And the Award goes to…!
by LatinFusionTV on Jul.15, 2010, under General Posts
It’s always exciting when someone gets nominated to receive an award of some sort. It is more exciting when they win!
Well, this past weekend, we were a part of a three day event that started with the Tejano Music National Convention (TMNC) and the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) weekend exhibits. The evenings had their own Gran Bailes that featured several Tejano Artist performing for all of the guests that were here in San Antonio to celebrate this Huge Pachanga.
The weekend culminated for us with the 30th Annual Tejano Music Awards and the 6th Annual Tejano Academy Awards, combined and produced by LatinPointe out of Lenexa, Kansas.
As I prepared for the Tejano Music Awards on Sunday, I wondered what goes through the minds of those that were nominated. I then asked myself how I would feel.
Well, I know I would be excited and happy and, of course, nervous. And to know that it was the fans that nominated is a bigger reward.
I respect all people in the music industry. Those who work so many hours on their music and dedicate themselves to a gift that was given to them by God. Because it is God who gives the voice to sing and the ability to play an instrument.
That, to me, is the best Award anyone could possibly receive. I congratulate all the nominees and all of the Winners for using God’s gifts in such a manner to be nominated in the first place.
To this weekends nominees and winners: Thank you for keeping La Onda Tejana alive and moving. I thank all the Artist, those that were there and those that couldn’t make it. My hat goes off to all of you for such a great job in bringing us beautiful music.
I enjoy listening to the music and meeting new artists and I truly applaud you. You are the future and we are here to support you. I look forward to the day you receive your award.
But for now I want to say: And the Award goes to…….. You!!
I award you for giving us what we love to hear. Here are some tips for you:
- Keep up the great work and God will shower you with Abundance;
- Stay Humble and focused;
- Persevere and don’t give up on your dream – more people appreciate it than you know;
- Don’t forget what it took to get you there; and
- Pass it on!
Now I want to thank a few people: Thank You to David and Sarah Chavez who brought the awards under one Umbrella; Texas Talent Musician Association’s (TTMA) Robert Arellano & Frank Salazar for their continued service; thirty years, Tejano Academy for your great support, The 30 years of the Tejano Music Awards; our good friend, Abby Chavarilla, who always remembers us, and all of the volunteers that help make this event successful. All of this could not have happened without your help and support.
Special thanks to Jesse Mascorro of Best Buy Musical Instruments and Best Buy for letting us share the spotlight and host their stage at the exhibit. It was fun, fun fun!
So now I present the award and this Award goes to…..You! All of you!!!
We had a wonderful time and look forward to next year!
Be Blessed and remember that the Biggest and Greatest Award that we all receive is the gift that God gives us….whatever it may be.
Amor Y Paz
Brandy Lopez
“We walk by Faith and not by Sight”
Independence Day in SA!
by LatinFusionTV on Jul.04, 2010, under General Posts
Today we celebrate our Independence Day as a Nation! It is a time to be thankful for what we have by way of Freedom. Freedom isn’t free! Do not take it for granted, just ask people from others countries who have had to struggle with oppression.
But there is more to freedom than that as a nation. One needs to “Be Free” as a person. One needs to be free to Enjoy life, family and the enjoy the pursuit of happiness. And not be held hostage by lifestyle and fear
Yesterday, I spent a few hours speaking with a family about alcohol abuse and its effects. They asked me to intervene and moderate a discussion with dad. Dad did not like this one bit – I understand why he wouldn’t.
The family is in bondage and the father is holding them hostage. But he loves them and they love him. However, that is not freedom! I understand this too. Because I have held hostages also – with my addictions and behavior.
So I say this – if you are struggling with oppression – be it self imposed or otherwise – Work to BE FREE! Seek help, dig deep, trust God and work your way out! But do not try to go at it alone. There are people who will support your efforts.
Freedom is to be enjoyed and I love the fact that I am no longer a slave to alcohol and drugs. I love my family and they love me. And today I even have friends that care about me deeply, because I truly care about them…
So… Please enjoy your freedoms and say hi to someone you don’t know. Strike up a conversation. Do something that makes you feel free – go for a walk, I don’t know, but do something – understand that what little freedoms we do have – someone paid the ultimate price for us – be grateful!
