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By Michael Lopez

After a one year hiatus, the ALMA Awards were back in full swing this weekend as Demi Lovato, Pitbull, and Jessica Alba graced the red carpet. Held at L.A.'s Civic Auditorium, the event honored quite a few Tr3s faves for their contributions to the entertainment realm.

We, for one, love the fact that the ALMA nominee list is so diverse. Where else would you see Rico Rodriguez nominated for his Modern Family role? (Which he won by the way.) Sure the Emmys have the glitz and glam, but the ALMAs always pack an emotional punch.

One big moment happened when Demi Lovato accepted her award for Favorite Leading Actress In A TV Comedy. Stepping up in a shimmering tan gown, the Sonny With A Chance star graciously thanked the audience and sent out some very excited tweets.

"YAYYYY!!!! I can't believe it!!! Thank you guys so much!!!!! #ALMAwards," she posted.

Other TV stars who received ALMAs were CSI: Miami’s Adam Rodriguez, Cote de Pablo from NCIS and Selena Gomez' Wizards of Waverly Place mom Maria Canalis. George Lopez, who co-hosted the event with Eva Longoria, got some big applause as well when he nabbed Favorite TV Reality Star for his now-defunct Lopez Tonight series.

Prior to the big night, Lopez posted a very funny dressing room Twitpic of himself drinking a bottle of Don Julio.

On the music side of things, Glee's Naya Rivera won for Favorite Female Music Artist, while Pitbull scored yet another award as the night's Favorite Male Music Artist.

But perhaps the ALMA we're most happy about is the one that was handed out for Favorite Movie. The moving drama A Better Life took home top honors (and deservedly so) for its strong Latino message.

Of course, there are plenty more memorable moments of the night that are yet to be revealed. But we won't have to wait long to see them. NBC is broadcasting the event this Friday night.

Are you planning on watching the ALMA Awards? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags A better life, Adam Rodriguez, ALMA Awards, Award Shows, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Celebrities, Cote de Pablo, Cultura, Demi Lovato, George Lopez, Hot Stuff, Maria Canalis, Naya Rivera, Rico Rodriguez

By Michael Lopez

Car buffs have known about the Mastretta MXT for years, but now the Mexican-made sports car is one step closer to being a reality. The official website has begun taking orders for the high-performance vehicle, which is expected to run at around $60,000 U.S. dollars a pop.

Truly a one-of-a-kind entry to the automotive world, the MXT prototype was first unveiled at the 2008 British International Motor Show. Sporting a sleek two-seats design, the car garnered praise for its uniquely shaped headlights, compact body, and posh black interior.

The MXT also has a Volkswagen inline engine that allows it to reach 124 mph without breaking a sweat. It can supposedly go 0 to 60 in 4.6 seconds and weighs less than 2000 pounds.

The Mastretta is actually brainchild of (you guessed it) a car maker named Mastretta, Daniel Mastretta to be exact. A famed Mexican engineer who actually designed many of the country's public transit buses, Daniel is very excited about his new four-wheeled creation.

"We needed to create a great car because Mexico has no tradition of sophisticated sports car manufacturing," Mastretta said when unveiling the MXT. "It is most important that our customers are delighted by the new MXT. That's what we aimed to do from the first drawing of the car, but we also want to make our country proud of the MXT and to show the world what we can do."

Not surprisingly, Daniel is regarded as quite the hometown hero by his countrymen. His factory is based solely in Mexico and employs a vast staff of local mechanics and engineers. So far, their goal is create 25-30 MXTs this year and over 250 by end of 2013.

With its trendy design, affordable pricing, and ability to smoke other rides on the highway, we wouldn't be surprised if the MXT becomes quite the automotive sensation. Who knows? Maybe it'll even make an appearance in Fast Six!

What do you think about Mexico's newest sports car? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cars, Cultura, Daniel Mastretta, Mastretta MXT, Mexico, MXT

By Larry Yepez Jr.

Beetlejuice 2, Beetlejuice 2, Beetlejuice 2!  If we say his name three times Hollywood will make the sequel to the 1988 Tim Burton classic!

David Katzenberg and Seth Grahame-Smith's production company KatzSmith has just signed a two year first-look deal with Warner Brothers, and the first thing on slate for them is the long-awaited sequel to Beetlejuice, the 1988 Tim Burton-directed hit starring Michael Keaton as the title character, with Geena Davis, Alec Baldwin and a young Winona Ryder.

