Imagination can be in short supply for a large metropolis when there are so many crushing problems to deal with daily. Having the Olympics come to town seems to give tacit permission to the locals to fantasize. What if a new park went up over there? How about a series of disturbing mascots? Maybe we could finally build paved roads around here.

(No, we’re friendly this time! Stop bloody shooting!)

Unfortunately, unbridled inspiration can lead to incredibly poor decisions. The 2004 Summer Olympics opening ceremonies, complete with internationally televised childbirth, comes to mind. Read more…