Hispanic Motor Press Defines Value and Culture at the 2025 AutoMobility LA

Hispanic Motor Press Defines Value and Culture at the 2025 AutoMobility LA

Jan 20, 2026 | Autos • Motion • Mobility

Hispanic Motor Press Defines Value and Culture at the 2025 AutoMobility LA

Exclusive photos and article by Richard Sandoval | Hispanic Lifestyle

Founder & President Ricardo Rodríguez-Long on honoring vehicles that reflect Hispanic families, lifestyle, and influence

At the 2025 AutoMobility LA press conference, Hispanic Motor Press announced its 16th Annual Vehicle Awards, recognizing standout vehicles across five categories that matter most to Hispanic consumers. Shortly after the announcement, Hispanic Lifestyle spoke with Ricardo Rodríguez-Long, Founder & President of Hispanic Motor Press, about the organization’s mission and this year’s honorees.

“This is our 16th annual awards presentation,” Rodríguez-Long shared. “Hispanic Motor Press was created to honor vehicles that excel—but with a Hispanic touch. We focus on value, not just a pretty car. Reliability, design, safety, comfort, and price all matter.”

Rodríguez-Long emphasized that the Hispanic market is not only significant it’s influential. Hispanic consumers represent roughly 20 percent of the U.S. population, translating into billions of dollars in purchasing power. Hispanic Motor Press approaches vehicle testing with cultural insight, understanding how language, family structure, and lifestyle shape buying decisions.

“We have certain traits that make us different,” he explained. “The Spanish language itself allows us to express things differently. Speaking to the consumer in a way that resonates culturally is what sets us apart.”

Rather than naming a single “car of the year,” Hispanic Motor Press evaluates vehicles across five categories | Family Car, Luxury Vehicle, Truck, SUV, and Electric Vehicle reflecting the diverse needs of Hispanic households.

“Latino families are often large,” Rodríguez-Long said. “We travel with Abuelas, Tíos, and everyone else. We tow, we vacation, and we bring everything with us. The vehicles we recognize must fit that reality.”

While the automotive market is crowded with strong options, Rodríguez-Long noted that some vehicles stand out for their overall balance of practicality and value—especially as prices continue to rise.

“Brand loyalty alone isn’t always practical anymore,” he said. “Our job is to help consumers find value. And we do this as volunteers, because we owe it to our community.”

2025 Hispanic Motor Press Award Winners
The following vehicles were recognized at AutoMobility LA for meeting the needs of Hispanic families and lifestyles:

  • Best Electric Vehicle: Hyundai IONIQ 9 – A fully electric, three-row SUV designed for families, offering space, comfort, and zero-emissions travel.
  • Best Truck: Ram 1500 – A versatile pickup with a refined interior, capable of serving both workdays and family weekends.
  • Best SUV: Toyota RAV4 – One of today’s most popular SUVs, known for versatility, efficiency, and broad appeal.
  • Best Luxury Vehicle: Lincoln Navigator – A spacious luxury SUV delivering comfort, power, and premium travel capability.
  • Best Family Car: Kia Carnival – Purpose-built for families, offering generous seating, functionality, and comfort.

Each vehicle was selected after extensive real-world testing conducted by Hispanic Motor Press volunteers nationwide.

Rodríguez-Long closed with a message to car buyers:

“Before you buy, visit HispanicMotorPress.org. We’re a nonprofit organization. We test vehicles so you don’t have to saving you time and money.”

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS 

by Richard Sandoval

2026 Hispanic Motor Press Awards

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Milestone: Leadership • Influence • Legacy — Coming Soon

Milestone: Leadership • Influence • Legacy — Coming Soon

Jan 15, 2026 | Community, Events

Milestone: Leadership • Influence • Legacy — Coming Soon

A new in-person experience is taking shape.

MILESTONE  – LEADERSHIP • INFLUENCE • LEGACY is an upcoming recognition and storytelling event designed to honor the individuals and organizations whose leadership, influence, and legacy continue to shape our communities. More than an awards program, Milestone is a platform for connection bringing together changemakers, creatives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for meaningful conversation and shared reflection.

Hosted by HL, Milestone will spotlight voices and journeys that define progress across business, culture, community, and civic life. Attendees can expect a thoughtfully curated program that blends recognition, dialogue, and community engagement capturing the stories behind the impact.