So today, I got to enjoy my freedom and Celebrate the Fourth of July at Woodlawn Lake watching fireworks. And I want to say the following: God Bless America, I Support our troops and I am Proud to be an American.
Finally, We appreciate you all who read our blog – Please know that we love and appreciate you all and enjoy your comments. Thanks for reading and sharing. We love it!
Oh yeah, you can check out our July 4th video and pics on our website and gallery.
God Bless, Take care and Cool Runnings — Michael Arellano
“I’m just saying!” – Sid’s Dish
by LatinFusionTV on Jun.28, 2010, under General Posts
This is a special blog from our correspondent “Sid” and he is just “Dishin’ it out!”
Okay, what’s the deal? Why has everyone gone out and gotten in a great big hurry? Drivers that tail you, not giving enough space, speeding around you just to get in front of you by one car, pulling out in front of you when there is clearly no traffic behind you….Crazy driving. That’s my beef!
There ain’t no need to endanger your life or the life of others just to get one car ahead. It’s bad enough we gotta text and talk on the phone (dangerous enough – and yes I am guilty of talking on the phone – not texting, though!) while we drive, but then we gotta get in front.
Look, I can be a speed demon on the road and I am no better than you. But I have to watch out for the other drivers also. They too have families and loved ones. I could be a race car driver, not because I like to go fast, but I watch patterns in traffic, the speed of other drivers, the way others maneuver through traffic….All things necessary to be a good driver.
I watch cars drive right up on your butt, not paying attention to the fact that you have cars on either side and in front and then they want you to pull over and let them pass….crazy arse drivers. They are driving like maniacs – all to get one car ahead….crazy arse drivers. Oh, I already said that!
Here are my suggestions…
- Pay attention to all cars in all lanes, especially if you are in a fast lane mode;
- Respect the fast lane if you want others to respect it for you;
- Don’t make phones while driving;
- Don’t text while driving;
- Try not to zigzag through traffic;
- Keep an eye on what is going on with the vehicles in front of you;
- Give yourself an opportunity to adjust to traffic, not react to it;
- Use your blinker;
- Adjust your rear-view mirrors; and
- Don’t drive with a chip on your shoulder!!!
You will be the better driver if you put on some lovemaking music rather than war tunes – I promise! Look, we all have places to go and people to see and sometimes we run late – I get it – You are moreimportant than me, but do not risk all of our lives cuz you think you are more important and we should bow to you. The road is ours, not yours.
And yes, I got the memo – It is all bout you! But guess what? I filed that memo in my round file…so there.
Please be cool this Fourth of July. Arrive alive, Don’t Drink and Drive! There is no law against getting wasted and letting someone else drive, just don’t get wasted and drive…call a cab – it is worth it in the end. Trust me, I know! Get a designated driver.
As far as driving like an arse – is it really worth it? I think not.
I’m just saying!
I am Sid and I am just Dishin’ it out!
Later Alligator!
Father’s Day!
by LatinFusionTV on Jun.21, 2010, under General Posts
Just a quick note to apologize for not getting this out on the day celebrated as Father’s Day! But if you are a dad, every day is Father’s Day, we just get special recognition on this day.
A few notes on what it means to be a parent and a father.
- It is important to set a good example as a father and to be a parent rather than a friend. That day will come. Even so, I am not sure being a friend is as important as being a father.
- Teaching responsibility is very important, including the little things that can mean so much;
- Teaching children about choices is more important, along with the consequences of bad choices;
- Learning about the consequences of actions is important also, but it is wise to teach about our part of any situation – it is easy to play the victim, but it is difficult to stop, look and see what part i had to do with anything – it teaches the following -
- Accountability – i didn’t do it, it wasn’t my fault – perhaps, but in most cases, we had some part to play – like choosing to hang with that group, etc…
- God sometimes does things that make no sense – and it is difficult to try to figure God out, so don’t – just look to God for help;
- Teach them about spirituality, worship and Faith – these things will get one through the good and bad times;
- Love your children – I love both my kids and I let them know it by saying “I Love You!”;
- Being a man does not mean not showing emotion – it means knowing when to show emotion;
- Be gentle when they do wrong – yelling is not telling, telling is not teaching and teaching takes patience; and
- learn to Encourage them and impart the need to dream and be daring, enjoy life and live free…the world has enough rules in place – and there will be plenty of people to knock us down – teach them that it is not the end but a beginning;
- Teach them to stand up for themselves and not be bullies but to help and protect the weaker ones – this will go a long way….
