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FORUM

Monthly Newsletter
June 2010
www.amsoc.com.br

In This Issue 60th Anniversary: a sparkling


World Cup advice
diamond of an event
By Simon Tharby, staff writer
Page 8 & 16: Your first World
Cup in Brazil? We’ve got you
covered, with two advice articles Elegance and style were
inside. in abundance, with men
wearing black ties with
dinner jackets or dark suits
Corporate Sponsor and the women in their best
news party dresses.
The evening started with
Page 9: New corporations are cocktails and “mystery
stepping up every month to aid boxes” – on sale for R$50,
AmSoc in its charitable goals. R$100 or R$200, containing
Will your employer be next? donated gifts guaranteed to
be worth more than the sale
price. There was also time
Festa Junina this to make bids on items for

5
40 guests attended the American silent auction, which proved
month Society’s 60th Anniversary Party, enormously popular. The items included
Page 11: Learn a bit about the making it one of the largest events weekends away in resorts, bicycles,
history of one of Brazil’s most ever organized by AmSoc. In keeping pieces of art and many other items.
unique and treasured traditions. with the diamond theme, appropriate for Sitting down to a gorgeous meal,
a 60th anniversary, it was a glittering, which included filet mignon stuffed
multi-faceted gem of a night. with wild mushrooms, Australian ra-
Violins serenaded guests as they violi and Asiatic pears with caramel
Runnin’ rapid recap arrived at Buffet Torres in Moema. sauce, the highlight of the (Continued on page 4)

Page 13: Hear from a young


Graded School student on his
whitewater rafting experience
Independence Day Party on July 3
with Outward Bound. By Richard Wegman and Alan Blau, AmSoc board members

In a beautiful home in Chacara Flora, Of course, for adults we have beers as well
AmSoc will be hosting a family picnic as sodas, hamburgers with all the fixings
for all its members to honor the traditional (even a little chili); hot dogs and chicken
Our Mission Independence Day outings in the United
States. The day begins at noon on July
skewers with BBQ sauce.
World Cup watchers, we’ve got you
3, with lots of games, prizes, special covered. We’ll be installing a large flat
The American Society of São Paulo monitored activities, rides, face-painting screen TV and sound system so that you
promotes friendship by organizing and more for the kids. We’ll also keep can enjoy the picnic and the games at the
social, cultural and athletic events for them busy with hot dogs and cake to same time. We understand that if the stars
its diverse membership; encourages eat, and of course ending the day with align as expected, Brazil will be playing at
integration with the Brazilian society; sparklers and smiles. 3 pm. This area will be inside so you can
and supports the American traditions We also thought about the adults and stand and cheer until your voice is gone.
of education, philanthropy and family games, which could include an The Consul General will be present
volunteerism. old-fashioned egg toss or three-legged and after the Marines present our flag, he
race in order to get your blood flowing. will present the “President’s (Continued on page 6)
Newcomer
The President’s Corner profile
What are you pancake breakfast together with Name: Eduardo
looking forward our Little League sign-up. Be sure Estrada
to this summer? to invite new people to the event; Origin, time here:
Or should I say the American Society hopes to help Born in Guatemala,
winter? all, especially those just arriving to I lived in Guatemala
About now get connected into a community of City, but I also lived
you have been people. Getting connected is the in the States for nine
wearing a sweat- best recipe for a successful start in years (California,
er for a couple a new city. San Luis Obispo and
weeks and be- The American Society had a Santa Cruz) before
By Tim Scott, AmSoc president gun to pile on the fantastic 60th Anniversary Party, I moving to Sao Paulo;
blankets at night. It is always a little hope you were able to join us. We six years.
confusing this time of year to be mak- celebrated in style and were proud Why Sao Paulo?: I came because of
ing the annual summer plans for a trek to do so while emphasizing one my work with Syngenta Multinational,
up to the northern hemisphere while of our long-standing values; that working with crop protection. Nowadays,
preparing here in Sao Paulo for cooler of philanthropic support for our I am president of DSM Latin America, a
weather. Some of you will be heading partner organizations. Dutch company working in life sciences
out to various places. Before you go, The Associação Beneficente and material sciences. Before coming here,
I hope you have a chance to take part Vivenda da Criança in Parelheiros, I used to say “I will never go to Sao Paulo,”
in a traditional Brazilian festival, the a community center and orphanage, but my CEO insisted, saying it was a career
Festa Junina. was the principle beneficiary from opportunity. I fell in love with the city and
The festival is sometimes referred our event. the culture.
to as Festa São João and gives thanks For 60 years, the American Best things so far: The professional “can
to São João for the rain (he should Society has been a part of the do” attitude of the Brazilian business
feel well appreciated this year). It is community here in São Paulo. community and the growth opportunities.
also a festival to celebrate rural life We have received much from this The Brazilians’ passion for their country
and participants dress with straw hats, wonderful city and I hope you and enjoyment of life. Family-wise, the
farmer’s clothes and painted gap teeth. would agree that we have given culture is very rich. The school my four
Bonfires are a traditional part of the much to help enrich the lives of kids go to, Graded, is excellent.
Early frustrations: The phrase “fica
festival as is the quadrilha (square AmSoc members and São Paulo
tranquilo” – I found the negotiating tactics
dance). citizens.
here are quite different to those I was
When you get back to São Paulo, While much has changed in
used to. Mastering the traffic was also a
the American Society will be kicking 60 years, we look forward to challenge.
off the second half of the year with continuing to serve our community Have ‘saudade’ for anything back
a welcome back event, inviting and members for many more years home?: My kids all have things they want
members and non-members for a to come. me to bring them when I travel to the States,
Guatemala or Colombia. For me it’s hot
peppers from Guatemala. I also, of course,
Bob Moser, editor miss my family: I have seven sisters and 38
Forum is published monthly, with Simon Tharby, staff writer nephews. I miss the organized chaos back
the exception of January and July, by 141 Preview, layout home with so many women around!
About Forum

