To close the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Celine Dion, standing under the Eiffel Tower, belted out her first live performance since the French-Canadian singer was diagnosed with stiff person syndrome.
Dion received a standing ovation at this year’s Grammys when she made a surprise appearance to present the final award. That moment marked the beginning of a comeback, now completed with her performance at the Olympics.
The rare neurological disorder causes rigid muscles and painful muscle spasms, which were affecting Dion’s ability to walk and sing. In June, at the premiere of the documentary “I Am: Celine Dion” she told The Associated Press that returning required therapy, “physically, mentally, emotionally, vocally.
“So that’s why it takes a while. But absolutely why we’re doing this because I’m already a little bit back,” she said.
In a significant blow to one of the world’s most notorious drug trafficking organizations, U.S. authorities have arrested two alleged top leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel, Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia and Joaquín Guzmán López.. But who are these figures that have long eluded capture? Let’s delve into the backgrounds of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia and Joaquín Guzmán López.
El Mayo, as he’s widely known, is a veteran figure in the Mexican drug trade. Federal prosecutors have likened his role in the Sinaloa Cartel to that of the infamous Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Here are key points about El Mayo:
– Age: Believed to be in his 70s
– Role: Alleged co-leader of the Sinaloa Cartel alongside El Chapo for decades
– Evasion: Never previously arrested, despite a $15 million reward offered by the DEA
– Family ties: His son, Jesús Vicente Zambada Niebla, became a cooperating witness against El Chapo
El Mayo is known for his low-profile approach, focusing on the business side of operations and avoiding the flashy lifestyle that often attracts attention to cartel leaders. His arrest marks the end of decades of successfully evading law enforcement.
Joaquín Guzmán López:
The son of El Chapo, Joaquín Guzmán López is part of a new generation of cartel leadership known as “Los Chapitos” or “the little Chapos.” Key information about him includes:
– Family: One of El Chapo’s sons, alongside brothers Ovidio, Iván, and Alfredo
– Charges: Indicted in 2019 for conspiracy to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana
– Role: Alleged to have taken a leadership position in the cartel following his father’s arrest
– Brothers: Two of his brothers, Iván and Alfredo, remain at large
Guzmán López and his brothers have been accused of continuing their father’s legacy, with a particular focus on the production and distribution of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that has fueled the ongoing drug crisis in the United States.
The arrests of these two figures represent a significant development in the fight against international drug trafficking. El Mayo’s capture, in particular, marks the fall of one of the last old-guard leaders of the Mexican drug trade. Meanwhile, the arrest of Guzmán López strikes at the new generation of cartel leadership that has been pushing into the dangerous terrain of synthetic opioids.
As Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated, these men allegedly helped lead “one of the most violent and powerful drug trafficking organizations in the world.” Their arrests are part of a broader effort to dismantle the Sinaloa Cartel’s fentanyl manufacturing and trafficking networks, which Garland described as “the deadliest drug threat our country has ever faced.
The capture of these two alleged cartel leaders provides a rare glimpse into the upper echelons of one of the world’s most secretive and powerful criminal organizations. As the legal proceedings against them unfold, more details about their roles and the operations of the Sinaloa Cartel are likely to come to light, potentially reshaping our understanding of the global drug trade.
Boneless chicken wings do not have to be bone-free, an Ohio top court ruled, denying a lawsuit filed by a man who fell ill after swallowing a piece of bone from his order.
Michael Berkheimer sued Wings on Brookwood in 2016, claiming the restaurant failed to warn him that the boneless wings could, in fact, contain bones. A piece of bone became lodged in his throat and caused an infection.
The court on Thursday ruled that “boneless wing” refers to “cooking style” and is not to be taken literally. The 4-3 ruling was peppered with dissent, with one judge calling the majority opinion “utter jabberwocky.” However, the majority of judges considered being cautious of bones in a boneless wing to be common sense.
