A sampling of what other media are saying about the 2002 Winter Games:
New York Times
"Pomp and security as Games begin"
Months ago, after the Sept. 11 terror attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, this moment's arrival had seemed uncertain. Tonight, creators successfully intertwined meaning with special effects and local culture with visual displays, all while unveiling a show that delicately touched on American patriotism and the international hope for unity. . . .
Los Angeles Times
"In a pageant of pomp, pride and security, Salt Lake Games open"
By Bill Plaschke
Smart enough to skate around scandal, tough enough to stare down terrorism, the 2002 Winter Olympics opened Friday with enough magic to re-create a miracle. . . . It was precisely the roaring spectacle required by an uncertain country venturing to play host to the world's biggest sporting event while waging a war. . . .
The Miami Herald
"America brings its Olympic patriotism to the world"
By Dave Barry
The Opening Ceremony also featured a huge ice rink, on which 800 ice skaters did a synchronized routine that was hindered only slightly by the fact that they had to perform barefoot, because their skates could not go through the metal detector. The added security was necessary because the ceremony was attended by President Bush, or somebody who looks a lot like him. Vice President Dick Cheney also made a brief appearance in the form of a hologram. . . .
Chicago Tribune
"Red, white and blue opener"
By Steve Rosenbloom
Traffic was predicted to be a nightmare, and it was. Thousands of people seemingly ignored the pleas by planners to use the light-rail system, instead driving their cars downtown for the Opening Ceremony, creating gridlock from midday on. Hence the Olympic motto: Citius, altius, horrendous. . . .
Boston Globe
"At Winter Games, symbols of resolve and renewal"
By John Powers
The Child of Light, who led more than 2,500 athletes from 77 nations into the Olympic stadium last night for the opening ceremonies of the XIXth Winter Games, was conceived as an iconic figure representing humankind overcoming adversity.
But after attacks on America and the earlier bidding scandal, the child also represented the resurgence of the Olympic movement and the host country and city. . . .
The Sun-Herald (Sydney, Australia)
"Patriot Games on ice"
By Roy Masters
The opening ceremony of the XIXth Winter Olympics was a cross between "Top Gun" and "Wagon Train."
There were rare dignified moments, including the appearance of Australia's Cathy Freeman with seven of the world's most prominent people, but the theme was militaristic and jingoistic. . . .