How did you spend your Memorial Day? Did you support any of the activities that took place in and around our community? Did you give thanks to the troops you saw? What about pay homage for all those that paid the ultimate sacrifice for our Freedom?

I participated in the Paseo del Rio’s Armed Forces River Parade and the Brothers of Fallen Heroes Memorial Day Ceremony at the Alamo.

On Memorial Day, we celebrate the lives of those men and women who died while serving our country. They, and all military personnel, put their lives in the front line for our Freedom today. We should always recognize and remember those who serve, and have served, our country.

It was an honor to be one of the invited Guest Speakers in front of the Alamo. I was there with other dignitaries and special guests. It was our way of saying “Thank You” to our Military.

The day started with a caravan of about75 cars and motorcycles that begun at the BOFH Headquarters and ended at the Alamo.

As the caravan made its way through the Southside of San Antonio, I noticed so many people running outside their homes to wave and say “Thank You” to our Military. There were cars pulling over to salute and I noticed many of them were Veterans themselves.  It touched my heart as they yelled out “Thank You” and “God Bless You!”

As we arrived in front of the Alamo the Ceremonies began with the Color Guard presented by The Boy Scouts.  The National Anthem was sung by one of our Active Duty Heroes, and BOFH Queen.  As usual it brings tears to my eyes along with the lump in my throat.

Isabelle Sanchez, San Antonio’s newest youth sensation sang “Hero,” and dedicated it to ALL of our military heroes. If you haven’t heard her sing – she has a golden voice. I could see people wiping tears from their face.

There was a lady there, looking at the Texas Wall Monument of our MIA’s and Fallen Heroes, who turned to me and softly said: “My son served eighteen months in Iraq, yet was killed in a motor cycle accident.” How sad the tragedy. He is still a hero in my eyes.

On another note, God brings us together to remember that we should help each other and our neighbors. This support is very important to me. I ask that you look deep into your heart and ask yourself if you support the community like you should.

I know we all get caught up in our busy schedules, but the tragedies in Oklahoma and West, Texas could happen to us at any time.

I am always grateful for what God blesses me with, and I thank him for the great people He puts in my path.  I see the great things you do for our community without expecting anything in return.

I send a Special Thank You to the Zimmerle Family, Javier Covarrubias and the artists who gave their time for the relief concert and food/clothing drive to help.  It was the best Sunday I spent out in a while and I was glad to attend. It was a Great Day!

We gathered boxes of clothing and delivered them to the Cadillac Bar and Restaurant. I pray that they will be of good use to many of the families. We don’t do this for the thanks, but knowing we help brightens my day.

So the next time you hear of an event like this, stop what you are doing and see if you can help. It may not be a huge concert, but it is a humble event that comes from the Heart!

And remember, today it was someone else, but tomorrow it could be you or your family in need!

Finally, I have decided I will be run for Riverwalk Queen for 2014. Like the Rey Feo, the one who raises the most money wins the Crown. This year we will have lots of fundraisers, parties and fun times.

We will start setting up the donation page on the Latin Fusion Tv website. Every dollar counts so we will need your help. I hope I can count on your support!

Finally, I want to say: God Bless America, God Bless Our Troops and Happy Father’s Day to all the dads! Spend time with your children and children – spend time with your fathers!

Make every day a great day; have a great summer and remember to “Walk by Faith and Not by Sight!” Brandy Lopez

Well, Fiesta has come and gone, I hope you had fun and were safe.  I enjoyed making Royal Appearances as the SA Riverwalk Princess. I didn’t do too much, but what I did was special.

I was blessed to be part of the South West ISD 2^nd Annual Special Olympics. To watch these incredible students participate in their sports activities was amazing. If you are of sound health and mind, do not take it for granted – these participants have overcome so many challenges that it makes me appreciate what gifts God has given me. They are gifted in so many ways and they are beautiful gifts from God!

Also, I participated in this year’s Texas Cavalier’s River Parade. Grammy Award winner “Little Joe” and KENS 5 Great Day SA TV personality, Eileen Teves were on the float. What a blast!

NIOSA is always fun! We ran into old friends and made new ones. As always, there were tasty foods and cold beverages!

N.E. Methodist Hospital had their Inaugural Fiesta Shoe Box Float Contest. I was one of the judges.  Being a judge is fun, but it is hard to choose winners. To me, all the participants were Winners and the floats were cute! Great Job!

