more. Subsequent classes run throughout the summer, taking participants through secret gardens, back roads, public sculptures and historic districts.

"The more people know a city, the more pride they take in living there — which leads to more community involvement, and ultimately, better places to live," added Self.

Recent studies by the University of New Hampshire and the University of Southern California found that people who know their neighborhoods have higher levels of trust, community involvement and quality of life.

"We're so eager to travel that we often overlook our local treasures," said Self. "There's so much to discover right here in our own backyard."

Lifelong Learning's Get to Know Your City series begins on May 2, 2011, with classes running throughout the summer. To register, or for more information, visit Lifelong Learning at lifelong.utah.edu or call 801-587-LIFE.

Series details:

  • Tour the Avenues Cemetery, May 2 or Aug. 4, 2011
  • Off the Couch: A Walking Tour of Salt Lake Treasures, May 12 - June 9, 2011
  • Water Gardens, June 1 - June 4, 2011
  • Trax Art Tour, June 6, 2011
  • Marmalade Historic District Walking Tour, June 9, 2011
  • Garden Tour: Nooks and Intimate Spaces, June 18, 2011
  • Back Roads Utah, June 22, 2011
  • Park City Historic Tour, July 14, 2011

About Lifelong Learning at The University of Utah
Lifelong Learning at The University of Utah provides high-quality evening and weekend classes that challenge, inform, entertain and generally enrich the lives of adults through learning and social interaction.

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