Beatriz Salgado, editorial Progress with Portuguese: Very good. My


assistant first boss here didn’t speak any English or
Spanish so I had to learn pretty fast. My
Forum is printed by EGB. accent still gives me away most of the time,
(http://www.egb.com.br) though sometimes people think that maybe
I am from the south of Brazil.
Views expressed in Forum do Favorite place to hang out: Vila Madelena
The American Society of São Paulo not necessarily reflect those of
– plenty of places there, the beautiful stores,
Rua da Paz, 1431 n 04713-001 São Paulo, SP the American Society board of
governors, members, or staff. great discos, and the food in Vila Madelena
Tel: (11) 5182-2074 n Fax: (11) 5182-9155 in general. My favorite is a botequa named
forum@amsoc.com.br Forum reserves the right to edit
content for brevity and/or clarity. Salve Jorgé – a good sports bar with good,
typically Brazilian food.

2 FORUM June
The American Society
of São Paulo

Welcome new members from April


When you see our new members, the difference a warm welcome can Independence Day Celebration on
please take some time to get to make. Saturday, July 3. It is sure to be a blast
know them personally. Remember We want to personally invite with something for everyone.
when you were new to AmSoc, and all new members to come to our

Name Membership Type Citizenship Company or Profession


Soraia Lozano Single Brazilian Unifesp e Consultório Medico
Robson Rosa Single Brazilian Teleperformance Brasil
Steven & Diane Barry Family Patron American Bristol-Myers Squibb
Feriale & Hadi El-Khouri Family American n/a
Rafael & Katja Pita Helping Hands American n/a
Dave & Luiza Wolaver Family American n/a
Matthew & Jayne Reinhart Family Patron American DuPont
Viktor & Luciana Andrade Family American Ernst & Young

Apply for Clarification


Forum In the story “AGM on April 14, a great

editor job night for members to gather,” found


on page 9 of the May Forum, AmSoc
Board Member Aline Ricardo’s words
were taken out of context, regarding
The Forum’s paid editor position will comparison between this year’s food
open up this month, and a new editor and entertainment, and last years.
will take over production of the monthly Catering companies Beebys
newsletter in July for the August issue. Gourmet and Deborah Dayan are
A native English speaker is preferred, both valued friends of AmSoc, and
as well as someone with a firm grasp have aided the society in throwing
of proofreading, editing and media, if terrific parties over the years. Special
possible. recognition should be given to
If you are interested, please contact the entertainers from both years as well,
office as soon as possible at 5182-2074 including Meredith White on piano.
to share your resume. This can be
considered a part-time job that you can
manage from home, and fit around your
existing schedule. The monthly salary is
R$800, with opportunity for additional
income for writing stories not taken on
by the staff writer. The editor coordinates
the planning of each issue, works with
contributors from the AmSoc Board and
a staff writer to generate content, edits
that content and works with an outside
design company that lays out the issue.
After layout is approved, the editor helps
ensure the printing company delivers the
Forum on time to readers.

