News (Noticias) Tagged ‘UCLA’

Over the past three decades, the income disparity between Latino and non-Hispanic white students entering four-year colleges and universities has increased fourfold, with the difference in median household income growing from $7,986 in 1975 to $32,965 in 2006, according to a new UCLA report on Latino college students.

And while the median Latino household income had increased slightly in proportional terms by 2006, narrowing the gap by 5 percentage points, Latino households still earned only 62 cents on the dollar relative to median non-Hispanic white households. “Even though Latinos had a slight increase in minimizing the racial income gap, the central tendency of the gap remains fairly large over this three-decade-long period,” said UCLA assistant professor of education José Luis Santos, an expert on economic issues in higher education and co-author of the report. “It is not surprising that adequate financial support remains critical to both college choice and persistence for Latinos.”

One in five Latino freshmen expressed major concern about the ability to finance college at the start of the school year in 2006, compared with only 8.6 percent of non-Hispanic white freshmen. While a majority of white students (60.2 percent) expressed at least some concern about their ability to finance college, Latinos were more likely to do so; of all Latino ethnic groups, Mexican American/Chicano students were the most likely (79.9 percent) to express concern. The report also shows that financial assistance was among the top factors influencing Latino freshmen in their choice of a four-year college.

National data for “Advancing in Higher Education: A Portrait of Latino College Freshmen at Four-Year Institutions, 1975–2006,” came from the Cooperative Institutional Research Program’s (CIRP) annual Freshman Survey, administered by the Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA’s Graduate School of Education & Information Studies. The CIRP data were reported by gender and by specific Latino ethnic-origin groups — including categories for Mexican American/Chicano, Puerto Rican and Other Latino — thereby highlighting population diversity unavailable in other national reports on Hispanic college students.

“We actually began monitoring specific Latino ethnic groups in 1971, which predates federal data collection on Hispanic students,” said UCLA professor of education Sylvia Hurtado, director of the Higher Education Research Institute and a report co-author.

The report also reveals a troubling trend. Even as the number of Latino students entering four-year institutions has increased, the proportion of Latino males to females decreased dramatically. Latino men constituted 57.4 percent of Latino freshmen in 1975, but only 39 percent by 2006. Although this is confirmed by other national data sources, the UCLA report reveals that Mexican American/Chicano males experienced a more rapid decline than Puerto Rican and other Latino males.

“The gender gap in educational attainment across most racial/ethnic groups has been growing in recent years, but this gap for Latinos has been understudied,” said report co-author Victor B. Sáenz, an assistant professor in the College of Education at the University of Texas at Austin. “There is little research that explains why these gender gaps are growing among Latino students and even less about what this gap could portend in light of the fast-growing nature of this population. Bottom line, these results help identify a problem that represents an area in dire need of more research.”

In other key findings, Latino freshmen demonstrate a strong drive to achieve relative to non- Hispanic white students and in recent years have surpassed other peer groups in these self- ratings. They are also likely to report higher degree aspirations than their peers. In most years, a higher proportion of male and female Latinos report spending six or more hours a week on studying or homework in high school than gender groups of other ethnicities. By 2006, Latinas kept pace with female whites (38 and 37 percent, respectively), and both female groups spent more time studying or doing homework in high school than Latino males (28.8 percent) or white males (25 percent). Latinos work hard to make the grade, perhaps because of the challenges they face or the general belief that hard work leads to success, the report authors said.

“These findings serve to counter the myth that college-bound Latinos lack the effort, preparation or academic motivation to succeed in college,” Sáenz said. “Quite the contrary, these results suggest that Latino college-bound students are among the most driven and motivated to achieve, a finding which puts the focus back on colleges, who need to better cultivate those initial predispositions among their entering Latino students.”

Although the population of Latino non-citizen or English-language learners is not increasing in representation at four-year colleges and universities, those freshmen in the “Other Latino” category are twice as likely as Mexican Americans/Chicanos to state they are not citizens, and they are more likely to report that English is not their native language (35.3 percent), compared with Mexican American/Chicano students (31 percent) and Puerto Rican students (16.2 percent). Legal status was not asked on the survey.

Although well over 90 percent of Latinos and non-Hispanic whites have now achieved the recommended years of high school preparation in English, mathematics and foreign language study set by the National Commission on Educational Excellence in 1982, fewer Latinos students than whites report having taken the recommended two years of physical science (56.5 percent and 61.4 percent, respectively), and both groups have a way to go to meet biological science course recommendations (completed by 45.3 percent and 46.8 percent, respectively).

As competition for admission to four-year institutions has increased for all students, the percentage of Latinos reporting they are attending their first-choice institution has seen a 27 percent relative decrease, compared with a 10 percent relative decrease for whites. There is a related trend of increases in college application rates. In 1975, 14.1 percent of Latinos and 6 percent of whites reported applying to five or more colleges in addition to the one they ultimately attended. In 2006, 34.8 percent of Latinos and 23 percent of whites reported doing so.

“Latinos at four-year colleges got the message and are applying to more schools, although fewer now state they are attending their first-choice institution,” Santos said. “Latinos are attracted by financial aid packages, but some of these choices may not be as close to home, where costs can be lower. The question is how Latino students from different income groups make these decisions. It is an area we want to study further.”

Latinos’ choice of intended major and career objectives has remained steady over the years, with biology, psychology, political science, business, nursing and elementary education among the top 10 intended majors at college entry.