I am learning as I go, I am not a perfect person nor the perfect dad – but my kids love me (for now, anyway) and I love them. I do the best I can and I often fail – but I do not give up and I always go to God for help…
These little things have changed my life and I often look back on my life and thank God for my dad and granddad. Some where not as fortunate as I and have still become good parents.
I just wish you all well and patience with our children – they are our future. Teach them to love and to give and the world will be a better place – I am sure of it.
Take care, God Bless and Cool Runnings, mon! Michael Arellano
Dog sitter needed!
by LatinFusionTV on Jun.17, 2010, under General Posts
First of all – I hope everyone is enjoying the summer break. When I was young – it meant no school; as I was in the workforce it means less traffic, but more distractions. Now that I am looking for work and clients – it means its easy to get distracted, less traffic and a chance to do something I have never done before – Dog sit. And let me tell you – it has been fun.
I like dogs. Most dogs like me ( I hav been bitten in the face by a dog) and I still like them. I like cats too, but dogs have different personalities than cats and that is what makes them interesting. If you are not a dog lover, cool with me, but they are a treat and a trip.
I am house sitting for a neighbor and they have two cool dogs, Chandler and Lilly. And those dogs have cousins – Louie and Riley. All small to medium small dogs. Ok – enough!
I get to walk the dogs and the experience has taught me a few things.
- I want to be the person these dogs think I am.
- They great me with joy when I walk in the door – I should do the same with people I like/love.
- They have taught me the great responsibility of being a pet owner – I have to follow a schedule and be disciplined.
- They get me out of me and to think about something or someone other than myself.
- They have done for me something I could not do for myself – go for a walk.
- They have taught me the importance of picking up after myself – neighbors let their dogs poop in other peoples yards and then do not pick it up – so very very uncool! I carry a bag and it don’t take much!
- They are joyful when they go outside.
- They are inquisitive and somewhat careful – two things I am working on.
- They eat when hungry and drink when thirsty – I will work through both, without tending to my own needs.
- A pissing contest is just that – a pissing contest! It is unnecessary and can get messy pretty quick.
- When I get out of hand – someone should put a diaper on me to bring me back to reality….I have to use a diaper to keep the boys from peeing everywhere and it works.
- They have taught me that it is okay to rely on others, for things I cannot do myself. And like Lilly, it is okay to speak up when I need help. She barks to let me know she gotta poop!
- Most of all – they are teaching me to be grateful – for what i have, the opportunities given to me and for my life.
The dogs are cool, they are fun – Riley will run up to you jump on your leg and push off as if she is pushing you and then she spins around. Louie, a yorkie, prances when he walks and is careful where he steps (there is a lesson there). Oh, I mean King Louie! Chandler has diabetes and a bad eye – but he loves to explore, walk and run. Sounds like me as a kid!
And what does any of this have to do with the price of tee in China, you ask?
It is a blessing from God! Seven years ago – I would have never been given this opportunity by my neighbors. Today, I am trusted enough to house sit and dog watch. The dogs love me and I made two new friends, Louie and Riley (I already new Chandler and Lilly).
But as I said, it is a blessing from God – because He says: If I can trust you with little I can trust you with much. Caring for life on any level – even a dogs life – is a responsibility given by God. It should be treated as such and appreciated for what it is – Fun!
Thank you God for my life, my family and my blessings as well as for the dogs, it has shown me that when I put you first – you help me out in even the smallest of ways….
Most of all – Thank you for my sobriety – it has given me a new lease on life and for that I am truly grateful!
Love, Peace and many blessing to you all and thanks for your comments – we read them all and appreciate them very much!
Cool Runnings mon – Michael Arellano
Honoring A Man Of Influence!
by LatinFusionTV on Jun.11, 2010, under General Posts
It’s amazing how you come to know someone in just one year- amd how influential a person can be.