2010 FORUM 3
60th Anniversary: a sparkling diamond
of an event
(Continued from cover page) evening began – the for organizing the party: Eric Street, sponsor of the evening, and donated
live auction. Luiz Arena, a profes- Kelly Maurice, Kim Corcoran, R$30,000 for the event.
sional auctioneer who volunteered, Lynn Cordeiro, Lynne Couri, Maria Early estimates indicate a
ensured proceedings went smoothly. Cavallin, Mark Abrams, Monica staggering R$100,000 was raised in
With a star prize of a Tiffany diamond Freyre and Richard Wegman. benefit of Vivenda da Crianca and
circlet pendant, worth R$5,375 and Ford Motor Company was the main other AmSoc partners.
wrapped in the famous jeweler’s blue
box, and other prizes including a big
screen plasma TV, a trip to the St.
Martins resort, and a catered meal for
10 at home, there was plenty to offer
bids on.
Tim Scott, AmSoc president and
proud winner of the Tiffany pendant,
said, “I thought it was a beautiful
piece that would look even more
beautiful on my wife.”
The band ‘SP3’ played a wide range
of music throughout the night, and
between them and the DJ, managed
to keep feet dancing and hips swaying
until 2 am. The photographer for the
night was Lynn Cordeiro, and photos
will be available to view on her Web
site www.falaphoto.com (some of
those photos are in this Forum).
Cordeiro also did the layout for the
memory booklets given to every
guest, which contained the menu,
an article about SP both now and 60
years ago, ads bought by sponsors,
photos of the board
members, a list of the
committee members
and more.
“The incredible
scene was all the work
of the people on the
committee – everyone
worked so hard,”
said Marlene Rubeiz,
AmSoc board member
and party organizer.
This included
subgroups working on
fundraising, logistics,
publicity, marketing,
auctioning and
ticket sales. AmSoc
would like to thank
the following event
committee members

4 FORUM June
The American Society
of São Paulo

AmSoc would like to thank everyone Pro, Terroir Wines, World Wines, Pizzaria 1900, Dona Lucinha
who donated cash, goods or services Expand Wines, Ana Imports wines, Restaurant, Kaa’ Restaurante,
for the party, which were offered as Decanter, Grand Cru, Zahil Rubaiyat Figueira, Rubaiyat Faria
prizes throughout the night: Hotels: Santa Clara Hotel Fazenda, Lima, Rubaiyat Al Santos, Las
Diamond Sponsor: Ford Romanticos Chales, Renaissance Lilas Restaurant, Fogo de Chão
Major Sponsors: Sagatiba, Hotel, Hilton Hotel, Hotel Sofitel Restaurant, Folha de Uva Restaurant,
Embraer, Clifford Chance, Colgate J e q u i t i m a r, B e s t Wes t e r n S o l Antiquarius Restaurant, Bistro Charlo
Travel: American Airlines, GOL Ipanema Hotel, Marriott, Piemonte Restaurant, Brasil a Gosto Restaurant,
Airlines, Alatur, Flytour Hotel & Flat, Shangri La Pousada Cantaloup Restaurant, Rabo de Peixe
Artwork: Darel Valença Lins, (Serra Negra), Copacabana Palace, Restaurant, Matriz Hamburqueria,
Galina Sheetikoff, Jeane Rosenthal, Hotel Fazenda Braugarten, X-Mart, Cachoeira Tropical Restaurant, La
Gregory Fink Alvear Palace (Buenos Aires), Llao Tambouille Restaurant, PJ Clarkes,
Baskets: Procter & Gamble, Llao (Bariloche), Mandarin Oriental Cervejaria Braugarten, Restaurante
Hershey, Pepsico/Elma Chips, (Miami), La Semanna (St. Martin) Caroline, Thai Gardens
Mosteiro São Bento, Casa Santa Jewelry: Tiffany & Co., Jack Special Thanks to: Ingrid
Luzia Vartanian, Patricia Gothief, Claudia M a rg a r e t a S a u r e r, M á r c i a
Beauty: Granado, Espaço Rudá, Kechichian, Cristal Baccarat, Mesquita, Maria Elisa Byington,
Luiza, Sato Clinics, M.G. Hair, Fabrizio Giannone SPLOVESYOU Lucia Vigorito
Corporale Clínica de Estética, Med Luxury Brands: Dkza, Superga, Sports: Caloi, Santo Amaro
Pilates, Tucas, Estetica Dolores, PPM Samsung, Sonia Pinto, Paola Robba, Golf Club, Guarapiranga Golf, São
Hairdresser, Twin Flames, Hara Fernanda Yamamoto, Esencial, Fernando Golf, Olimpia Futebol
E l e c t ro n i c s : M i c r o s o f t , H P SAAD
Photosmart Plus, Kingston Other Services: Dannemann-sa,
Technology do Brasil Diageo, FalaPhoto.com, Hertz,
Oenology Table: Ricardo Rubeiz Gramado Sec. Tourismo
& Associados, Jose Cuervo, Wine Restaurants: Francisca Buffet,

2010 FORUM 5
Independence Day Party on July 3
(Continued from cover page) Message,” and talk a the office and cancel so that we can fill 12:30 pm. Please bring your desserts
little about what it means to be American your spot. and salads to share before 1 pm. For
in a foreign country. If you have friends that would like security purposes, you’ll be given the
We have arranged to have a great to attend, sign them up as members and address when you RSVP, which can
band again this year for your listening let them experience this truly American be done by e-mailing amsoc1@amsoc.
and dancing pleasure. This band has Independence Day celebration in São com.br. Also, consider renewing your
played for us in the past and their Paulo. membership now to avoid the renewal
danceable songs really get the feet IN SHORT: The gate opens at noon, line at this party.
moving to sounds of the Beach Boys, with the opening ceremony held at
Beatles and many more classics.
Members can make their reservations
through the office at 5182-2074 – this
is a MEMBERS ONLY event. At the
time you make your reservation you
will have to tell our office assistant what
salad or dessert you will be bringing, so
that we all won’t be eating tuna fish at
the picnic.
This is one of the benefit events that
comes with your membership, which
is one way we get to thank you for
supporting AmSoc, and keeping the
American traditions alive for you and
your family while you are working or
living abroad. Make your reservations
early, as we can only accept the first 250
members. There will be a waiting list,
so if you have a reservation but cannot
attend, please be kind enough to contact