Another one of my exciting endeavors was to be part of the production team for Daniel Baldwin’s  Film project “Wisdom.” Working with everyone on the set was a wonderful experience. What makes a set great is a strong team. When we all come together and help each other out by working together, especially with clear communication, things seem to flow better.

Daniel is fun to be around – he really enjoys a good laugh. And if he sees that someone needs help, he is ready to lend a helping hand or just listen. You can see his kindness when he welcomes you, and he makes you feel right at home. I instantly felt like one of the family.  He takes his project’s serious. He is a true professional and he taught us all a lot.

I am glad that I was able to help as much as I did. I have been nicknamed “Google Brandy!”

I see great things happening within the film industry.  My greatest hope is that we continue to help each other, work together and give our local talent the opportunity to showcase our talents. God has blessed us with so much. Now it is time to put it all together.

I learned so much working behind the scenes. It takes hours of hard work, time, effort and patience. “Thank You, God” for giving me the opportunity to be part of a film project that shares a message of hope and may save someone’s life.  “Thank You” Daniel and Veronica!

Special Thanks to everyone who sponsored delicious catering to the film cast and crew: Suzette Thomas and Ann; Arizona Cafe /Linda and Eddie Bocanegra; La Madeline; Wal-Mart/ Robert Romo; HEB/ Melinda Zepeda; Bernard’s Creole Kitchen and Independent Functions.

The Wrap Party was very nice. Everyone enjoyed the evening with great Bar-B-Q provided by Lydia and her Husband Dr. Robert Spencer. Daniel surprised us all with an awesome fireworks display by the lake.

So what’s next you ask? On May 18th I will be judging at the La Vernia’s 35th Annual Blue Bonnet Parade floats. I look forward to lots of fun at the Festival. After all, we are celebrating the Bluebonnet Fest – our State Flower! Thank You to La Vernia’s Lions Club! Please support!

Other than that, I move on to my next project. I can’t share it at this time but it will be great!

Now, what really makes May Special? Mother’s Day, of course!

I Thank You God for my beautiful mom, who is always waiting with open arms and lots of love for all of us. My mom not only has a loving heart for her children and grandchildren, but one that is big enough for an entire Army!

Thank You God for blessing me with a heart like my mom and my Grandmother, who both are “Angelita’s”i in my life.

Para Toda La Madrecita’s  “Feliz Dia De Las Madres” Que Dios Las Bendiga Siempre!

So for now it’s a WRAP! So continue to “Walk By Faith And Not By Sight” – Brandy Lopez

Hello to all my Beautiful Family, Friends and Fans – I hope you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving and enjoy another wonderful Holiday Season. It is important to give Thanks to God and His son Jesus Christ for all the blessings he has given us.

At times, it appears that there is little reason to be thankful, and that things are tough and we go through difficult times – but we must give thanks and give back.

You may remember that last year we spent Thanksgiving at the Hospital, with Diamond on life support and near death.  This year was much better and I am grateful.

I am thankful because I was blessed with the opportunity to share a Thanksgiving meal with my Daughter Diamond, her brothers Erik and Oscar, and to see her precious face, her beautiful and glowing smile and to hold her and love her was a gift from God. To be with her was a miracle.

I am also blessed with a roof over my head, food on the table, clothes on my back and my health. I know that financially times can be hard, but I am grateful this holiday season. God always provides!

I try not to think about what I don’t have or wish I had, because I know that in time God will bless me with what He feels fit to. I do know that He Blesses me with my Heart of Joy to give back to my community.

Speaking of which, it is time for the 7^th Annual SA Star Gala. At the SA Star Gala, we collect and distribute toys in San Antonio and the surrounding community.  It is about giving back and showing that we are thankful by adding joy to our community.  .

My Joy and Happiness is helping and sharing with those less fortunate and this is wonderful way to do so.  If I can be an angel for them then that is who I will continue to be.

What I am trying to say to you is that this Holiday Season while you are out buying gifts find it in your heart to by one gift and give it to a child in need.  Trust me, to these children it is not about the value of a gift but value of a Heart that cares..

The gala will be over by the time this issue comes out but I will still be collecting toys.

Also, I am also running for the Paseo del Rio Riverwalk Queen. Currently, I am the reigning Duchess of the Riverwalk.  I need your support.

