text:
There are still democracy activists on Tahrir Square wondering where their revolution went, calling for a million-man march against the military's "coup." But the punditeska that hailed the Arab Spring as the best thing since the American founding is thunderously silent. Where is the snow job of yesteryear? The punditeska's infatuation with the Arab Spring ran across the whole political spectrum, from Tom Friedman at the New York Times to Bill Kristol at the Weekly Standard. When it came to the crunch, the "tech-savvy activists" of Tahrir Square turned out to be "benzine bubbles floating atop the viscous Nile mud," as I called them in February 2011. Both the Facebook revolution and the Facebook IPO since have gone pear-shaped, and what is left is the mud of Egyptian society: the military against the Muslim Brotherhood.
The collective sigh of relief is audible. The prospect of a Muslim Brotherhood regime controlling Egypt's parliament as well as the presidency was too horrible to contemplate, especially in light of the unending horror in Syria. Democracy is betrayed by collusion of Egypt's old regime and one of the world's nastiest regimes, but the punditeska is too pleased to protest. Not even Tom Friedman wants the Muslim Brothers to get control of the Egyptian state. For the moment, Egyptians have Saudi Arabia to thank for their penny-a-loaf pita ration, and the hand the military had to kiss in order to get it. And that is immeasurably better than the alternative.
95 Comments, 43 Threads
1. MarcH
KSA King Abdullah on Iran: "cut off the head of the snake http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/11/28/wikileaks-iran-saudis-idUSN2862745120101128". Interesting times when the King of KSA has a more realistic and effective view of US interests in the Middle East than POTUS.
June 20, 2012 - 7:14 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
2. jgets
If the Saudis continue their financial support, it just might give moderate Egyptian democratic forces a fighting chance against the upcoming MB. Will they? Or will they be too busy trying to oust Assad?
June 20, 2012 - 8:13 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
3. Raymond in DC
Given the rate Egypt's foreign currency reserves were falling (which Goldman has frequently addressed), one would have expected them to be depleted by now. So how are they still hanging on? Have they become (to use an old Yiddish expression) luftmentschen – people "living on air"? Either they're getting regular infusions from somewhere or they're writing a lot of IOUs.
June 20, 2012 - 9:51 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
4. David P. Goldman
Egypt was down to two months worth of imports in cash reserves and an extreme fuel shortage broke out in May. The Saudis have given them just a bit of air, evidently to give the military leverage against the Muslim Brotherhood. The country really was at the brink of collapse — and collapse would have favored the Brothers.
June 20, 2012 - 9:59 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
Shouldnt we be fueling the fire in Egypyt? Lets make a boy or girl out of it. If we r just postponing the inevitable why not rush the process? Let the Brotherhood take over and take the situation from bad to worse. Give the Brotherhood the chance to run things and make them worse. All along the way sow seeds of civil war. That is the BEST situation. Half of Europe cant even get their act together. Its foolish to think Egyptians will. How can we push them to a breaking point.
Also, is it possible that they start growing food now or have already to deal with the future shortages?
June 20, 2012 - 8:13 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Funny you should mention that. In Roman times, grain exported from Egypt produced the bread that went with the circuses. But now Egypt can't even feed itself. Of course, with the exception of the Nile delta, Egypt is a barren desert. And most of the water in the Nile comes from Ethiopia. The Ethiopians made a deal with the British, to the effect that they would leave the water in the Nile, and let it go down to Egypt. And they have continued to honor the agreement since the Brits got kicked out. But they are starting to wonder if that was such a good idea. They are building a dam.
This is a really bad time to be an Egyptian.
June 21, 2012 - 11:07 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
The Root '83
"Give the Brotherhood the chance to run things and make them worse. All along the way sow seeds of civil war. That is the BEST situation"
I thought that about Hamas taking Gaza, let them screw it up and THEN folks will see…
But its no "better" for the world with Hamas increasing the horror of life for the Gazans with their mismanagement. You'd think abject failure would lead to actual defeat, but not over there!
All chaos and suffering is Mohammads delight, and those folls love their mo-man!
The middle east (muslim, arab, whatever…any place where people name their sons Mohammad) is an intractable mess of perpetual strife, poverty, misery and is always a danger for civilized people to be anywhere near.
Best to just avoid it, and/or contain it, like the Chernobyl disaster.
Just recognize that they, like high levels of radiation, are something BAD, you generally need to avoid at all costs.
Dont play with it, just stay away.
You cant fix it, you'll die trying…you just have to wait till it goes away all by itself.
Which raises the question:
Its been 14 centuries of this madness so far….whats IS the Half-life of the Isotope called "cultural insanity"?
June 21, 2012 - 11:40 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
"…Give the Brotherhood the chance to run things and make them worse…"
I shudder to think of the carnage in an Egypt gone the way of Iran or Afghanistan. I'm sure Carter said the same thing when the Shah called for help. And that turned out SO VERY well. The Brotherhood is not in the game to play nice in Parliament; they want control and once had, will be loath to relinquish it. And they'll need an Enemy to control the plebes, I wonder where they'll look? To SA, Israel and the US. They are a serious threat to the Saudi royals, who they would love to displace. King Abdullah is not stupid. The west would do well to back him and the Egyptian military in keeping a lid on the radicals, but discreetly. They may not be democratic, but they beat the crap out of the alternative.
June 21, 2012 - 5:45 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
"Anwar Eshki, an advisor to Saudi Arabia's Cabinet of Ministers and head of the Jeddah-based Middle East Centre for Strategic and Legal Studies, accused Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood of lacking the requisite political vision and experience for governing the country.
Eshki, in an interview with Al-Ahram, expressed his fears on the "doubted aspirations" of the Islamist and most politically-based entity which in the minds of many is seeking to extend its control over the country and pave the way for the reproduction of despotism in Egypt.
….By contrast, the Muslim Brotherhood has always promoted an active political role for Islam, first as a revolutionary organisation and more lately as a force in democratic politics.
Some Saudi leaders have accused the Brotherhood of inspiring the kingdom's main domestic opposition group, the Sahwa movement that in the 1990s agitated to bring democracy to Saudi Arabia."
This is not an organization the Saudi royals will support – they are a direct threat to their rule. In fact the SA ambassador declined to endorse the MB candidate for Egyptian Pres.
June 21, 2012 - 5:53 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
5. David P. Goldman
You don't want to give the Brothers room to swing a cat (apologies to the PETA inquisitors monitoring this board). They are really dangerous.
June 20, 2012 - 8:25 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Just remember, "animal rights" was your G-d's idea.
June 20, 2012 - 10:53 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Higher Game
Not this again. By any standards kosher isn't meant for the animal's benefit, and why would it be, the laws were just practical and hygienic for the needs of the iron age. Animal rights laws are a very modern phenomenon, and largely a response to alleged cruelties in kosher slaughter. They're always used to disguise another agenda.
June 21, 2012 - 1:49 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
You are correct to some extent, H.G., but … Not this again. The rationale of kosher slaughter isn't "practical and hygienic," it's ritualistic – the eating of meat being made contingent upon making it an offering to G-d, rather than a mere luxury or satisfaction of appetite. You're right about all the other points, however.
June 21, 2012 - 12:35 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
Kosher slaughter couldn't have been further from my mind. I was referring to an ox's right to treadeth the corn muzzle-free (Deuteronomy 25:4).
June 21, 2012 - 9:37 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
AFAIK, Wal-Mart is having a special on "Sense of Humor". It is lasting through November 06, 2012. I suggest you hurry, Sense of humor will be in short supply after the 0bamacare ruling. It might not be a bad idea to wander back to sporting goods and see if your Wal-Mart still sells ammo.
If they don't, go to Lawn and Garden and buy some rope. Then all you need to do is hook up with a buddy that has ammo, find a tree and you can open your own PAC. I've got dibs on "Swaying Gently in the Wind PAC, so you will need to find your own catchy name.June 22, 2012 - 8:46 am Link to this Comment | Reply
The Muslim Brotherhood are far more dangerous than Al Qaeda were, are, or ever could be.
June 22, 2012 - 1:30 am Link to this Comment | Reply
6. Javed
So, Spengler–are you no longer predicting starvation in Egypt? Damn, I went out on a limb based on your (seemingly reasoned) prediction. How long do you thin the Saudi money will last??
June 21, 2012 - 1:08 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
7. alex
The Muslim Brotherhood is financed and supported by Saudi Arabia, and has been heavily funded by House of Saud since Fahd Bin Abdul ascended the throne in 1982.
Saudi Arabia funds the Muslim Brotherhood, the MSA ( Muslim student association across US and Canadian universities), Hamas, ISNA ( Islamic Society of North America), OIC (Organization of Islamic cooperation) among many other fronts to promote Sharia law and Islam.
Saudi Arabia is handing Egypt to the Muslim Brotherhood on silver platter, there seems to be misunderstanding the role Saudi Arabia is playing on the world stage. The House of Saud has funded Muslim organizations with over 100 Billion since in the last 25 years, much of this going to Wahhabi School systems, the MB and Hamas.
June 21, 2012 - 2:05 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
"The prospect of a Muslim Brotherhood regime controlling Egypt's parliament as well as the presidency was too horrible to contemplate, especially in light of the unending horror in Syria."
Amazing how nobody in the State Department or at the White House could see that happening. Which should really make people nervous that our own people decided to help overthrow Mubarak without knowing what would replace him. But that always seems to be the case with the Obama administration. In Egypt, Libya, Yemen, and Algeria, Obama's minions always liked to go for regime change without having a clue as to what to do after the regime changed. No wonder Putin looked like he was going to spit on Obama at the Mexico summit. Putin probably has nothing but contempt for Obama and it shows. Putin never behaved that way to George W. Bush and it showed as well. I can't wait to see these people get voted out of office in November. The world will be a lot safer when they are.
