MANILA, Philippines – Russia’s first Winter Olympics came to an emotional close, but in contrast to the assertive spectacle that kicked off the Games, there was room for a joke at the home nation’s expense. The show at the Fisht Stadium on the Black Sea coast opened with a volley of fireworks, while hundreds of dancers formed the five rings of the Olympic symbol. But, in reference to an embarrassing technical glitch during the opening ceremony when one failed to open, only four Olympic circles appeared. After laughs and loud applause from the audience, the fifth ring eventually opened. The ceremony also took viewers on a journey through Russia’s rich heritage of visual arts, music, literature and dance. -- Mornings @ ANC, February 24, 2014.