Voter
Registration
The Democrats Abroad of Sao Paulo
will be on hand at this party running
a voter registration table. Everyone
is encouraged to register for overseas
voting if they haven’t done so already,
party affiliation doesn’t matter.
That means even Republicans and
Communists are welcome.

6 FORUM June
The American Society
of São Paulo

Many thanks Volunteer for your Angel


for 60th Party child now
Anniversary There’s no denying it: we’re going to
need your help. With more than 200
to swing by an outlet mall or a discount
store abroad and do the shopping in one
children coming to November’s AmSoc fell swoop.
fundraising Angel Party, we’ll need more than 200
people to step forward and agree to
sponsor a child. Will you be one of
And while you’re gone, get lots of
rest and eat well because we’ll need
your help to plan the party and make
By Márcio Pires, president of Vivenda da Criança
them? it happen. From rounding up sponsors,
November is still five months away, donors, prizes and cash to helping on the
but you can start shopping for your day of the party, there’s something for
child now. The list looks like this: everyone. Best of all, it’s a lot of fun.
tennis shoes, a backpack, a toy, pants Why else would this party be going into
and a shirt, socks, underwear, a coat or its 11th year, bigger, better and happier
sweatshirt and some candy. each time?
There are two good reasons to agree to Come be part of the fun. Start now by
sponsor a child now and start shopping agreeing to sponsor a child and getting
early. First, with winter coming on, it’s that shopping done. Wouldn’t that be
easy to find coats and sweatshirts in a good thing to knock off your 2010
Brazil. But in August, stores are getting to-do list?
On behalf of the Vivenda da Criança ready for the spring. Coats are taken off To learn more, contact Eileen Tasso
board, I appreciate the attention our enti- the rack, making the chase for a warm (eileentasso@gmail.com), Maria
ty gained during the American Society´s sweatshirt difficult. Second, if you plan Cavallin (mariacavallin@yahoo.com)
60th Anniversary dinner on May 7. to vacation away from Brazil in July, it’s and Sue Banman Sileci (sue@sileci.
Besides the large amount of money usually faster, easier and less crowded com).
you have raised for our project, which
no doubt will be extremely important for
our 2010 budget, the publicity for Viv-
enda in such important event, alongside
renowned many companies, is certainly
a prestige never before seen in the work
of Sister Yvone Venditti.
We invite you all to visit our organi-
zation to know closely the social work
carried out, as well as accompany the
implementation of the resources pro-
vided to Vivenda.
Access www.vivendadacrianca.com.
br and find out a little more about our
social projects.

Fellowship Community Church


The Welcome Place since 1921
Phone (11) 3253-7609 www.fellowship.com.br

09:00 am - Walking in Faith Classes (English and Portuguese)

Sunday’s 10:30 am – Worship Service (English only)

06:00 pm – Culto em português

Conveniently located on Rua Carlos Sampaio, 107 – Bela Vista


Just a block and a half from the Brigadeiro Metro station on the Avenida Paulista