June 21, 2012 - 4:10 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
Of course the people in State and the WH see it happening, they want it to happen. MB has had it's hooks in the dems since at least the time Huma joined Hillary in the Clinton admin.
Isn't it funny how the story of one of Hillary's top aids being so closely linked to MB is "not a story"?
June 21, 2012 - 5:28 am Link to this Comment | Reply
9. David P. Goldman
I don't know what the role of the US in all of this has been. Sure, there are State Dept types who never met an Islamist they didn't like but there are also close military relationships. It's also true that the Saudis have funded the MB in the past, when the MB was a small and persecuted group; now that the MB is a serious contender for power, the MB might replace the Saudi monarchy.
June 21, 2012 - 5:31 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
10. MarcH
In my experience, career DoS political bureau types in the field are generally as patriotic a group of Americans as one will find anywhere (and often a lot "smarter" and on-the-ball than other departments.
Their "intelligence" reporting compares favorably w/product by traditional intel agencies and the military. The news analysis of Wikilinks demonstrates this point.
I would not make always say the same about USAID.
June 21, 2012 - 5:59 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
In that case one might question your 'experience'.
But even with the best and truest of reports from the field, the czars and the libertines cavorting in the palace halls don't read the reports — and couldn't understand them if they did.June 21, 2012 - 7:44 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
"In that case one might question your 'experience'".
Feel free to do so. Since I post w/a tag rather than my name I don't expect a mention of experience to be dispositive. But I also cited the news analysis of the Wiki-leaks and, from what I've read there, DoS reporting compares quite favorably to that of other agencies.
Regarding the patriotism and skills of DoS employees, feel free to visit their personnel stationed at any small combat outpost in a key terrain district of Afghanistan and make your own assessment.
"the czars and the libertines cavorting in the palace" … one might question your prose. One might describe it as a bit on the purple side.
June 21, 2012 - 8:42 am Link to this Comment | Reply
David P. Goldman
I did not mean to cast aspersions on State Department personnel in general. Some of my best friends are State Department employees.
June 21, 2012 - 11:43 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
David – I certainly didn't think you were disparaging DoS employees and understood that you were replying to commenters above. My note was intended to reply to various commenters.
I acknowledge that there are a fair amount of turkeys among the political appointees at DoS during certain administrations, and also among careerists (ex., Nick Burns). On the other hand, the rank and file types are patriotic (even if a bit more liberal than military officers), often very bright and, at many posts, live with significant risk (just ask any special agent of the Diplomatic Security Service).
IMHO, both the quality of reporting produced by DoS political and economic officers and their local contact networks compares favorably with those of U.S. military officers, intelligence agency officers and federal law enforcement agents deployed overseas.
BTW, I have never been employed by DoS.
June 21, 2012 - 6:09 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Thank you MarcH (and David). Some of that political reporting has been mine, and done so from within a war zone. I am one of those DoS career diplomats that so many on PJM love to disparage, and it's nice to read others on this site who do not question our patriotism. Most (unfortunately not all) of us at State do this job for love of flag and country. For most of us, all it takes is few tours outside the US to really see it, warts and all. After seeing how most of the world lives (including our democratic allies) most of us in the "striped-pants crowd" have trouble holding back that lump in the throat when we see the flag go by. So again, thank you.
June 23, 2012 - 8:19 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
Thank you for your service and happy (upcoming) July 4th. If you are still deployed to a war zone, be safe and God speed.
June 24, 2012 - 11:26 am Link to this Comment
11. Attila The Hun
Egypt military may have put a band-aid to the bleeding patient. Unless the military performs economic miracles Egypt is destine for chaos and self destruction just as we are seeing in Syria and in future Iraq. If the Saudi dictatorship thinks that oppressing MB in Egypt is going to save their Kingdom they are hallucinating. Sooner rather than latter the flames that fueled the Arab Spring in North Africa and currently burning in Syria will spread into the rest of the Arab world. Contrary to the punditclass fantasies There never was or will be an Arab Spring any time soon.
June 21, 2012 - 6:09 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
12. David P. Goldman
Egypt's economy is hopeless, but the costs of keeping one nostril above water are manageable, at least on paper — perhaps $12 billion a year, which the Gulf States could manage. That presumes an end to the massive flight capital and looting of the economy that drained Egyptian reserves after the overthrow of Mubarak. There are too many "if's" to be optimistic, but the Saudis do have a problem: chaos favors the MB (which, as I've written, wants chaos), and they fear the MB almost as much as the Iranians. Very hard to predict the short term as it involves the decisions of a handful of people who do not typically consult me.
June 21, 2012 - 6:13 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
That works in the short run, but the Saudi oil fields are depleting, and if they've discovered any new oil, they've been keeping it as secret as Obama's college transcripts. The best available information is that they're going to be having fiscal difficulties as all this new fracking oil comes online (despite the efforts of their allies in the green movement), and their dwindling resources face stiff competition from the New World (and even Israel and Jordan!).
They can cough up 12 billion this year and next, but how long can they keep doing that, with their own internal fiscal issues?
June 21, 2012 - 10:01 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
KSA actually has lots of oil… but it's heavy and sour.
Consequently KSA is being forced into the oil refining business.
At Yanbu, 400,000 bbl/day output — mostly ultra-low diesel/ middle distillate, KSA is building the first of four stages of such capacity.
KSA has far more heavy, sour crude in the ground than she ever had in Arabia light — the OPEC benchmark.
How she addresses secondary recovery should be most interesting.
For those so certain of KSA's decline: typically most oil is recovered — slowly — via secondary means. ( Water flood and the like )
From 1938 until now, KSA has but rarely employed secondary methods. (!)
( Gas re-injection and some water flood is and has been used. )
June 22, 2012 - 8:09 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
13. alzaebo
Europe must be relieved as well- I doubt they could handle a zillion boat people with attitude.
June 21, 2012 - 6:51 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
14. tanstaafl
It seems pretty tenuous and a hell of a way to run a country.
While the true agitators for liberty in Tahrir Square (I have no idea what that actual number is) get shuffled aside in the power-mongering games.
June 21, 2012 - 8:09 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
15. Elizabeth
Mr Goldman:
Could you please expound on what you think would happen in the event of a financial collapse and a Muslim Brotherhood takeover?
I am assuming that Israel would be at grave risk. However, the realities of mass starvation also mean that there is only a short time frame within which you can mobilize large groups. Eventually, your army is too weak to fight. Starving Egyptians might instead try and scatter to neighboring Muslim countries in search of food. I would think that anyone, even the MB, would be hard put to it to take control of 84 million desperate souls during a widespread famine.
June 21, 2012 - 8:24 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
David P. Goldman
Everything would happen. The MB would start revolutionary uprisings in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the UAE, and there would be a bloody kaleidoscope of temporary alliances between difference Sunni and Shi'ite factions. Christians in Egypt would be persecuted horribly. Thousands of Egyptians would land on Greek islands in small boats asking for food. Israel's southern border would erupt.
June 21, 2012 - 9:57 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
The Root '83
" Israel's southern border would erupt"
Yes, the MB would, with gunfire and tanks, force tens of thousands of their own starving people to run for their very lives, and to stream into Israel en masse one day, just to have a "Zionist Massacre" they could complain about.
They are the vilest scum of this earth, and deserve nothing less than full Nuclear Annihilation should they come to power.
June 21, 2012 - 11:54 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
Fail Burton
The MB doesn't have that kind of muscle or support – not even close.
June 22, 2012 - 9:32 am Link to this Comment | Reply
16. Frumious Falafel
Goldman, and Bret Stephens are about the only two people I can think of who have been realistic about the absolute horror that would accompany *any* MB regime — whether in Egypt or elsewhere. I've been extremely dismayed from the beginning about the reaction of otherwise intelligent people with respect to toppling Mubarak. The man will go down as a benign dictator in history. After all, he held together a country which, was perpetually on the brink of catastrophe.
The wild rate of population growth guarantees that Egypt cannot possibly maintain itself in the long term. That and the abysmal rate of literacy. The likely outcome of these are bread riots and war with Israel.
Given that, why anyone would become a cheerleader for quote end-quote Egyptian Democracy is beyond me (given, that is, the lurking power of the MB — a potential disaster of unimaginable proportions).
Since Mubarak first got into trouble, I've prayed that he survived. As a staunch supporter of Israel, I knew that any alternative to Mubarak (other than perhaps his son) would be a catastrophe. Unless the military can pull off this coup, a catastrophe is indeed what will occur.
Just imagine if the MB, in power, gathered or urged a "mere" one million Egyptians to "march on Israel" — Israel would be forced to massacre them if they actually got near the border. Perhaps this is outside the realm of possibilities, but if it did happen, it would be a true horror (foisted upon Israel).
June 21, 2012 - 9:31 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
Not at all outside the realm of possibility. The MB is very likely to organize a mass movement to march on Israel. This would serve 2 purposes, to focus the public on an external enemy, and thus distract attention from their inability to feed the populace. And it would eventually reduce the number of hungry mouth to feed when the marching people either die of thirst in the Sinai or by bullets at the Israeli border.
June 21, 2012 - 9:54 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
Which brings up an interesting question. Mr. Goldman has written extensively about the demographic collapse taking place in the Islamic world. Egypt would appear to be an exception. Wikipedia shows a 2010 estimated fertility of 2.97 births/woman. Not exactly population explosion, but well above replacement. Any thoughts on that?
June 21, 2012 - 1:06 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Frumious Falafel
I'm not sure if you were addressing Goldman or myself with that question, but I'll say the following. First, you're right, I spoke off the cuff — I'm surprised that 3 is the TFI (Total Fertility Rate) for Egypt (I would have thought higher). On the other hand, take a look at this graph, and you'll see that as early as 20 years ago the TFI was 4.
Clearly Egypt's rate of reproduction has been relatively high for all but the past 10 – 20 years. (6 in 1960). Still, I should have been more careful. And the decline of the rate itself in fact fits in with Goldman's overall thesis of Islam committing suicide by demographics (which you, Jerome, pointed out).