Historically, Latinos have tended to characterize themselves as more liberal and less conservative politically than white students, and this is still true today: 43.2 percent of Latinos characterized their political views as “middle of the road,” 34.8 percent as liberal, 17.4 percent as conservative and 1.4 percent as far right. In contrast, 26.2 percent of white students characterized their political views as liberal, and 26.5 percent reported that they were conservative.

Latinos also expressed strong support, but showed gender differences, for several possible election issues: Latino women were more likely than men to agree that same-sex couples have the right to legal marital status (71.3 percent and 57.8 percent, respectively) and that the federal government should do more to control the sale of handguns (83.3 percent and 72 percent, respectively). Latino women and men both strongly support the statements that a national health care plan is needed to cover everybody’s medical costs (79.6 percent and 74.2 percent, respectively) and that the federal government is not doing enough to control environmental pollution (83.7 percent and 78.6 percent, respectively). Latino men were more likely than women to support the statement that federal military spending should be increased (29 percent and 24.1 percent, respectively), but both were less likely to do so than white students (34.3 percent).

Findings from the report will be released at the Association of American Colleges and Universities’ “Diversity, Learning, and Inclusive Excellence” conference in Long Beach, Calif., on Oct. 16.

The report also features data tables on many other CIRP survey items that are part of national norms reports on students’ high school experiences, expectations for college, academic experiences and psychosocial behavior.

Authors of the report include Sylvia Hurtado, Victor B. Sáenz, José Luis Santos and Nolan L. Cabrera.

For a copy of “Advancing in Higher Education: A Portrait of Latino College Freshmen at Four-Year Institutions: 1975–2006,” visit www.heri.ucla.edu or call the Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA at 310-825-1925.

The Cooperative Institutional Research Program has administered the Freshman Survey since 1966, surveying more than 13 million incoming first-year students at 1,900 colleges and universities nationwide. The CIRP Freshmen Survey is the largest and longest running survey of American college students, and it documents the changing nature of students’ characteristics, values, attitudes and behaviors. The data have helped shape public opinion about key issues related to the concerns of college youth and continue to contribute to critical policy considerations in education.

The Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA is widely regarded as one of the premier research and policy organizations on post-secondary education in the country. Housed in the UCLA Graduate School of Education & Information Studies, the institute serves as an interdisciplinary center for research, evaluation, information, policy studies and research training in post-secondary education.

more info at http://www.gseis.ucla.edu/heri/pr-display.php?prQry=27“

The “100 Years of Mexican Music” exhibit, sponsored by Tequila 100 Anos(TM), arrives in Los Angeles, closing a multi-city tour that began in May on a high-note. Beginning July 31, adult, legal purchase age Latinos and the general community will enjoy this unique photo exhibit curated by Steven Loza, Professor of Ethnomusicology at UCLA and Adjunct Professor of Music at the University of New Mexico.

“This is a unique opportunity for Los Angeles residents to learn and appreciate the cultural richness of Mexico through a free historical tour featuring Mexican artists from diverse music genres,” says Loza, who offered counsel to the selection of artists featured in the exhibit as well as biographical references.

“We are proud to bring to the city of Los Angeles a representation of Mexican culture that - just like Tequila 100 Anos - is inspired by its roots and created with the passion and dedication of its people. Tequila 100 Anos - along with many of the artists featured in the exhibit - has also become one of Mexicans’ favorite drinks in this country,” says Antonio Portillo, Brand Manager for Tequila 100 Anos.

Embracing the unique atmosphere of 1907 to 2007, original pictures of performers such as Agustin Lara, Pedro Infante, Lola Beltran, Los Lobos, Angelica Maria, among others, will be on exhibit for one month.

“100 Years of Mexican Music” may be appreciated Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Plaza Mexico at 3100 East Imperial Highway, Lynwood, California 90262.

About Tequila 100 ANOS(TM)

Tequila 100 Anos(TM) was created to celebrate the 20th century at Hacienda La Perseverancia, in Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico; to toast to the new and exciting moments that the new century would bring, and to renew the joy and hope of Mexican people. Tequila 100 Anos has always been manufactured with the best agave, with special attention to the artisanal elements that characterize the brand. Besides its great taste, 100 Anos features other unique elements, such as its unique handcrafted bottle, ornamental rounded edges, to reflect some of the inherent values of the Mexican culture. Today there are three different varieties: Blanco 51%, Reposado 51% and Reposado 100% Agave, offered in different sizes, 375ml, 750ml and 1.75L, and in July of this year, Reposado 1L 100% Agave.

About Beam Global Spirits & Wine

Inspiring conversations around the world, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc., is building brands people want to talk about. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for our brands, including Jim Beam(R) Bourbon, Sauza(R) Tequila, Canadian Club(R) Whisky, Courvoisier(R) Cognac, Maker’s Mark(R) Bourbon, Laphroaig(R) Scotch Whisky, Larios(R) Gin, Whisky DYC(R), Teacher’s(R) Scotch Whisky, DeKuyper(R) Cordials and Liqueurs, Knob Creek(R) Bourbon and Starbucks(TM) Liqueurs. Beam Global Spirits & Wine is part of Fortune Brands, Inc. , a leading consumer brands company with annual sales exceeding $8 billion. For more information on Beam Global Spirits & Wine, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamglobal.com/ and www.drinksmart.com/.

Drink Responsibly.