Writing for the majority, Justice Joseph T. Deters said: “A diner reading ‘boneless wings’ on a menu would no more believe that the restaurant was warranting the absence of bones in the items than believe that the items were made from chicken wings, just as a person eating ‘chicken fingers’ would know that he had not been served fingers.
The chicken wing controversy began in 2016 when Michael Berkheimer was dining with his wife and friends at a restaurant in Hamilton, Ohio. Berkheimer ordered what has been described as his “usual”—boneless wings with parmesan garlic sauce—when he noticed a piece go down uncomfortably. Shortly after, he began to feel feverish and went to the emergency room. Doctors discovered a long, thin bone that caused a tear in his esophagus and a severe infection.
Berkheimer then sued the restaurant, accusing them of failing to warn him that the boneless wings could contain bones. His lawsuit also accused the supplier and distributor of the wings. The lower courts dismissed Mr. Berkheimer’s suit, which then landed in the Supreme Court.
The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics features a dazzling array of celebrities, including Ariana Grande and Snoop Dogg.
Photos capture the excitement as these stars join the festivities, adding to the glamour and excitement of the Games. From performances to public appearances, the presence of such high-profile personalities highlights the global cultural significance of the Olympic games.
Ariana Grande attends the red carpet ahead of the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics on July 26, 2024 in Paris.Cynthia ErivoChrissy Teigen and John LegendSnoop Dogg holds the torch as part of the 2024 Paris Olympics Torch Relay during the opening ceremony in Saint-Denis, outside Paris, on July 26, 2024.Pharrell WilliamsLady Gaga rehearses prior to the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics on July 26, 2024, in Paris.Nina DobrevLindsey VonnAiling Eileen GuKelly ClarksonAnna Wintour and Baz Luhrmann
The 2024 Paris Olympics officially began with a grand opening ceremony held on the Seine River.
Photos from the event showcased a stunning boat parade featuring the participating countries, each represented by elaborately decorated vessels. The unique ceremony provided a picturesque backdrop of the Seine, highlighting the cultural diversity and unity of the Olympics.
The delegation of Japan during the Opening Ceremony for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics Summer.The delegation from Fiji during the Opening Ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games.The delegation from Great Britain during the Opening Ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games.Elena Kulichenko and Milan Trajkovic, Flagbearers of Team Cyprus, are seen on a boat waving their flag along the River Seine during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 26, 2024 in Paris, France.Mauritius’ delegation sails on a boat during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris on July 26, 2024.Maude Charron and Andre De Grasse, Flagbearers of Team Canada, are seen on a boat waving their flag with team mates along the River Seine during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 26, 2024 in Paris, France.Athletes in the delegation of Romania aboard a boat in the floating parade on the river Seine during the opening ceremony.Athletes in the delegation of Sudan wave flags aboard a boat in the floating parade on the river Seine during the opening ceremony.Gina Mariam Bass Bittaye and Faye Njie, Flagbearers of Team Gambia, and Team Georgia are seen on a boat waving their flags during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 26, 2024 in Paris, France.Athletes of Team Australia wave flags on the team boat on the River Seine during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 26, 2024 in Paris, France.
Athletes of Team Cambodia are seen on a boat along the River Seine during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 26, 2024 in Paris, France. Team Islamic Republic of Iran are seen waving handheld flags on a boat along the River Seine during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 26, 2024 in Paris, France.South Korea’s delegation on a boat during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris on July 26, 2024.The delegations from Canada and China on a boat during the Opening Ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games along the Seine River.A general view as a barge with the delegation from Bahrain passes by during the Opening Ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games.The delegation from Bhutan during the Opening Ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games.
The 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony has unfolded as a spectacular tribute to French history and culture, blending revolutionary fervor with modern artistry, while also facing the challenges of inclement weather. This unprecedented event along the River Seine has captivated global audiences with its unique format and symbolic moments.