The  good news is that the film won't be a remake. The intention is to "reboot it" by advancing the storyline of the original. Grahame-Smith recently worked with Tim Burton on his current project, Dark Shadows,so he's familiar not just with Burton's style, but with writing for beloved and spooky characters from our past. (Dark Shadows head vamp Barnabas Collins will be played by Johnny Depp.)

Now a vast majority of Beetlejuice fans are not very thrilled about the ghoulish sequel idea. Beetlejuice is a cult classic film and was a pioneer in terms of special effects and make-up, winning an Oscar for the latter. So the sequel comes with a lot of hesitation and much expectation to not tarnish the unforgettable Beetlejuice image in our minds.

In the 90's with the Beetlejuice-mania still boiling, the sequel Beetlejuice goes to Hawaii was in the works with Burton as director, but thanks God it wasn't made. It would have been a huge flop!

So now, 23 years or so later the continuation seems a bit out of place. Will Michael Keaton still play Beetlejuice? 'Cause another actor would be hard to believe, it's gonna be tough to fill Bettlejuice's shoes!  Maybe a remake would be a better idea than the Part 2?

Are you excited about the Beetlejuice sequel or do you think it's a bad idea?

Tags Alec Baldwin, Beetlejuice, Blogger: Larry Yepez Jr, david katzenberg, Geena Davis, johnny depp, Katzsmith, Michael Keaton, seth Grahame-Smith, Tim Burton, Winona Ryder

By Michael Lopez

There has been a lot of good news for young Latinos looking to further their education. For one thing, California's Dream Act moved one step closer to completion. On Wednesday, the state Senate approved a bill that would give undocumented students the opportunity to receive financial aid. And beyond that, there have been some very encouraging stats about Hispanics enrolling in U.S. universities.

According to the latest study from the Pew Hispanic Center, 1.8 million Latinos are currently pursuing a higher education. Obviously that large number is very encouraging, but what makes it even more incredible is the fact that Hispanic college enrollment is up by 24 percent since 2009.

News like this could have an extremely positive impact on the Hispanic-American culture. And if things continue with the upward trend, you can expect to see a lot more Latin doctors, lawyers, and PhD's in the workforce.

"Improving the educational attainment of young Hispanics would improve the long-term socioeconomic prospects of the nation's largest minority group," Pew researcher Richard Fry said. "It would not only be beneficial for Hispanics themselves but would also raise the education and skills of the nation's future work force."

The study also went on to illustrate how the increase of Latino college students equates to a decrease in high school dropouts. Pew Research stated that as of October 2010, the Hispanic high school completion rate was at nearly 73 percent.

Many also equate the increase to more opportunities for the modern American Latino. Following up on the study, CNN spoke with student Erica Ruiz, who seemed very grateful that she had been given educational opportunities that her parents weren't.

"My parents always encouraged me to go to college and get educated," said Ruiz, who is Mexican-American. "Because they didn’t get the opportunity."

And with September now in full bloom, expect to see a lot more Latino "Back To School" ads popping up between your favorite shows.

What do you think about the latest Hispanic education stats? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Back To School, Blogger: Michael Lopez, California DREAM Act, College, Cultura, Education, Pew Hispanic Center

By Michael Lopez

Even though the New York International Latino Film Festival (NYILFF) ended earlier this week, its films continue to resonate. The seven-day event brought out heavy dramas, cultural documentaries, and even some Español-tinged animation. But most importantly, it showcased a beautiful array of talented Hispanic moviemakers.

Media outlets all over the country picked up on the buzz that NYILFF was generating. One flick that seemed to capture attention was Andy Garcia's Magic City Memoirs . Though Garcia didn't direct the film, his attachment as a producer helped bring it to the forefront. Memoirs has been described as a beautiful coming of age story (and features a notable performance by Andy's daughter, Dominik Garcia-Lorido).

Chico & Rita also caught the eye of the critics, partially because it was the first animated film to ever open the festival. Drawn with a unique and colorful style, this salsa-inspired movie is set against the backdrop of 1940's Cuba.

But if you're curious about which flicks actually took home NYLIFF awards, look no further than Maria My Love. Maria won for Best U.S. Film and deservedly so. It's not political and it's not Latino-centric, rather this movie is about family and the struggles they go through after a major loss. Its universal acclaim makes us think writer/director Jasmine McClade Jizelle has a very bright Hollywood future ahead of her.