2010 FORUM 7
Are you ready for a World Cup in Brazil?
Do your grocery shopping the night before
By Bob Moser, editor

For ex- Englishmen, Germans, Italians or for absenteeism during the games.
pats who Brazilians. That would likely never fly here in
moved here Shay Coker, AmSoc member and Brazil. Ex-pats who’ll be experiencing
sometime owner of Coker Translations, had the their first World Cup amongst Brazilians
after 2006, fortune of arriving in Rio de Janeiro can expect many big business offices to
expect a for a vacation in 1998 on the same slow to a crawl on days the Brazilian
very different day Brazil was playing in a World Cup team is playing, and most medium- to
Brazil over quarterfinal round game. His friend small-sized businesses and shops will
the next was noticeably upset while picking remain closed for the whole day, or shut
month-and- Coker up from the airport, perturbed down about two hours before kickoff.
a-half. When Brazil’s national soccer at the thought she could be missing her (Single elimination rounds follow,
team kicks off their first game of the team’s action while away from the tube. beginning June 26. The championship
2010 World Cup on June 15, shops Lucky for both, the streets of Rio match will be on July 11)
will shutter, bank tellers may lose your resembled a ghost town that afternoon,
count and staff at your big corporate Coker said, and they flew back to her SCHEDULE
office probably won’t accomplish house in record time. Brazil would (times listed below are for viewers in Brazil)
much on their to-do lists that day. go on to lose the title game to France Saturday, June 12, 3:30 pm
that year, but in the victories USA x England
beforehand, Coker was Tuesday, June 15, 3:30 pm
given his first glimpse of Brazil x North Korea
true sports delirium in Brazil,
unlike anything he could ever Friday, June 18, 11 am
imagine occurring back home. USA x Slovenia
“Everyone went to the Sunday, June 20, 3:30 pm
streets and partied,” Coker Brazil x Ivory Coast
s a i d . “ I t ’s b i g g e r t h a n
Carnaval, because everyone Wednesday, June 23, 11 am
is happy. Carnaval is kind USA x Algeria
of divided up into blocos, Friday, June 25, 11 am
but with this, you couldn’t Brazil x Portugal
The outside hope is that both Brazil and the U.S. will still be playing pass by someone who didn’t
on July 3, during our Independence Day Party.
have a smile on their face.” The closest comparison that
It’s not necessarily a good or bad Even though Sao Paulo is one of Americans may have to this type of
thing, this drastic halt much of Brazil the world’s largest, most important month-long, responsibilities-be-damned
will screech to during the month of business cities, many ex-pats say to form of sports commitment is the NCAA
international soccer pandemonium. still expect most shops, restaurants Men’s Basketball Tournament every
But knowing where most Brazilians and grocery stores to close before March. Teenage boys buy TV-enabled
place their priorities during this time Cup games, if not for the whole day. cell phones during that month to peek at
will allow ex-pats to adapt to the It means you should post the World games in high school study hall, college
temporary change, and join in the fun. Cup schedule on your refrigerator door students trade their classroom seats for
A report on the World Cup’s impact in June, even if you don’t plan to watch a bar stool, and CBSSports.com streams
on economic productivity was made a game, if only to know when to stock all the games live online, complete with
by Goldman Sachs prior to the 2006 up on bread, milk and other necessities. a “Boss Button” that allows viewers
tournament. It forecasted that American US News and World Report noted who are at work to hide their computer
companies would likely lose 10 minutes that only 8 percent of managers in screens behind a fake spreadsheet.
of productivity a day for 21 days, England said they would allow workers “But this is about 10 times bigger than
which would come to about US$121.7 to take the next day off if England the NCAA Tournament,” Coker said.
million in lost productivity in the U.S., won the championship, and those “Because not just guys are interested,
and maybe more for any company surveyed said they’d watch closely for but its women, kids, grandmothers.
employing substantial numbers of mystery illnesses and other reasons Everyone watches the World Cup.”

8 FORUM June
The American Society
of São Paulo

2010 Corporate Sponsorship


moves into gear
By Timothy Altaffer, Corporate Donations Committee

The 2010 Corporate Sponsorship Diamond Sponsors


Drive is moving towards a very (R$30,000 and up)
successful year, with close to Ford
R$110,000 already received or Chevrolet
pledged. Sapphire Sponsors
Our Corporate Sponsors receive (R$10,000 - $14,999)
valuable benefits from their Cabot Brasil
sponsorship, including advertising Serasa / Experian
rights in AmSoc’s publications that Ruby Donors
reach a highly qualified audience, (R$5,000 - $9,999)
sponsorship and/or naming rights Cisa Trading
in the Society’s many prestigious Colgate Palmolive
social gatherings, as well as Clifford Chance
recognition in all of the Society’s Aquamarine Sponsors
official events. (R$ 1,000 - $4,999)
We’d love to see your company Endurance Partners
join our select group of partners GE do Brasil
and sponsors. Please contact the Ernst & Young
AmSoc office to learn more about Alcoa Aluminum
these very effective sponsorship Caterpillar
benefits. 2010 Goal, How to Help
Special thanks this month go to This year, AmSoc aims to raise at
Ford and Chevrolet, who have taken least R$150,000 through corporate
strong positions in our Society’s donations, and over the last four
events and activities. Welcome years it has distributed, directly or
also to Colgate-Palmolive, Ernst indirectly, more than R$1 million
& Young, Alcoa, Caterpillar and in community assistance programs.
Clifford Chance. Companies interested in becoming
The following companies are our Sponsors should call the AmSoc
2010 Corporate Sponsors. There’s office at (11) 5182-2074.
room for your company on this list:

Web help
needed
The American Society is looking
for a person to help provide support
for our Web site. The person will
be responsible to make periodic
updates and simple changes to
www.amsoc.com.br. The work can
be compensated and we anticipate
2-8 hours per month. Please
e-mail amsoc@amsoc.com.br if
interested.