I speak of Michael Arellano, who has done so much for Latin Fusion TV and has taught me so much about staying focus and the importance of having a successful business. Michael and I work side by side with Latin Fusion TV and his company Independent Functions.
We have been Blessed to have the same goals and dreams in life. Although he doesn’t like for me to give him so much credit and speak about him- I feel it is important that I share with you why it is that Iam so proud of Michael.
Michael first of all is a caring man, who is always ready to help others, he enjoys working on projects – all though it can be a little overwelming, but he doesn’t give up.
Michael is a wonderful father, who adores and loves his sweet princess Olivia as we call her.
When we sit back and talk about what we need to do next for our comminity, and how can we give back. I sometimes just sit there and say to myself- Michael you are giving back and doing for your community, just by being who you are and the Influence of energy you instill in others- with the motivation of hard work that you share.
I have never met someone with so much dedication and determination, and again I was so Blessed when God put this wonderful friend in my life.
I am very proud to say that Michael will be Honor’ed as one of the Men of Influence in San Antonio. They could not have chosen a much gracious man, along with the other gentlemen being recognized.
I always say- never take anyone or each other for granted, believe in your dreams and stay strong in your Faith, God has a great plan, and now Michael this is your time to shine.
As we continue our journey, I ask that you lift us up with much abundance and support this wonderful man whom I respect. To Honor a man who deserves it more than anyone I know, brings tears of joy and Happiness to my heart. Michael you are the BEST!
I want to say that when I fist met Michael I saw a “Man Of Integrity” and today he continues to be just that..
Thank You Michael and Congratulations!
Con Amor Y Paz para un Hombre Que es realidad!
Brandy Lopez
In Memory of you!
by LatinFusionTV on Jun.03, 2010, under General Posts
“Do this in memory of me!” Those are some of the most famous words ever said – especially if you are a Christian. They are also the most famous words you will never hear. Especially as said by our fallen heroes who fought for the freedoms and rights for us as Americans.
As Memorial Day came and went, this is what I have to offer… I do not mean to offend and the following is my personal opinion:
We (US citizens) live in one of the greatest countries in the world. We have the right to vote, free speech, assemble and gripe about whatever we want. The government didn’t give us those rights, but men and soldiers paid the ultimate price for these rights and freedoms.
There were lots of bbq’s and river floaters and party revelers who enjoy the day off from work and have a good time. I, personally, took the time to spend with family, and self, and reflected on these freedoms while at the river. It was a beautiful Sunday. On Monday I reflected about what came to mind.
The following is what I embraced as things very important to me as a man, an American and a Christian. They were:
- Never take freedom for granted;
- Respect our troops, they protect our freedoms;
- Love one another, especially those that sacrifice their time for yours;
- Learn to forgive, you never know how much time we have on earth;
- Get outdoors and enjoy – I hadn’t been to the river in months and it was beautiful;
- Enjoy your family while you still have them;
- Don’t over drink and ruin a good time for others;
- Be grateful for your freedoms;
- God is bigger than me and my problems; and
- As a Christian, the freedom that Jesus gives me in the form of peace and salvation really puts “Do this in Memory of Me!” in perspective.
This post may not make sense, but if you were standing there with me, as the river flowed strong and the riverbanks were lush with foliage – I was in awe of my freedoms, my family and my God. I was overwhelmed.
I realized that my needs and wants were not as important to me as the needs and wants of others, especially children and the downtrodden. Life is relevant. Life matters. What we do matters, especially if we do for others.
But most important, I realized that I mattered – to my family, my daughter, some friends, my partner, but most of all to God! And if I matter to God, then you matter to God. And maybe, just maybe, God should matter to you and I.
After all, He gave up His life for my salvation, and that is a freedom that I cannot live without because I have lived trapped and enslaved by the throes of addiction. And to be free from these addictions is a freedom I am grateful for.
So again, God Bless all of those who have died in service to this great country (faults and all) and to the families who have had to mourn this loss. God Bless all those who have served and who serve our country. And God bless you all. And most of all, Thank you God for a beautiful day, a beautiful life and a wonderful country!