In his great book, "How Civilizations Die," Goldman makes the point that the *rate* of decline of the rate-of-births in Muslim countries has been so drastic that it's this steep rate of decline (or deceleration), not the actual current value per se that is of greater importance.
The point being that from one generation to the next, the number of younger people alive who can help support the older people is of huge importance. So while we might agree that a TFI of 3 is a "healthy" or even still too fast (admittedly not "explosive") fertility rate for a country with a very low GDP per Capita like Egypt, Goldman would point out the following irrespective of the actual rate. That however many Egyptians are born today there will not be enough of them to support the burden of their parents, born 25 years ago when the TFI was close to 5.
At least that is the thrust of his argument for certain countries where these rates of decline are even more pronounced (e.g. Iran). Although this graph shows that Iran's decline still blows away the decline of Egypt:
It seems to me that Egypt is screwed though no matter what happens. They have a huge rate of unemployment among the youth (at least 25%) — and, ok, while ostensibly not as bad as Spain (50%), I'd bet the Egyptian number is under-reported.
But really, the whole reason we are paying attention to them right now is because they are on the brink of allowing a veritable death cult to take over the country — the Muslim Brotherhood. With 85 Million people, the tiniest misstep will bring catastrophe in any number of ways.
Even now, while the MB is still *not* in office, the mere threat of their winning has, as everyone knows, killed tourism in Egypt. So I doubt they will be maintaining the rate of economic growth. Which means the GDP per Capita is going to sink even lower.
And really, all there needs to be is one bad farm year and whammo, the country will explode.
Lastly, I think we'll see a massacre of Copts if the military doesn't win out in this upcoming epic struggle.
June 21, 2012 - 9:20 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
17. Victor Barney
It is written in the Bible that Egypt does not escape the "BEAST" and actually is part of it! Revelation makes it very clear that the "BEAST" in Revelation is centered in Babylon, Iraq and it encompasses a caliphate of Islamic countries that include Egypt. Watch!
June 21, 2012 - 9:37 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
18. perry1949
It is a hell of a way to run a country. Those that were in Tahrir Square were not prepared for what came after. Once Mubarak was overthrown they broke down into uncoordinated groups each with differing ideas about how they wanted the country to go. The Brotherhood didn't have that problem. They knew exactly what they wanted and how to go about getting it. They lied, (we won't field a candidate for president), they bought votes with food out in the outlying countryside, they didn't take part in the uprising until the very last and then only to cause trouble. They got their people out where the people could see them, learn their names, listen to their promises that they had no intention of keeping. The other side stayed in Cairo, they didn't go out to the villages until it was too late. The people actually think they had a free and fair election but they didn't stand a chance.
I'm glad the Army stepped in and stopped the Brotherhood takeover. I don't have any idea what their intentions are but it has to be better than the alternative. The Army got most of it's training and equipment from us, they won't want to do anything that would upset that. They want a say in the government, I'm fine with that too. The Brotherhood would start a purge that would weaken the Army leadership just like they have done in Turkey. And, just like what is happening in Turkey, Egypt would slide deeper into an Islamic nightmare. At least now the people have a chance.
June 21, 2012 - 10:14 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
19. Impeach 0bama
What would happen if the Saudis made a peace treaty with Israel? – yeah I know I'm dreaming.
June 21, 2012 - 11:15 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
20. Richard Gibbard
That whole part of the world needs a flushing.
June 21, 2012 - 11:25 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
21. Isahiah62
whose chestnuts?? American ones are not in the fire in Egypt- Israel, and the Egyptian people yes. For Obamantion Israel under fire would suit them just fine. It is not our job to fix the Muslims mess- and I doubt very much KSA is doing this magnanimously for their buddies in USA- KSA knows what's at stake in Middle East- they have always played both sides – secretly allying with USA and Israel when it seems convenient, and undermining us at any chance publicly for Muslim eyes.
I agree with ALEX above #6 – keeping Egypt stable helps KSA not usJune 21, 2012 - 11:27 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
The Root '83
"It is not our job to fix the Muslims mess"
Agreed, but lets for once at least, Officially and Diplomatically, call them what they are, and accept the truth.
They are a Failed civilization.
They are a Failed Culture.
They are a Backward, un-enlightened Anti-human cesspool of violence we rightly hold in absolute utter contempt….they can change their worldview and try to be be like us, in which case we will be their best friend, or they can continue with the primative witchcraft of Mohammad and stay the perpetual slum of regression and failure they've always been….
Its not our job to fix them…
But it IS our job, to be honest about who they are.
June 21, 2012 - 12:11 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Fail Burton
You're up against insane political correctness in America that gets offended at the use of the phrase "Third World," politicians too. Liberals are honestly clueless about the Third World and even when they see it they blame the West and want them all in America and if you object – racist.
June 22, 2012 - 9:37 am Link to this Comment | Reply
22. Mr. X
The Twitterati are shocked, shocked that the Syrian National Council wants to go after Israel as soon as Assad is done away with. Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham could not be reached for comment.
June 21, 2012 - 12:57 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Larry, Israel
Touche. Support for the 'Arab Spring' continues in the West. There is very little in Israel. Oh, there is disgust at Assad's brutality but little appetite for the 'democratic' opposition still being pushed on CNN and other places.
The correspondent on Fox said that the Islamists are 'comingled' with the opposition. Sort of the way rattles are co-mingled with the body of a rattlesnake. The continued support for the Syrian opposition seems to rise with revelation of regime brutalities: fair enough but not bright.
June 21, 2012 - 1:25 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
23. Hassan
I have read all the comments and I find it quiet appalling that no one seems to care for the Egyptian. Everyone here seems to either worry about Israel or Europe or just their own. And I get this sense that it is your wish that Egypt collapses. You seem to support Mubarak just because he kept Israel safe. What about the Egyptians? Isn't Egypt for Egyptians after all. I am no MB supporter, but one must admit that for Egyptians a revolution was inevitable. And whatsup with the negative lookout. Everyone is talking as if Egypt is some retarded civilization that's about to die because they gonna run of bread. I understand that the economy is about to collapse and there is a shortage of food, but if you know anything about Egypt, you'd know that its not the first time. Egypt has been there for a looooong time. Wars and famines have come and gone, but they're still there.
June 21, 2012 - 1:05 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
David P. Goldman
Of course the ancient Egyptians are still here, if we are talking about the Copts. The question is: how many Egyptians will still be there? It's not the fault of the West that Egypt imports half its caloric consumption and has to ask for handouts to feed itself. In that case, the best that can happen is that Egypt gets a handout, and the worst is that it doesn't. That's what I was writing about. What's your question?
June 21, 2012 - 1:37 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
Attila The Hun
Hassan, What's happening in Egypt and The whole Arab world is tragic but unfortunately the Arab world is soo obsess with wiping Israel they are willing to starve to death rather than making peace and flourish along side The Jews. Don't blame anyone else for your backwardness.
June 21, 2012 - 2:56 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
Fail Burton
They've never had 85 million people before. Most of them are dependent on one single river and they've never had that flow threatened by growing populations to the south and with emerging abilities and need to divert that flow.
I'm telling you, the next large-scale military actions of Egypt won't be with Israel but with the Sudan. Egypt has publicly said for decades that any diversion of the Nile will be considered an act of war. And in 2012, Egypt's at the break even point with that water – they cannot take a diversion of it. Don't be a bit surprised in Israel starts helping the South Sudanese or polities further south build dams. Egypt in fact is surrounded and doesn't have a clue. Israel is building a railroad that'll siphon off revenues from the Suez and every dollar counts.
June 22, 2012 - 9:43 am Link to this Comment | Reply
24. herb
ultimately, Egypt needs a return to colonial rule. they are more primitive today than in the days of the pharoahs. bring back English rule
June 21, 2012 - 1:53 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Charlie Griffith
No, please, herb, you and we in general don't want Brit Colonialism returning to Egypt or anywhere else in the world where they set up those hand-drawn borders (I like to cite the never mentioned Sykes-Picot Agreement). ……borders straddling ethnic, tribal, and religious turf going back centuries which remain a part of the continuous (and contiguous) turmoil in that "Cradle of Civilization". It can be argued that Sykes-Picot set up the rest of us for the current incubator of murdering Islam.
Besides, the Brits are out of resources to help us, or anyone, from offshore, aside from their heroic soldiers helping us out in Iraq/Afghanistan. Britain is out of the picture….it has become England, Wales and Scotland. Period.
So, I'll take this opportunity to urge us Americans to let the Saudis donate as much cash and oil as they can afford to the Egyptians, who in any event are beyond help in any domestic organizational efforts they obviously need desperately.
In concern for the vulnerable Copts, I'm wondering if an airlift could be organized from central protected gathering points to temporary re-settlement camps in nearby countries. I know, I know, that'd be a nightmare for the State Department, but maybe they could be left out of the process, and Military Attaches could be sole-authorized to be the organizers, the Pentagon has the practical know-how, not State.
I don't remember the heroics involved in the Israeli rescue ops from Ethiopia….but there could be parallels.
Containment of Islam should be our strategy. We can maintain their instability by Special Ops here and there, and choice "Flames"….here and there. Foment murderous unrest between Islam's inherently bloody sects.
Bring our young Military out of that historically spongiform arena.
June 21, 2012 - 6:59 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Fail Burton
There are 10 million Copts – they're not going anywhere.
June 22, 2012 - 9:44 am Link to this Comment | Reply
25. Elizabeth
Hassan, we are supposed to get all warm and fuzzy about a culture/belief system that would annihilate us given half a chance? Are you joking?