Sauza(R) 100 Anos Tequilas. 40% alc./vol. (C)2008 Sauza Tequila Import Company, Deerfield, IL

Media Contact: Melissa Rincon Ketchum for 100 Anos (404) 879-9163Tequila 100 ANOS”

LOS ANGELES, California – A national research project–A New Latino Agenda: Realities on Aging, Diversity, & Latino Financial Security–has released its latest policy report, “Who Are the Latino Baby Boomers? Examining the Demographic and Economic Characteristics of a Hidden Population.” Authored by researchers Zachary D. Gassoumis, Kathleen H. Wilber and Fernando Torres-Gil, the report looks at the historic convergence of aging baby boomers and the burgeoning Latino population. It also explicitly examines the people who fall into both categories: the Latino Baby Boomers, a population that the researchers say are largely invisible with little known about their socioeconomic characteristics.

According to Torres-Gil, “there is a dearth of information about the 10% of baby boomers who are Latino and for that reason we are delineating an ambitious research agenda to assess the implications that their aging will have for public policy, healthcare, business, communities, families, and individuals. This study is the first step toward closing the critical information gap about Latino Baby Boomers. We do know that Latino Baby Boomers experience a ‘cumulative disadvantage’ by the time they enter old age and retirement. However, much more research remains to be done before we know the full extent of their impact on society.”

The report starts with what is known: the United States is experiencing two concurrent dramatic and profound demographic changes. One is greater longevity and the second is the increasing diversity among the population. The 80 million baby boomers, those who were born between 1946 and 1962, are the largest generation in U.S. history. By 2030, the number of Americans aged 65 and older will be more than 65 million, making up 20% of the whole U.S. population.

Just as the “Graying of America” is occurring, the researchers point out that cultural diversity is a significant demographic trend. By 1997, 28% of the U.S. population was comprised of racial and ethnic minorities. Latinos, who are now the nation’s largest minority group, will make up 24% of the U.S. population and 16% of the older adult population by 2050.

Who are the Latino Baby Boomers?

The report notes that only very broad characteristics are known about Latino Baby Boomers and, as a result, it is difficult to draw clear conclusions. How this may affect retirement security is also an unknown factor. The level of detailed information and in-depth analyses has yet to be found and conducted. It is known that Latino Baby Boomers follow a similar track to the general population in terms of wealth, income, replacement rates, and poverty. While poverty rates for Latino Baby Boomers are slightly higher than for boomers in general, this disparity is less for the Latino Baby Boomers than previous generations of Latino elders.

There are a number of key research questions that need to be addressed in order to shed light on this virtually unknown population. These include the following:

• How much do Latino Baby Boomers have in assets compared to the larger baby boomer generation?
• What are their savings rates?
• What is the rate of their homeownership and mortgage debt?
• How prepared are Latino Baby Boomers for retirement?
• What effect will they have on Social Security and Medicare?

Just as important are the social indicators that will affect them in retirement as well as the effects of immigration and cultural assimilation. The implications for public policy are tremendous on several levels as the Latino Baby Boomers enter the “retirement zone.”

Wilber acknowledges that the U.S. population as whole will have their own questions as the effects of this massive demographic shift are felt throughout society. “It is only with well-researched, data-driven answers,” says Wilber, “that we can begin to prepare for the retirement of the Latinos in the baby boom generation. That’s what this new research project is all about. We hope to clarify who this invisible minority really is and how it will affect us in the future.”

For more information, please go to: www.spa.ucla.edu/main2.cfm?d=xr&f=cpra.cfm&s=Research

“A New Latino Agenda: Realities on Aging, Diversity, & Latino Financial Security” is a collaborative two-year research project of the UCLA Center for Policy Research on Aging, the USC Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center and the UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center. Funded by the Ford Foundation, the project is working in partnership with the National Hispanic Council on Aging, the National Council of La Raza and the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials.

Over the last seven years, California and nine other states have encouraged undocumented college students to pursue higher education by offering many who graduated from California high schools in-state tuition. California public universities do not ask about legal status on applications. Some private universities, including Loyola Marymount and Santa Clara, have scholarships tailored for illegal immigrants. They are not entitled to most financial aid or loans at public colleges.

Their numbers at the university level remain low. The UC system had an estimated 271 to 433 undocumented students, out of total enrollment of 214,000, in 2006-2007, the latest figure available, a spokesman said.”*

Dreams came true during the first pitch ceremony of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Cleveland Indians game, when Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Luis Maza, announced and presented the winners of the male and female 2008 Latino High School Student Athlete of the Year Scholarship, on behalf of Fox Sports en Español and Time Warner Cable.

“We strongly believe in the power of sports to transform and improve lives; which is why we want to further empower outstanding students and congratulate their high-schools by presenting them with these awards,” stated Matt Grim, Director of Affiliate Sales and Marketing for Fox Sports en Español.

One male and female recipient were selected out of a pool of hundreds of qualified applicants who excelled in their scholastic, athletic, and community achievements. Andrea Caldas of Hamilton High School, and Jesse Ramirez of Thomas Jefferson High School, accepted the awards during a moving ceremony. Each recipient will receive a $3,000 university scholarship, in addition to separate $2,000 donations from Fox Sports en Español and Time Warner Cable to the athletic departments of each of the winners’ high schools to promote athletic development.

The celebration continues for these young promising student-athletes after receiving an exclusive invitation from baseball legend and hall-of-famer, Tommy Lasorda. The students will spend an afternoon with him at Dodger stadium plus receive an all-expense-paid trip to Sacramento in the summer, to tour the capitol and meet with members of The California State Legislature.

Stephen Pagano, Time Warner Cable West Region President added, “We are thrilled at Time Warner Cable to partner with Fox Sports in recognizing the commitment and efforts of these very talented student athletes. We also congratulate their high schools, who have significantly contributed to building a strong foundation for their future successes.

