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

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”

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

“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:

1. Never take freedom for granted;
2. Respect our troops, they protect our freedoms;
3. Love one another, especially those that sacrifice their time for yours;
4. Learn to forgive, you never know how much time we have on earth;
5. Get outdoors and enjoy – I hadn’t been to the river in months and it was beautiful;
6. Enjoy your family while you still have them;
7. Don’t over drink and ruin a good time for others;
8. Be grateful for your freedoms;
9. God is bigger than me and my problems; and
10. 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!

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:

1. Be genuinely interested in others and what they have to say;
2. Don’t interrupt to tell your story – listen first;
3. Ask sincere questions;
4. Share how they have influenced you so they know that what they do is actually appreciated;
5. Make them feel comfortable in speaking with you;
6. 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

I want to start by saying Hi and Thank You!  to all  who continue to support us  through our Journey and our Dreams.

Which brings me to a subject  that I feel is very Important to me. recentley,  we went and  gave  our Support  to  someone dear to me and many of us in our Community – Jesse Borrego.  Jesse happens to be a great actor, but also a very Humble person.  He is always ready to give back whether it’s a little or alot.  Jesse as well as myself  believe that when you come out and show your support, Especially when it comes to reaching out to students who work so hard in pursuing their education and in hopes to earn a degree and follow their dreams and journey, we believe that by way of helping in raising funds to help with a Scholarships, can make a difference!

It creates Encouragement rather then Discouragement, With alot of our Schools going through Hardship, the Amount that was raised recently will help a student to at least get him to NYU in hopes that he will continue his education there.

I live my life to make a difference, and  supporting others is a huge factor in my heart, God Blessed me with my gift and it remains open to help others whether it’s a little or alot it can some how make a Difference!

I encourage everyone  reading my Blog that if there is a Fundraiser taking place for a wonderful cause, just showing up can be of great support!

A friend just told me that when I support, He loves that I do it with such a Beautiful Attitude, Thank You Brandon Olmos my Brother in Christ!

To all the Students I say this don’t ever think that there is not a way to afford your education, We are here to Support you and make a Difference  in your Life remember you are the Future!

God Bless you  and Thank You Jesse Borrego (We Love You)

“We Walk By Faith and Not By Sight”

Brandy Lopez

Fiesta is the largest event in our Beautiful City of San Antonio.

Organizations work all year to prepare for their cause and alot of funding is raised, and just to be able to be a part in volunteering our time for such great cause is a Blessing.

But today I want to share with you about someone who is dear to me and LFTV, one who has always volunteered his time with his music and his humility with the world.

Sam Watkins, country music artist/ songwriter from Austin, Texas is one artist that I feel everyone should get to know.  Far more than his musical talents but because he is involved in helping families find  missing children. This is a mission very close to his own heart, as a parent of a missing child.

Sam wrote and recorded a song titled “Baby Girl” which has since become a song of Hope for the Families of missing children.

When he gives to his community he gives it with alot of Love from the heart, Sam and his band came to San Antonio to  our Christmas Gala and  brought a huge bag of toys to share with children, who other wise would have nothing to unwrap on Christmas morning.

He reaches out to other communities, and is always ready to help out in anyway he can.  He is Blessed with a strong team  and his wife Tina, who supports and manages his career.

Sam will be traveling, with his band, throughout the states and Europe will be sharing the importance of protecting your children, and will share with the world his Great love for Music, and I can say this he has a voice that cannot be missed and should always be heard.

Thank You Sam for your beautiful music, the support you give, But most of all to the faith and hope you share with families who deal with lost or missing children.

Now, what does this have to do with Fiesta, you ask? Lots!

Please be mindful of your children at all times and keep them close by.  Fiesta, or any other large event, is not the time to give young children the autonomy to roam free! This is family time and nothing ruins that more than the hurried, harried feeling of being separated from your loved ones in a large crowd! AND the feeling of a missing child is enough to make any parents heart drop!

IF you get lost or separated – have a plan – before the event.  Something like this:

1. Have a plan before you get there;
2. Find a specific spot to meet if separated;
3. Notify authorities immediately if person is not at meeting point;
4. Utilize cell phones and other means of communications; and
5. Do not deviate from this plan…

As I said, nothing is worse than tragedy at an event, but you can always be prepared.  We are not pessimists, but instead realists! And we want you – and yours – to enjoy the beautiful Fiesta San Antonio and any other event for that matter.

Viva Fiesta!

Blessings – Brandy Lopez / Michael Arellano