Islamic culture has declared war on Western Civilization. Some of us infidels have actually read what is said in the Arab media. We listen to the words of the Imams. We read the news articles from muslim countries. We read the words of Mohammed the so-called prophet. We notice the plight of non-muslims and women in majority muslim countries. We see how muslims act once they are imported into western culture (for example, the rape statistics in Sweden-what a sweet way to say "thank you for letting me immigrate" to the Swedes). We see that Islam is anything BUT a religion of peace. To put it bluntly, muslims have a well deserved bad reputation among those who pay attention.
It's unfortunate that your religion and culture are the way they are….but YOU are the ones that have to change it. It's not our job. It is our job to protect OUR culture from those who would destroy it.
So I suggest that you and your fellow muslims get together and figure out a way to save Egypt from itself. After all, what would Allah do?
June 21, 2012 - 4:25 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Charlie Griffith
Brava, Brava, Elizabeth for posting those well worded points.
Add my name to the list of those who're tired of being "used' and considered useful idiots by our Islamic enemy. We're too diffident and self-consciously "politically correct"…what a nauseous term.
Our problem is that we Americans can't be jolted into the reality of what Islam's self declared war on America means……today…right now.
The horrible morning in September of 2001 seems not to've been enough.
June 21, 2012 - 7:19 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
David P. Goldman
I object to the tone of this reply. There is no reason to assume that every Muslim who posts on this board is doing so with the intent of harming us. Most Muslims are emphatically not militant Islamists. Surely we want to have a civilized conversation with Muslims who do not mean us harm and ask reasonable questions. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity (except people who really want to hurt us).
So please: Do not vex the stranger.June 21, 2012 - 7:34 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Charlie Griffith
….it's your Blog, and I stand chastised….again…..last time poster, I promise.
But, I premise that Muslims, especially those resident here in America, whining anywhere about candid anti-Muslim comments….. such as mine, are being hypocrites…how can they be practicing Muslims and draw salaries here in our rampantly hedonistic, crass, capitalistic society? ….aren't those the same rancid characteristics so condemned by their Koran?
They must be holding their noses. Do they have a dispensation?
Another poster has suggested that I'm venting my spleen from behind a keyboard….how so?….while I'm using my real name here?
Splenetic, indeed…..not from behind a keyboard, but remembering close to 3,000 violent deaths caused by Muslims here in America that September morning.
June 22, 2012 - 6:17 am Link to this Comment | Reply
26. MarcH
David – Thank you for attempting to maintain civility w/in the comments section. Unfortunately, it is an uphill struggle.
9-11 inspired a lot of interesting and even brilliant writing by bloggers and commenters. This community does good and innovative work to identify the problem and build public support for strategies to counter millitant Islamists. Unfortunately, 9-11 also inspired some who just want to vent their spleen from behind the keyboard.
Shabbat Shalom.
June 21, 2012 - 8:33 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
27. Elizabeth
Mr Goldman-
It is my understanding that only 10% of the German population were card carrying members of tne Nazi party. The remaining 90% of the German population didn't stop the Nazis from rolling over Europe in a bloody holocaust. The most recent elections in Egypt had about a 50-50 split for Islamist/not Islamist.
In the US….even worse odds.
"While Egyptians inside Egypt were split in their vote in their recent election, Egyptians living in the West were overwhelmingly in support of the Islamist candidate. Indeed, many Egyptian Americans who have dual citizenship and are living in America voted at Egyptian consulates throughout the United States. They did so both in the primary Egyptian elections, which occurred a few weeks ago, and now in the recent final elections for president of Egypt between the Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohamed Mursi and the former Prime Minister, Ahmed Shafiq.
Both Alarabiya TV and Egyptian national TV reported that Egyptian immigrants voted 75% in favor of the Muslim Brotherhood candidate in the primary. Now in the final elections, again Egyptian immigrants voted over 75% for Mursi. If we consider the Christian Egyptian Americans who voted for the former prime minister of Egypt, the percentage of Muslim Egyptian Americans who voted for Islamists could have reached over 95%."
My point being that unless the "moderate" muslims are willing to pick up a gun and defend their moderation, they will be caught up in the Islamist tide just like the "moderate" Germans. I see little indication that this will occur, and I see no reason to sugar coat this belief. In the meantime, the belief in the moderate muslim (despite the fact that Islam is NOT a moderate religion) is allowing us to be infiltrated (see above), with potentially devastating consequences for the civilization and people that I love.
Since this is your board, I bow to your rules and am now placing myself on double secret probation.
June 21, 2012 - 9:58 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
I have never been accused of having an overly optimistic view of world events (that's why I like this blog). Also I am quite familiar with the depressing and conditions and prospects in much of the Muslim world. Nevertheless, if you study the subject I think you will see that there are moderate Muslims (a relatively small set) and traditional Muslims who want to ally with us to resist militants Islamists.
Allying with moderates and traditionalists is often in our best interests, regardless of the long term possibilities in the Muslim world. Working with them to defeat the glamour and myth of the militant Islamists ("humiliation" as "Spengler" has written about it) may even open the way to some improvement in the Muslim world. I believe that this is roughly the position of Daniel Pipes.
There are numerous examples of moderate and traditional Muslims resisting militant Islamists with incredible courage. I think Iran in 2009 was the most inspiring and ultimately tragic.
IMHO, the biggest obstacle to more moderate Muslims resisting is that they recognize that we are gutless Westerners who will leave them in the lurch.
Regarding this thread, I think the correct COA is to back the Egyptian military establishment as there is no other realistic option.
June 21, 2012 - 11:17 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
David P. Goldman
Muslims are going to have a choice: to join the modern world and adapt to its rules, or to try to fight it. We want them to join us rather than fight us. Some will join, some will fight. That decision isn't up to us, but if a Muslim wants to post on this board and ask legitimate questions, basic civility (what we call derekh eretz) requires that we be hospitable and polite.
June 22, 2012 - 4:22 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
Higher Game
You've stumbled upon the awful truth. All highly successful movements are fundamentally peaceful, yet with a fundamentally violent underside that occasionally spews out in controlled (or fortunately timed uncontrolled) doses. Nazis, Muslims, civil rights, revolutions, even hippies. They find the best combination of decent quality true believers, useful idiots, mediocre tools, and dangerous thugs who quietly dictate the terms of debate, through their actions instead of words. Actions are all that matter.
The idiots might even try to calm tensions, but false promises of reform only delay action and strengthen the mob's resolve. The "students" with twitter accounts and international blogs are not helping anyone but the extremists. They should stay at home and eat falafel and they would accomplish more.
"Muslims are going to have a choice: to join the modern world and adapt to its rules, or to try to fight it."
David, our situation is a palindrome. So far, though, the script is being read from right to left.
(Arabic is right to left, isn't it? Backwards and regressive, you know.)
June 22, 2012 - 5:48 am Link to this Comment | Reply
28. David P. Goldman
I'm no cultural relativist. I wrote a book claiming that Islam is dying. But that doesn't mean that over a billion individual Muslims should die! When Communism fell, it turned out that there weren't many Communists in Russia. I doubt there are many Muslims in Iran, for example. I insist that any Muslim who wants to post on this site should be treated with respect.
June 22, 2012 - 5:59 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
29. Elizabeth
As a wise concentration camp survivor once said "when someone says they want to kill you, believe them". THEY have said it, multiple times in multiple countries in multiple languages. I believe them. I also have little trust because of the established practice of lying to advance the cause of Islam (taqyia).
In terms of respect, if I were walking the streets of Egypt alone as a blond haired blue eyed infidel woman, how would I be treated? Would I be safe from insult and physical attack? If I were an Egyptian woman, would I be physically mutilated because of my religion? Would I have to wear a certain type of dress in public to keep myself from being physically abused? If I went out in public, would I be safe from assault or would Egyptian men regard me as fair game? If I wanted to leave Islam, what would happen to me? If I dishonored my family, what would happen to me? If I wanted to drive by myself in Saudi Arabia, what would happen to me? If I wanted to go out without a burkha, what would happen to me? If my husband was abusive, what recourse would I have? Could I be married off at the age of 8 to a man 20, 30, 40, 50 years older then myself? Would I be able to protect my daughter from such a marriage? Would I be able to have an education, a career?
Asking a woman to respect Islam is like asking the sheep to respect the wolf!
But your point about courtesy is duly noted and I will abide by it. I just hope that doesn't mean not being able to ask the hard questions.
June 22, 2012 - 6:51 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
30. David P. Goldman
I didn't say, "Respect Islam." I said that individual Muslims who post here and ask legitimate questions must be treated with dignity.
June 22, 2012 - 6:54 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
31. Elizabeth
Mr. Goldman-
Point taken. But many times in our PC world, being "treated with dignity" means not being asked difficult questions or challenged (politely, of course!).
Would I have been able to make my original point in a way that would have met with your approval?
June 22, 2012 - 7:01 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
32. Hassan
Alright alright alright. That is a lot to respond to.
First of all, thanks Mr Goldman for the defense. Not defending my ideas, but just my right to post.First of all, let me just say that I honestly believe that Islam has failed. Religion was meant to improve society and the human condition. If we look at the Muslim or the Arab world today, I think its safe to say they are back to their pre-Islam time if not worse. But one must wonder: Is it Islam's fault or is it the people who represent it?
Second of all, I do not blame the west or Israel or anyone of Egypt's failure. I totally disagree every time an Egyptian would tell me oh Israel must be behind this or the US is behind that. Our failure is our own.
Now Elizabeth about the vote, It is very naive to say that Egyptians voted 50-50 Islamist vs non Islamist. First of all in the first round the vote to the revolutionary candidates is more than 50% of the vote. Unfortunately it was split over 3 candidates so they're all out. Yes its stupid of us, but excuse us, democracy is kind of new around here. Now about the foreign vote that was mostly to the MB, don't forget that most Egyptian immigrants are in the Arab world. It did not come from the US or Canada(where I am). Nonetheless let me tell you that If I have to choose between Ahmed Shafiq(the candidate from Mubarak's regime) and a monkey, I will have to choose the monkey even if that monkey happens to be the MB.