2010 FORUM 9
News from the U.S. Consulate
By Amir Masliyah, vice consul, American Citizen Services, U.S. Consulate General in Sao Paulo

What are Warden Messages and Travel Travel advisories are released for a 2. Check in. Leave a copy of your
Advisories all about? variety of reasons, including terrorism, itinerary with trusted family or friends
The State Department, through the natural disasters, political unrest, wars, at home so that they know where you’re
Bureau of Consular Affairs, issues health emergencies and outbreaks of supposed to be and when. If possible,
Country Specific Information for every crime. A Travel Warning can also be schedule a few stops at internet cafes
country in the world. These provide issued when the U.S. Government’s while you’re on the road -- that way you
basic information to enable a traveler to ability to assist U.S. citizens is can make contact with worried loved
make an informed decision concerning constrained due to a drawdown or ones and keep up with any news stories
travel to a particular country. closure at an embassy or consulate, that might affect your travels.
For instance, Country Specific even if the underlying condition is 3. Be prepared. Have a backup
Information describes entry and exit thought to be of limited duration. plan in case something goes wrong.
requirements, road safety, crime The U.S. State Department issues Find your home country’s embassy or
information, areas of instability, travel warnings for long-term, consulate in the area you’ll be visiting
aviation safety oversight and customs protracted conditions that make a and carry its contact details with you
information, among other things, and country dangerous or unstable, while at all times. But be aware of what the
it contains the address and telephone travel alerts are issued to disseminate embassy -- and your home government
number of the U.S. embassy and information about short-term conditions, -- can and cannot do.
consulates. generally within a particular country, For example, if you’re injured, the
The Bureau of Consular Affairs that pose imminent risks to the security State Department can assist in some
works with Consulate Sao Paulo to of U.S. citizens. limited ways, but you or your relatives
update Country Specific Information Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, will have to foot the bill.
at least twice a year. We use these coups or anniversaries of terrorist 4. Protect yourself. If possible,
reports as a vital resource that contains events, election-related demonstrations/ purchase a travel insurance policy (but
up-to-date information for those violence, and high profile events such as be sure to see what is and isn’t covered).
traveling or living abroad. Besides an international conference or regional Finally, do your research; read up on
changes in circumstances unique to sports event are examples of conditions the political or cultural situation of the
Sao Paulo, there are periodic changes that might generate a travel alert. area you’re visiting and know exactly
to information that pertains to all Wherever you travel, remember to what threats you might face.
areas of the world. Country Specific do the following: Please continue to consult www.
Information on Brazil can be found at 1. Register yourself. Let the State travel.state.gov for more information.
the following link: Department know (www.travel.state. ( N o t e : t h e We b s i t e
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_ gov) when and where you will be independenttraveler.com was also
tw/cis/cis_1072.html#safety traveling so that you can be reached in referenced for this article)
About Warden Messages an emergency.
Warden messages are often used to
inform U.S. citizens about events or
threats that can affect their personal
security. Other warden messages
help to disseminate information about
Need a home for your old car?
routine topics such as voter registration,
income tax season, new passport O n e o f A m S o c ’s s p o n s o r e d Banman Sileci at sue@sileci.com if
procedures, and other non-security institutions needs a new used car for you want to see that car being used
related issues vital to the local U.S. pick-ups, family visits and general (and loved) by someone else.
citizen community. errand running. If you have a car
“Wardens” are American citizens that you’d like to
living abroad who act liaisons between get out of your
the U.S. Consulate or Embassy and garage, especially
other American citizens in their area. a company car,
About Travel Warnings there might be
Travel Warnings recommend that tax benefits by
U.S. citizens defer or reconsider travel donating it to a
to a country due to a protracted situation registered charity.
that is dangerous or unstable. Contact Sue