In a bold nod to France’s revolutionary past, the ceremony featured a striking depiction of scenes from the French Revolution. The performance reached a dramatic crescendo with the portrayal of Marie Antoinette at the Conciergerie, the site of her imprisonment before her execution. This historical reference was given a modern twist as rock musicians, harnessed to balconies and windows across the building, played heavy metal music accompanied by bursts of flame.
The revolutionary theme culminated in a visually stunning moment as red streamers erupted from the windows, creating the illusion of blood flowing into the River Seine. This powerful imagery celebrated France’s tradition of “liberté,” a fundamental right enshrined in the French Constitution following the revolution. The juxtaposition of historical narrative with contemporary artistic expression showcased the ceremony’s ambitious scope and France’s complex cultural heritage.
In a poignant and long-awaited moment, the bells of Notre Dame Cathedral rang out for the first time since the devastating fire of April 2019. This historic sound, resonating through Paris as part of the opening ceremony, symbolized resilience and renewal. The iconic cathedral, now 90% restored, played its part in the Olympics celebration, with TV viewers hearing the bells toll as “Do You Hear The People Sing?” from “Les Misérables” provided a fitting musical backdrop.
The ceremony’s centerpiece, the Parade of Nations along the River Seine, offered a unique and visually stunning experience. However, the event has not been without its challenges. Despite the rain, thousands of enthusiastic fans lined the river banks and filled the stands at Trocadéro, opposite the Eiffel Tower. Spectators, sheltering under umbrellas and ponchos, maintained high spirits as they watched the parade on large screens, warmly welcoming each country’s delegation.
The weather has emerged as a significant factor in the ceremony’s proceedings. As the Parade of Nations progressed, the rain intensified, creating less-than-ideal conditions for both athletes and spectators. The end of the parade route near the Trocadero is largely uncovered, exposing press and spectators to the elements. With forecasts predicting heavier rain later in the evening, there’s growing concern for the comfort and safety of the athletes still to make their way down the Seine.
Despite these challenges, the ceremony has continued to unfold in grand style. French President Emmanuel Macron and International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach are seated in a prominent position overlooking the Eiffel Tower-shaped walkway, symbolizing the global significance of this event.
As the Paris Olympics opening ceremony progresses, it stands as a testament to France’s ability to blend its rich historical legacy with innovative presentation. The inclusion of revolutionary themes, the emotional return of Notre Dame’s bells, and the ambitious River Seine parade all contribute to a truly unique Olympic opening. While the weather may pose some difficulties, the spirit of the Olympics and the enthusiasm of participants and spectators alike continue to shine through, setting the stage for what promises to be an extraordinary Games.
It seems Lady Gaga is set to perform at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics after all.
The pop superstar, 38, was seen giving a spectacular performance alongside the Seine River in the French capital on July 26. Sporting an extravagant ensemble adorned with glittering sequins and vibrant feathers, Gaga was surrounded by a troupe of dancers in similarly flamboyant costumes.
Photos and videos from the event show Gaga delivering a high-energy performance on a stage designed to reflect Parisian landmarks. The set included replicas of iconic structures like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, providing a stunning backdrop. At one point during her act, Gaga was lifted high into the air by one of her dancers, adding a dramatic flair to her already captivating performance.
The Grammy and Oscar-winning artist has been spotted around Paris throughout the week, often stopping to greet fans and showcasing a variety of stylish outfits as she prepared for her Olympic debut. Gaga’s presence in the city has generated significant buzz, with fans eagerly anticipating her performance.
The 2024 Summer Olympics will officially begin on July 26 with a grand opening ceremony on the Seine River. This marks a historic occasion as the ceremony will be held outside a traditional stadium setting for the first time in the Summer Games’ history. Team USA will be proudly represented by tennis star Coco Gauff and basketball legend LeBron James, who have been selected as the flagbearers for the event.
Adding to the excitement, it is rumored that Céline Dion will also perform during the Olympic Games. Dion’s return to the stage would be particularly poignant as it marks her first major performance since announcing her battle with stiff-person syndrome in December 2022. Over the past week, Dion has been seen in Paris, engaging with fans and making several public appearances, fueling speculation about her involvement.