Now lets actually go to the 25% that voted for MB in Egypt. I can assure that 90% of them have no idea what they're doing. MB is extremely organized and have been there for a long time. They buy a whole family's vote with a piece of meat. People in Egypt don't have political opinions, they just want to eat. You are really overestimating the regular Egyptian if you think they hate the west and want to declare ware on Israel through voting to the MB. You clearly have never walked in Egypt. When you're hungry, you can't care less where Israel is.
Now about the Muslim immigrants that you are claiming that all they do is rape women in Sweden, I'll have to just call that rude as it is. There are millions of Muslim immigrants doing great things all over the world.
MarcH: No. Going back to the military is not a solution for Egyptians. Yes it keeps Israel safe, but Israel really isn't the Egyptian's primary concern. Again Egypt is for Egyptians so priority #1 would be to make it a better country for Egyptians. That is the reason why I decided to comment here in the first place. Everyone is talking about how the situation in Egypt is affecting everyone else and no one seems to say what would be best for Egyptians.
June 22, 2012 - 7:02 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
Fail Burton
You're right that Israel isn't a primary concern in a realistic sense and it certainly wasn't during the revolution. However the hatred of Israel is so wide spread it's simply there, sitting under the surface and easily manipulated. The MB made a parliamentary resolution against Israel that passed 100%. Not one man had the courage to stand up and say we have other fish to fry. That's just crazy given Egypt's internal problems. Egypt MUST turn it's back on this sentiment because it could destroy them. The MB is insane in this regard.
What's best for Egypt is to stop having children but how is that going to happen? It's engrained in the culture but Egypt has too many people to survive and the population is growing. Recently there were gas shortages in the south.
Even as I write they're filling up Tahrir and the MB is uniting with other groups to face a common enemy, the army. But the army is smart now and doesn't challenge in the streets outside a couple of enclaves they barricade behind – there's no way to get at them short of the massive unity of revolution and that's not going to happen. Too many people are sick of it. Many want to give the process time. As imperfect as it is the process has moved forward, new precedents come regularly.
Egyptians are as nice a people as you'll meet anywhere and that is their saving grace. Everyone has faults and the Egyptians theirs. If I were a President I'd do the opposite of Nasser and invite foreign families from Greece, Portugal and Italy to come in and start businesses with special incentives, new blood. Announce it publicly to undo the bigoted nationalism of Nasser that kicked them out in the first place so Egyptians don't get angry. Foreigners will create jobs and add a sense of a more open society – tourists will come back – investments too.
June 22, 2012 - 10:02 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
"If I were a President I'd do the opposite of Nasser and invite foreign families from Greece, Portugal and Italy"
Now that is an intriguing idea. I expect it would not work because immigrants from those countries would prefer Australia or Brazil, but it's a seductive picture.
June 22, 2012 - 3:01 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
Welcome to this blog.
In response to some of your points:
1. I don't welcome the military solution in Egypt. I'm not an Egypt expert, but IMHO it's the best of a bad set of alternatives for all, including U.S. interests, Egyptians (Muslim and Christian) and, yes, Israel.
2. I'm intrigued by your comment, "I honestly believe that Islam has failed". What would you suggest as an alternative organizing template for presently Islamic societies and how would you suggest getting from A to B? I am genuinely interested in your thoughts on this matter.
June 22, 2012 - 2:57 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
Mark in Texas
What would be best for Egyptians?
If they had leaders with the self discipline to steal in moderation. Egypt is, from what I have heard and read, like Chicago on steroids. Nothing can be done without the approval of somebody with connections.
The energy of individual people starting businesses and creating wealth from their own efforts is the goose that lays the golden eggs in any society. In Egypt, the connected people constantly squeeze the goose to produce more golden eggs until the goose is crushed and there are no more eggs. It is essentially like having a 100% tax rate. There is not a lot of incentive to do much if somebody else gets all the product of your labor.
I have often heard that the Egyptian government wants to encourage people to settle in the western desert. It seems to me that if an area were established where people were free to engage in any economic activity that did not harm anybody else, a free zone in the western desert could generate as much wealth as Hong Kong or Singapore. Unfortunately, I do not think that Egypt's rulers are capable of allowing that much wealth to go unstolen.
June 23, 2012 - 12:32 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
33. David P. Goldman
Thanks for ignoring the discourtesy of some posters and sticking around, and also thanks for this highly informative comment. Here's my problem, though: Egypt imports half its food and is basically broke. Massive fuel shortages broke out in April and were already causing bread shortages (bakeries shut down for lack of fuel in a few places). The country really was on the brink. The Muslim Brotherhood was launching assaults on Saudi consulates. Why? As I read it, the MB wants hunger so it can gain power on the streets by rationing food. The Saudis are the most important source of emergency cash, and the MB wanted to sabotage Egyptian-Saudi relations. The Saudis want the military to stay in power. And they are saving Egyptians from actual hunger. It's really ugly that the choice is 1) the MB, hunger, and chaos, and 2) the military and bare survival. What am I missing?June 22, 2012 - 7:11 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
34. David P. Goldman
I should have added that Hassan is absolutely correct: most Muslim immigrants to the US are law-abiding, productive citizens (although there is a disturbing large minority that favors and even supports terrorism).
June 22, 2012 - 7:13 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
On could also add that U.S. law enforcement and intelligence, as well as military operations in Afghanistan (and previously Iraq) depend on loyal and hard working U.S. national native linguists of Arabic and other Middle Eastern languages. Most, but not all, are Muslim.
In Iraq and Afghanistan, both U.S. national and local national linguists served U.S. forces well, often in harm's way.
June 22, 2012 - 3:09 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
35. Elzabeth
In Oslo, Norway's capital, 100 percent of rapes are committed by 'non-Western' immigrants. As a result, the female staff at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Oslo has received training in martial arts, and all female employees are wearing alarms — basically to be able to defend themselves against Muslim rapists.
The latest news is that in Stavanger, Norway's 4th biggest city, nine out of ten rapes are committed by 'men from minority groups'.With hidden cameras and secret telephone recording equipment, two women went to the country's ten largest mosques to ask for advice regarding polygamy, abuse and sex without consent. Tonight's Uppdrag, broadcast on SVT, documents that the advice of the mosque's representatives are often contradictory to Swedish law. …
The crime rate among Muslims in the West is catastrophically high. Seven out of 10 inmates in Danish youth prisons have immigrant backgrounds, and almost all of them are raised in Muslim families. The first seven or eight places on the top-10 list of criminals' nationality are occupied by immigrants from Muslim countries.
Since the publication of his drawings back in 2007, threats against him have multiplied. He has been physically attacked during lectures and two Muslim immigrants have tried to kill him by setting fire to his house. Not to mention a number of people arrested by the security service before they could implement their assassination plans.
The four men, all of whom resided in Sweden, are suspected of preparing what Danish security service PET called a plan to "kill as many people as possible" in an assault on the Copenhagen offices of the Jyllands-Posten daily.
Jyllands-Posten published a dozen cartoons in 2005 of the Prophet Muhammad that triggered violent and sometimes deadly protests around the world.Sweden is terrified by a long row of murders committed in broad daylight. In most cases, both the killer and the victim are Muslims. The murders should thus be seen as public executions, often happening according to the sharia's honour codes.
June 22, 2012 - 7:15 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
Frumious Falafel
Elizabeth, I know that Muslims are responsible for a disproportionately large number of rapes in Norway and Sweden. I've found it… bewildering, the extent to which Scandinavians maintain their apparent love affair with Muslims in spite of this. Frankly, this allows me to ignore the Norwegian penchant for never finding fault with the Palestinians.
That being said, may I inquire as to a source for the "100%" number? I'm quite willing to believe that a highly disproportionate number of Muslims commit the rapes in Oslo. And I'm also willing to cede that your 100% number may have been exaggeration-for-effect (a legitimate tool) — and that the actual number is, say 80-something percent (a number I invented).
Still, I am now curious as to what the figure actually is (if such statistics are known). I have read many articles about this plague affecting young Norwegian daughters. I strongly sympathize with both the victims and their fathers.
While I found my reception in Norway to be possibly the warmest among all the European countries I've visited (I *really* loved the place and the people), I still cannot imagine that there are no Norwegian rapists. But, hey, maybe I'm wrong. Or maybe, the point is that it's a statistically insignificant number.
June 22, 2012 - 10:21 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
Fail Burton
They barely have cops in Norway. It's not like America. But they're learning about the wonders of diversity. Certainly crime is more diverse.
June 22, 2012 - 11:31 am Link to this Comment | Reply
36. ApolloSpeaks
This means that the pro-Brotherhood Obama administration and the pro-Egyptian military Saudis are working at cross purposes. Another Obama bow that boomeranged.
BTW, the Egyptian military and Brethren/Salafists are proxies in the greater conflict between the Saudis and Iran for regional hegemony.
June 22, 2012 - 7:51 am Link to this Comment | Reply-
Higher Game
What is most disturbing, is that so much evidence pointed to Obama throwing the Saudis aside and intentionally letting oil prices explode, unlike the neocon Bushs. Environmentalist rhetoric, green jobs, high speed rail, climate change, cap and trade, Solyndra, etc. Yet, the foreign policy has not changed one bit; it has gotten worse, if anything. In context of his energy policies, one can see that Obama might actually sincerely believe in these Muslim revolutions. It's nothing short of horrifying.
June 22, 2012 - 9:04 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
"greater conflict between the Saudis and Iran for regional hegemony" – Nice to see a comment that focuses on the big picture. I would only add that Turkey is also a contender.
June 22, 2012 - 3:18 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
37. Elizabeth
Falafel, if you want sources, let me know.
Here are the results of a quick search for the latter half of June news articles,
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Federal prosecutors are seeking more than 12 years in prison for a Muslim convert from Brooklyn who pleaded guilty to posting online threats against the creators of the "South Park" television show.