10 FORUM June
The American Society
of São Paulo

Festa Junina tradition offers great


fun this month
By Beatriz Salgado, staff writer

with the celebration of harvesting


corn, a key reason why many of
the foods popular at the party
are made from corn. Some Festa
Junina dishes that feature corn
are: canjica, pamonha, popcorn,
and curau. Typical drinks that are
served are vinho quente (hot wine)
and quentão, a hot mixed punch
that includes citrus, sliced apple,
cinnamon, sugar, ginger, water and
plenty of clear cachaça.
You’ll usually find a bonfire
keeping folks warm during the
cold June night, colored flags and
balloons strewn overhead, flowers
made with crepe paper and images
of the June saints spread about.
In some festivals there are the
traditional “quermesse,” which are
Festa Junina is one of Brazil’s celebrates this event. favorite games, such as bingo.
most traditional holidays, and Due in no small part to Brazil The sound of accordions, triangles
curiously, it has its origin mostly having the world’s largest Catholic and zabumbas (a type of drum set)
from Portugal and Spain. Even population, Festa Junina celebrates stirs up a festa spirit for the crowd
though this traditional party is the “Saints of June.” Santo Antonio do dance the “quadrilha,” a form
celebrated throughout the country, (Saint Anthony) is on June 13, São of square dance influenced by the
it is most popular in rural São João (Saint John) on June 24, and French. In the north they dance to
Paulo and the northeast Brazil. In São Pedro (Saint Peter) June 29. the “forró” rhythm.
each region people celebrate it in It’s a way to preserve cultural roots Eloisa Finolio, former principal
a different style, but in no place and a way the Brazilians show their of Mauiricio Milani public school
do the Brazilians forget why they devotion for these saints. in inner Sao Paulo, describes what
celebrate such a traditional party. “Every Festa Junina my family the typical dance at the Festa Junina
“The bonfires were so big that the and the guests would pray the means: “The quadrilha represents
flames would sting my eyes,” said rosary for the saints, and only after a grand ball of a wedding that
elementary school teacher Élcia we praised did we get to dance and was typically celebrated in France
Felicia, who vividly remembers eat,” Felicia said. during XVIII century. Today, during
when her family used to organize The magic of the festival lies in the the quadrilha dance, there is a
Festas Juninas at her mother’s farm colorful decorations, frenetic music, symbolic wedding, with the bride
in Echaporã, a small town located and the traditional dances. Everyone and groom and other participants
in inner São Paulo. “I remember dresses in brightly colored outfits that dance in pairs. Also, there’s an
running around trying to catch the that reflect a traditional “country” animator that will give instructions
balloons that swirled across the sky, look from the northeast. Boys as the pairs dance in a circle.”
like fireflies.” usually wear overalls, suspenders, Festa Junina is more than
Over time, the cultural elements and straw hats, while girls wear firecrackers, dance and bonfires, it
brought from Europe started colorful dresses with pig-tails, and is a ceremony to praise the saints of
to mix with native culture, and black out a tooth to mimic farmer June and a commemoration that is
customs from African descendents. stereotypes. The hillbilly style gives much older than Brazil itself. It is a
Consequently, this gave different the festival its fun, country-fair spectacular event that incorporates
characteristics to the festa, and atmosphere. some of Brazilians best traditions,
to each of Brazil’s regions that Festa Junina is also associated joys, and beliefs.

2010 FORUM 11
Campus visit value: tips from behind the desk
By Kristina L. Dooley, former AmSoc member

Your child has been counting the days and see the campus yourself.”
until their break from school and they’re Be sure to bring a camera with you
ready for some relaxation before their during your visit. Visual triggers, as
junior or senior year. Before breaking opposed to written notes about the
out that ski gear and heading to Chile, number of volumes in the library,
remember that in just a few months your are much better for you when
child will be knee-deep in brochures and you return home and are trying to
e-mails from colleges trying to entice differentiate between schools. Take
them into considering their golden photos of unique items on campus,
thrones of higher learning. not just exteriors of buildings.
Though some families feel “Students should ask if they can
comfortable selecting a college sight- see themselves on a particular campus
unseen, there are good reasons to be living and learning in the residence
wary of this plan. Have you ever seen a halls and in the classrooms,” says
university brochure with photos taken Staci Ambrose, coordinator of
during a New England winter storm, International Admissions at Beloit
featuring homesick students wearing College. “They should experience
inappropriate attire eating cereal for as much as possible during their
dinner? Of course not. Will you see this visit by touring the campus, sitting
scenario played out during your campus in on a class and staying overnight
visits? Absolutely. with a student host if possible.”
“Though you may fall in love After your visit it’s important
with a school from their Web site or for students to follow up with a
publications, the campus visit is your “thank you” to those individuals
opportunity to see if the school is a who assisted them during their time
A scene from Clark University in Massachusetts.
‘fit’ for you and your needs,” says on campus, including tour guides,
Renee Scheske, associate director for Brooks, associate director of Admission admission counselors, and faculty
Admissions Operations at Penn State at Vassar College. “You’ll want to allot members. In this age of technology
University. “An on-campus visit may extra time for traffic, parking delays, it’s appropriate to do this via e-mail or
surprise you and provide you with meals and bookstore visits.” a social networking site. In fact, why
critical information you need to make Though many schools don’t require not send a Tweet or post something on
your decision.” on-campus interviews, it’s best to take the school’s Facebook wall about your
By this point in their schooling, your advantage of this opportunity while you experience?
child may have developed a preliminary are on the campuses that do. Remember: It’s important to remember that the
list of colleges with the assistance of interviews are two-way. It makes sense undergraduate college search process
their college counselor. Jim Abbuhl, that both you and your child have should ideally occur just once in your
vice president for Admission and questions about what will surely be a child’s life. Thoughtful planning and
Financial Aid at Hiram College, feels huge investment on the part of your thorough campus visits will aid them in
that pre-planning is one of the most family. An easy rule of thumb when ultimately selecting the most appropriate
important pieces of college visits. preparing questions for the information school.
When scheduling visits remember session or interview is to ask those Kristina L. Dooley is the founder
that most schools will offer set group things which can’t be found on the of Estrela Consulting, an Independent
tour times that are generally coupled institution’s Web site. Your tour guide Educational Consulting firm helping
with an information session or an is also a valuable resource and will, most families navigate the college and board-
interview opportunity. This means you likely, have a different perspective than ing school search processes. A former
should plan to spend at least two to three your admission counselor. college admission counselor, Kristina
hours per visit. Also, keep in mind that “If you’re seriously pressed for time enjoys sharing her “behind the scenes”
weekend visits are rarely offered during and have to choose between a tour and tips with families embarking on this ex-
the U.S. summer months. information session, take the tour,” says citing experience. Kristina is a former
“Don’t assume you can easily squeeze Brooks. “All of the information given AmSoc member now living in Buenos
more than two college visits into a in the admissions session can be found Aires and can be reached via email at
single day, even if the schools are in the online or in brochures and you shouldn’t Kristina@EstrelaConsulting.com or
same city or general area,” says Laurel pass up the opportunity to walk around online at www.EstrelaConsulting.com.

