Tech Company Pulls Ads from Olympics Over Controversial Opening Ceremony Performance
C Spire, a Mississippi-based tech company, withdrew its Olympic ads following a controversial opening ceremony in Paris that featured a drag queen parody of the Last Supper. The performance, intended to symbolize inclusion, sparked global outrage, particularly among Christians. C Spire’s President and CEO, Suzy Hays, stated the company supports the athletes but found the parody offensive and unacceptable. Artistic director Thomas Jolly defended the act, emphasizing France’s artistic freedom and intent to celebrate diversity. Religious conservatives, including Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves, praised C Spire’s decision to pull the ads.
Katie Ledecky Wins Record 13th Olympic Medal
Katie Ledecky has won the most Olympic medals in U.S. female athlete history, earning her 13th medal with a silver in the women’s 4x200m freestyle relay at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The Bethesda, Maryland native surpassed previous record holders Jenny Thompson, Dara Torres, and Natalie Coughlin, each with 12 medals. Ledecky won her first Olympic gold at 15, and now has the second most metals of U.S. Olympians overall, behind Michael Phelps. Despite her historic achievements, Ledecky remains humble, attributing her success to the inspiration she received from past swimming greats. She continues to showcase her talent, as seen in her recent gold in the 1500m freestyle, and she aims for further success in the upcoming 800m freestyle final.
Simone Biles Wins Another Gold Metal
Simone Biles secured another gold in the gymnastics final at the 2024 Paris Olympics, solidifying her status as the greatest gymnast of all time. Despite a brief scare when Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade overtook her during the uneven bars, Biles quickly regained the lead with a strong balance beam performance. At 27, Biles became the oldest female gymnast to win an all-around Olympic gold since 1952. The final floor routine sealed her victory, with Biles dominating the event as no other gymnast could match her difficulty and execution. Suni Lee, after overcoming chronic health issues, also delivered an outstanding performance to claim a spot on the podium alongside Biles and Andrade. This marks a historic return to the all-around podium for all three medalists. Biles’ victory was a testament to her unmatched skill and resilience, proving once again that she is the greatest in the sport. The gymnastics event finals will likely be the last time Biles and Andrade compete, making this weekend a significant moment for the sport.