He also conspired with another man to deliver a thinly veiled threat to the creators of the "South Park" television show for perceived insults to the prophet Muhammad.The other defendant in the case, Zachary Chesser, got a 25-year sentence, but he also tried to travel to Somalia to join the al-Shabab militant group.LUBBOCK, Texas – Twice in the days leading up to Khalid Ali-M Aldawsari's arrest federal agents secretly searched the Saudi man's West Texas apartment, where they say they found bomb-making chemicals as well as beakers, flasks, wiring, a hazmat suit and clocks.
ST .LOUIS, MO (KTVI) – Two St. Louis area men said they have received death threats from Iran and they are taking those threats seriously. The said a fatwa, or religious decree, has been put on their heads.
New York man pleads guilty to aiding al Qaeda," by Basil Katz for Reuters, June 18:
NEW YORK (Reuters) – A New York man pleaded guilty on Monday to terrorism charges for helping the militant group al Qaeda. Brooklyn, New York-born Wesam El-Hanafi, 37, pleaded guilty to one count of providing material support to a terrorist group and one count of conspiracy.
Dearborn: "Sharia is coming, baby!"
June 22, 2012 - 12:27 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
"Falafel, if you want sources, let me know".
He already specifically asked you for the source of your claim that "100 percent of rapes are committed by 'non-Western' immigrants".
June 22, 2012 - 3:15 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
38. Elizabeth
Flafel-here is a clarification of the translated article.
It's not that 100% of all rapes in Oslo over the past five years were committed by foreigns. It's that 100% of "assault rapes" ["overfallsvoldtekt"] — 86 altogether over the last five years — were all committed by foreigners. Assault rapes mean being assaulted and raped by a stranger while, say, walking home alone along the street at night, as opposed to maybe being raped by an acquaintance while drunk at a party or something.
So, almost all (i.e. all of the ones where the attacker was eventually identified) of the attack rapes by strangers in Oslo over the last 5 years were committed by non-Norwegians.
June 22, 2012 - 10:09 pm Link to this Comment | Reply-
Frumious Falafel
Thank you. Yes — that is exactly the clarification I was looking for. I wonder how many, IF any "assault rapes" occurred in the distant past. I assume the number of assault rapes over the years correlates with the increase in immigration to Oslo. I would assume also that most of the immigrants are, as the BBC says, "Asian."
In any case, thanks for the clarification Elizabeth.
June 23, 2012 - 12:43 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
39. Alarmed Pig Farmer
Fortunately for the West, Egypt's military appears to have taken matters in hand with Saudi support, forestalling the triumph of militant Islamism…
I agree with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman bin Faisal bin Turki bin Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Saud on this. When you're dealing with a mess, ya gotta keep it under control. When governing Moslems, dictatorship is the best option from the standpoint not only of the Moslem ruler, but also any Infidel with half a brain.
The loss of Muburak was a real loss. Thank goodness for this bold power move by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman bin Faisal bin Turki bin Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Saud. He comes from a rich lineage, one that needs to be made bigger in Dar al-Islam.
June 23, 2012 - 7:46 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
40. krakow
There are no guarantees that Egypt would have avoided the coming famine if it had grown more of its own food. History has many lessons of resistance gone wrong. Joseph Stalin, leader of the Soviet Union, set in motion events designed to cause a famine in the Ukraine to destroy the people there seeking independence from his rule. As a result, an estimated 7,000,000 persons perished in this farming area, known as the breadbasket of Europe, with the people deprived of the food they had grown with their own hands.
Those who propose that moderates have an obligation to resist the radicals probably had three full meals today already. Sometimes the deck is so stacked against you that resistance is not a viable option. It is difficult to reflect on what's coming Egypt's way without sadness…
June 23, 2012 - 11:38 am Link to this Comment | Reply -
41. Mark in Texas
"Where is the snow job of yesteryear?"
Right there with last night tears.
Ah, Mr.Goldman, you are a delight at so many levels.
June 23, 2012 - 12:18 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
42. krakow
The radicals will survive a famine and all to prove that ultimately fat people are weaker. How much do you weigh?
June 23, 2012 - 3:02 pm Link to this Comment | Reply -
43. Hassan
Sorry for the late reply. I've been sick all week.
MarcH: About my comment Islam has failed, I think there are two possible scenarios that can happen. 1. Islam will die away as a failed concept that doesn't benefit anyone and its societies will start having modern concepts for its basis. 2. It will get rethought/revived and changed to fit the current times. I think what failed Islam is that its people are stuck in the past. Islam was doing great when Muslims were rethinking it and developing laws that matched their time. This already happened before from 750 CE to 1257 CE. That was a time when you found Muslim philosophers adjusted the laws to fit their time and place. It was a time when the Muslims were contributing to science. Today we are still basing our laws on the same thinkers because we no longer produce any thinkers. Islam seems (is) retarded because it is. Trying to link this back to the point of the forum, take a look at Egypt for example, They have the Al-Azhar university with a great history of Islamic research, yet its in a country where 50% of the people can't read or write and that goes back to the fact the Muslim countries are ran by dictators.
There is something else I wanted to say. About Obama backing up the brotherhood. I really don't think at this point, the US chooses who comes to power in Egypt. Its more like they wanna be friends with whoever is coming to power. I also think that Obama is being underestimated. I actually think he's been very effective against terrorism. Islamic terrorism feeds on hate towards the US and Israel. It must have been a heck a lot easier for terrorist organization to recruit when the US was under George Bush than to do it now. Obama has figured out a way to stop the hate and I personally think that that alone is extremely effective against terrorism. You tell me how easy it is to make an Iraqi young man in his teens who finds his life hopeless believe that his family and country's conditions are a fault of the US when Bush was around. How easy it is to make him radically turn towards God as the only hope and that killing the "infidels" that destroyed his country will get him into Heaven and end this misery. I think Obama has made that argument much much harder.
Lastly, the last thing I wanna say is that it is really ridiculous how the media has transformed religious Arabic words into these scary things like Shariaa and Allah Akbar. I mean understand its ultimately our fault, but come on, its just become catch phrases for headlines. I am an Arabic speaker and I can't easily define the word "shariaa", yet for you I bet you automatically picture a covered woman being stoned to death.
Anyway thats enough for me. I'll see what you guys say before I say more.
June 29, 2012 - 12:46 pm Link to this Comment | Reply
Comments are closed.


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Size: 750 ml
Paradocx T-Wine Pouch
"T" is a white wine blend enlaced with subtle natural tea flavors to create a refreshing taste experience. Enjoy it at room temperature, slightly chilled, over ice or even warmed on a cold day. The ways to enjoy T-wine are endless!
Size: 1.5L
Paradocx Chardonnay
This Chardonnay has well-balanced acidity and mouth feel. A blend of specific clones in our vineyard, fermented and aged in French Oak barrels carries hints of apple, mandarin, and nutty flavors, with a pleasant buttery finish.
Paradocx Whitewash
Medium body white with generous aromas and flavors of apple, citrus, grass, and mineral. Special blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Vidal. A good partner for spicy foods or enjoyed on its own. Available in a standard 750 ml bottle or our fun 3.5 liter paintcan package.
Auburn Road Sole
Sole (Pronounced So –lay!) Galileo famously observed that wine is "Sunlight caught in a bottle". That is a perfect description, and the source of the name, of our Sole. Made from Vidal Blanc grapes,Sole is a semi –dry white wine with a touch of effervescence. A great bottle to bring to a clam bake at the beach. Terrific with Thai food, spicy dishes, light fish like flounder and would be would be wonderful with lobster and other shell fish.
- Winner of the GOLD Medal at the 2012 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition!
Auburn Road Pinot Grigio
Auburn Road's 2012 Pinot Grigio is a crisp, light white wine with beautiful fruit and a floral aroma. Fermented and aged in stainless steel. Pinot Grigio is terrific paired with all kinds of seafood.
- 88 Points (Highly Recommended!) and SILVER Medal from BTI Worldwide Wine Championship – Tasting Notes: "Pale silvery straw color. Delicate aromas of cinnamon pear tart with a crisp, dry-yet-fruity light body and a crunchy green apple and Meyer lemon finish."
- Winner of the SILVER Medal in the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition!
Auburn Road Battleship White
Battleship New Jersey White is a light, fruity wine made from the Cayuga grape. Auburn Road Vineyards is proud to honor and support the Battleship New Jersey, the most decorated Battleship in US naval history, and all the men and women who served on, built and restored her. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each bottle will go to help support the Battleship.
Auburn Road's Give Peach a Chance
Imagine … fresh … juicy … ripe … peaches! Give Peach a Chance is a blend of sweet peaches and crisp white wine perfect for sipping. Plus a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each bottle will go to help support radio station WXPN's Musicians on Call program, taking music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities.
Pinnacle Ridge Riesling
This classic grape of Germany renders a slightly sweet, fruity white wine. Fresh mango, peach and melon aromas leap from the glass followed by a balance of crispness and sweetness. Our Riesling is a great accompaniment to German style cooking. (2% residual sugar)
2013 PA Farm Show Medal Winner!
Pinnacle Ridge Traminette
Gewurztraminer is one of the parents of Traminette and it sure shows! Stick your nose in the glass and float away on a bed of roses. This medium bodied, soft white lingers in the mouth with a beautiful floral finish. Our Traminette pairs perfectly with exotic cuisines.
Pinnacle Ridge Niagara
Niagara is a sweet and very grapey table wine. Heavy aromas of a grand, backyard arbor packed together with mouthwatering sweetness make this white wine a favorite of generation old and new. Our Niagara dresses up a simple meal like grilled hot dogs and baked beans. (6% residual sugar)
Pinnacle Ridge Cuvee Chardonnay
This dry sparking wine is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes grown at Round Ridge Farms in Berks County using the traditional Methode Champenoise. It is light, and crisp with hints of green apple and yeast. Perfect with appetizers or light entrees.
