We Casablancais are a tough lot. It's a rough and tumble city, but that's why I like it - it's real and full of the good and the bad of the big city. Unfortunately it's home to huge pockets of poverty and desperation, and recruiters who feed on those who are susceptible. Moroccan police have done a thorough and professional job in identifying the cell, tracking suspects, and as the net was tightened the potential bombers had no place to go. Finally their flight gave way to the events of April 10 and 14. Like the movie, here at Rick's Cafe life goes on as usual in spite of the tumult outside the door, in Iraq, Afganistan, Virginia Tech. Unlike May 16, 2003 when Moroccans stayed home at night for months the recent events have not had the same effect, mainly because it's quite apparent this is not an organized cell with attachments outside Morocco and a plan. But of course the perceptions outside Morocco are different, fed by media's need for the "big story." The last suicides occurred near the U.S. Consulate last Saturday - a day when we had 4 groups scheduled. Not only did all the groups come - one American delegation, 2 groups from a German travel agency and 1 incentive group from a multinational consumer products company - but we had another 40 dinner clients on Saturday night for one of our busiest nights ever. Sunday's Jam Session was packed. However Monday was very quiet. Tuesday better. Tonight bettr yet - but our clients are local Moroccans, expat residents and people who were already in Morocco and winding up their trip. All have been at ease in Casablanca. On the other hand, a booking we had tonight for clients from the cruise ship AMSTERDAM did not come, and I noticed no ship in port today - obviously the ship cancelled their stop in Casablanca. The cruise companies do take extreme precautions.
But I wanted to put my two cents in - I hope Casablanca doesn't suffer a drop in tourist traffic because of these events which are primarily a domestic issue, reflecting disaffected youth and a system that has failed to take care of its poor and alienated. Construction on Rick's had started in March 2003 and when the attacks of May 16 (with more than 44 fatalities) took place two months later I never had a moment's doubt about pursuing my dream to open Rick's. I'm happy I did. Come to Casablanca...you'll feel at home at Rick's. |
