Latin Fusion TV BLOG

Have you been told that “You don’t know Jack!”

Well, I have, and I do and I can prove it.  One of my best friends is named “Jack.”  So, you see, I do know Jack!  But, why is this important?

I was thinking about some sayings I heard this week.  There are many sayings that make sense and many that don’t.  There are  “put-downs” that offend, and truths that simply mean what they say.  There are exceptions and variations – but we are not here to “split hairs!”  But I will go through a few that I heard.

“You don’t know Jack”  – usually they are saying something with malicious intent, i.e. that you don’t know what you are talking about, and perhaps they are saying that you are an idiot without actually saying it.

“You are ignorant” – well, it could be true…  I am ignorant about a great many things.  I am also well versed on some things.  I take the time to continue to learn new things, so it doesn’t offend me when called ignorant – I just try to learn something about it.  “Ignorant” is not a bad word and being ignorant is not all that bad, either.

“You are not the sharpest tool in the shed” – Do you need to be? Unless you plan on cutting something down – The important thing is to find someone that is sharp and can do what needs to be done.  I am no genius, but I am smart enough to surround myself with smart  and capable people that can get the job done.  That is the trick – to surround yourself with great people.

I write about this because the aforementioned have been said to me and about me…. And it made me think about what the sayings actually meant no matter the context they were used.

I then realized that “Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me!”  Unless, I allow them to.

Look, what anyone thinks about you is “none of your business.”  I mean that – you cannot change the way people think about you.  So why worry, and anyway, how is that your business?  See my point? Here are suggestions, based on what I have learned:

1. Do not fall prey to those talk about you – small minds talk about people;
2. Do not get into the name calling business – it only makes you look small;
3. Do not dignify what they say by retorting a response – the truth always surfaces;
4. Don’t make someone else make you defend yourself – why should you have to defend yourself to others;
5. Do not personalize things – If it is true and you don’t like it – change it;
6. Do not talk maliciously about others – it will come back and haunt you;
7. Don’t gossip or partake in others gossiping to you – because the Spanish Proverb says: “If they will gossip to you, they will gossip about you”;
8. Don’t judge others….their book is still being written and there is always room for change – take me for example;
9. Act “As if…” -  As if you have some class and know how to act; and
10. Do the best you can – they cannot take that from you!

So, if someone says something bad about you, let it go!!! Or if they tell you that you don’t know jack, go get a friend named Jack – Then, like me, you can answer: Yeah, I do!

Life is too short to worry about others!  Get on with life and live in peace to the best of your abilities. The world will be a better place – I guarantee it!

Take care, God Bless and Cool Runnings! – Michael

This blog post is directed to you – our audience. We will explain how blogging has worked for us and what it takes to make it happen. Because you have asked…

1) Thanks – We thank you for taking the time to read our blog and to share your comments with us and others.

2) Feedback – We appreciate any and all feedback – both positive and negative.

3) Free Speech – We do not censor responses or comments, UNLESS they are directed at selling something on our comment board.  We will not push your products or agendas which have no bearing.

4) Patience – we cannot keep people from pushing their wares, so what is the use in getting frustrated with the continued comments selling something.

5) Diligence – Gotta keep with it.  Always look for something to write about – ideas are everywhere, just gotta keep working at it.

6) Discipline – It is easy to let the day go by without writing something.  It is easy to put it off until tomorrow. But tomorrow comes and goes faster than you know or expect.

7) Confidence – not being a strong writer will wear you down, especially if it is difficult to convey your ideas to paper. Do not let your confidence wain – it is your work – stand strong behind it.  Who cares if you are not a good writer – at least you are writing.

Teamwork – Find a good editor if you need one – but make sure they keep true to your ideas.

9) Simplicity – Keep it simple.  One idea to a sentence if you have to.

10) Edit – Edit your work.  It won’t get better if you do not work at it and double check it.

11) Instinct – Trust your instincts if you think you have a good idea.  And if you do, follow up on it so you do not lose it….

12) Stimulate – Do not write about yourself – no one cares about your Facebook day, really they don’t!  Write with substance, not fluff!

Blogging takes work, Good blogging takes lots of work, but it is worth it in the end – trust me – we know – the results are the wonderful comments that you send us….and the simple fact that you even take time to read our work.

One last thing – if you really want to contact us and ask us if you can use our work, or for any reason at all – email us at lftvblog@gmail.com.  We cannot respond to you via WordPress – we have tried….so sorry if you do not get a response – we try.

Take care, God Bless and Cool Runnings, Mon – Michael

Why do we fear? Because it is human nature to be afraid?  Because we haven’t learned to deal with reality? Maybe we are afraid because of both.  Let me say that 100 posts could go into writing about fear….But here is something of interest.

I sometimes can be childish, or could it just be fear? or maybe I am just afraid that what I have shared deeply from my heart may not mean that much to others.   I also fear that maybe I am not appreciated by those I love.  I guess I will never know, for I am only Human.  But…

God has blessed us all, in one way or another. Each of us is unique – some are strong, some smart, some have and some don’t and many do things differently than you or I would.  But remember what you do and the way you do things is your way.  So what does this have to do with Fear???  Everything!