2011 Finger Lakes Competition Medal Winner!
Auburn Road Dulcinea
The newest wine from Auburn Road! Dulcinea is a sweet, white table wine for Pinot Grigio and Riesling lovers.
Pinnacle Ridge Dry Riesling
Grapefruit and minerals permeate the aroma of this crisp, light white. This dry style of Riesling is perfect with sushi and other light fish dishes.
Pinnacle Ridge Dry Vidal
If you enjoy Pinot Grigio, you'll love this lovely, dry white wine. Delicate pink gold hues highlight the floral aromas inside. Our Pinnacle Ridge Dry Vidal fruit was fermented entirely in stainless steel resulting in a crisp white wine. Delicious with seafood, salads or any light fare. Excellent white wine for a cocktail party.
Pinnacle Ridge Winery, situated in the heart of idyllic "Pennsylvania Dutch Country," use only locally grown grapes are used to make our sparkling and table wines. The winemaking philosophy at Pinnacle Ridge is one of minimal intervention using traditional methods. This approach ensures that the unique flavors produced in our vineyards are retained and showcased in our award-winning wines. Pinot Boutique is proud to offer there delicious wines!
Harvest Ridge Chardonnay 2013
Unoaked with strong mineral notes of wet stones and crisp green apples and banana on the nose. Minerals and apples continue on the palate, with hints of citrus and zesty lime on the finish.

subset: commoncrawl


text: I felt as though I should write a post here. The crew at SFY has really been doing a great job. I have won some free gear in the last couple of contests and the communication has been great. We all have to remember that this is an international source and sometimes there are delays beyond control. I have received a pack of Proviron just as promised and I have also received word that the Dbol has been shipped as well. Also keep in mind the time difference, so if you send them an email you may not get an immediate response.


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WEATHER REPORT: Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Tyler, Texs (KETK) — Happy Wednesday!
Today we'll see partly sunny skies and it will be very warm and humid with a high near 94 degrees.Thunderstorms are possible during the afternoon and evening hours, especially in the northern and eastern sections of East Texas. The overall rain chances come out to around 60 percent in northern and eastern areas, 40 percent in central areas, including the Tyler-Longview area and 20 percent in Deep East Texas. Winds will be out of the south, southwest at 10 miles per hour, but variable and gusty during afternoon and evening thunderstorms.
Tonight we'll see scattered thunderstorms dissipating, before becoming partly cloudy and humid. The low will dip down to 73 degrees with variable winds from five to 10 miles per hour.
Make it a great day, East Texas!


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Advertise On UGHH |
CUSTOMER SERVICE: 1-617-262-0200 STORE FRONT: 234 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115 (Tues-Sat 12PM-8PM) | |
Freshjive: Mi FamiliaLight GrayT-Shirt
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Product DetailsSummaryCorridos are a form of narratives, usually about a hero or famed criminal and have included stories about drug trafficking. Corridos can be played by various types of bands, including norteño, mariachi, and even Tejano. The Mexican singer Selena was once considered the "Queen of Tejano Music" and the Mexican Madonna. Though Selena did not sing of criminals or drug dealers, she has become a legend to latinos and specifically Mexicans and Mexican Americans after she was murdered by a wwoman who was employed by her to run her fan club.Fineweight combed cotton t-shirt - 100% Cotton. |
More Items From: Freshjive |
Reviews and Comments


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Oh, this is so amazing. I want to keep it but alas…it needs to be shared with the world. This one of a kind table lamp has a red parchment fiberglass lampshade with wisps of black dancing through out. Hand stitched at the top and bottom. It coordinates with the fabulous hand painted ceramic base. The images of dancing ladies evokes my favorite artist Matisse! All this and solid brass feet and frame.
The lamps has been re-wired and works beautifully, sending off a soft rose colored light through out the room. It's in very good vintage condition.
15.5" high
10" diameter of shade
Apartment Therapy Classifieds has a messaging system for communicating with other members, allowing you to converse freely without exposing your email address or cluttering your inbox. You can respond to a message by replying to an email notification, via our website or iPhone app.
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Open dailyFeatures
- Dress code: Casual
- Kid-friendly
- Take-out available
- Wheelchair accessible
* Click here for rating key
Soda Shop Restaurant Review: Chef John Besh, who already offers mid-century fare at The American Sector in The National World War II Museum, is also behind Soda Shop, an old-fashioned soda fountain, ice cream shop and place to grab a quick bite. In the morning, you can build your own biscuit or try an over-the-top cinnamon roll. All day, enjoy peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, cupcakes, malts and milk shakes, candy bars, ice cream and all types of sodas. Sandwiches are under $10, and where else can you find a menu that offers a slice of homemade pie for two bucks? This place is fun and a bargain. |
Check out the 2014 edition of GAYOT's Annual Restaurant Issue, which features the Top 40 Restaurants in the U.S., Rising Chefs and more.


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Entertainment News
Philip Seymour Hoffman: Stars Mourn At Wake
Hollywood stars have joined close friends and family to pay their respects at a wake for actor Philip Seymour Hoffman.
The wake was held at the Frank E Campbell Funeral Home on Manhattan's Upper East Side.
Among those who attended the event was the actress Amy Adams, who co-starred with Hoffman in the films Doubt and The Master.
Others at the wake included Michelle Williams, Josh Hamilton, Cate Blanchett, Joaquin Phoenix and Diane Sawyer.
The gathering came after hundreds of friends and fans gathered for a candlelight vigil outside the Labyrinth Theatre Company, where Hoffman once served as artistic director.
The 46-year-old star was found dead at his home on Sunday morning with what officials said was a needle in his arm.
Police sources said around 50 envelopes - some empty, some unopened - were discovered inside the apartment and that tests showed they contained heroin.
The samples tested negative for the powerful additive fentanyl - a synthetic morphine which is added to intensify the high.
Three people have been charged with drug offences possibly connected to substances found at the actor's home.
A fourth person has been released without charge.
Hoffman spoke openly of his battle with drugs when he was a younger man, but after 23 years sober he admitted in interviews to renewed substance abuse problems.
An Oscar winner for his role in the 2005 biographical film Capote, Hoffman was considered one of the most gifted stage and film actors of his generation.
A private funeral for Hoffman's relatives and close friends will be held today.
:: Watch Sky News live on television, on Sky channel 501, Virgin Media channel 602, Freeview channel 82 and Freesat channel 202.
Related Stories Hoffman Absence Felt At Berlin Film Festival Hoffman Death Suspect 'Had Actor's Number' Philip Seymour Hoffman: 'Four Held Over Drugs'


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Theater reviews
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Theater photos and videos
- Alvin Ailey's 'Revelations'
- Rising stars on Long Island
- Jewelry making at the Art League of Long Island
- Entertainment trends that we hope ended with 2014
- 14 biggest entertainment trends of 2014
- Notable celebrity deaths of 2014
- 2014's biggest bummers in TV, music, movies, more
- "Elvis Lives!" at the Patchogue Theater
- Cirque le Masque's 'Noel' comes to Patchogue
- 'Peter Pan Live!' from Long Island
- Scenes from 'A Delicate Balance' on Broadway
- Scenes from 'The Band Wagon'
Broadway theaters
Heading to New York City to hit a Broadway show? Here are the main theaters.
Restaurants in the Theater District
A guide to dining options in NYC's Theater District.
Off-Broadway theaters
A guide to top off-Broadway theaters.
Long Island theaters
A complete guide to Long Island theaters and performing arts centers


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Tag: Hyatt Regency Hotels
View All TagsHotel Construction / Hyatt Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / Amsterdam Hotels / → All Tags
Hyatt Regency Amsterdam Will Look Like This In 2016
We may have seen some demolition last year at the former children�s hospital in Amsterdam that will become the city�s first Hyatt Regency, but boy did we underestimate how much bulldozing was still to be done.
Before we show you where things are today, above is the end result planned for the 211-room hotel, scheduled for 2016. Take note of the three historic facades on the right (three stories with the white vertical stripes, then the mishmash of windows, then the four stories in darker brick) and check out what that looks like today below.
Hotel Christmas Trees / Hotel Holiday Decorations / Hotel Holidays / Hyatt Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / New Orleans Hotels / → All Tags
No, Your Eyes Aren't Deceiving You, It's a Lifesize Gingerbread House
Who dat?
Oh, no one. It�s just a Christmas elf working on the life-size gingerbread house at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans.
No, you�re not looking at it through a French Quarter-infused haze. Yes, life-size means human-sized � it�s 14 feet long, 15 feet high and 8 feet wide, and is the work of Exec chef Eric Damidot and his little helpers. Here are the stats:
· 500 sheets of gingerbread, made of:
Hotel Closures / Hotel Woes / Hyatt Hotels / London Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / → All Tags
Hyatt Regency London Remains Closed Until Further Notice
We�ll start with the good news first: of the twelve hotel employees that were injured after the gas blast at the Hyatt Regency London � The Churchill, only one remains hospitalized, with non-life threatening injuries. Having walked by the hotel, we can also confirm that statements about part of the building having �collapsed� seem exaggerated: as you can see in the photos further below, the building is intact, and only at the rear of the building does there seem to be any damage.
Unfortunately, the official statement on the hotel website, and the notices we saw, do say that the hotel is �currently closed for the foreseeable future�.
Hotel Woes / Hotel News / London Hotels / Hyatt Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / → All Tags
Gas Blast at Hyatt Regency London Injures 12, Closes Hotel
Some terrible news out of London just as the weekend was starting a few days ago: around 11.40pm on Friday night, a gas explosion occurred in the basement of the Hyatt Regency London � The Churchill, injuring twelve hotel employees.
All guests were evacuated and accommodated at nearby hotels. Various news outlets, including the BBC, are referring to a few people being hospitalized, with the total number of guests evacuated at around 500. No guests were injured, according to a Hyatt spokesperson.
