Jake's Late Oct/Early Nov Query

[Jake Patterson]

The Olympics are an interesting international event that I have always
loved. I had never followed the IOC's choosing of a host city before
President and Michelle Obama's interest in Chicago turned it into a
big deal. According to the AP, Chicago residents were "shocked" when
they were eliminated first. I was among those routing for Rio de
Janiero (or however it's spelled) and was gratified.

But the White House made a statement claiming that those who did not
support Chicago were being unpatriotic. I can see the reasoning in
that, but I think that Chicago is simply not a nice place for the
Olympics, whether or not it is an American city.

I personally think that patriotism has nothing to do with the
Olympics, as they are supposed to be an international event. What do
you think?

[Adam Webster]

Patriotism is a funny word, often thrown around by people with a cause
you may not support. In my mind, I think Chicago would have made a fine
home for the Olympics; however, rooting for them doesn't seem like an
issue of national pride for me, and I'm pretty sure that's what
Patriotism is.

[travis berthelson]

Having Spent two years in Brazil, living with and teaching the humble and poor, I can say that the rough parts of Chicago are tame compared to the Favelas of Brazil.  Still have doubts?  Watch the movie "The City of God" and you will start to get an idea.  Here is a handy link from Netflix if you have an account with them. 

That being said, the Brazilian fervor for sports (especially soccer) puts the USA to shame.