Speaking for myself, I often ask: “If God Blesses me all of the time – why is it that I still fear?” “Why am I afraid?”

And though my faith is strong, I still have the tendency to be afraid.  I find it disappointing when I feel weak when I know I should be strong.  Which leads to another question:  “Am I weak or is it fear?

It’s easy to be afraid and feel weak when in a situation that is uncomfortable or not familiar. It is also easy when these circumstances have led to bruising or hurt in the past and moreso if the bruises turn to scars and the scars run deep.

For example, someone takes advantage of you, does not appreciate you or understand you, or maybe worse – treats you with disrespect and berates you.  That hurts and we do not want to go through it again.

Remember that you were blessed with something that they may not have and wish they did, so they transfer their fears to you.  So the fears you have may be caused from some lost self esteem based on someone else’s mistreating you.  This is a justifiable fear, because no one wants to let others down.

We don’t want to let down those who love us and support us, and especially do not want to let down God.  I know I don’t.  And the last thing I want to do is fear the Blessings that God has given me.

Here are some suggestions to overcome fear and help others based on my own experiences:

1. God wants us to be wise and to be strong – but we have to be discerning;
2. He wants us to trust in Him – He is faithful, always;
3. God has Blessed you with your own gifts – find them;
4. Love those who love and understand you – it is easy to take these people for granted;
5. Love those that don’t even more – they may need the love;
6. Be patient and understanding with others – you never know what their fears are and what they are struggling with;
7. Be patient because remember – it could be you next time;
8. Lift the spirit of others and give them brighter thoughts – especially if they are struggling;
9. Remember that bruises and scars will go away over time and God will heal you if you let him.

The biggest thing of all is this: IF you focus on your fears then you cannot possibly focus on anything else.  Example: If I am focused on failing, I cannot possibly be focused on succeeding.  Make sense?

Look, God brings people into our lives for a reason – we cannot run around thinking they will always hurt us, because if we do we will never fully enjoy the reason they were brought into our lives in the first place.

People are a blessing, good or bad, they are a blessing so let us remind them and ourselves to Be Not Afraid and do not fear the Blessings that God has given You and Me.

I Thank God for all my Blessings and the beautiful people he has brought into my life and the journey he continues to guide me through. And although i may be afraid at times – I know to trust Him.  That is my way and you must find your way.

So, till my next Blog, Take care  of each other and be Fearless.

God Bless all our readers and our Viewers…  But most of all God Bless Our Troops and their Families.

“Walk by Faith and not by Sight!” and Be not Afraid!

Con Amor Y Paz – Brandy Lopez

As I contemplate what’s going on with us here at Latin Fusion TV, I wonder if we are a Monkee see or a Monkee do?

In this business, like any other – you either set the trends or follow them.  Trust me, I am not a trendsetter nor am I a futurist! But I am making a difference and you are too, if you read what we write.

And remember, this is not about me – it’s about us – all of us.  I write to make a difference.   We read things written that are making a difference.  We are not followers as long as we learn from others and invest our time learning what other successful people are doing.  We are building a foundation on what is proven success.

BUT, if we do what everyone else is doing – then we are followers.  And it is time to turn that around.  These are my recommendations:

1. Lead the pack – do not follow because everyone else does it;
2. Be careful not to step on on other peoples toes – but you don’t have to tread lightly either;
3. Understand that you will be attacked – people fear change and they don’t always want you to succeed;
4. Understand that no man stands on an island – you cannot do everything;
5. Surround yourself with good people – find those that are on the same page with the same principles;
6. Learn to discern if someone is good for you or not – trust me, your gut instinct is usually right;
7. Do not be afraid to make difficult decisions – or others will make them for you, without giving any thought to your needs, but theirs;
8. Political correctness is not the best answer – it is a chickenpoop mindset, PC is scaredy-cat and straddles the fence ;
9. Stand for something or you will fall for anything – Do not be afraid to make a stand; and
10. Do not be arrogant or cocky – it makes others thank that you think you are better than they…we are not – we need each other.

What does this have to do with the title?  Everything!!

We have been invited to a number of events, and I sometimes catch myself saying: “I can do this” or “I can that.”  But so can any other monkee – that is why all of the mixers we attend are exactly the same with the same people drinking and “Networking.”  And we pay money for this?  AAAARGGGHHHH! They are not networking – they are partying….big difference.

Anyway, keep your head up if you are a Monkee see, monkee do type person!  There is always room to make a change, and change we must make to make this world a better place!

That is why I strive to be the Monkee do that Monkee sees. Imitation is the greatest form of flattery.  And remember, there is plenty to go around and plenty to do – just don’t do the same old boring stuff that every one else is doing.  Be creative and set the trends – don’t follow them!

Take care, God bless and Cool Runnings, Mon! – Michael Arellano

What constitutes fun to you?