Take care, God Bless and Cool Runnings!
The Magic of Music, Musicians and Conversation!
by LatinFusionTV on May.20, 2010, under General Posts
I wanna talk about the magic in music, the musicians themselves and the beauty associated with the creative process. I am not speaking, however, as a creator of music, but instead, from the standpoint of a fan. I love music! But, most of the time, I cannot tell you what they are saying (lyrically speaking) because I really only hear melody and rhythm. I love music as a background to great conversation (except when driving) so I don’t really listen to lyrics. And I love to hear what musicians have to say about their craft and how they come to create.
As I am around more and more musicians and I get to speak to them on a personal level, I become more appreciative of what they do, how they do it and the fact that they are kind enough to share their passion with me.
As an executive producer of Latin Fusion TV, I am lucky enough to engage in some great conversations. And I believe that great conversation has become a lost art. I really enjoy talking with people, especially those that have influenced our lives one way or another. This is the best and worst part of what I do. Let me explain…
Trying to capture passion and creativity for our viewers is what we try to do. By what we share with you, we hope to empower, encourage while we entertain. sounds good, right? But there is so much that is said that is not shared because it was not captured on tape. Too me this is sad because so much goes into creating and living a dream of passion. And we should all be privy to this beautiful process.
But how do we learn about this process and the people involved. By listening! Everyone has a story they want to tell. We just have to listen and be willing to ask the right questions. I am not a musician, but I love music so I enjoy when an artists shares his creation with me. I am sure that I am not the only one.
A quick list on how to bring the magic of conversation alive:
- Be genuinely interested in others and what they have to say;
- Don’t interrupt to tell your story – listen first;
- Ask sincere questions;
- Share how they have influenced you so they know that what they do is actually appreciated;
- Make them feel comfortable in speaking with you;
- Thank them for taking time to speak with you.
Artists are people too, they may be busy or just have their mind wrapped around what they are working on, so be patient. But this goes with all people. We need to be more patient with people – I know I do.
I don’t know, I just wanted to share something with you that I believe is important…that is the importance and thrill of being engaged in great conversation.
And that is what music is to me, artists speaking to me through their work and their passion. And I appreciate it very much.
To all who make music – thanks! Thanks for taking time to talk to us in a manner that is both beautiful and creative!
And a specific thanks to the following from me: the Fleas – Philip Ramirez Sr and Jr of Grupo Atrevido; Sam Villelas from Sexto Sol, Jesse Borrego, Ariel Johnson and Arthur Campos of Ariel Johnson y La Cliqua and all of the others who take time to talk to “lil o me” – just a fan!
God Bless, Take care and Cool Runnings! – Michael
Determination and Motivation!
by LatinFusionTV on May.15, 2010, under General Posts
I always love sharing my dreams and my Goals with you, I feel there is someone out there with their Goals in life, yet just don’t know where to start. I have realized that it starts with determination and motivation, when we set our minds to do something that we know will not only benefit our career, but also our community, That when I tell you grab that Bull by it’s horns and run with it.
I sometimes find myself so busy working on so many other projects, just wanting to do the best that I can. Iam one of those persons that can be set on determination and motivation , that one way or another it is going to work it self out. and yes I can be stubborn and not give up, I have never been one to start a project and then give up because it didn’t work, and then jump to the next it takes time and great effort with a strong team to make it happen.
I have faith and God gives me the determination and motivation to do the things He knows are right for me, it may not happen today or tomorrow,but it will Happen.
I share this with you because my mind just sometimes goes a hundred miles per hour and I wonder how can I make a difference in helping others with their dreams and goals in life. How can I reach out to the person living in a cardboard box who thinks they have no determination and or motivation to change their lives.
Well there’s always hope! and you have to reach out and grab it, stand on your two feet with your head held high and say this is the day that God has given me to be determined and motivated!
We all struggle with this at times and I speak for myself, but because my faith is so Strong I continue to Go!
Iam not a writer , but I share with you what I feel in my heart and sometimes I feel that is, the best Cup of Soup from the Soul.
Till next time take care !
“We Walk By Faith and Not By Sight”
Brandy Lopez
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