Honor Roll Time

I was among four honorees receiving the Armando Peraza Award at the recent 8th Annual edition of the Voices Of Latin Rock Autism Awareness Benefit at Bimbos 365 Club in San Francisco.  I was contacted several months ago by “Dr. Rock” himself…Bernie Gonzalez who wanted to honor my contributions to the Music and Latino/Hispanic communities through my various endeavors including my years as a radio producer and host.  What a thrill it was to be introduced by an old friend, KCSM’s own Chuy Varela to a the full house made up of celebrities, music stars, community activists and old friends.  I had a speech planned but was a little thrown off by being asked to come up first.  So I was able to wing it successfully and was able to thank everyone that I wanted to thank…whew!  What an event!  Entertainment was provided by The Family Stone featuring original members of Sly Stone’s old band Jerry Martini, Cynthia Robinson and Greg Errico performing rousing versions of the old hits,  the fresh edgy Latin rock of singer/songwriter Blanca Sandoval and the funky pop/rock band led by Miles Schon (son of Neal Schon) and Wil Champlin (son of Bill Champlin).  After all the hoopla has died down, my plaque is placed proudly on top of my fireplace.