El Regreso won for Best Foreign Film. This one has a lot more Español elements mixed into its plot as it chronicles a man's emotional journey from New York to Costa Rica. NYLIFF's Best Director honors went to Aaron Burns for Blacktino. Described as one of the festival’s funniest films, it definitely has a thought-provoking edge with its explorations of the Afro-Latino experience.

Over 100 movies were screened throughout the week, each with their own unique flair and perspective. NYLIFF also showcased quite a few up-and-coming actors, including America’s Lymari Nadal (who we'll definitely keep our eye on). Though the festival has now wrapped up, you can still visit the official site for more details on all of the selections.

Are you a fan of independent cinema? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Aaron Burns, Andy Garcia, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, Jasmin McClade Jizelle, Lymari Nadal, Movies & CineMás, new york international latino film festival, NYLIFF

By Michael Lopez

It's hard to believe that Hispanic Heritage Month is just a few weeks away. This year, you can expect quite a few famous faces honoring everything Español, including your favorite characters from Sesame Street. Yup, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch, and more are ready to get in touch with their inner Latino.

September 26th marks the kickoff of Sesame’s 42nd season and its creators have plenty of fun episodes planned. The one that we're most excited about is entitled, "The Latinization of Marco."

Based around the character of Gina, the episode will follow her as she learns about the culture of her adopted Guatemalan hijo. Marco, Gina's son, arrived four seasons ago and has been very popular with Latino viewers. He also happens to have a few famous fans as well.

In the "Latinization" episode, Marco will get to meet both Juanes and Sofía Vergara. Vergara will teach him (and the home audience) several important Spanish words and Juanes will discuss South America and perhaps whip out his trademark guitar.

The Sesame staff seems to be very excited about the special episode, especially since it encourages viewers to learn new languages.

"Sesame Street’s curriculum fosters children's natural inclinations to ask questions and encourages investigation and experimentation in order to make new discoveries,"Sesame Workshop Vice President Dr. Rosemarie Truglio explained.

And though they won't be appearing in the "Marco" episode, plenty of other high-profile Latinos have lined up appearances for season 42. Expect to see Rico Rodriguez, George Lopez, Bruno Mars, and even Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor in the upcoming weeks.

Additionally, Sesame has booked Nicole Kidman for her first-ever appearance and locked in Robin Williams, Conan O'Brien, and Carmelo Anthony for drop ins. But we have a feeling that it won't be the celebrities getting the littlest viewers excited. They can look forward to brand new "Super Grover" segments.

Do you still watch Sesame Street from time to time? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Celebrities, Cultura, Hispanic Heritage Month, Juanes, Sesame Street, sofia vergara, Television

By Michael Lopez

Does it really take thousands of dollars and months of research to show that Latinos love movies? We could have told you that based on our Pelis and Popcorn articles. But just to "prove" a point we already know, Briabe Mobile has released new scientific data about Hispanic moviegoers.

According to their recent findings, 75 percent of American Latinos go to a movie theater at least once a month. And seeing how Briabe is a mobile company, they made sure to throw in some cellular stats too.

Their research shows that 39 percent of Latinos with mobile devices use them to watch movie trailers. They also reported that tech-savvy Peli fans use their handhelds to find showtimes and read reviews (a specialty of mobile Blogamole we might add).

And don't think this data is just to keep casual film fans entertained. Briabe plans to use it to attract mobile advertisers and to push movie advertising towards the Hispanic community.

"This report proved to be a treasure trove of relevant information for both the entertainment industry and marketers," Briabe CEO James Briggs said, "as it highlights numerous opportunities for deploying mobile strategies to successfully get Hispanic moviegoers into theaters."

But are Hispanics easily swayed by those tiny pop ups that appear on their smartphones? According to the report, the answer is yes. One out of every four Latinos interviewed for study said they are influenced by mobile advertisements. Interviewees also said they enjoy discussing the movies they watch on social networks like Facebook and Twitter.

Obviously Briabe has tapped into some very valuable information. People in the industry even predict that strong Hispanic moviegoer data could lead to more Latino-centric films. Let's just hope that they're not as "corny" as the stuff Esai Morales has been watching.

How many times do you go to the movie theater in a month? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Briabe Mobile, Cultura, iPhone, Movies & CineMás, Technology

By Michael Lopez

There are certain artists that just seem to transcend cultural barriers. Enrique Iglesias is an example, as is Shakira. And though he's been gone for over three decades, you can add Elvis Presley to that list too. Believe it or not, the "King of Rock n' Roll" has a massive international fan base, particularly in Latin America.

This week marks the 34th anniversary of Elvis' passing. And just like every year, it creates for a huge influx of Presley devotees to the singer's legendary Memphis estate. Thousands showed up for a memorial at his  Graceland home with flowers, candles, and well wishes for the fallen star. And not surprisingly, several of those fans happened to be Latino.

"Elvis' music keeps the family together," said Paula Penna, a fan who had traveled from Brazil. "I promised to come every year to pay tribute to Elvis because he is very important to the family life."

The King had a particularly important role in Penna's family life. She met her husband at an annual Elvis vigil.

And don't think that Latino celebrities aren't included in the Presley fan club. Thalía has been very open about her devotion to the King and even recorded a simulated duet with him for the popular Viva Elvis tribute album.

Another well-known follower happens to be Edison Peña, one of the more colorful "Los 33" miners. After being rescued last summer, Peña literally sung Presley's praises on the David Letterman show, breaking out into "Suspicious Minds" during the middle of his interview.

And in case you didn't know, Bruno Mars started his career as a pint-sized Elvis impersonator. He even posted a YouTube clip of the King on his Twitter account this week.

But of course, none of these tributes will even begin to compare with what the fans have in store next year. 2012 marks the 35th anniversary of Presley's death and you can bet there will be a massive amount of Blue Suede Shoe wearers making their way to Graceland.

What's your favorite Elvis Presley song? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Bruno Mars, Cultura, Edison Pena, Elvis Presley, Los 33, Música, Thalía

By Michael Lopez

It's hard to believe that racism towards Latinos still exists in this day and age. But the sad truth is, it does and California's Attorney General, Kamala Harris, released some alarming statistics that prove it. Apparently, the state's anti-Hispanic hate crimes have increased by nearly 50 percent within the past two years.

That number is quite shocking, especially when you consider that the same report showed a major decline in the number of hate crimes against other prominent minority groups. So why have Latinos suddenly become the new target?

Many are saying it has to do with the anti-immigration movement and certain rhetoric coming from the mainstream media. The Huffington Post listed off names like CNN's Lou Dobbs and former Congressman Tom Tancredo as examples of well-known personalities who have helped fuel the hate.

Of course, none of the TV commentators have ever advocated violence against Latinos. In fact, it's still rather dumbfounding to hear how many California Hispanics were targeted in 2010 alone. The statistics showed that 199 Latinos were the victims of hate crimes that year (compared to 81 in 2009).

Attorney General Harris was adamant about prosecuting those responsible and making sure anyone caught committing such an act was severely punished.

"A crime that is motivated by hate is a crime against all people," she said. "We will monitor and prosecute these cases to the fullest extent of the law."

And don't think California is the only culprit. In Boston, a local pub is being sued by the Attorney General's Office for refusing to serve Latino customers. Though a bar spokesperson has denied the charges, the case states that Hispanic and African-American patrons were asked to leave because they didn't "look like the type of people" the owners would know.

Amazingly, even a Virginia State Senate candidate is being accused of racism toward Latinos. Democrat Barbara Favola reportedly told her Hispanic opponent that he had "no base" in the primarily Anglo district where the race was being held.

Even though a lot of these anti-Latino stories can be overblown by the media, they pose an interesting question. Is there still a lot of racist sentiments toward the modern Hispanic community? And if so, what can be done to reverse it?

Have you ever been the victim of racism? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Barbara Favola, Blogger: Michael Lopez, California, Cultura, Hate Crimes, Kamala Harris, Politics, Racism

By Michael Lopez

How many times have you seen a Disney fairy cartoon and wondered what it would be like if one really existed? Sure it seems far-fetched, but in Mexico one local man claims to have found "the real deal" and says he has the evidence to prove it.

Jose De La Luz caused a media sensation when he reported that he had captured an actual winged-fairy. Supposedly nabbed from a tree outside his home, Jose's discovery attracted local news crews, curious bystanders, and tons of hardcore Tinkerbell fans.

But when the cameras zoomed in on the creature, the concept became harder and harder to believe. For one thing, De La Luz’ "fairy" looks very similar to something you might find in a Toys 'R Us discount aisle. Sporting red boots, gloves, and a creepy ponytail, it came off very manufactured.

Of course, it will be hard to discourage all of the firm believers. All we're saying is, if Jose starts selling any patented fairy dust on eBay, it's time to get a little skeptical.

Do you believe in fairies? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, Fairies, Jose De La Luz, Strange News