Details including location, dates, and honorees will be announced soon. This article will be updated as plans are finalized.

For now, we invite you to follow along and be part of what’s next.
Built on Trust.
Driven by Culture.
Powered by Influence.

Visit HispanicLifestyle.com and subscribe to HL | Update for the latest announcements.

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Home Renovation Scams

Home Renovation Scams

Jan 14, 2026 | Home Tu Casa, Lifestyle

Home Renovation Scams

As Home Renovation Demand Surges, So Do Contractor Scams. A Warning for Homeowners

As demand for home repair and renovation services climbs across the U.S., so too do scams that leave families financially devastated and projects unfinished. According to recent data, in 2024 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received more than 81,900 reports of home improvement scams, with homeowners losing an average of roughly $1,800 per incident.

Industry analysts say scammers exploit periods when demand outpaces available qualified labor much like the market conditions today by targeting homeowners who feel pressured to act quickly. FTC data shows overall consumer fraud losses topped $12.5 billion in 2024, with reported scams increasing in severity and cost.

“Contractor fraud is becoming a significant issue for homeowners,” says Jon Grishpul, Co-CEO of GreatBuildz.com. “With renovation costs rising and schedules tight, unqualified or unscrupulous contractors can prey on trusting consumers. Knowing the warning signs and how to verify contractors is more important than ever.”

Real Consequences: When a Renovation Turns Into a Nightmare

Homeowners who’ve never managed a major construction project may not recognize the risk until it’s too late. In one widely reported case, a Colorado homeowner lost her entire retirement savings during a $350,000 renovation project that was mismanaged and abandoned by the contractor, forcing expensive redo work and jeopardizing her home.

Common Scam Patterns to Watch For

Contractor scams often follow familiar patterns, such as:

  • Offering unusually low bids or only accepting cash
  • Pressuring homeowners to sign contracts on the spot
  • Failing to provide valid license, insurance, or bonding information
  • Claiming access to “leftover materials” at steep discounts

The FTC and consumer protection groups also highlight these red flags consumers should never ignore:

  • Vague or missing details in bids
  • Requests for full payment upfront or very large deposits
  • No written contract or refusal to verify credentials with state licensing boards

These are consistent with widely cited contractor-fraud warning signs published by the FTC.

Protecting Yourself –  Steps Homeowners Can Take

Industry experts stress this isn’t optional  verification is essential:

  • Check credentials: Verify a contractor’s license, insurance, and bond status with state or county authorities before signing anything.
  • 
Get multiple estimates: Collect at least three detailed written bids for comparison.
  • 
Use secure payments: Avoid cash payments  use credit cards or checks that provide a financial trail.
  • Research reputation: Look up contractors with the Better Business Bureau and state consumer protection agencies.

“Homeowners should think like investigators,” Grishpul adds. “A legitimate contractor is transparent about credentials and comfortable with verification checks. If someone avoids scrutiny or pushes urgency, that’s a red flag.”

As part of our Home Tu Casa series, we’re committed to equipping homeowners with not just inspiration for renovations but practical, safety-first advice. Knowing how to spot fraud, verify professionals, and protect your investment isn’t just smart  it’s necessary in today’s busy market.

Sources: FTC, Jon Grishpul

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On the Edge With Juanpa

On the Edge With Juanpa

Jan 14, 2026 | Business, Entertainment

On the Edge With Juanpa

The series featuring Juanpa Zurita takes viewers on thrilling adventures across the United States, where he partners with variety of individuals for exhilarating experiences.

PARTNERS 

In the new Roku Original series, On The Edge with Juanpa, Toyota is moving beyond traditional TV ad spots to embed its rugged truck lineup including the Tacoma, Land Cruiser, and 4Runner directly into high-octane stunts. The show features Juanpa partnering with Red Bull athletes for extreme challenges like wing suiting and cliff diving, providing a natural environment to uncover challenges that revolve around endurance while offering Hispanic fearless explorers like Juanpa the inspiration to push beyond their own limits.

Roku Originals is available exclusively on The Roku Channel. From award-winning scripted entertainment and engaging documentaries to breakout new unscripted series, Roku Originals is bold, fresh entertainment from the biggest names in Hollywood, and best of all, it’s free. This is relevant, diverse entertainment that is accessible to everyone, everywhere The Roku Channel is available no subscription, no signup and no strings attached.

