I am the owner of BlackGirlTravel.com and founder of Bella Italia, an annual all female tour to Italy. Two months ago we learned that Avocet Travel, owned by Essence magazine co-founder and former president, Clarence O. Smith, misappropriated over $80,000 of funds it received on the behalf of the Bella Italia travel club. Read the entire story at www.blackweekly.com/press To date, Avocet Travel has not retuned any of the money as promised, with the exception of assisting with "some" of the credit card reversals.
Avocet threaten to destroy a dream and vision! But, my God is a great God...and miracles CAN and DO happen, if we just believed! I now know this for sure. I don't know why Avocet stole our money. I have turned Avocet Travel, Tracey Mendohlson and Clarence O. Smith, over to God and the legal system. What I do know is when God has a plan ... no one or nothing on earth can stop that plan... not even a missing $80,000. With faith, the power of prayer, and help from our primary tour operator, vendors, friends, and family, Bella Italia 2008 did depart the US on schedule on September 18th with EVERY women that wanted to continue on the tour and we are currently planning our 2009 tour to Southern Italy. To God goes the glory! For, in my darkest days during this ordeal, it was God who held me up when I was too weak to stand on my own. It was my faith in knowing that God's arms are around this tour, and no matter what, I had to keep moving forward even when it seemed that no light was at end of the tunnel! I have learned many lessons over the last seven weeks, the greatest of them is that TRUE faith and fear cannot coexist! If you truly believe in God, you must continue to move forward with unquestioning faith. You must KNOW (not just think) that God is with you and no matter WHAT you will be okay. I now know this for sure!
God was carrying you ! (" Footprints in the sand")Author,unknown. Peace, Beloved you did what God instructed you to do. Now you step back like you're doing, let go and let God. you see whats happening with these big corporations. God has control of ALL things." Vengence is mine" ! Said the Lord. Great write Fleace ! Peace,Doc.
Friday, October 10th 2008 at 9:39AM
Min.Dr.LaDonna Blaylock D.D.
To God be the Glory! When you have a vision and you are clear on it, nothing can stop you!
