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By Michael Lopez

It may be hard to believe, but Halloween has been known to bring out racial undertones. Usually it's never intentional, but certain outfits that party stores deem as "funny" or "topical" can actually be offensive to various minority groups. And now, a student organization at Ohio University has started a campaign to call out politically incorrect costumes.

Using the slogan "We’re a Culture, Not a Costume," the school's Students Teaching Against Racism (STARS) organization has created a series of ads that may make you rethink what costumes cross the boundaries of good taste. Broken down into a series of five posters, the images depict Latinos, Asians, African-Americans, Native Americans, and Middle-Eastern cultures.

For the Latino-inspired ad, a student of Mexican origin is seen holding a picture of a derogatory Halloween costume. The imagery depicts a stereotyped ranchero, happily riding a donkey. For the Middle-Eastern ad, a somber teen is flashing a picture of a terrorist with a bomb strapped to his chest.

STARS issued a statement along with the posters (which has gotten a huge amount of viral attention),

"[Our mission is] to educate and facilitate discussion about racism and to promote racial harmony and to create a safe, non-threatening environment to allow participants to feel comfortable to express their feelings."

Bloggers across the web have picked up on the campaign and lent their support. And many have expanded STARS motto well beyond the theme of Halloween.

"The We're Not a Costume campaign may be timed for Halloween, but it's a reaction to an attitude that's accepted every day as normal," Arizona University newspaper columnist Kristina Bui wrote. "[Racism] manifests itself not in slurs and exclusion, but in stupid jokes and really inaccurate costumes. It doesn’t announce itself, and it’s complicated."

We couldn't agree more. Plus, with so many other costume ideas out there, why even go down the poor taste route? Just throw on an Angry Birds outfit, get some candy, and have fun!

Have you seen a lot of racist costumes on Halloween? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Agentes De Cambio, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, Halloween, Kristina Bui, Ohio University, STARS, Students Teaching Against Racism, We're A Culture Not A Costume

By Michael Lopez

Te gusta Paulina Rubio's "Me Gustas Tanto" video? Right now the verdict seems to be a little mixed. Pau Pau's new clip definitely has a big budget behind it, but many are complaining that it lacks the pizzazz of what a kickoff single should represent.

In essence, "Me Gustas Tanto" is meant to stir up interest in Paulina's long awaited 10th album, Brava! Rubio hasn't released a record in nearly three years and if this is supposed to be her comeback, it may leave a bit to be desired.

Mixing in synthesized beats, an auto tune chorus, and robotic flairs, "Tanto" almost sounds like it could have been a leftover track from JLo's Love? sessions. Nevertheless, Pau Pau's record company is putting a lot of money behind it, with promotions throughout the YouTube and VEVO channels.

But despite its shortcomings, there's still a lot to like about the "Tantos" video. Rubio has sexy scenes where she's doused in glitter and using a provocatively placed leaf to cover her private parts! Not bad for a 40-year-old mom.

What do you think about Pau Pau's new video? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Brava!, Hot Stuff, Música, Me Gustas Tanto, Paulina Rubio, popnews, Videos

By Michael Lopez

There is no denying that Geraldo Rivera has a big mouth. In fact, he makes his living reporting stories for outlets like Fox News. But the Puerto Rican journalist may have said a bit too much when he revealed details about his 1970's tryst with Better Midler. Speaking on Joy Behar's show, Midler shot back with some hilariously humiliating words.

"I had sex with Geraldo but I don't think I would write about it," Bette jokingly said. "It was nothing to write home about. It was nothing to write about!"

For the record, she did admit the story was true. But everything else pretty much painted Rivera in a very bad light.

Geraldo has become notorious for name-dropping his former romantic partners. In addition to Bette, he claims to have bedded Liza Minnelli, tennis pro Chris Evert, and singer Judy Collins. We've yet to hear their feedback. But don't be surprised if, after this latest ratings boost, Joy invites them all for a visit.

What do you think about Bette's comments? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Bette Midler, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Chisme, Chris Evert, Geraldo Rivera, Joy Behar, Judy Collins, Liza Minnelli, popnews

By Michael Lopez

Honestly, it's hard to go into Puss In Boots without a little hesitation. Is this movie going to be a fantastic adventure with Antonio Banderas' swashbuckling kitty? Or an excuse for Dreamworks Animation to juice more money out of the Shrek franchis? Truth be told, it's a little of both. But thankfully, with a winning cast, engaging story, and touches of Latin flair, we're declaring it a winner.

Puss is actually quite an accomplishment in the Hispanic movie making realm. Never before in the U.S. has a mainstream animated film featured two Latin leads. And boy do they help sell the project. Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek fit their feline alter egos perfectly and have just as much chemistry in the cartoon world as they do in those Robert Rodriguez movies.