“I am so grateful to Fox Sports en Español and Time Warner for this award, which will help me pursue both my scholastic and athletic dreams at UCLA,” voiced scholarship recipient Andrea Caldas. “Receiving this award is not only an honor, but a responsibility, inspiring me to continue serving as a leader in my community. I want to thank Fox Sports en Español and Time Warner Cable for this recognition,” stated Jesse Ramirez.

Fox Sports en Español and Time Warner Cable founded this initiative to recognize and celebrate those individuals who demonstrate dedication, perseverance and leadership in their scholastic, academic, and community endeavors.

Andrea and Jesse were also invited to sit in the dugout during the 50th Annual Hollywood Stars softball game, whose line-up included more than 30 celebrities. Some of the celebrities that participated were: Christian Slater, David Arquette, Cristian de la Fuente, and Sean Astin. “*

The exhibit “100 Years of Mexican Music”, sponsored by Tequila 100 Anos(TM), continues to celebrate Mexico and its music with a unique exhibit that gathers singers, songwriters, and performers who contributed to make memories and leave a footprint on both Mexico’s history and world history. Beginning June 24, adult, legal purchase age Latinos in Chicago will enjoy a free historic tour where talent and a love for Mexico — values shared by both Mexican music and Tequila, the most popular Mexican drink — meet.

“The ‘100 Years of Mexican Music’ exhibit comes to Chicago after its Houston success that attracted personalities from the General Consulate of Mexico, politicians representatives, teachers, entrepreneurs, etc. We are proud to bring to the city a valuable exhibit that represents the immensely rich Mexican culture that — just like Tequila 100 Anos — is inspired by its roots and created with the passion and dedication of its people. It’s a way to show our gratitude to the community together with Tequila 100 Anos which — along with Mexican music had acquired a traditional value recognized by Mexicans around the country,” says Antonio Portillo, Brand Manager for Tequila 100 Anos.

Embracing the unique atmosphere of 1907 to 2007, original pictures of performers such as Agustin Lara, Pedro Infante, Lola Beltran, Los Lobos, Angelica Maria, among others, will be on exhibit for one month, beginning June 24 in Chicago; and July 30 in Los Angeles.

“This is a unique opportunity in Chicago so its residents can learn and appreciate closely the cultural richness of the country represented by its more representative artists from diverse music genres,” says Steven Loza, Professor of Ethnomusicology at UCLA, Adjunct Professor of Music at the University of New Mexico, and curator and spokesman of the exhibition.

“100 Years of Mexican Music” may be appreciated at the Ford City Mall in Chicago, Ill; and in Los Angeles, Calif. at Plaza Mexico.

About Tequila 100 Anos(TM)
Tequila 100 Anos(TM) was created to celebrate the 20th century at Hacienda La Perseverancia, in Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico; to toast to the new and exciting moments that the new century would bring, and to renew the joy and hope of Mexican people. Tequila 100 Anos has always been manufactured with the best agave, with special attention to the artisanal elements that characterize the brand. Besides its great taste, 100 Anos features other unique elements, such as its unique handcrafted bottle, ornamental rounded edges, to reflect some of the inherent values of the Mexican culture. Today there are three different varieties: Blanco 51%, Reposado 51% and Reposado 100% Agave, offered in different sizes, 375ml, 750ml and 1.75L, and in July of this year, Reposado 1L 100% Agave.

About Beam Global Spirits & Wine
Inspiring conversations around the world, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc., is building brands people want to talk about. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for our brands, including Jim Beam(R) Bourbon, Sauza(R) Tequila, Canadian Club(R) Whisky, Courvoisier(R) Cognac, Maker’s Mark(R) Bourbon, Laphroaig(R) Scotch Whisky, Larios(R) Gin, Whisky DYC(R), Teacher’s(R) Scotch Whisky, DeKuyper(R) Cordials and Liqueurs, Knob Creek(R) Bourbon and Starbucks(TM) Liqueurs. Beam Global Spirits & Wine is part of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), a leading consumer brands company with annual sales exceeding $8 billion. For more information on Beam Global Spirits & Wine, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamglobal.com and www.drinksmart.com .

Drink Responsibly.

Sauza(R) 100 Anos Tequilas. 40% alc./vol. (C)2008 Sauza Tequila Import Company, Deerfield, IL “*

Aurora Anaya-Cerda is an active member of the East Harlem community as a participant and supporter of cultural and educational events. A graduate of UCLA, Anaya-Cerda has a double Bachelor’s degree in History and Chicana/o Studies and a minor in Education. She was awarded the Juanita Centeno Leadership Award and the UCLA Women for Change Leadership Award, both for outstanding dedication and service to her community. Anaya-Cerda recently received a scholarship from the New Start Fund, awarded to women entrepreneurs in New York City”*

Public relations practitioners from all areas of the industry and aspiring students gathered at the Alumni Center at UCLA Thursday, June 12 for the Hispanic Public Relations Association’s (HPRA) third annual professional development seminar. The seminar provided a forum for news and industry trends, but also brought to light the networking trends of Latino professionals in their career advancement.

Among the 60 attendees, 53 percent agreed networking was the way to get recommendations or leads for employment. Of those, 47 percent agreed that social media was the way to increase job leads and networking opportunities, citing Facebook and Linked In as sites where they have a professional profile.

While social media may be the new frontier in professional networking, face-to-face interaction remains a strong preference. More than 80% of the seminar’s attendees cited networking being one of the main incentives for attending the seminar. Attendees also cited the seminar’s association with a Latino organization like HPRA as another reason for attending since more than 85 percent noted being a bilingual Latino as a helping factor in their current employment.

