Dear Aradia, I think it is important to differentiate between criticism and correcting false information. I am more interested in the latter than the former as I have no axe to grind with you. I also think the truth counts for something. That is especially true when large claims and announcemenrts are made.
1. Visas are being blamed for the non appearance of performers. That is NOT the case with Saad and Dina. It was that they were not paid and did not get the plane tickets promised. I know that Saad lost business that he could have had as he thought he was going to be at your event.
2. Your suggestions that I was against this event from the start and that I was unduely interested in it are also incorrect. All I did was forsee what others also saw and I did not get involved other than talk to a handful of friends about it. As it turns out I was correct to advise those that asked my opinion about it to get their money in advance. As you probably know there is a list of teachers and musicians as well as the prize winners who have yet to be paid what they are due. Perhaps you would be so kind as to tell those people when they can expect to be paid as they are certainly calling around asking what to do. Its a small business after all.
3. I am rightfully concerned about credibility in the business of bellydance as are all the other promoters and as I am sure you are too. I feel that incorrect statements and fudging what happened are not helpful in the big picture though to you personally they may be emparassing. I can certainly understand and sympathize with that. I have no doubt that you want this to be old and go away but you must understand that it will not until an honest apprasal is had by all including you. That is how credibility is either further eroded or begins to be repaired.
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