Reports from Variety suggest that Dion will be part of the Olympic festivities, with TMZ further claiming that the “My Heart Will Go On” singer will be paid $2 million for a single-song performance during the opening ceremony. If confirmed, Dion’s appearance will undoubtedly add to the star-studded allure of the event.
As the world’s attention turns to the City of Light for the 2024 Paris Olympics, the stage is set for an array of historic moments and potential milestones. This edition of the Games is poised to make an indelible mark on Olympic history, celebrating diversity, unparalleled athleticism, and groundbreaking achievements. From structural changes to individual accomplishments, the Paris Olympics promises a tapestry of memorable events that will resonate far beyond the closing ceremony.
One of the most significant achievements of the Paris Games is the realization of full gender parity among athletes. For the first time in Olympic history, an equal number of male and female athletes will compete, with over 5,000 women expected to participate. This milestone represents a quantum leap from the 1900 Paris Games, where only 22 women took part in the Olympics for the first time.
The Opening Ceremony itself will break new ground, eschewing the traditional stadium setting for a unique procession along the Seine. This innovative approach will allow athletes to cruise through the heart of Paris, offering a spectacular backdrop of the city’s iconic landmarks. Moreover, this will be the first Opening Ceremony where the majority of spectators can enjoy the event without an admission fee, as people gather along the river to witness this historic moment.
In a powerful statement of inclusivity, the 2024 Games will welcome the largest Refugee Team to date. With 36 athletes from 11 nations competing in 12 sports, this team embodies the Olympic spirit of unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.
The Paris Olympics will also mark the debut of breaking as an Olympic sport. This addition brings a fresh, urban energy to the Games, with six medals up for grabs. American Victor Montalvo (B-Boy Victor) and Lithuania’s Dominika Banevic (B-Girl Nicka) enter as gold medal favorites, poised to become the first Olympic champions in this dynamic discipline.
On the basketball court, South Sudan will make its Olympic debut, a remarkable achievement for a nation whose basketball federation was only founded in 2011. Their first game against Puerto Rico on July 28 will be a moment of immense pride and a testament to the rapid growth of the sport in the country.
Individual athletes are also set to make history. Georgian shooter Nino Salukvadze is primed to become the first athlete to compete in 10 consecutive Olympic Games, a streak spanning from Seoul 1988 to Paris 2024. This achievement will tie her with Canadian equestrian Ian Millar for the most Olympic appearances by any athlete in any sport.
The potential for record-breaking performances abounds in Paris. In swimming, Katie Ledecky could become the most decorated U.S. female Olympian and the most decorated female swimmer in Olympic history. Simone Biles aims to further cement her legendary status in gymnastics, with the opportunity to become the oldest woman to win the all-around title since 1952 and potentially the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history.
In team sports, the U.S. women’s basketball team seeks an unprecedented eighth consecutive gold medal, which would set a new record for the longest gold medal streak in any team sport at the Olympics. Beach volleyball champions Anders Mol and Christian Sorum of Norway could become the first men to repeat as Olympic gold medalists in their sport.
The track and field events promise excitement with world record potential in several disciplines. Athletes like Mondo Duplantis in men’s pole vault, Karsten Warholm and Rai Benjamin in men’s 400m hurdles, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone in women’s 400m hurdles are all capable of setting new global marks.
Other potential historic achievements include the Dutch field hockey teams aiming for an unprecedented double gold, Ryan Crouser seeking a third consecutive gold in shot put, and Greco-Roman wrestler Mijain Lopez attempting to become the first athlete to win gold medals in the same individual event at five consecutive Olympic Games.
As the Paris Olympics unfold, these anticipated moments and potential milestones will captivate global audiences, showcasing the very best of human athletic achievement and the enduring spirit of the Olympic Games. From structural changes promoting equality to individual feats of excellence, the 2024 Paris Olympics is set to write a new and exciting chapter in the annals of sporting history.