“Professional development and networking opportunities for our members are a key component of the mission of HPRA,” said Ivette Zurita, HPRA President. “With this seminar and our ongoing CHARLA program we hope to bring continued education for our members and communications professionals.”

On the professional development side, the half-day seminar featured industry leaders and media experts presenting three insightful workshops on key topics to enhance communications and career-building skills.

The first workshop, “Latino Issues in the General Market Media,” presented strategies and tips on how to place stories with a Latino interest in the general market media. Led by Julio Moran, Executive Director of the California Chicano News Media Association (CCNMA), the panel included: Hector Becerra, Los Angeles Times, East Los Angeles County Bureau Chief; Minerva Navarro, New York Times, West Coast Bureau Reporter; Carolina Garcia, Daily News, Executive Editor; Christie Fajardo, KTTV-TV Fox, Reporter; and Jose Mayorquin, KABC-TV Vista L.A. / Eye on L.A., Producer. The panel presented trends in the news helpful ways to re-position stories with a high Latino interest and make them relevant to General Market media. The panel also stressed the continuous need for bilingual practitioners who can relate to and communicate news agenda items relevant to the Latino community, such as legal immigration.

“It’s important to continue to meet the need for bilingual practitioners, and programs like this seminar and organizations like this [HPRA] can continue to promote the need for this,” stated Hector Becerra, Los Angeles Times, East Los Angeles County Bureau Chief.

The second workshop was a “Crisis Communication Roundtable” that included some of the industry’s leading crisis management professionals presenting case studies and valuable lessons learned, as well as crisis communications plans and tips on how to work with the media during a crisis. The roundtable was led by Manuel Valencia, Partner, Valencia, Perez & Echeveste PR, and included industry leaders such as: Joann Killeen, APR, Fellow PRSA, President, Killeen Furtney Group; Steve Hawkins, Managing Partner, PainePR; and Sebastian White, Spokesperson, JetBlue Airways.

The third and last workshop of the day, “Strategies to Building Your Career and Your Network,” was presented by networking expert Hank Blank and addressed the need and ways to maintain professional marketability by building business relationships.

Leading companies participated in the exhibitor area to showcase new resources to the Communications field. Among the companies in attendance were Cision, PR Newswire, Marketwire, Innovative Productions, UCLA Extension and the College of Communications at the California State University, Fullerton. Special thanks to Cision, RL Public Relations, Sportivo, and Edelman Worldwide for graciously sponsoring the program and PR Week, Tu Ciudad, and Cybelle Wines for donating services.

The event concluded with a dinner that allowed attendees to speak with panelists one-on-one, meet colleagues from the California Southland, and interact with the exhibitors.

The next event for HPRA will be a Political Forum talking about the Latino vote on Thursday, August 21st hosted at and by the Los Angeles Convention Center. For more details about HPRA, please visit www.hpra-usa.org .
“*

No classroom building or dormitory at UCLA is named after Reginaldo Francisco del Valle. Nor does any plaza, fountain, auditorium or library wing bear the name of the state legislator and Los Angeles civic activist who died in 1938 at age 84.

The name does not register with most UCLA professors, and the school’s official history mentions Del Valle just once, only in passing.

Such an omission is historically and morally wrong, contends UCLA medical school professor David Hayes-Bautista. For the past several years, Hayes-Bautista has been crusading to gain recognition for what he describes as Del Valle’s crucial role in founding the state teachers college that later became the University of California’s first campus in Los Angeles.”*

In late May and early June, the Latin American Institute put on a conference addressing issues of policy in U.S.-Mexican relations and sponsored a classical music concert benefitting the UCLA Mexican Arts series, along with other events.

Near the close of the 2008 spring quarter, the UCLA Latin American Institute sponsored public events highlighting Mexico’s relationship with the United States and its important place in the performing arts. UCLA faculty members contributed to both events.”*

Research has shown that HIV-positive African American and Hispanic men who were sexually abused as children are particularly vulnerable to engaging in high-risk sex and experiencing depressive symptoms. Yet few HIV intervention programs exist to help them.

Now, a new study by UCLA’s Center for Culture, Trauma and Mental Health Disparities has found that interventions that address the life experiences of these men — including their early sexual experiences — in addition to risk and general health issues can contribute significantly toward preventing high-risk behavior and reducing depression rates. The success is largely due to the social support found within these programs, researchers say.

And while brief interventions may be effective in the short term, periodic “boosters,” or additional sessions, may be needed to reinforce positive changes over time, according to the study authors.”*

The sixth annual National Latino Writers Conference that convened May 21, 2008, at Alburquerque’s National Hispanic Cultural Center was an envy-producing experience for a writer out of Los Angeles.

El Lay lacks anything like the NHCC. Not at UCLA, nor USC, not in outlying places like UCSB nor CSUN does a person find a facility dedicated to Chicana Chicano Latina Latino arts. The NHCC’s art gallery and museo, theatre, exquisite lecture halls, the uniquely fashioned Torreón, full-service restaurant, gift shop, administrative offices, library, and upcoming classroom wing, in a single location, define what a cultural center should be while reflecting what public-private commitment looks like. And self-respect. And love.”*

Tequila 100 Anos(TM) pays tribute to Mexican pride and tradition with a unique exhibit that gathers singers, songwriters, and performers who contributed to make memories and leave a footprint on both Mexico’s history and world history. Starting today, adult, legal purchase age Latinos in many U.S. cities will enjoy a free historic tour where talent and a love for Mexico — values shared by both Mexican music and Tequila, the most popular Mexican drink — meet.