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Selena: From Texas To The World

Selena: From Texas To The World

Jan 10, 2026 | Entertainment, Events

Selena: From Texas To The World

The GRAMMY Museum® presents a special pop-up exhibition celebrating the enduring legacy of Selena, an icon whose impact on music, fashion and culture continues to inspire generations around the world.

 

Opening Jan. 15, 2026, and running through March 16, 2026, this limited-time exhibit marks the first official display of Selena’s personal artifacts outside of the Selena Museum in her hometown of Corpus Christi, Texas. 

Curated in collaboration with Suzette Quintanilla, Selena’s sister and President of Q Productions, the exhibit offers an intimate glimpse into Selena’s life, artistry and groundbreaking career.

The Quintanilla Family & Chris Pérez are deeply honored to share Selena’s story and legacy with fans in such a meaningful way. It’s incredibly special to share these treasured items, for the very first time outside of our Selena Museum, at the iconic GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles. Selena and our band were extremely proud to receive a GRAMMY® for our live concert. This exhibit is a beautiful tribute to her spirit, her culture and the unwavering love she had for fans.”

Suzette Quintanilla

Selena’s sister and, President, Q Productions

Kelsey Goelz, GRAMMY Museum Curator, added,

“Selena’s impact transcends genres and generations. She paved the way for so many artists who followed in her footsteps. We’re thrilled to celebrate her at the GRAMMY Museum, where lifelong fans can feel closer to her and a new generation can discover her.”

Beyond her chart-topping success, Selena was a fashion pioneer whose signature style, from shimmering bustiers and iconic stage outfits to bold red lipstick, continues to influence pop culture and street fashion today. Her charisma, determination and pride in her Mexican-American heritage made her a symbol of empowerment for young women and Latin communities across the world.

Exhibit highlights:

  1. The outfit Selena wore on the cover of Amor Prohibido, complete with her signature gold hoop earrings
  2. The white beaded Lillie Rubin gown Selena wore to the 1994 GRAMMY Awards®
  3. Selena’s GRAMMY Award and Lifetime Achievement Award
  4. Instruments played by Selena’s siblings Suzette Quintanilla (snare drum) and A.B. Quintanilla III (bass), as well as former husband Chris Pérez (guitars)
  5. Selena’s microphone, still marked with her red lipstick
  6. Hand-drawn fashion designs from her teenage years
  7. Selena’s personal cell phone

ABOUT SELENA

It is not an everyday occurrence that an individual is born who is destined to touch the lives of millions. But on April 16, 1971, in Lake Jackson, Texas, such an individual was born. Her name was SELENA. Alongside her brother, Abraham III (bass), sister, Suzette (drums), and their manager father, Abraham, they created an unforgettable musical experience that continues to inspire and thrill fans globally to this day. With the combination of her charismatic stage presence and memorable songs, she ultimately became the #1 selling female artist in Latin music history and is acclaimed for hits such as “Como La Flor,” “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” “I Could Fall In Love,” and “Dreaming Of You.” All this culminated in her becoming the first female Tejano artist to win a GRAMMY® Award, earning Best Mexican/American Album for Selena Live! She has become a legendary bicultural icon and one of the most celebrated Mexican-American entertainers of the late 20th century and continues to be lauded to this day.

ABOUT THE GRAMMY MUSEUM

The GRAMMY Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and exploring music from yesterday and today to inspire the music of tomorrow through exhibits, education, grants, preservation initiatives, and public programming. Paying tribute to our collective musical heritage, the Museum values and celebrates the dynamic connection in people’s diverse backgrounds and music’s many genres, telling stories that inspire us, and creative expression that leads change in our industry. For more information, visit www.grammymuseum.org

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Kia’s Vision for the Road Ahead

Kia’s Vision for the Road Ahead

Jan 6, 2026 | Autos • Motion • Mobility

Kia’s Vision for the Road Ahead

Exclusive photos and article by Richard Sandoval | Hispanic Lifestyle

Eric Watson, Vice President of Sales Operations at Kia America, Inc., shares insights on design, innovation, and the 2027 Telluride.

