As our beloved TiVo was trying to get me to watch Olympic highlights last night, I (again) told NerdMom that I was boycotting the Olympics. She asked me if I was protesting the Chinese government or just don’t like the Olympics, I said “Both.” We both agreed that this is quite convenient for me, but if you are torn between supporting our Olympians (thrill of victory, agony of defeat, yada yada) and supporting a Communist totalitarian regime, here’s a few facts that might bring you over to my side.

– Internet crackdown: Promises of allowing athletes and journalists uncensored internet access were broken.
– Beijing Olympic architect Albert Speer Jr.: His dad was the architect for the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

“The sportive, knightly battle awakens the best human characteristics. It doesn’t separate, but unites the combatants in understanding and respect. It also helps to connect the countries in the spirit of peace. That’s why the Olympic Flame should never die.”

– Adolf Hitler, commenting on the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games

– Video fakery: Extra fireworks were added in digitally to the opening ceremonies.
– Singing little girl wasn’t cute enough: Cuter girl brought in to lip-sync as singing 7 year old was deemed not good looking enough by a member of the Politburo.

AP video talking about the opening ceremony issues:

And as a final note, Let’s not forget how a country gets the Olympics in the first place.