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History of the Olympics:
A timeline of the world's biggest sports competition. (9/13/00)

Olympic Security: How officials are rethinking Olympic security for the Winter Games in Salt Lake City. (10/31/01)

China Olympics: The International Olympic Committee awards the 2008 Olympics to Beijing.
(7/13/01)

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Security Overkill?
by Kellie, Age 19, Huntsville, AL

Thousands of miles from the chaos and destruction of New York skyscrapers and Washington monuments, the sleepy resort town of Salt Lake City, Utah stands proud to host the Olympic Games.

However, the nation and the world holds its breath for the looming possibility of another highly-visible terrorist attack.

In a recent interview, Attorney General John Ashcroft recognized the growing safety concerns from round the world and assigned more federal officers to an already extensive security plan. This announcement comes after officials have already exhausted over $300 million on Olympic security.

As the world responds with extra security and armed guards, one is left to wonder: are we over-exaggerating the issue at hand? Why should the government be so concerned about one particular day over another?

September 11th was just a day out of the blue. No plans or extra events. What makes everyone so sure the Olympic games would be a target? The terriorists seem to want to hurt Americans the most, so why not catch us off guard on a day we aren't prepared?

Nowadays, everyone is under a microscope. Whether you are a student studying or a journalist trying to get the facts, you are being watched. Are you a target? Are you a terrorist? Where did you come from?

As the world braces for this year's Olympic Winter Games, we may just be bracing for our biggest event: the game of "wait and see."

All higher authorities, from President Bush to Utah's Governor, have assured the world that they are prepared to protect the world's athletes and spectators against the possibility of terrorism. But from the looks of security, it might be easier to enter Fort Knox than an Olympic venue. So will all this commotion limit visitor turnout?

It is estimated that two thousand National Guard members are prepared for battle, should they be needed. Utah's major structures, including airports, schools and power plants will be on high alert. Athletes from countries taking part in the war on terrorism will likely have added security.

The number of federal agents and state and local law enforcement officers is believed to be upwards of 7,000. All event sites will have a high level of security including an airport-style metal detector for all fans to pass through.

To protect everyone, officials will be using high-tech fencing systems, electronic surveillance, contraband detection systems, and sophisticated search and detection equipment.

Olympic officials promise that visitors and athletes should not be aware of the increased security. However, Olympic officials are already encouraging spectators to arrive two hours early to events, due to additional security features. Fans are asked to take shuttles to Olympic venues, as parking will not be allowed near any events.

With all the precautionary measures being taken, I wonder if America hasn't gone overboard in its attempt to protect the world. Have we spent enough time and money to protect an event that will likely go off without a hitch? Is all this nonsense overkill?

What will the world think of the once laid back, festive spirit of the Olympic games, when one must sit next to secret service or be stripped search at every gate?

How can families relax and have a good time, knowing armed guards are sitting behind them, watching everyone's every move?

We will all have to "wait and see" and watch with hesitation as the lit torch is carried through Salt Lake City, thousands of miles from Lady Liberty's flame in New York City.

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