At the Los Angeles Automobility Show, Kia signaled a confident next chapter one shaped by bold design, evolving technology, and a clear understanding of today’s consumer. In a conversation with HL, Eric Watson, Vice President of Sales Operations at Kia America, Inc., shared how the brand continues to build momentum while staying grounded in value, accessibility, and long-term ownership confidence.

Against the backdrop of one of the auto industry’s most influential stages, Watson outlined how Kia’s flagship vehicles, expanding hybrid strategy, and reimagined customer experience are positioning the brand for a strong 2026 and beyond.

A Decade of Growth

Over the last decade, Kia has steadily transformed its identity in the U.S. market. Once known primarily for affordability, the brand has earned recognition for design leadership, product quality, and a lineup that spans sedans, SUVs, electric vehicles, and increasingly, hybrids.

According to Watson, this evolution has been intentional and customer driven. Kia’s current momentum reflects years of consistent investment in product development, retail experience, and listening to how drivers’ needs are changing particularly as families, first-time buyers, and multi-generational households seek versatility without sacrificing style.

Design has become one of Kia’s strongest differentiators. Watson emphasized that today’s Kia vehicles are engineered to look and feel premium while remaining attainable.

“We’re very thoughtful about how we package our vehicles,” Watson noted. “We bring a lot of safety features and technology to market, but we’re careful not to overdo it in ways that make vehicles unaffordable.”

Innovation, for Kia, is less about novelty and more about relevance technology that improves everyday driving, safety that builds confidence, and design that resonates across lifestyles.

THE 2027 KIA TELLURIDE

One of the most anticipated moments for Kia at this year’s show was the introduction of the all-new 2027 Kia Telluride. As the flagship of the brand, the Telluride has played a pivotal role in reshaping public perception of Kia. Since its debut, Kia has sold nearly 600,000 Telluride models an achievement Watson credits to the vehicle’s balance of capability, design, and family-friendly practicality. The next-generation Telluride builds on that foundation, arriving larger, bolder, and more refined than its predecessor.

“The Telluride has really changed the image of our company,” Watson shared. “This new generation is going to elevate our game even further.”

As vehicle research and purchasing habits continue to shift online, Kia has adapted its approach to meet customers where they are. Today’s buyers often complete the majority of their research digitally before stepping into a dealership.

To support this behavior, Kia introduced Kia EasyBuy, a platform that allows customers to complete part or all of the purchasing process online, with the flexibility to finalize their transaction at a dealership.

At the same time, Kia is reimagining its physical retail spaces. The brand is rebuilding and rebranding dealerships nationwide, elevating both exterior design and interior customer areas to create more comfortable, premium environments for sales and service.

While design and innovation have become hallmarks of the brand, value remains central to Kia’s identity. Watson highlighted the importance of long-term ownership confidence, reinforced by Kia’s industry-leading 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty.

“That warranty gives customers real peace of mind,” he said. “It’s about confidence not just on the day of purchase, but for years afterward.”

Kia’s approach to affordable luxury centers on delivering meaningful features, strong reliability, and competitive pricing ensuring accessibility without compromise.

Quality, Confidence, and Value

Looking toward 2026, Watson pointed to hybrid vehicles as a major focus for Kia’s future lineup. As consumer demand for efficiency and flexibility grows, hybrids offer a practical bridge between traditional combustion engines and full electrification.

With a diversified product portfolio, continued investment in customer experience, and a strong pipeline of new vehicles, Kia enters the coming years with confidence and clarity.

“I think the future of the Kia brand is bright,” Watson said. “We’ve got a lot of momentum, and we’re looking forward to a great 2026.”

Kia’s presence at LA Mobility reflects more than a single product launch it represents a brand in motion. Through thoughtful design, accessible innovation, and a commitment to meeting real-world needs, Kia continues to shape how mobility fits into modern lifestyles.

As part of HL  Autos • Motion • Mobility series, this conversation underscores how vehicles are more than transportation they are extensions of culture, family, and the way communities move forward together.

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS 

by Richard Sandoval

2026 Kia’s Vision for the Road Ahead

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Stephanie Beatriz | Culture, Community, Representation

Stephanie Beatriz | Culture, Community, Representation

Dec 23, 2025 | Entertainment

Stephanie Beatriz | Culture, Community, Representation

A Creative Conversation on the Red Carpet.

