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By Michael Lopez

We may still be a long ways away form the next Hispanic Heritage Month, but that doesn't mean that more cultural strides aren't being accomplished.  Interior Secretary Ken Salazar has announced an initiative to preserve important Latino sites as national landmarks.

Focusing particularly on Colorado and New Mexico, Salazar pointed out several key locations that are worthy of national attention. He explained how American minorities are in dire need of more landmarks, not just for preservation, but for cultural pride.

"Less than three percent of all the national landmarks we have are designated for women, Latinos, African Americans, or other members of minority groups," Ken recently stated. "That tells you that the score is not even."

Salazar actually oversees the country's National Park Service and is considered to be the Obama administration's most senior Hispanic official. He hails from Colorado's San Luis Valley and (not coincidentally) has put that area on his list for preservation.

The San Luis Valley is Colorado's oldest town and contains the state's oldest church. According to Ken, it also includes several "nationally significant American Latino heritage sites." Salazar's other mission is to preserve New Mexico's Sangre de Cristo mountains, which he believes would make a great national park.

"I think when you look at the way Americans most understand the history of Latinos in this country, a lot of it is being told now through the lens of what’s happening with the immigration debate," he went on to say. "While that's an important debate that has security and moral implications, in my view, there's also a huge history of Latinos in the United States that's never been told."

Ken may definitely have a point and there's a good chance that the President is listening. With the 2012 elections right around the corner, this type of recognition could be just the thing Obama needs to get in the good graces of Latino voters.

What's your favorite national landmark? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, Education, Ken Salazar, National Landmarks, Politics, President Barack Obama

By Michael Lopez

We're not quite sure what Benetton's latest ads have to do with selling clothes, but they certainly are attention grabbing. The famous fashion house has decided to get political with their new campaign, by releasing doctored photos of world leaders locking lips.

The ad that seems to have gotten the most attention showcases a passionate kiss between Barack Obama and Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. We've got to admit, the Photoshop skills being used here are pretty impressive, but they're also causing a whirlwind of controversy.

The White House has already spoken out against the ads, criticizing Benetton for using the President to sell their products.

"The White House has a longstanding policy disapproving of the use of the president's name and likeness for commercial purposes," D.C. spokesman Eric Schultz said.

Several other nations seem to be irked by the campaign too. Besides the Obama/Chavez pairing, Benetton has shown smooch shots between France's Nicolas Sarkozy and Germany's Angela Merkel, as well as Pope Benedict XVI and Egypt's Mohamed Ahmed el-Tayeb.

What do you think about Benetton's new ad campaign? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Angela Merkel, Barack Obama, Benetton, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Chisme, Hugo Chavez, Mohamed Ahmed el-Tayeb, Nicolas Sarkozy, Politics, Pope Benedict XVI, popnews, President Obama, Style, United Colors of Benetton

By Michael Lopez

Citizens of Brazil, Chile and El Salvador got to catch a glimpse of Barack Obama this week as the President kicked off a five-day Latin American tour designed to focus on such issues as immigration, trade and energy.

Although President Obama had planned to visit the Mayan ruins in El Salvador on Wednesday, he instead boarded an early flight back to the U.S. to meet his security team and strategize about the ongoing Libyan conflict.

“It's logistical," National Security Council spokesman Tommy Vietor said. "He's doing a call in the a.m. with his national security team, and thus will not have time to visit the ruins. So he'll be wheels up a couple hours earlier."

That’s not to say that Obama’s visits were unproductive. The U.S. President and newly-elected Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff signed deals on energy cooperation and opened up discussions about future trade negotiations.

"[Obama and Rousseff] understood each other, they get along well,” said a senior Brazilian government official. “That will be of enormous help on any issues that may be difficult. The most critical part is that Dilma can now pick up the phone any time and call Obama because they established a good personal relationship."

While in Chile, Obama praised the country for its economic growth. Meeting with President Sebastian Piñera, he emphasized continued U.S. support and worked to mend the tumultuous history between the two nations.

"I think it's important," Obama noted in a Chilean joint press conference, "that we're not trapped by our history. And the fact of the matter is, that over the last two decades we've seen extraordinary progress here in Chile and that has not been impeded by the United States but, in fact, has been fully supported by the United States."

El Salvador proved to be the quickest leg of the trip, due to Obama’s early exit. Nevertheless, he was able to meet with President Mauricio Funes and even pledged $200 million in economic aid, which he said the government would use to fight against “the social and economic forces that drive young people to criminality.”

Do you think President Obama has helped strengthen ties between the U.S. and Latin America? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Barack Obama, Brazil, chile, Cultura, El Salvador, Latin America, Libya, Politics, President Obama

By Michael Lopez

President Barack Obama and Mexican president Felipe Calderon held an important meeting in Washington yesterday, discussing everything from international drug violence, to border revisions, to the NFL. By all accounts, the summit went well, with both agreeing to now permit Mexican cargo trucks into the U.S. for trade.

The “truck debate” turned out to be a major point of the discussion between the two presidents. Business leaders have long pressed for easier cargo truck accessibility between the nations, particularly in regards to NAFTA. Union heads, on the other hand, fought against it, believing the influx of Mexican truckers would take away American trucking jobs.

The compromise reached by the leaders would let trucks from Mexico cross the U.S.-Mexico border as long as they met all of the required U.S. safety standards. The deal would also remove the tariffs charged on goods the trucks carry, which equal nearly $2.4 billion a year.

Of course, Obama also expressed concern about the increased drug violence occurring in Mexico.

“I have nothing but admiration for President Calderon and his willingness to take this on," President Obama said during the press conference. "And the United States will support him in any ways we can to help him achieve his goals, because his goals are our goals as well.”

Those “goals” have been an increasingly strong stance against the Mexican drug cartels. Since taking office, Calderon has beefed up his police force and taken the offensive with the country’s most violent criminals. Unfortunately, the cartels have fought back and claimed responsibility for thousands of executions.

Calderon expressed hope that, with the continued U.S. support, his country will ultimately be victorious in its battle against cartel violence.

“I think that here, not just in terms of weapons, guns, we have to think in a much more open manner and seek much more creative solutions,” Calderon explained. “It seems to me that we are experiencing extraordinary circumstances that call for extraordinary actions by our governments.”

Of course, the presidents discussed more than politics. When answering questions from reporters, Obama explained that Calderon’s wife had a particular soft spot for the NFL, particularly Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez.

"I will say that at the state dinner the first lady of Mexico seemed quite excited to see Mark Sanchez there," Obama joked. "I don't know if that was of concern for you."

Are you happy with the current relations between the U.S. and Mexico? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Barack Obama, Felipe Calderon, Mexico, Politics, President Obama

By Michael Lopez

Since the founding of our country more than two centuries ago, the annual State of the Union address has provided our nation's presidents the opportunity to speak directly to U.S. citizens about our country's problems, successes, goals and agendas. This week, President Barack Obama did exactly that, addressing such issues as innovation, job creation, taxes, health care and immigration, and pushing Congress to pass The DREAM Act.

“I know that debate will be difficult and take time, but tonight, let’s agree to make that effort,” he said, adding that he was "prepared to work with Republicans and Democrats to protect our borders, enforce our laws and address the millions of undocumented workers who are now living in the shadows."

"Let's stop expelling talented, responsible young people who can staff our research labs, start new businesses and further enrich this nation."

President Obama's call to action revives a contentious debate about immigration reform. Despite Democratic efforts to push the bill through Congress by the end of 2010, Senate Republicans blocked the measure in September, which would have allowed undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children to remain in the country pending two years of college or military service.

“I think it was good that he mentioned it, but I was hoping for more," Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., told Fox News. "When he talked about it, I thought there’d be a broader discussion than what I heard.”

Republican Texas Rep. Lamar Smith disagrees, in large part because of the country's current economic situation.

"The President should put American workers first," Smith said. "While more than 14 million Americans are desperately looking for work, seven million illegal immigrants have jobs in the U.S."

Honestly, it's virtually impossible to delve into specific details about everything happening in America during a one-hour speech. But we're glad he stood up for this landmark legislation.

What did you think of President Obama’s State of the Union address? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Barack Obama, Daniel Hernandez, DREAM ACt, Immigration, Politics, President Obama, State Of The Union, the DREAM Act

These are times of change. Today, President Barack Obama will be talking to the youth of the Nation and answering questions from the studio audience as well as those submitted from viewers via Twitter. Tr3s wants your opinions and feedback! Come join "la gente" and share your thoughts and your opinions on this 'Conversation with President Obama'.

You can watch it all right here on Tr3s.com starting today at 4pm EST. ¡No te lo pierdas!

Tags A conversation with President Obama, MTV NEws, Obama, President Obama

By Michael Lopez

He’s helped the pets of Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith, and now ‘Dog Whisperer’ Cesar Millan, has some input for the most powerful pooch in the country. When speaking with CBS’ Lesley Stahl, Milan offered some tough love for Bo, the family canine of the Obama household.

Viewing a picture of Barack Obama and his large, curly Portuguese Water Dog, Cesar disagreed with the walking stance the President was taking.

"Day one was not a good scene. The dog always in front of the president of the United States. If your dog doesn't learn how to follow, you'll never have a disciplined pet."

Originally given to the Obamas as a gift from the late Senator Ted Kennedy, Bo has gotten plenty of media attention in his one year (or seven dog years) of life. He’s got his own Wikipedia page, been covered in dozens of news articles, and seems to be greatly adored by First Daughters, Malia and Sasha.

But does Bo have too much power in the White House? According to Cesar, it’s not uncommon for the Presidential dogs to assert authority from their famous masters. When speaking about George W. Bush and his dog, Barney, Millan said:

“He walked the dog in front. Barney? Sometimes he didn't want to go inside the helicopter!”

Perhaps it’s time to tighten that leash!

Source: [Politico]

Are you a fan of Bo Obama? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3!