The one who raises the most money wins the crown.  I am asking for your support.  If you can afford $10 or $20 dollars to the cause – I would be honored to represent you in a manner befitting San Antonio.  I want to take it to a new level.

I really am asking for your help. And we have lots of items to giveaway and to do a drawing so your donation will get you a chance to win some prizes.

You can donate online at www.LatinFusionTv.com or you can contact me on facebook or at LatinFusionTv@gmail.com.  Whether I win or not, I will continue to give without expecting to receive anything in return.

I will be having one last gathering at Davenport’s on January 11.  It is the last opportunity to raise money.  Davenport’s is located downtown at Presa and Houston.

Finally, I want to thank all of you for your support over the years and as of late.  I want to wish all of you a wonderful and safe Holiday Season.  I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

And remember to always Walk by Faith and not by Sight! With Love – Brandy

Saludos to all our readers! The Holidays are almost here. Please be safe and remember it is better to give than it is to receive. So please be sure to give this Holiday season – even if it means volunteering your time.

Now, getting impatient is something that I have a hard time dealing with. When things don’t move quickly – I get nervous.

When we hear the phrase “It’s Gods’ Timing,” it’s usually as we wait on something to happen. But things happen when God wants them to not when we expect it because it is His time – not ours.

But as times goes on, I see that God is working in my favor. It is then that I realize that having Faith in God and trusting in His plans has helped me to be less fearful.
And when fear starts to creep up on me, I must ask Him to remove it and then thank God for all his Blessings. Fear is not from God and could lead to discouragement. This could mean trouble.

I have been told to focus and do what is in front of me. This is something that I have struggled with, but it is wonderful advice. I hear it often and it helps me to see things differently.
It is true that if we focus on what is in front of us, the rest will fall into place. God plays a huge role in this. God will always do for us what we cannot do for ourselves – and He will do it in His time!

BUT waiting is not enough – we have to do our part. Faith without works is dead.

AND we should never lose faith when things don’t go the way we want them to or move as fast as we expect. His timing is powerful and filled with strength and love. And He puts the right people in your life.

So, take a good look at others and see what they really stand for! Are they genuine? This is something I come across daily, trusting people too much. If they ask without giving anything back – be careful!
The reason I share this is because God has put so many great people in my life. Some give and some take so we have to be careful. But I also have to look at myself to make sure that I give back and not just take.

That is why I am helping with the National Society of Hispanic MBA’s 2012 Gala on Wednesday, November 28 at the Club at Sonterra. Monies raised will go to scholarships to further the education of our future leaders.

We want to thank everyone for their support to help us raise money to make me the Paseo del Rio Riverwalk Queen. Goto: Facebook.com/Brandy Lopez for Riverwalk Queen for more info.

A special thanks to all the volunteers, family and friends that helped and came out to support. The Brisket was awesome – thanks to the cooks! The fellowship was even more fun. And great big hugs and love to Quest College and Dr. William Elizondo.

We are partnering with Quest College who will be sponsoring Brandy’s Toy Boxes at their two locations. Thanks to our new friends at Quest!
Get ready for the 7th Annual Una Noche con las Estrellas Toy Drive and “Funraiser.” which will be on Thursday, December 6 or 13 at Leon Springs Dance Hall. Black Tie Catering will provide the food and Richard Ojeda and Debbie Gonzaba do a great job. Expect Great musical surprises this year and lots of celebrities. Again.

Last year we partied with lots of friends and San Antonio Celebrities. We had a blast and helped more than 250 families in need with gifts and toys. Our goal this year is to help 500 families. Let’s make this happen.

Finally, appreciate those that go above and beyond to help you for your events and don’t take them for granted, because it comes from the heart.
Never listen to those that complain, especially gossip, because… if they gossip to you they will gossip about you.

Remember, God is the most High and will always be there for you regardless of the circumstances or situation. We just have to understand His timing and His work through faith, patience and trust.

Stop and take a breather – look around and realize that God has given us so much in life and continues to do so. And always remember to Walk by Faith and not by Sight!!

With Love – Brandy Lopez

August was a busy and exciting month for me and many others, especially with the start of another school year.  I want to share with you about embracing and celebrating community events and how easy it is to “Make a Difference!”

As I look forward into September and October and prepare for what God has in store for me, I look back at the blessings God presented me this past month.

I spent my time going to auditions, acting, and emceeing while helping within the community.  In doing this, I realize how important our community is and how easy it is to get involved.