Context and perspective from actress Stephanie Beatriz.

Photos by Richard Sandoval | Production by ReWork Media Group

Once again, Stephanie Beatriz made time for the media by greeting everyone with the same warmth, generosity, and thoughtfulness that have defined her career. A familiar and welcome presence at the event, Beatriz reflected on the importance of celebrating Latino talent, supporting one another, and continuing to show up in an industry that is still evolving.

For Beatriz, attending the 40th Imagen Foundation Awards are more than a ceremony they are a reunion and a reaffirmation of community.

“There are so many Latinos in Hollywood, and this particular night is really special to a lot of us,” she shared. “We’re all gathering to celebrate each other celebrate the work, and celebrate the work that’s coming.”

She spoke candidly about how rare it can be for actors to pause and acknowledge one another amid demanding schedules. Nights like Imagen, she explained, create space for reflection and encouragement.

“We’re all so busy thankfully that when we do get to see each other, we get to celebrate what’s coming next. That’s one of the most exciting things about being here.”

A Career Built on Range and Repetition

Audiences know Beatriz for her standout performances across television, film, and theater from the iconic role of Rosa Diaz on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, to her work on Modern Family, to her acclaimed turn in In the Heights, and more recently in the Netflix series A Man on the Inside. Beatriz credits her foundation in theater for shaping her approach to acting.

“I’ve been very lucky that my career in film and television has reflected my career in theater,” she explained. “I was part of a repertory company doing two or three roles every season.”

She recalled her formative years at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, where versatility and discipline were essential.

“We did all kinds of stuff. And my favorite thing is really just trying to disappear into the role to make it about the character and not about me.”

That philosophy prioritizing craft over celebrity has allowed Beatriz to move seamlessly between comedy, drama, voice work, and stage performance, consistently surprising audiences while remaining grounded in her artistry.

Representation, Resistance, and Resilience

The conversation also turned serious as Beatriz addressed the broader cultural and political climate impacting Latino communities. Speaking with honesty and conviction, she emphasized why events like the Imagen Foundation Awards matter now more than ever.

“We’re in a climate right now globally that is, for lack of a better word, shitting on the Latino community,” she said. “That’s why nights like this are important.”

For Beatriz, the power of the evening lies in visibility and unity.

“We’re all here together, and we’re not going anywhere. We’re part of the fabric of the United States. We’re part of the fabric of entertainment and we always have been.”

She pointed out that Latino artists have been contributing to American entertainment since its earliest days.

“From the very first sitcoms we’ve been here forever and we’re not going anywhere.”

Beyond the Screen: Conversation and Connection

In addition to her on-screen work, Beatriz continues to create space for honest dialogue off-camera. Alongside fellow actress and longtime friend Melissa Fumero, she co-hosts the podcast More Better with Stephanie & Melissa, where the two explore friendship, careers, culture, and personal growth with humor and heart.

The project reflects much of what Beatriz spoke about on the red carpet connection, authenticity, and the importance of shared experiences.

A Lasting Presence

As the night continued and the red carpet buzzed with celebration, Stephanie Beatriz remained what she has always been at Imagen: present, thoughtful, and deeply connected to her community. Her words served as both a reminder and a rallying cry Latino voices matter, Latino stories endure, and collective celebration is itself an act of resilience.

For audiences and fellow creatives alike, Beatriz’s message was clear: keep showing up, keep doing the work, and keep celebrating one another.

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Flour, Faith, and Sugar: Sweet Tooth 909 Bakery

Flour, Faith, and Sugar: Sweet Tooth 909 Bakery

Dec 17, 2025 | Business

Flour, Faith, and Sugar: Sweet Tooth 909 Bakery

Exclusive photos and article by Richard Sandoval | Hispanic Lifestyle

Sometimes the best stories begin with a scroll

After watching an Instagram post by Michelle Valles of NBC4 Los Angeles, curiosity and a serious sweet tooth led us east to Rialto, California, in the heart of the Inland Empire. What we discovered was more than a bakery. We found a family-owned business built on flour, faith, and sugar and a story that reflects the spirit of small business growth in the region.

Located on South Riverside Avenue, Sweet Tooth 909 Bakery has quickly become one of Rialto’s most talked-about local spots. Known for selling out early and drawing customers from across the Inland Empire, the bakery is the realization of a dream that began at home.

