With the Winter Olympics under way in Canada, it would follow that this space is an appropriate location for predictions or to extol the virtues of athletic achievement.

This year's Winter Olympic, however, carry with them an interesting and telling message that differs from the protests and record-breaking moments of past games: The global recession, while not a positive thing, need not be a divisive and destructive force.

The organizers of this year's games in the cities of Vancouver and Whistler have proven that with prudent planning (see front page), a positive attitude and a strong sense of community, a spectacle on a grand scale can be pulled off successfully and on budget.

If the planners in these Canadian cities can do it, is it too much to expect the same from our politicians?