• More than four out of five Latinos self-identify themselves as being of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Salvadoran or Dominican origin, according to a new study by the Pew Hispanic Center. Hispanics of Mexican origin are by far the largest group, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the Latino population in the U.S. " Pew Hispanic Center, Washington, DC, September 16, 2009
• Although more Latinos are attending college, they are two- to three-times less likely than non-minorities to graduate with a bachelor’s degree, according to a report by Educational Testing Service and the American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education. Among the major obstacles facing Hispanics are: graduating from high school unprepared for college; their propensity to attend two-year schools; low levels of parent education, and limited financial resources. - AOL, Marketwire, September 18, 2009
• "The sons of immigrants in the United States suffer from alarmingly high levels of childhood obesity, according to a new report funded by the Foundation for Child Development," the Washington Post wrote in its September 4 edition. "Although the report did not study the reasons for the discrepancy, it cited likely factors such as the prevalence of high-caloric, low-nutrient foods and beverages in schools and in advertising directed at children."
• A federal investigation into campaign contributions which kept New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson from accepting a cabinet post in the Obama administration ended without charges. Where once his state influence and popularity were both crippled, Richardson now receives standing-ovations in New Mexico. Rumors are circulating anew about his future and possible presidential appointments. - New York Times, September 12, 2009
• The September/ October issue of Latino Future featured its annual look at "30 Under 30." This year’s list included: TV and film actress Alexis Bledel, who played a new intern on the series finale of ER; Alondra de la Parra, "considered one of the most spellbinding conductors of her generation," and Lin-Manuel Miranda, whose show In the Heights won 2008 Tonys for Best Musical, Score, Choreography and Orchestrations.
• Film director Robert Rodriguez made the August/ September cover of Hispanic. Applauded for Desperado, Sin City and Spy Kids, his "in the works" productions include Machete, Predators and The Jetsons.
• Deposed Honduran President Manuel Zelaya sneaked back into his country and took refuge at the Brazilian Embassy. His surprise move refocused international negotiations on the political stalemate. The de facto Honduran government, meanwhile, called on Brazil to hand Zelaya over for arrest and trial. - New York Times, September 22, 2009