From Home Kitchen to Community Favorite

Founded in 2012 by Maribel Diaz, Sweet Tooth 909 started as a home-based baking operation. Word spread fast. What began with friends, neighbors, and social media posts soon turned into growing demand—and eventually the leap into a brick-and-mortar location.

Today, Maribel runs the bakery alongside her sister, Araceli Rodriguez, keeping the business rooted in family, culture, and community. Sweet Tooth 909 is often described as a Mexican family-owned bakery, a point of pride reflected in both its flavors and the way customers are welcomed through the door.

We arrived unannounced, cameras in hand, during the holiday season. Despite the busy pace, Maribel and Araceli took time to greet us, share their journey, and walk us through the space an interaction that says a lot about why customers keep coming back.

Faith in the Foundation

One of the most striking moments of our visit came during a conversation about the bakery’s construction. Maribel shared that while building out the space, she inscribed Bible quotations directly onto the wall studs placing her faith into the foundation long before the first pastry was sold.

Those words may be hidden behind drywall, but they remain central to the bakery’s purpose. It’s a reminder that for many small business owners, faith and perseverance are inseparable from entrepreneurship.

A Box Full of Favorites

Of course, no visit to Sweet Tooth 909 would be complete without tasting the offerings that have earned it a loyal following. We walked away with a box of treats that perfectly captured the bakery’s appeal:

  • Almond Croissant — flaky, buttery, and delicately sweet
  • Chocolate Chip Cookie — classic, comforting, and generously loaded
  • Strawberry Pastry — bright, balanced, and beautifully crafted
  • Cinnamon Roll — rich, warm, and perfect for the holiday season

Each item reflected care, consistency, and pride in craft qualities that define successful neighborhood bakeries.

A Growing Presence in the Inland Empire

Sweet Tooth 909’s popularity has been fueled not only by quality baking but also by strong community support and social media visibility. A viral moment in recent years helped expand its reach, drawing visitors from neighboring cities and reinforcing Rialto’s growing reputation as a destination for locally owned businesses.

Open limited days and often selling out by early afternoon, the bakery has become a reminder of what happens when preparation meets opportunity.

As the holiday season comes to a close, we extend our best wishes to Maribel Diaz, Araceli Rodriguez, and the entire Sweet Tooth 909 team for a prosperous and sweet 2026.

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Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story

Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story

Dec 15, 2025 | Entertainment

Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story

Actress Jearnest Corchado on Honoring a Living Legend in Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story

Photos by Richard Sandoval | Production by ReWork Media Group

At the 2025 Imagen Foundation Awards, held at the iconic Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Hispanic Lifestyle spoke with actress Jearnest Corchado and legendary singer Lisa Lisa (Lisa Vélez) on the red carpet about the emotional and creative journey behind the biopic Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story.

The film tells the powerful story of Lisa Lisa, the trailblazing Puerto Rican singer who rose to fame in the 1980s as the front woman of Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam, becoming one of the first Latina artists to achieve mainstream success in pop, freestyle, and R&B music.

For Corchado, stepping into the role of a living legend came with both gratitude and pressure.

“It was crazy because I was lucky to do a biopic of someone who’s a living legend,” Corchado shared. “It was really hard, but I’m very grateful that I got to have her after every scene… just having her there telling me, ‘You did a good job.’”

Portraying a real person especially one whose music defined an era was a demanding experience. Corchado acknowledged the emotional weight of wanting to honor Lisa Lisa’s legacy with authenticity and respect.

“It’s so hard because you want to do the best job you can. You want to make them happy,” she said. “So I’m glad that you’re happy.”

Lisa Lisa herself admitted she was initially hesitant to share her life story on screen.

“I really wasn’t ready for it,” she said. “About eight years ago, I got a call asking if they could put my movie out, and I said, ‘Does anybody want to know about my life?’ But they convinced me and here it is.”

For Lisa Lisa, choosing Corchado to portray her proved to be a meaningful decision one that resonated deeply with audiences and with the artist herself.

Corchado reflected on how telling Lisa Lisa’s story changed her personally.

“Lisa is an inspiration to so many women, and especially me now,” she said. “I feel like I came to the film set as one person, and I left as a completely different person.”

