this weekend as part of its process to determine which US city will submit a bid for the 2012 Games. The locals will try to dazzle them with technology in hopes of enhancing Houston's chances.

Personally, I hope Houston gets the Games, not so much because I love the Olympics - I'm indifferent - but because I think it would be a huge boost for mass transit, particularly rail. If landing the OIympics helps or forces us to build rail lines along I-10 and I-45, it will be well worth the trouble and expense.