But since the Games began in earnest Saturday, attention has turned from the problems Rio faces — including rising crime and a cash-strapped state government — to the sports. Many also welcomed the transformation that this renovated port area and Olympic Boulevard have wrought in the heart of Rio. The Olympic torch faced protests as it traveled through towns near Rio. RIO DE JANEIRO — After an extraordinarily rocky run-up to South America’s first Olympics, there are signs that Rio’s long-suffering and suspicious populace is finally beginning to enjoy the Games. “People relaxed,” said Maicon Augusto, 28, who was selling beer at lunchtime Monday on the city's waterfront Olympic Boulevard.

Source: Washington Post August 08, 2016 21:43 UTC