Majesty, heroes open Olympics
Collegian Opinion

    It was a swell occasion—just the right sentimentality, patriotism and chutzpah—and yes, political correctness.

   The opening of the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City over the weekend saw America at its best.

   The weather was beautiful, although cold. The wind even cooperated and allowed the festivities to continue without hazards.

   It simply was memorable. John Williams, filmdom’s musical guru and Steven Spielberg’s tune master, led the orchestra and Mormon Tabernacle Choir in a moving rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner. Fortunately, we were not subjected to a Mariah Carey’s seven-note slur at the end of each line.

   Solemnity reigned as the American flag from the World Trade Center was carried in by a host of dignitaries, including John Glenn and, yes, even Steven Spielberg, who said it was the greatest honor he had ever had.

   Tears were barely wiped away before the hoopla began on the ice rink especially constructed for the occasion.

   Viewers were treated to a host of willowy animals—horses, bison, and birds—designed by the man who has gained fame for his Lion King animals.

   Breaking from tradition, the athletes parade into the stadium came near the beginning of the ceremony to allow the participants in the games to see the activities.

   President George Bush welcomed the crowd along with Francois Carrard, International Olympic Committee director, and Mitt Romney, Salt Lake Olympic chief.

   In a true American moment, Bush stood among the American athletes to watch the proceedings. An ice skater, talking to her mother via a cell phone, promptly handed her phone to the president and asked him to say hello. He agreed.

   The skater told the media she asked the president if he was going to hang around and watch the games. Bush said he had a war to run, but he promised to watch the games on television.

   Much speculation centered on who would light the torch in the Olympic stadium. The planners of the ceremony could not have brought more drama and joy with their selections.

   Just about anyone who might have been selected to have the honor took some part in the torch lighting: Peggy Fleming, Dan Jensen, Dick Button, Scott Hamilton, Dorothy Hamill, Picabo Street and Jim and Jimmy Shea.

   Those of us who guessed the honor would go to the Miracle Hockey Team that beat the Russians and won the gold medal in the 1980 Olympics were right.

   The men were collectively joined for the first time since their 1980 win to hold the flame to the torch that will stay lit for the duration of these games.

   Perhaps a little long and a bit schmaltzy, the opening ceremony brought a great relief to the American public so on guard from the 9-11 terrorist attacks.

   Television ratings showed 72 million people—or one in four Americans—tuned in.

   It indeed was a healing spectacle we all could enjoy.