“The ‘100 Years of Mexican Music’ exhibit represents the immensely rich Mexican culture that — just like Tequila 100 Anos — is inspired by its roots and created with the passion and dedication of its people. We are proud to offer to Latinos and the overall community in the U.S., this musical retrospective together with Tequila 100 Anos which — along with many of the artists featured in the exhibit — has also become one of Mexicans’ favorite drinks in this country”, says Antonio Portillo, Brand Manager for Tequila 100 Anos.

Embracing the unique atmosphere of 1907 to 2007, original pictures of performers such as Agustin Lara, Pedro Infante, Lola Beltran, Los Lobos, Angelica Maria, among others, will be on exhibit for one month, beginning May 23 in Houston; June 24 in Chicago; and July 30 in Los Angeles.

“Mexican music transcends borders — it is an extension of the cultural richness of the country represented by its diverse music genres,” says Steven Loza, Professor of Ethnomusicology at UCLA, Adjunct Professor of Music at the University of New Mexico, and curator and spokesman of the exhibition. “‘100 Years of Mexican Music’ is a compilation of valuable performers and songwriters celebrating Mexico, one of the richest countries in the Americas, thanks to its history and tradition.”

“100 years of Mexican Music” may be appreciated at the Westin Galleria Mall in Houston, Texas; at the Ford City Mall in Chicago, Ill; and in Los Angeles, Calif. at a venue to be confirmed soon.

About Tequila 100 ANOS(TM)
Tequila 100 Anos(TM) was created to celebrate the 20th century at Hacienda La Perseverancia, in Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico; to toast to the new and exciting moments that the new century would bring, and to renew the joy and hope of Mexican people. Tequila 100 Anos has always been manufactured with the best agave, with special attention to the artisanal elements that characterize the brand. Besides its great taste, 100 Anos features other unique elements, such as its unique handcrafted bottle, ornamental rounded edges, to reflect some of the inherent values of the Mexican culture. Today there are three different varieties: Blanco 51%, Reposado 51% and Reposado 100% Agave, offered in different sizes, 375ml, 750ml and 1.75L, and in July of this year, Reposado 1L 100% Agave.

About Beam Global Spirits & Wine
Inspiring conversations around the world, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc., is building brands people want to talk about. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for our brands, including Jim Beam(R) Bourbon, Sauza(R) Tequila, Canadian Club(R) Whisky, Courvoisier(R) Cognac, Maker’s Mark(R) Bourbon, Laphroaig(R) Scotch Whisky, Larios(R) Gin, Whisky DYC(R), Teacher’s(R) Scotch Whisky, DeKuyper(R) Cordials and Liqueurs, Knob Creek(R) Bourbon and Starbucks(TM) Liqueurs. Beam Global Spirits & Wine is part of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), a leading consumer brands company with annual sales exceeding $8 billion. For more information on Beam Global Spirits & Wine, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamglobal.com and www.drinksmart.com . “*

Univision’s flagship station KMEX-TV Channel 34, Los Angeles’ #1 rated news station for 14 consecutive years and the nation’s largest Spanish-language station, today announced the appointment of Roberto Yañez as vice president of news, effective immediately. He will report to Maelia Macin, vice president and general manager, KMEX Univision 34.

“I am pleased to have Roberto lead this very important area of our daily operation. Under Roberto’s leadership as acting news director for the past year, Noticias Univision 34 at 6 pm is up +11% among Adults 25-54 and the 11 pm news has expanded by +32% in NSI ratings,” said Macin. “In addition, as we expand our news operation to TeleFutura 46 by adding morning news, Roberto will be key in maintaining the focus of our news as we continue to inform, empower and educate our viewers as we have done for 45 years.”

Roberto Yañez brings more than 20 years of experience in the industry. He began his career at Univision 13 years ago as managing editor at KMEX, when the station was honored with the first Edward R. Murrow Award bestowed to a Spanish-language newscast. He has since held several management positions at KMEX over the past decade, most recently as station manager. Previously, he served as news director at WXTV Univision 41 in New York as well as news director, operations, promotions and commercial production manager at KUVS Univision 19 in Sacramento. Prior to Univision, Yañez worked at the NBC Affiliate in El Paso, Texas; CNN in Atlanta; and KCAL and KCBS in Los Angeles. He earned an Executive MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management, and a BA in Journalism from the University of Texas, El Paso.

About Noticias Univision 34

Noticias Univision 34 at 6 pm has been the #1 early newscast in L.A., regardless of language, for 48 consecutive Nielsen Sweeps. “Noticias Univision Solo a las Once” has been #1 at 11 pm among Adults 18-34 since February of 2002 and among Adults 18-49 since October of 2005. In recent years, Noticias Univision 34 has been the recipient of prestigious awards such as the Academy of Television Arts and Science Emmy for Best Newscast in L.A. In 2004 it was bestowed the Governors Emmy Award, the highest honor by the Academy. It has also received the Edward R. Murrow Award as America’s Best Newscast. As of April 2008, TeleFutura 46 broadcasts local news, Monday – Friday from 7 am - 8 am, extending Univision 34’s morning news by one hour, which airs Monday - Friday 5 am - 7 am.”*

Bilingual author, actress and screenwriter Maria Amparo Escandón said she started writing at the age of 7 by taking that piece of her grandmother’s advice to heart, explaining that the art of writing is “trying to trick people into believing what you say.”

