Thousands of miles away from an expectant Egypt erupting in anger over President Hosni Mubarak's address Thursday afternoon, local Egyptians gathered around a TV to watch the scene.
As Mubarak said in so many words that he will not immediately step down, members of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago shook their heads.
"He has a PhD in stubbornness," Council chairman Zaher Saloul said.
Another council member said simply "disgusting."
"He's one of the mummies of the Middle East," Saloul said. "Totally detached from reality."
Feelings in the room ranged from frustration to hope.
"There is a silver lining," said Ibrahim Sadek, a local Egyptian American. "It's going to re-energize, revitalize the masses for removal of the regime."
Local
Ahmed Sultan, another local Egyptian American, set his mind on the people of Egypt.
"My heart is pounding," Sultan said. "Pray for the safe passage of Egyptians through this hardship."