Director Chris Miller deserves a lot of the credit too. Taking cues from Clint Eastwood westerns and modern day action movies, he's crafted some incredible animated sequences. There's even an homage to Antonio and Salma's first onscreen collaboration, Desperado (flamenco guitars and all).

Despite the fact that our favorite green ogre is nowhere to be found, Shrek fans will find a lot to enjoy with Puss. Known as somewhat of a mysterious character in his last three animated outings, we now get the full Boots back story (including some adorable scenes with him as a kitten).

In his younger years, we learn that Puss formed a bond with an egg-shaped troublemaker named Humpty Dumpty. Though cheery at first, Humpty (voiced by Zach Galifianakis) soon shows some bad guy tendencies and, along with a mischievous cat named Kitty Softpaws, lures Puss into all kinds of trouble.

From there, it's all the typical fairy tale fare you'd expect from a Shrek movie. Giant beanstalks, a demented Jack & Jill, golden eggs dropping from the sky…you get the picture. Though the Puss story doesn't necessarily break new ground in the originality department, the witty dialogue, 3D effects, and fast pace will keep you entertained throughout.

Bottom line: There is no denying that you'll be belting out some solid laughs while watching Puss In Boots. Antonio Banderas is in full machismo mode with this character and that alone may be worth the price of admission. But if you're looking for some Pixar-caliber storytelling, you may be a tad disappointed. Puss doesn't quite live up to all of his swashbuckling potential, but he comes pretty darn close.

Are you planning on watching Puss In Boots? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Antonio Banderas, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Chris Miller, Movie Reviews, Movies & CineMás, Puss In Boots, Salma Hayek, Shrek, Zach Galifianakis

By Michael Lopez

Victor Ortiz seems to be a real renaissance man these days. He's achieved fame as a boxer, rapped on music tracks, and is now looking to launch his own chain of taco eateries. TMZ caught up with the former Welterweight Champ, who explained his desire to become a world class restaurateur.

"We're looking into some locations right now [for the restaurants]," he explained. "We're going to keep it close to home, with tacos and such. It should be interesting and good."

And considering that Victor earned a cool $2 million from his most recent Mayweather fight, we're sure he's got plenty of cash to invest. Judging by his interview though, the Ortiz taquería is still in the very early planning stages.

Victor did share a name with the interviewer. Apparently, his new chain will be called V.O. after his own initials. And perhaps if he really wants to stir up business, he can get the staff to serve up food in their underwear!

Would you eat at Victor Ortiz' taco restaurant? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, boxing, Food, Restaurants, Sports, Victor Ortiz

By Michael Lopez

It seems like Christina Milian can't escape the lure of television these days. Outside of being linked to a new sitcom, the pop star has just signed on to be a social media correspondent for NBC's The Voice.

Milian will be replacing last year's correspondent Alison Haislup and work towards, as the network put it, "bridging the gap between on-air and online." We actually think Christina will make a great fit, particularly since she has such a strong presence on Twitter.

Just this week, Milian happily tweeted about the new gig, saying,

"I'm officially your eyes and ears behind and beyond the stage for The Voice so if you're a major fan you may wanna follow me!"

And in case you're wondering, The Voice’s other Christina has yet to comment on the news. But with all those guy judges around, we’re sure she’ll enjoy some female companionship on the set.

Are you excited about seeing Christina Milian on The Voice? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Christina Aguilera, Christina Milian, Hot Stuff, Television, The Voice

By Michael Lopez

If you thought SB 1070 was harsh, wait'll you hear about HB56! Singled out as one of the most racist laws in the country, Alabama's new initiative can allow schoolchildren to be yanked out of class if their teachers suspect they are undocumented. Thankfully the backlash is growing fast and, with your help, it can be repealed soon.

Voto Latino has already created an online petition that will help spread the word to Alabama State Senator Bill Beasley. Beasley himself calls the law "mean spirited" and is pushing hard to shut HB56 down.

An appeals court has also stepped in and temporarily blocked the law, but it is extremely important to have a voice in this issue and let lawmakers know these initiatives won't fly. Particularly because to get HB56 permanently overturned, we'll need the support of the federal government.

Voto has been aggressively Tweeting and Facebook messaging their followers to increase support. All their form requires is your name, email, and zip code. You can also attach a personal message if you feel impassioned to do so.

We think Voto Latino summed the movement up perfectly with their closing statement on the site. "We Can Stand Up To Hate," so click that form and make a difference!

What do you think about Alabama's HB56 law? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Alabama, Bill Beasley, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, HB56, Immigration, Politics, SB 1070, Voto Latino

By Harry Pagancoss

Halloween is upon us and so are the coolest and most terrifying parties around. If you have not made any plans yet or, if you have, here are some options you may still want to consider. After all, they are the best and meanest as they promise to scare you a little or a lot. Beware!

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, The Magic Kingdom

The Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and at and Disneyland both have a family-friendly after-hours event called "Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party".  The Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade includes Disney Characters and the stars of the Haunted Mansion attraction and begins with a spook-tacular ride by the Headless Horseman. There's also Happy HalloWishes, a fireworks show where the Disney Villains go trick-or-treating in the sky, and visitors can see many favorite Disney Characters and Disney Villains in special Halloween costumes. Special lighting, music and theming effects transforms special areas of Magic Kingdom theme park into happy haunted hollows. Dates remaining for Walt Disney World’s celebration are October 27, 28, 30, and 31, and November 1.

Halloween Horror Nights, Universal Studios in Hollywood & Orlando

Lady Luck is the force behind this year's event, and she awaits those brave enough to challenge her and take a chance.  Her main weapon is choice, and her desire is for you to make yours.  But no matter what you decide, you can't escape the terror she has in store at Halloween Horror Nights. Remaining days are October 27-31.

Forest of Fun and Howl-O-Scream, Busch Gardens Williamsburg

The Williamsburg theme park celebrates its 13th anniversary of Howl-O-Scream with resurrected fan favorites from years past and new haunted houses, scare zones and shows built around the theme The Dark Side of the Gardens. The motto is "Not for the faint-hearted" with parental guidance strongly encouraged. Howl-O-Scream's evil clowns are back and they have taken over Festa Italia in the Fear Fair haunted house and the Grin and Scare It scare zone. New haunted houses like Dead Line offer a modern spin on some classic scares while 13: Your Number's Up, which is returning after a 13-year hiatus, forces guests to face their darkest fears. Remaining days are October 28-30.

Thrills by Day and Fright by Night Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson, New Jersey

Just 90 minutes from New York City, Six Flags offers Fright Fest, one of the most terrifying Halloween events in the world! With numerous horrifyingly delightful haunted terror trails, shows and rides, you and your friends will have the fright of your life. Remaining dates: October 28-30.

So, which one are you going to attend? Send me your coolest Halloween custom pictures to: hpagancoss@facebook.com

Tags Disney, Halloween, Halloween Horror Nights, Harry Pagancoss, Mickey, Six Flags, Universal Studios

By Michael Lopez

Ok, now we're REALLY curious about Adam Sandler's new movie, Jack & Jill. Not only does it have the SNL alum playing himself and his twin sister, it's got Eugenio Derbez playing a gardener and a 90-year-old grandma!

Derbez posted a very funny Twitpic of himself this week in full abuela garb. Looking at it up close, it's clear the Jack & Jill makeup team did an incredible job. Everything from the scraggly gray hair, to the wrinkled up liver spots are picture perfect.

"Ya me dieron permiso de subir una foto de la 'abuelita' que hago en la película con Adam Sandler: "Jack & Jill” 11 de nov!!" Eugenio excitedly posted with the snap.

Now the only question is, how does Granny Derbez fit into the story? Eugenio made sure to keep a tight lip about that plot point, but we're sure it will deliver some big laughs. And as if that wasn't enough, we've also heard that movie legend Al Pacino has some great LMFAO moments too.

Are you planning on watching Jack & Jill? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Adam Sandler, Al Pacino, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Eugenio Derbez, Jack & Jill, Movies & CineMás, twitter

By Michael Lopez

It sure looks like President Barack Obama made the most of his recent visit to Los Angeles. Not only did he get to enjoy the signature flavors of Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles, he got to mingle with stars like Antonio Banderas, Eva Longoria, and George Lopez!

Banderas even so far as to host the Prez at his private home. Monday night, Antonio and his wife Melanie Griffith welcomed Obama for a private event. Catering mostly to Latino fundraisers, the affair attracted over 120 guests at $5,000 a ticket.

Lopez and Longoria were spotted shaking hands with Barack, as was L.A.'s Mexican-American mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa. Hoping to stir up Hispanic support for his 2012 re-election, Obama pledged to fight for immigrant rights and fix the economic crisis.

And proving that he could still connect with the public at large, the President hit up Jay Leno's Tonight Show too. While there, he touched on important issues like the death of Moammar Gadhafi, the withdrawal of troops from Iraq, and what candies his wife plans to hand out on Halloween.

Will you be voting for Obama in 2012? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Antonio Banderas, Antonio Villaraigosa, Barack Obama, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Celebrities, Eva Longoria, George Lopez, Jay Leno, Melanie Griffith, Politics, President Barack Obama