Escandón, 50, is a creative writing instructor at UCLA. She came to Salem for two days in February from her home in Los Angeles to speak as part of the Salem Public Library’s Modern Voices Author Series.”*

The National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA) recently hosted its 5th Annual Hispanic Executive Summit in Los Angeles, CA. During the three-day summit held April 24-26, over 150 Hispanic leaders from across the U.S. attended professional development, governance and leadership sessions designed in partnership with the UCLA Anderson School of Management. Attendees also engaged in roundtable discussions, networked with fellow professionals and listened to dynamic presentations from distinguished academic researchers and renowned business leaders. Sponsors for this year’s event included lead sponsor BMW, as well as ExxonMobil, Washington Mutual, Wachovia, Dell, Target, American Express, The Business Journal of Hispanic Research, General Mills and the United States Postal Service.

At a special networking reception hosted by BMW, NSHMBA named Patricia Romero Cronin its 2008 Ultimate Hispanic Executive. This distinguished honor recognizes Ms. Cronin, IBM’s General Manager of Delivery Excellence, for her outstanding professional achievement and strong commitment to service. Over her 25-year career with IBM, Ms. Cronin has advanced from her first job as a software engineer to the executive level where she manages global operations. Among her most challenging and exciting opportunities, was her 1999 appointment as Vice President of Olympic Technology Integration when she became responsible for developing the software that kept track of the Olympic athletes, as well as measured, posted and communicated their performance, during the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.

About NSHMBA

The National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA) was created in 1988 as a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization. Widely known as the “Premier Hispanic Organization,” NSHMBA serves 32 chapters and 7,000 members in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. It exists to foster Hispanic leadership through graduate management education and professional development. NSHMBA works to prepare Hispanics for leadership positions throughout the U.S. so that they can provide the cultural awareness and sensitivity vital in the management of the nation’s diverse workforce.”*

The UCLA professors re-interviewed about 700 of the original participants and about 800 of their children, in Los Angeles and San Antonio. Participants constituted about 60% of the original families.

Some of the findings were encouraging. For example, nearly all Mexican Americans spoke English proficiently by the second generation. And many Mexican immigrants who came to the U.S. as children — as well as the children of immigrants — showed economic and educational progress, in part because of their belief in the American dream.

But some of the conclusions — published last month in a book titled “Generations of Exclusion: Mexican Americans, Assimilation and Race” — were disappointing. “*

Patricia Romero Cronin was recently recognized by the National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA) as its 2008 Ultimate Hispanic Executive. This distinguished honor is presented annually to an outstanding Hispanic leader who has exhibited a strong commitment to community service while exemplifying professional accomplishment. During her 25-year career with IBM, Ms. Cronin has held her current role as IBM’s General Manager of Delivery Excellence. She is an active member of the Pan American Roundtable; serves on the Board of Directors for the National Charity League (NCL) and Junior Achievement (JA); and also serves on the Advisory Board for HENAAC, which promotes careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

(Photo: www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080425/CLF052 )

Ms. Cronin was presented her award at a special reception held during NSHMBA’s 5th Annual Hispanic Executive Summit in Los Angeles, CA. The three- day summit, held April 24-26, hosted prominent Hispanic leaders from across the U.S. for professional development, governance and leadership sessions developed in partnership with the UCLA Anderson School of Management and lead sponsor BMW. Attendees engaged in roundtable discussions networked with fellow professional and listened to dynamic presentations from distinguished academic researchers and renowned business leaders.

About NSHMBA

The National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA) was created in 1988 as a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization. Widely known as the “Premier Hispanic Organization,” NSHMBA serves 32 chapters and 7,000 members in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. It exists to foster Hispanic leadership through graduate management education and professional development. NSHMBA works to prepare Hispanics for leadership positions throughout the U.S. so that they can provide the cultural awareness and sensitivity vital in the management of the nation’s diverse workforce.
“*

A three-day conference honoring the late Guillermo Hernández, a professor of Spanish and Portuguese at UCLA and a leading scholar of Mexican narrative ballads, will take place at the University of California, Santa Barbara in May. “The Sixth International Corrido ( Mexican Narrative Ballad ) Conference” will also celebrate the work and memory of composer and vocalist Lalo Guerrero.

The conference begins at 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, in the McCune Conference Room, 6020 Humanities and Social Sciences Building, and continues at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 9, in UCSB’s MultiCultural Center. Free and open to the public, the conference includes panel discussions and a special reception at UCSB, a corrido contest and dance at Casa de la Raza in Santa Barbara, and a daylong festival at Chase Palm Park.

Conference participants include scholars from the United States, Mexico, and Siberia who will explore corridos as a musical composition form that traces its origins to Spanish romance and became popular during the Mexican Revolution. Among the presentations –– some conducted in English and others in Spanish –– is a keynote address by John McDowell, chair of the Folklore Institute at Indiana University. In addition, Salvador Güereña, director of UCSB’s California Ethnic and Multicultural Archives ( CEMA ) will give a presentation on the “Sounds Latino!” exhibit currently on view at UCSB’s Davidson Library. The exhibit recognizes some of the legendary music makers whose collections were established in CEMA.

The conference is co-sponsored by UCSB’s Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor; Office of the Associate Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Academic Policy; Office of Equal Opportunity; Chicano Studies Institute; Chicana and Chicano studies department; Latin American and Iberian studies program; UCSB libraries; Luis Leal Endowed Chair; and MultiCultural Center. Other sponsors include Casa de la Raza, The Arhoolie Foundation; Radio Bronco; La Preciosa; and Telemundo.