While The Telegraph opens with the blast having caused �part of the building to collapse�, the main structure of the building is intact. The London Fire Brigade, which responded to the incident, believes it due to a suspected gas leak, resulting in �extensive damage to the basement and the ground floor�.
We hope the injured will recover soon. We�ll keep you posted if there is a longer-term impact on the Hyatt, but leave you for now with the official statement from the hotel�s website:
Hotel News / Hotel Development / Hotel Construction / Hyatt Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / Hoxton Hotels / Amsterdam Hotels / → All Tags
Hyatt And Hoxton Are Eyeing Amsterdam Too
Having looked at new Amsterdam hotels that start with a W (the W and Waldorf Astoria), we backtrack through the alphabet to the letter H, where we find two additional, and somewhat polar opposite, future openings: the business-focused Hyatt Regency and budget-chic Hoxton.
The 211-room Hyatt Regency will be located in the former Emma Kinderziekenhuis (a children�s hospital) between Sarphatistraat and Spinozastraat, down the street from the Amstel InterContinental and an easy stroll away from the city�s outpost of the Hermitage museum. Comparing what we found in person with Google Street View, a series of low-rise buildings has been levelled, creating what looks like the perfect space for the hotel�s driveway, entrance, and any gardens or terraces the architects might have in mind.
Hotel Openings / Thailand Hotels / Phuket Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / Hyatt Hotels / → All Tags
Hyatt Regency To Relax On The Beaches of Phuket
The sun-soaked beaches of Phuket attract millions of tourists per year looking to blow off a little steam or search for the perfect Pad Thai. By the end of the year, the luxury digs of a Hyatt Regency will be welcoming guests in the heart of Thai paradise.
Situated on the west coast of the Thai island, Hyatt Regency will have 202 guest rooms as well as feature restaurants for local and international grub, a tropical pool for sipping fruity drinks and soaking up the rays, and lush spa for some mid-paradise rejuvenation. The hotel will be the third Hyatt for the area, joining the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok (whose spa suites we recently lusted over) and Hyatt Regency Hua Hin.
Situated in the area known as Millionaire's Mile, where the majority of Phuket's private villas are located, the Hyatt Regency Phuket will also have enough space to host the ultimate in destination weddings with banquet space and plenty of room for the wedding guests.
But if you are too busy exploring everything the island has to offer, the best time to chill at the resort will be the end of the day, where you can catch a stunning sunset over the Adaman Sea.
[Photo: Flickr]
Hotel News / Regent Hotels / Amanresorts / Starwood Hotels / Luxury Collection Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / Ahn Luh Hotels / GHM Hotels / Chedi Hotels / Crown Hotels / Bali Hotels / Venice Hotels / China Hotels / Switzerland Hotels / Amsterdam Hotels / Melbourne Hotels / Sydney Hotels / → All Tags
As The World Turns, More and More Hotels Will Be Opening
The Regent Bali
While we continue to recover from last week�s ma-jah announcement of Tommie Hotels, the lovechild of Commune and Thompson, we have a roundup of news bites from around the world for you this Monday morning. Join us as we hop from Bali to Venice, Amsterdam to China, and Switzerland to Australia, for updates on everything from brand new Chinese brand Ahn Luh to the old school Gritti Palace.
Starting in Southeast Asia, Regent Hotels delivered on the promised opening of its new resort on Bali this past weekend, with 94 suites, one Regent Villa, 25 residences, and that inviting-looking infinity pool above. The Bali resort follows last year�s arrival in Phuket, which we swung by recently to see for ourselves how Regent�s first opening in years would stack up � more on that to come.
Hotel News / Hotel Openings / Bangkok Hotels / Thailand Hotels / Hyatt Hotels / Park Hyatt Hotels / Hyatt Place / Hyatt Regency Hotels / → All Tags
Bangkok Is Overdosing On Hyatt Hotels
Park Hyatt Bangkok
Earlier this year, we told you about the plans to open a Park Hyatt Hotel in Bangkok, due in 2014 in the above mixed-use building with-a-twist in the central business district.
Just as the year comes to a close, it turns out that Hyatt has further plans for Thailand�s capital with both a Hyatt Regency and a Hyatt Place arriving a few years later in 2017.
With the Grand Hyatt Erawan already open, the group�s selection of brands in the city is nearly complete. So Mister Hyatt, will an Andaz be next? While we wait for that announcement (we just heard about a Tokyo addition), read on for details on the two new hotels.
Deal or No Deal / Hyatt Regency Hotels / Hyatt Hotels / San Diego Hotels / → All Tags
This 'Sunshine on Sale' Package from the San Diego Hyatt Regency is Not So Sunny
Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina is trying to capitalize on San Diego's sun-filled days with its new Sunshine on Sale package that promises a free night if you stay at least two evenings.
The package is supposed to save you more than 30 percent off the room. It sounds all sunshine and butterflies, but is it really a deal?
Pet-friendly Hotels / Hotel Loyalty Programs / Cute Hotel Doggies / Hyatt Regency Hotels / Hyatt Hotels / San Diego Hotels / → All Tags
Pets Get Their Own Loyalty Program at San Diego's Hyatt Regency
Now you have an incentive to bring your pooch with you to the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina. Fifi can rack up her own points in hotel's new loyalty program for pets.
Similar to the Hyatt Gold Passport program for humans, Gold Pawsport rewards pets for their frequent stays. The more stays pets add to their passport, the bigger the prizes, which include everything from gift certificates to personalized ID carrier tags.
NFL Hotels / Chicago Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / → All Tags
Hut, Hut, Hike Over to the Hyatt Regency in Chicago for a Gridiron Getaway
Football fans who want to head to Chicago to see some pigskin may want to take advantage of the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place's Gridiron Getaway deal. Since the hotel's attached to the McCormick Place Convention Center, it's a popular spot for conventioneers, but the Hyatt Regency's also near the da Bears' castle, Soldier Field.
As part of the package, you'll get a room for two for $109 per night. That rate is good for all 2009-10 season weekend home games, so check to see when your favorite team will be in Chi-Town. We wish the package would include dual-purpose face/belly paint, but no such luck.
Political Hotels / Barack Obama / Trinidad & Tobago / Caribbean Hotels / Hyatt Regency Hotels / → All Tags
Obama Kicks It With World Leaders at Hyatt Regency Trinidad
This weekend, President Obama headed to the Caribbean islands of Trinidad & Tobago with a US delegation for the Fifth Summit of the Americas, and, as we know, he and his ginormous posse shacked up at the Hilton Trinidad, renting out the whole place for the weekend.
But the three-day summit itself was held over at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad, which HC commenter thirteenright, who has stayed at both the TT Hilton and the TT Hyatt, mentioned was "a much nicer hotel more suitable for this kind of thing" (we assume "this kind of thing" means hosting bigtime world leaders). The conference was a place for the western hemisphere's leaders to get together to discuss "the theme of securing our citizens' future by promoting Human Prosperity, Energy Security and Environmental Sustainability."
Rates in this posh 428-room property start at $159, and the place features a rooftop infinity pool, a 24-hour fitness center, a restaurant with gulf views, and a lobby lounge where someone important surely toasted to making progress in the world this weekend.


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Go to m.barnard.edu for the Mobile Barnard web app or download it from the App Store or Google Play.
Go to m.barnard.edu for the Mobile Barnard web app or download it from the App Store or Google Play.
The final lecture in a series of three, "The Elusive Concept of 'Capacity Building' in International Development," will take place on November 25 at 8 p.m. at Columbia Faculty House.
Participate in events celebrating Barnard's global initiatives throughout the week of November 11-15
The Women in Public Service Project (WPSP) conference at Barnard brought together U.N. representatives, former heads of state, and other global leaders with students from across the country for a discussion of how to grow the ranks of women in government leadership positions.
Li Zhang employs recent and eye-opening archaeological discoveries to explore the Silk Routes, one of the most marvelous phenomena in Eurasian history.
Political science professor writes opinion piece for The New York Times
Newsweek/Daily Beast event gathers young women at Barnard for conversations on social entrepreneurship and activism
Congratulations to Barnard seniors and recent alumnae who have been awarded Fulbright grants this year.
Political science professor quoted in The New York Times and NPR's "On Point"
Copyright © 2015 Barnard College | Columbia University | 3009 Broadway, New York, NY 10027 | 212.854.5262


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We hear it all the time – 'we are sexualising our children from such a young age' and yet we still see it everywhere. Mothers out there are struggling to find that perfect first bra for their daughters that combines comfort and practicality with visual appeal. By visual appeal I don't mean sexy, padded, push up, etc. I simply mean something that looks pretty and not remotely like those grandma or the 20 something year old down the street would wear.
A few wonderful Australian mums experienced this issue when bra shopping for their daughters first bra and decided to do something about it. They wanted to cater to those who wanted something a little less sexy and a little more sweet and pretty. With that BlossyBloom began and a range of gorgeous bras and knickers were made for girls everywhere. BlossyBloom has a wide range of funky and fun designs so there really is something for everyone and they cater for most sizes – 8A to a 14B so no one has to miss out! The quality of BlossyBloom products are second to none and the fabric is very gentle on skin while still providing the required the support. I love that the bra contains no underwire and the straps are convertible as well so they can be adjusted to suit different styles of tops. I could rave on about how great these bras are but you'll never truly understand how nice these are until you see them, touch them and witness the approving look from your daughter.
Lucky for you the wonderful ladies at BlossyBloom have given me 3x gorgeous sets to giveaway to 3x very lucky Mad Mummas readers – or their daughters (1x set per winner). **I should also mention that BlossyBloom can be purchased online here and they also hold BlossyBloom fitting parties for those who live in Melbourne or regional Victoria.
To enter all you have to do is follow the instructions on the rafflecopter below. Winner is decided based on skill and chance plays no part. Australian residents only! Sorry everyone else. **The mandatory instructions MUST be completed or your entry will be void!**