The role also gave Corchado a chance to connect across generations especially with her mother, an avid fan who grew up during Lisa Lisa’s rise in the 1980s.

“My mom is her number one fan,” Corchado shared with a smile. “To be able to play her in the film and experience even a glimpse of what it was like to be in the ’80s was a dream come true.”

Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story is now streaming on Prime Video, bringing Lisa Lisa’s groundbreaking journey to a new generation of viewers.

“It’s streaming now,” Lisa Lisa said. “Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story is on Prime—so watch us.” 

Bio Information

Jearnest Corchado is an award-winning Puerto Rican actress known for her dynamic performances in television and film. She gained widespread recognition for her roles in Little America, Sneaky Pete, and The Blacklist. Corchado is celebrated for bringing depth, authenticity, and emotional range to stories that spotlight culture, identity, and resilience.

Lisa Lisa (Lisa Vélez) is a pioneering Puerto Rican singer and cultural icon who rose to fame in the 1980s as the lead singer of Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam. With chart-topping hits such as “Can You Feel the Beat,” “All Cried Out,” and “I Wonder If I Take You Home,” she became one of the first Latina artists to achieve crossover success in mainstream pop music. Her influence continues to shape music and culture today.

About the Film
Can You Feel the Beat: The Lisa Lisa Story is a biographical film chronicling the life, career, and cultural impact of Lisa Lisa from her early beginnings to her rise as a groundbreaking Latina voice in the music industry. The film highlights themes of perseverance, identity, and the power of representation.

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Dr. Marilyn Flores named President of San José City College

Dr. Marilyn Flores named President of San José City College

Dec 10, 2025 | Education, Latinas of Influence

Dr. Marilyn Flores named President of San José City College

A Latina of Influence, Dr. Flores, has been recognized as the Educator of the Year at the Inland Empire Hispanic Image Awards presented by Hispanic Lifestyle.

A first-generation college graduate and second-language learner herself, Dr. Flores has held a variety of leadership positions in her more-than 25 years of service within the California Community Colleges system, including most recently as superintendent/president of Rio Hondo College in Whittier, Calif.

“I am deeply honored to step into this role, and I extend my sincere thank you to the chancellor and board of trustees at SJECCD for providing me with this wonderful opportunity to lead San José City College,” Dr. Flores said.  “I am honored to join an excellent team and to work alongside the students, faculty, and staff to support SJCC’s innovative work and ensure access, equity, and success for the diverse community we serve. Together, I look forward to building on the College’s strong foundation and advancing our shared mission with purpose and commitment.”

Dr. Marilyn Flores

Following a nationwide search, Dr.  Flores has been named president of San José City College (SJCC).

“Dr. Flores is a distinguished educational leader with a proven track record of advancing institutions and improving student success,” said Dr. Beatriz Chaidez, San José – Evergreen Community College District (SJECCD) chancellor. “After reviewing dozens of applications from a deep and diverse pool of highly qualified candidates, conducting two rounds of interviews, and virtual candidate forums, I’m confident that we have identified the right leader for SJCC.”

Prior to her role at Rio Hondo, Dr. Flores served as interim president of Santa Ana College and vice president of academic affairs at Santiago Canyon College. Her prior experience also includes having served as both chief instructional officer and accreditation liaison officer. Her experience also includes instruction and deanships at Santiago Canyon College and Las Positas College as well as earlier leadership roles at Riverside City College.

“I am deeply honored to step into this role, and I extend my sincere thank you to the chancellor and board of trustees at SJECCD for providing me with this wonderful opportunity to lead San José City College,” Dr. Flores said.  “I am honored to join an excellent team and to work alongside the students, faculty, and staff to support SJCC’s innovative work and ensure access, equity, and success for the diverse community we serve. Together, I look forward to building on the College’s strong foundation and advancing our shared mission with purpose and commitment.”

A Wheelhouse Fellow from UC Davis, Dr. Flores earned her Ph.D. in institutional leadership and policy studies from the University of California, Riverside. She also holds a master’s degree in education from UCLA and a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with a concentration in education and Spanish, also from UC Riverside.

While her appointment was approved by the SJECCD board of trustees during its meeting on December 9, 2025, Dr. Flores is scheduled to assume her new role as SJCC president on January 12, 2026.

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