For more information about the conference, including a complete listing of all events, visit www.ucsb.edu/events/conferences/images/Corrido-Conf-Program.pdf or call the UCSB Chicano Studies Institute at ( 805 ) 893-3895.
“*

Ruben Salazar, from the Los Angeles Times Photographic Archive (Collection 1429), Department of Special Collections, Charles E. Young Research Library, UCLA”*

*From: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com
Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish

Ana Puente was an infant with a liver disorder when her aunt brought her illegally to the U.S. to seek medical care. She underwent two liver transplants at UCLA Medical Center as a child in 1989 and a third in 1998, each paid for by the state.

But when Puente turned 21 last June, she aged out of her state-funded health insurance and was unable to continue treatment at UCLA.

This year, her liver began failing again and she was hospitalized at County-USC Medical Center. In her Medi-Cal application, a USC doctor wrote, “Her current clinical course is irreversible, progressive and will lead to death without another liver transplant.” The application was denied.”*

*From: http://ktla.trb.com
Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish

Armando Torres Morales, a UCLA professor of psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences, who researched issues of concern to the Latino community and used the findings to advocate for change, including increased mental health services and an end to abusive police practices, has died. He was 75.

Morales died of cancer March 12 at his home in Stevenson Ranch, said his son Rolando.

In his work as a psychiatric social worker, Morales was an early proponent of increased mental health care services in the Latino community. As the population of Latinos in Los Angeles County increased, the numbers using mental health services remained low. The low usage, particularly among undocumented immigrants who feared raids and deportation, did not bode well for the future, Morales warned.”*

*From: http://www.latimes.com
Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish

Following a nationwide search, the Board of Directors of Public Counsel voted to approve the appointment of Hernan D. Vera to be its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Vera assumes the position effective immediately.

Public Counsel Chairperson Wayne Barsky of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP observed, “Our Search Committee and Board of Directors were extremely impressed by Hernan’s extraordinary success as Directing Attorney of Public Counsel’s Consumer Law Project, his passion and commitment to our mission, and his distinctive vision for the growth and expansion of Public Counsel. Hernan has our complete confidence, and we look forward to his leadership.”

Last year, Vera worked with the Los Angeles City Attorney, the ACLU and private law firms on nationally publicized litigation to end the abusive practice known as “hospital dumping,” which has been covered by world press and media including 60 Minutes, CNN and NBC Dateline and led to widespread systemic reform at local, state and national levels. In 2003, working in coalition with the Asian Pacific American Legal Center, Vera led a successful lawsuit that led to landmark legislation — the “Wondries Bill” — expanding consumer protections for limited- English speaking consumers.

Vera joined Public Counsel in May 2002 as Directing Attorney of its Consumer Law Project. He has risen to become one of the nation’s leading consumer rights’ advocates and has supervised hundreds of individual client litigation matters involving consumer fraud. Currently, he is overseeing dozens of cases involving alleged fraud by home loan brokers and lenders, which threaten families and senior citizens with the loss of their homes. “I want to congratulate Mr. Vera, and I look forward to working with Public Counsel. It’s clear that there’s a real need for representation for homeowners who’ve been harmed in the subprime mortgage crisis,” commented United States Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.).

The 37-year-old Vera, who will be Public Counsel’s seventh President and C.E.O. said, “It is an honor to have been selected to lead Public Counsel. For nearly four decades, Public Counsel has been a beacon of justice, hope and opportunity — a voice for the voiceless in our society. I look forward to working closely with our dedicated Board members, generous supporters and immensely talented staff to uphold and strengthen the fundamental principle that every man, woman and child is entitled to equal access to justice. It is the cornerstone of our democracy.”

Vera joined Public Counsel in May 2002 as Directing Attorney of its Consumer Law Project, one of its largest and busiest legal projects. In this role, he has supervised and managed hundreds of individual client litigation matters involving consumer fraud. The Consumer Law Project also operates the largest Debtor Assistance Project in Los Angeles, assisting low-income individuals and families facing bankruptcy, as well as a variety of consumer education programs and legislative advocacy initiatives.

Prior to joining Public Counsel, Vera worked for O’Melveny & Myers LLP and the Mexican American Legal and Educational Defense Fund. After graduating from the UCLA School of Law, he clerked for the Honorable Consuelo B. Marshall in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. He received his B.A. with Distinction from Stanford University in 1991. Vera is fluent in Spanish and the son of Argentine immigrants.

Hernan D. Vera succeeds Dan Grunfeld, who left Public Counsel last September after ten years to become Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy for Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Grunfeld said, “Hernan has distinguished himself as one of the top public interest lawyers in the country. His compassion for clients, extensive experience dealing with the legal issues they face and his deep understanding of the systemic issues involved make him the perfect choice to lead Public Counsel in the years ahead.”

About Public Counsel
Founded in 1970, Public Counsel is the largest public interest pro bono law firm in the world. Over the last 38 years, Public Counsel has recruited and trained over 35,000 volunteers and delivered over a quarter of a billion dollars in free assistance to those who need it most. Last year, with the help of more than 3,400 volunteer lawyers, law students, social workers and others who donated more than 150,000 hours of time, Public Counsel assisted nearly 27,000 individuals, including hundreds of nonprofit organizations and micro businesses, ultimately providing almost $70 million in free services.

Nationally, Public Counsel has been a leader in developing model programs and assisting other pro bono public interest law firms to bring these programs to their communities. In addition to serving the vast Los Angeles metropolitan region, Public Counsel is actively helping to strengthen pro bono public interest law internationally. In 2000, Public Counsel was instrumental in creating the Instituto Pro bono in Brazil, that country’s first public interest pro bono law firm. Since that time Public Counsel has played a central role in nurturing other pro bono programs in Brazil, Argentina, Europe, Africa and Australia.”*

*From: http://www.hispanicprwire.com
Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish