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Introduction
Logan, Utah
Freestyle Aerials
Medals Plaza
Speedskating
-->Hockey
Ladies Figure Skating
Olympic Square
Temple Square
Star Gazing
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Back to Speedskating....
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On our third day, we headed out to the E Center at West Valley City for the men's final round ice hockey game between the U.S.A. and Belarus. Legend has it that the structure was temporarily named "E Center" (Event Center) until a sponsor purchased the naming rights; however, it looks like "E Center" has become permanent.
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Security was obviously a concern for all during these Games. Before entering each venue, we were required to hand over all bags, cell phones, cameras, etc. for inspection and to pass through metal detectors. The volunteers and National Guardsmen staffing these checkpoints were incredibly pleasant and efficient. We never waited more than a half hour to pass through security. Overall, the SLOC did a wonderful job of making us feel safe while keeping security as unobtrusive as possible.
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Nieka had never seen live hockey before and she was pleased that it's a lot more exciting in person than on television. The USA was heavily favored in this match-up, but Belarus kept it close for the first two periods. Team USA picked up the momentum in the third period, however, and defeated Belarus 8-1.
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Support for Team USA was strong at the E Center. Poor Belarus had about a dozen fans tucked up in one of the upper decks.
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On on last full day in Salt Lake, we headed back to the E Center to see the women's semifinal hockey game of Canada vs. Finland. This was clearly a bitter rivalry. Ken had told Nieka that women's hockey generally displays more finesse and less body-checking. Not so here. This women's game had far more penalties than the men's game. Although Finland entered the final period leading 3-2, Canada outscored them 5-0 in the third, winning by a score of 7-3.
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On to Figure Skating....
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