Tags Barack Obama, Bo Obama, Cesar Millan, Dog Whisperer, George W. Bush, Obama Family, Oprah, Will Smith

By Michael Lopez

It may have happened over 60 years ago, but it is a still a huge revelation. According to recently discovered documents, from the years 1946-1948, the United States deliberately infected mental patients in Guatemala with sexually transmitted diseases.

Image: Hess

Supposedly conducted to test out vaccinations for illnesses like syphilis and gonorrhea, the news led to public apologies from both President Barack Obama and Secretary Of State, Hillary Clinton. A public statement by White House press secretary, Robert Gibbs, was issued as well:

"Obviously this is shocking, it's tragic, it's reprehensible. It's tragic and the U.S. by all means apologizes to all those who were impacted."

Current Guatemalan President, Alvaro Colom, was not aware of the tests and appears to have accepted the U.S. apologies. Embassy official, Fernando de la Cerda, went on to say, “We appreciate this gesture from the USA, acknowledging the mistake and apologizing. This must not affect the bilateral relationship.”

Bordering Mexico and El Salvador, Guatemala is considered to be one of the 10 poorest countries in Latin America. Back in the late 1940’s, it had seen longtime dictator, Jorge Ubico, overthrown and was in the middle of what was historically deemed as the “Ten Years Of Spring.”

During that time, the country appeared to be more prosperous under the presidency of Juan Jose Arevalo. Was he actually in on the experiments the United States was conducting? That isn’t necessarily clear, but the U.S. government has ordered two independent investigations to uncover exactly how this happened.

The details we have so far are that a total of 696 men and women were intentionally infected with STDs. Though a majority were institutionalized mental patients, soldiers and prisoners may have been deliberately inoculated as well.

We, for one, are glad that the information has been made public. It seems like it could have been very easy to sweep the whole incident under the rug. However, by admitting the mistakes and reaching out to Guatemalan leaders directly, America is bringing at least some closure to this terrible ordeal.

Source: [Daily Mail]

What do you about America's experiments in Guatemala? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3!

Tags Alvaro Colom, Barack Obama, Guatemala, Hillary Clinton, Politics

by Wendaline Perez

Hope was at an all-time high yesterday (September 21) among youth, political and community activists around the nation who have been relentlessly advocating for the passage of the DREAM act - which would give the chance for thousands of undocumented students to remain in the U.S. legally and pursue a higher education – as they awaited to hear the Senate’s verdict on the passage of the Defense Authorization Act, which included passing the DREAM Act as an Amendment this afternoon. Unfortunately their DREAM evaporated when a group of Republican senators voted to block the defense bill in the Senate.

photo via Getty Images

The Senate failed to raise the necessary 60 votes to pass the Defense Authorization Act, but it was in no doubt a close call. The vote was uncertain all the way up to the vote as Democratic leaders were reportedly trying to negotiate an agreement with Republican senators who were against the bill to reach the 60-vote count they needed to proceed. In the end, the vote was 56 to 43 against proceeding to the Defense Authorization Act.

Deferral of the DREAM Act is a setback to DREAM Act advocates who were hopeful they had the votes to pass the bill this time. Mary Giovagnoli, Director of the Immigration Policy Center, responded quickly to the Senate’s decision stating:

"The Senators who voted 'no' today are ignoring unequivocal evidence that the DREAM Act is good for military readiness, the American workforce and the U.S. economy. The energy and enthusiasm of thousands of young people who have poured themselves into promoting the DREAM Act has not been wasted, however. Because of their efforts, more people today understand the importance of DREAM to our economy, our military, and the future of our country than ever before."

What do you think about the Senate’s rejection of the DREAM Act? Sound off in the comments below or @MTV3!

Tags Cultura, Education, Immigration, Politics, the DREAM Act

They say don't judge a book by it's cover, but can you judge a man by his Twitter? In our latest installment of Twitt3r Analyz3r, fans & Blogamole attempt to dissect what their favorite celebrity tweets reveal...

By Sugey Palomares

President Barack Obama isn't the only one wishing to "kick someone's ass" about the historical BP oil spill on the Gulf Coast. Jessica Alba also sounded off about the leak that has endangered animals and coastal businesses after an estimated 47 million gallons of oil blasted into the coastal waters.

"The Killer Inside Me" actress recently posted via Twitter:

"So BP denies that thr R underwater plumes. wht do U think? regardless ths is the by far 1 of most devastating man made disasters. Terrible."

Alba isn't the only celeb voicing her opinion on the dilemma. Kevin Costner actually came up with his own oil spill separator invention! No joke. The actor spoke star spoke in front of the House Subcommittee on Environment about the tool he developed for $20 million of his own money! Now that's making a difference!

According to the New York Times, BP has tentatively agreed to pay $20 billion for victims of the spill, and that doesn't include more billions that will be spent on clean up costs.

What are your thoughts on the oil spill in the Gulf? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3!

Tags Chisme, Jessica Alba, Latinos, MTV, Oil Spill, Politics, Tr3s, Tres, Twitt3r, twitter