Opening ceremonies highlights

Dancers light up the Bird's Nest during the opening ceremonies in Beijing. Photo - Mike Hewitt Even with the intense buildup and hype surrounding the Beijing Olympics, the opening ceremonies did not disappoint. They were everything spectators and reporters have come to expect from the Chinese. Innovative. Filled with technological feats. Uniquely and boldly artistic. Precise organization down to the last detail. There were plenty of surprises throughout and fireworks that would put any Fourth of July display to shame.