I had the opportunity to be the Mistress of Ceremonies for UTSA’s Alumni Scholarship Gala.  It was an honor to be among so many of our leaders, including UTSA President Dr. Ricardo Romo and his beautiful wife, Dr. Harriett Romo.

It was a full house and as I gazed throughout the ballroom, I saw the commitment to education that each individual has given to be an inspiration for themselves, their loved ones, and for others.

The Mystic Knights held their annual School Supply Drive.  This year they included their commitment to the SouthTown Lions by adding an eyeglass drive.  The Mystic Knights have captivated my heart as they constantly reach out to help less fortunate children and families.

With the help of his family, local car clubs and community leaders, Carlos Martinez, Mystic Knights President (who also writes for Street Talk), collected supplies to ease the financial burden on families so the students can focus on education.

As he addressed the crowd, he mentioned that even a pencil can make a difference as it gives students something to write with. We were moved by his speech. The Knights are an inspiration.

The Ambassador Project SA, led by Professor Joe Michael Gonzales held their inaugural fundraiser to provide students with Scholarships.  They raised $1,300 in their first attempt. Great Job Guys!

Jaime Martinez celebrated his 66^th birthday at Pueblo Hall with about 150 of his closest friends.  Jaime let me emcee his party, which included Congressman Lloyd Doggett, Commissioner Tommy Atkinson and many others.  But the real gift was listening to Jaime play his trumpet with Little Henry and the Legends band.  What a great night!

We helped the Latinos in Action Hispanic Sports Hall of Fame Induction raise money for scholarships.  The inductees included SA Talon’s record-setting Quarterback Aaron Garcia; NFL Pro-Bowl Guard Max Montoya; High school Basketball Superstar Denise Forestier; and Dr. Henry Cisneros, who received a Lifetime Achievement Award.  The LIA has presented more than $90K in scholarship monies in the last 18 years.

I am excited to say that I got an opportunity to play a part in an upcoming film.  Filmed here in San Antonio, it included me acting with legends in the film industry.  What an experience! I learned that if you just show up, great things can happen.  Will keep you posted on the film.

On October 13th, I will receive an Outstanding Women Role Model Award from the Image De San Antonio.  Proceeds will also go to scholarships. What an honor!

On October 6, from 3 to 8 pm, more than 25,000 Rubber Ducks will race down the San Antonio River to benefit Haven for Hope and Paseo del Rio Association! Adopt a duck for $5! Hope to see you there.

I want to wish all the students a great and successful year.  You are the future so do your best, ask God for guidance and open your mind to learning.

Do not Bully.  If you know of anyone being bullied, speak to your parents and your principal and stand up for the little guy.  You have the right to be you, get an education and be an example to others.

As always, Saludos to all of the men and women who serve and have served our country in the military, you are our heroes.

Giving back to your community is a way to “Make a Difference!” Giving of time is as important as giving money.  Big or small, fundraiser or community awareness events, these all give us an opportunity to build bridges and remove barriers.

God has blessed you with a gift – Please, let us give together, these gifts given so freely by Father God!

I thank you for your continued support, walking with me on my journey and ask you Make a Difference.  And remember to always “Walk by faith and not by Sight!” - Brandy

We hove you enjoy this wonderful interview.

http://youtu.be/FTXGR7m7wWY or

Check out this candid interview with Latin Fusion Tv’s Brandy Lopez Despierta America’s Poncho de Anda as they discuss the joys of Fatherhood!

I am a Father, and as such, I have responsibilities…to my children, their mother, my parents and friends. As a Father, I have a responsibility to make the world a better place. I must set a good example and be diligent to the fact that others (and my children) are paying attention – not to what I say but to what I do.

I am to be patient and kind – something I struggle with, but constantly work on. I am human, I make mistakes; I get angry; I raise my voice; I have trouble with my emotions; I occasionally gripe and complain but I am a positive person. I am often mistaken as rude when I am straightforward. But I am genuine.

I struggle in so many ways but strive to be a better person every day. I can be considerate, loving and giving, to a point. I have learned to help others, to be a man of my word and do what I say I will do. But I do fall short. When I fall down, I get back up and I never give up! And with My Fathers’ help – I have the ability to go on.

When I speak about My Fathers – I speak about two fathers – My Father in Heaven and my influential fathers here on earth. I love them dearly. I have learned much by watching and paying attention to My Fathers.

