As Paris Olympics comes to a close, gender equity, inclusivity discussions continue

PARIS - With Los Angeles 2028 approaching, the legacy of Paris 2024 will continue to spark conversations around inclusivity in sports, with “Salon” serving as a symbol for unity and diversity. This Olympics sculpture will offer a place for people of all backgrounds to come together.

Passersby flock around the Olympic statue, "Salon," to stop and take pictures or sit in one of its six chairs. The statue sends a strong message about inclusivity. (Photo by Melanie Hogue/Cronkite News)

Big events often hurt business, but Paris’ historic Le Sarah Bernhardt cafe perseveres during Olympics despite closure

PARIS - It may surprise some, but businesses often struggle during big events. The historic Le Sarah Bernhardt cafe had to close down for nine days during Paris Olympics security details.

The Paris Olympics have not been beneficial to many city restaurants, but Le Sarah Bernhardt cafe has persevered despite closure. (Photo by Doyal D'angelo/Courtesy of Cronkite News)

As Paris Olympics wind down, NAU’s Nico Young reflects on jaw-dropping run to sport’s biggest stage

PARIS – Nico Young's ascent from high school star to Olympic athlete helped spotlight his talent and determination, with his pivotal decision to train at Northern Arizona fueling his rise to the global stage.


Keeping the Olympics safe: Paris finds success securing city but can L.A. do the same in 2028?

PARIS – Paris has used countless resources to keep the city safe for the Summer Olympics. How will Los Angeles handle security for the 2028 Games city since the city is larger and presents more challenges.


An American (senator) in Paris: Kyrsten Sinema competes in amateur marathon on Olympic course

PARIS – Kyrsten Sinema will be competing in the first-ever marathon using the same course as the one in the Paris Olympics. The senator reflects on her running background, training and the importance of the Summer Games.


Soul food in Paris? Popular Gumbo YaYa attracts hip hop stars, loyal following during Olympics

PARIS - In the heart of Paris, Lionel Chauvel-Maga created the first soul food restaurant in the City of Light almost 10 years ago. Now, it's one of the most popular places, not just because of the famous chicken and waffles but also because of the culture surrounding it.

The front of the restaurant Gumbo YaYa Southern Kitchen in Paris, France, invites diners who want a different culinary experience in the City of Light. (Photo by Sydney Lovan/Special for Cronkite News)

Cardboard cutouts: ‘Stiff’ beds in Olympic Village receive mixed reviews as Paris Games wind down

PARIS - Athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics have mixed reactions to the eco-friendly cardboard beds in the Olympic Village, with some criticizing the lack of comfort. Despite the complaints, the Paris Olympic Committee defends the decision, emphasizing the environmental benefits.

A look at the beds and mattresses inside a mattress fitting room in the Athletes' Village ahead of the Paris Olympics showcases the cardboard frame. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

AR takes center stage at Paris Olympics, from interactive vending machines to immersive posters

PARIS - The Paris 2024 Olympics features over 15 immersive AR experiences through collaborations with Snap Inc. and Coca-Cola. Discover innovative ways to engage with the Games, from interactive Lenses to the world's first AR vending machine.

Station F, the largest startup campus in the world and home to 1,000 startups, houses Snap’s AR studio. (Photo by Melanie Hogue/Special to Cronkite News)

As closing ceremony nears, Paris drag community offers support of artistic Olympic celebrations

PARIS - The Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony celebrated the city’s diversity with drag queens, sparking a lively debate involving inclusivity and Christianity. Defended by performers from Madame Arthur and supported by Deputy Mayor Féréric Hocquad, the event showed Paris’s commitment to artistic freedom and inclusivity despite backlash.

Cabaret performer Maud Amour captivates the audience during one of the many shows put on at the popular Madame Arthur Cabaret Club in Paris. (Photo by Savannah Bowie/Special for Cronkite News)

Once facing imprisonment, Refugee Olympic Team boxer Cindy Ngamba now eyes gold medal

PARIS – The Refugee Olympic Team is making its third trip to the Olympic Games, and it has already earned its first medal. Cameroonian boxer Cindy Ngamba, who feared imprisonment for coming out, now has the chance to win gold Thursday.


Visitors still flock to see Notre Dame amid the gothic cathedral’s speedy reconstruction during Paris Olympics

PARIS – Even though Notre Dame is still not complete after a fire burned portions of the centuries-old cathedral five years ago, visitors remain awed by its exterior. Still, they’re disappointed they cannot go inside after many thought it would be ready by the Paris Olympics.


L.A.’s decision to snub breaking in 2028 Olympics will follow likely show-stopping effort in Paris

PARIS – Breaking is set to debut in the Paris Olympics Friday but will not return for the Los Angeles Games in 2028. That was a decision made by the L.A. organizing committee and not everyone is happy.