Work, play, spending money, making money, making friends, helping others! What about sharing in God’s Blessings with friends and family? How about doing for the community and sharing God’s family and talents with each other? What if it ends up costing rather than making money? Is it still fun? Or, could it be all of the above?

Entertainment is a serious business! If you don’t believe me, think about all the money that goes into the production of American Idol,  Next Top Model, Hell’s Kitchen, etc…. Then think about all the money that is made….it’s serious money!

But that is what you see on tv.  That is what drives the networks.It’s all about money and viewership. It isn’t about helping the economy.  Sure you get a few winners and a few million is given away, but who does it help?

What about all of the local organizations that get together to help each other out while competing for your hard earned money and time!

Time is short and money is tight for everyone.  But if you have a roof over your head, food in the cupboard, a computer, cell phone  or even a job – count your blessings!  Pass those blessings on.

I look around on the news and see disaster and destruction with a few positive human interest stories thrown in between and realize how fortunate I am – unemployed and all!

So I share the following to make the world a better place:

1. Find a cause;
2. Give of time and money;
3. Share your resources;
4. Don’t be greedy;
5. Trust God,
6. Spread the word!

Look, I am not telling you what to do, I am merely suggesting how we can make this a better place.  If I am on the couch watching who the next top model will be or trying to figure out who I love to hate – then I am not helping out in my community.  In other words, don’t think less of self but think of self less!

Think about it, what if your family lived in Haiti, Mexico, needed a transplant, or just some blood – wouldn’t you like it if some helpers were there for you?  That is all I am saying – you are already great – but let’s be great together to make this a better place to live….

At least be an organ donor – It could be the last great thing you do!

I will tell you why – because LFTV is involved with a film project in San Antonio and a bunch of us got together to help bring awareness to the project…”The Way Out!”

Some made money.  We didn’t – in fact we gave our booth away so others could make money.  It took, time energy and lost income. And it was hot!

But guess what….It was a blessing.  We made new friends, heard great music, took part in a Red Carpet and my daughter got to hang out in the pool all day!  So special thanks go to Brandy Lopez, Rene Salazar, Ruben Resendez, Hot Henrietta, Cleto Rodriguez, Lisa Johnson, Mystic Knights, Coach Lowry, Network for Young Artists, Gill Jimenez, Javier Covarrubias, A First Class Limousine AUEDA, the San Antonio Film Council, SA Film Works, all of the Clarion staff, Fashion Group International (San Antonio), the models, Jesus Alvarez, Free Apartment Locators,  Next Day, Yung Fyngas, Canela, Victoria Acosta, Ruben Acosta, Danny de la Paz, Jesse Borrego, Johnny Bibbs and everyone else…Forgive me if I left anyone out…

And Boy – it was a scorcher too.  So many special thanks again – thanks to all and may God Bless all of those who helped here and who help around the world within their community.

It will pay dividends in the end and God always pays back.  Remember, You cannot out-give God!

And to all who read us – thanks. To all who comment – thanks to you too – We appreciate your comments.  Please  keep them coming and if you really want to reach us, send a comment to Latinfusiontv@gmail.com.

Take care, God Bless and Cool Runnings mon! – Michael

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:

1. Keep up the great work and God will shower you with Abundance;
2. Stay Humble and focused;
3. Persevere and don’t give up on your dream – more people appreciate it than you know;
4. Don’t forget what it took to get you there; and
5. 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”

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

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…

1. Pay attention to all cars in all lanes, especially if you are in a fast lane mode;
2. Respect the fast lane if you want others to respect it for you;
3. Don’t make phones while driving;
4. Don’t text while driving;
5. Try not to zigzag through traffic;
6. Keep an eye on what is going on with the vehicles in front of you;
7. Give yourself an opportunity to adjust to traffic, not react to it;
8. Use your blinker;
9. Adjust your rear-view mirrors; and
10. 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!

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.

1. 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.
2. Teaching responsibility is very important, including the little things that can mean so much;
3. Teaching children about choices is more important, along with the consequences of bad choices;
4. 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 -
5. 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…
6. 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;
7. Teach them about spirituality, worship and Faith – these things will get one through the good and bad times;
8. Love your children – I love both my kids and I let them know it by saying “I Love You!”;
9. Being a man does not mean not showing emotion – it means knowing when to show emotion;
10. Be gentle when they do wrong – yelling is not telling, telling is not teaching and teaching takes patience; and
11. 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;
12. 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

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.

1. I want to be the person these dogs think I am.
2. They great me with joy when I walk in the door – I should do the same with people I like/love.
3. They have taught me the great responsibility of being a pet owner – I have to follow a schedule and be disciplined.
4. They get me out of me and to think about something or someone other than myself.
5. They have done for me something I could not do for myself – go for a walk.
6. 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!
7. They are joyful when they go outside.
8. They are inquisitive and somewhat careful – two things I am working on.
9. They eat when hungry and drink when thirsty – I will work through both, without tending to my own needs.
10. A pissing contest is just that – a pissing contest! It is unnecessary and can get messy pretty quick.
11. 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.
12. 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!
13. 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