As the world’s attention turns to the City of Light, the 2024 Paris Olympics is set to commence with an opening ceremony that promises to be unlike any other in Olympic history. Breaking from tradition, this year’s spectacle will not be confined to a stadium but will instead unfold along the iconic Seine River, showcasing Paris’s breathtaking landmarks as a backdrop to the parade of nations.
The ambitious ceremony, scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. EST (7:30 p.m. Paris time), will feature thousands of Olympians, including Team USA athletes, embarking on a six-kilometer journey from the Pont d’Austerlitz to the Trocadero. This unprecedented format allows the city itself to become an integral part of the Olympic narrative, with athletes floating on boats past some of the world’s most recognizable monuments.
Leading Team USA in this historic procession will be basketball legend LeBron James and tennis phenom Coco Gauff, serving as flag bearers for the American contingent. Their selection reflects both the established greatness and the bright future of American sports on the global stage.
For viewers in the United States, NBC will begin television coverage at noon ET, with the full ceremony expected to last more than three hours. Those preferring to stream the event can do so live on Peacock, ensuring that fans across the nation can witness this unique spectacle in real-time.
Team USA’s appearance at the ceremony will be marked by a distinctive sartorial choice. Ralph Lauren, continuing its long-standing partnership with the U.S. Olympic team, has designed an outfit that blends traditional American style with modern sensibilities. The ensemble features a tailored single-breasted wool blazer with red and white tipping, worn over a striped oxford shirt. Completing the look are tapered jeans and classic suede buck shoes, creating a balance between formality and comfort.
David Lauren, chief brand and innovation officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to creating “something graphic and uniquely American” while also prioritizing the athletes’ comfort in potentially warm conditions. All items in both the opening and closing ceremony outfits are proudly manufactured in the United States, underscoring a commitment to domestic production.
As the Games progress, NBC introduces an innovative viewing experience with “Gold Zone,” a whip-around format inspired by the popular “NFL Red Zone.” This new feature will showcase up to 40 simultaneous events live, offering viewers an unprecedented level of access to the Olympic action.
Amidst the celebration and anticipation, the Olympics continue to navigate complex geopolitical realities. While Russia remains officially banned from the Games, a small contingent of Russian athletes will compete under the designation of “Individual Neutral Athletes” (AINs). This classification, which also applies to athletes from Belarus, means that these competitors will participate without their national flags, anthems, or uniforms. The International Olympic Committee reports that 15 athletes from Russia and 18 from Belarus are slated to compete under this neutral banner, reflecting the ongoing tensions between international sports governance and global politics.
As the Seine prepares to host this historic opening ceremony, the 2024 Paris Olympics stands poised to offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation, celebrating athletic excellence against the backdrop of one of the world’s most beautiful cities. With its ambitious format, technological advancements in coverage, and ongoing navigation of international complexities, these Games promise to be a memorable chapter in Olympic history.
Inter Miami will begin its Leagues Cup tournament title defense without the iconic star player who helped them win it a year ago.
Lionel Messi will not play in Saturday’s Leagues Cup opener for Inter Miami against LIGA MX club Puebla at Chase Stadium, coach Tata Martino said Friday.
Messi remains week to week with his right ankle ligament injury, which he suffered during Argentina’s win in the Copa America final on July 14. Martino noted that Messi’s recovery is ongoing, and he continues to work closely with trainers, often wearing a walking boot.
“But the ankle is getting better and better,” Martino said.
The positive for Inter Miami is that they’ve been on a roll without Messi. They’ve won 6 of 7 games without him, dating back to last month. Meanwhile, Puebla has started its season with a win, draw, and two losses.
No, Messi remains out due to his ankle injury. Coach Martino confirmed Messi’s absence, emphasizing his ongoing recovery process.
What is the Leagues Cup Tournament?
Leagues Cup is a midseason tournament featuring MLS teams from the United States and Canada, and LIGA MX teams from Mexico. Here’s the full schedule of Leagues Cup matches in the next month.