One has taught me love, patience, grace and mercy while the other has taught me value, integrity, honesty and fairness. Both have shown me much love by their actions and their Fatherhood!

And now, as a father, my job is to give of myself and teach the lessons I have learned.

Here are some “Lessons from My Father”:
Believe in God * Have Faith in God and Yourself * Learn to Dream * Learn to Love * Trust Your Instincts *
Follow your heart * Work Daily towards your Dream * Be careful with Your Words – they can heal and kill *
* Pray * Never Give up * Encourage others * Forgive Yourself and Others * Learn Patience * Read Daily *
Better Yourself * Be Careful with Your Emotions *It is okay to be discouraged but do not let it keep you down * Stay Healthy * Have Fun * Play Sports * Pray Often * Learn to be Independent * Learn new skills * Increase your vocabulary *Learn to Depend on others but do not be Co-Dependent * Trust God * Clean House * Help Others * Make a Difference in the lives of others * Pray even more * Do not Play games with others emotions *
Learn the difference between Needs and Wants * Teach that Difference *Love hard * Love often *
Love without conditions * Love your enemy * Love your Family * Love God with you all your heart mind and soul * Draw near to God and God will draw near to you * God will meet you wherever you are * Keep the Faith *
Do not gossip * Say Thank You * Learn to be Grateful * Love yourself – no matter what! *

There are many more, but these are my favorites. I pray daily to be a good Father and do the best I can. In short, I am here to love like a Mother and still be a Father! The lessons above have helped me.

I am grateful that I am a father – So I try to be the best Father (and person) that I can be! And today, I have purpose, love and something to share – I hope and pray that it is enough!

I love both my Children – Olivia and Joey. They are both a blessing from God! I also love my Mother, Father and my family! Thank you Lord! And to my grand-fathers Mariano and Fernando Sr., that passed last year – I miss you both, alot!

Happy Father’s Day Omar! From me, our children and granddaughter, we wish you a life of Joy, Love, and Faith. God blessed us with you. And To my son Erik – I am very proud of you as a new dad. There are so many responsibilities. God will guide you thru his footsteps, but you must learn to walk by faith and not by sight! All my Love and Happy Father’s Day – Brandy Lopez

To all the Dads – God Bless and Happy Father’s Day! – Michael Arellano

A fallen Marine’s letter to his family

I had not planned to write an essay on this holiday, but I just read a story that touched me so deeply I felt prompted to share it with you.  U.S. Marine Sgt. William Stacey was killed earlier this year in Afghanistan.  The 23-year-old wrote a letter to his family explaining why he was fighting, to be read in the event of his death.  Marine Gen. John Allen, the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan, read the letter during a Memorial Day service today in Kabul.

Sgt. Stacey wrote: “There will be a child who will live because men left the security they enjoyed in their home to come to his.  He will have the gift of freedom which I have enjoyed for so long myself, and if my life brings the safety of a child who will one day change the world, then I know that it was worth it all.”

Today we remember 1.3 million men and women who died so we could live.  Each of them left the security of their homes to defend ours.  They paid the ultimate price for their nation and for each of us.  It’s been said that the reason you’ve not received a bill for the freedom you enjoy today is that its price has already been paid.  Today we remember those who paid that price and pray for those they left behind.

As we remember their sacrifice, let us also remember the One who gave everything for our eternal life.  Paul told the Romans, “At just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.  Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.  But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:6-8).

On March 15, 1985, Wayne Alderson appeared on The Today Show.  The occasion was the 40th anniversary of his crossing into Germany, the first American soldier to do so during World War II.  He has a permanent crease on his head from a wound he received on that day.

Asked about his most significant memory of the event, Alderson told about a red-headed friend who saved his life.  Alderson had come face to face with a German soldier.  He shot the German, but not before he had thrown a grenade at Alderson which exploded and sent him face-down and wounded into the mud.  Nearby, a German machine gun began firing in his direction.  Alderson knew that if the grenade wound did not kill him, the machine gun would.

But his friend turned him over so he could breathe and threw his own body over him.  He died protecting him from certain death.  With tears welling up in his eyes, Alderson said, “I can never forget the person who sacrificed his life to save me.  I owe everything to him.  I can never forget . . . I owe everything.”

What do you owe the One who saved you? by Jim Dennison

Have a Blessed day! Michael Arellano