12 FORUM June
The American Society
of São Paulo

‘No flips’ one reason AmSoc Save the date:


teen had a memorable time on Aug. 27
Outward Bound rafting trip Calling all AmSoc golfers, reserve
Aug. 27 on your calendars now
for an AmSoc golf outing that
T h e O u t w a r d a small little waterfall with only is currently being organized by
Bound White Wa- two flips but it was still worth it. our sports committee members.
ter Rafting trip, We got back to the campgrounds, Key details on the time, place
held April 16-18 had some dinner prepared by the and cost will be coming in late
in Jequitibá 70 Scouts and went to bed in our tents. July or early August, but for now
km outside Sao The next day, we woke up bright and we have a date set in stone, and
Paulo, was excit- early, had some breakfast and went on that’s a start! If you are interested
ing, new and fun. our way. We all got into our boats and in helping organize AmSoc sports,
I am not a Boy headed downriver. It was a peaceful e-mail john@kennedy-partners.com
Scout, but still place, the river would slowly wind
By Eric Bissell, 13-year-old they invited me and the trees would hang out above
to come along and I had a great time. us. Slowly we came upon a few small
The trip went from Friday afternoon rapids which were bumpy but pretty fun.
to Sunday evening, and the Scouts We came to the first waterfall. We
managed to pack a lot of fun into it. stopped, got up on a ridge and scouted
It was designed not so that there was it, which means we checked out the
someone in the boat with us just telling waterfall for the best path to go over.
us what to. Instructors gave us the We ended up going along the left
freedom do
more of what
we wanted.
The trip
was split into
two different
parts. On
Saturday
we did the
training and
on Sunday
morning
we did the
4 km-long
rafting trip.
We trained
i n a l a rg e
Individual or Groups

area right
after a small
waterfall.
Half of it COURSE WHERE
was a calm English Company
Spanish Home
area where Philip Abrams and Calvin Peter maneuver over the rapids with Outward Bound University
Portuguese
we could all instructor Flavio overseeing their progress.
practice our strokes and get used to side of the fall in an area where the ANY TIME !
our rafts. When we had all gotten water went very fast. Overall, the www.englishintheoffice.com.br
used to the rafts, we did some pretty rafting was a great success with no relationship@englishintheoffice.com.br
fun but tiring work crossing and flips. We went through a few more Phone: 011 – 50443859
maneuvering through stronger currents. rapids and went off of one more
The best part of that day was waterfall. I had a blast and I hope
going off our first waterfall. It was to go on the next Boy Scouts’ trip.

2010 FORUM 13
CLASSIFIEDS

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H ousing brooklin recommendations for school and
home. For more information, con-
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House is complete ready to live Moving guidance and support. Brief or longer
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Penthome – jardins - 3 Heloisa Garman, Psy.D. U.S. Licensed chris@uol.com.br. Embu Guaçu, São
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14 FORUM June
The American Society
CALENDAR of São Paulo

Learn more about this month’s amsoc events (highlighted) at www.amsoc.com.br.


June 2010 IMPORTANT DATES: “FESTA JUNINA”

INC Monthly Coffee For more information contact


2 Wednesday
& Red Rose monthlycoffees@newcomers-sp.com.br
To be held at Graded School.
Graded Festa
5 Saturday Av. Giovanni Gronchi, 4710.
Junina! For further information call: 3747-0800
7 Monday INC Board Meeting For more information visit www.newcomers-sp.com.br
Gloria Gaynor
At HSBC Brasil 10 pm. For further information visit:
9 Wednesday “Queen of Disco!”
www.hsbcbrasil.com.br
in concert
9 Wednesday INC Red Rose Visit www.newcomers-sp.com.br
June 11
thru
Friday FIFA World Cup!!! FIFA World Cup in South Africa !!!
July
11th
INC Couple’s
12 Saturday Visit www.newcomers-sp.com.br
Game Night
Music at Fellowship Call 3253-7609 or visit www.fellowship.com.br to learn
26 Saturday
Church more.

IB, IGCSE, SAT-I & II, AP and Brazil- com. location. Requirements: Grammatical-
ian vestibular. Elementary and middle E Mail - taylor@taylorimoveis.com ly correct English, moderately fluent
school students are also welcome (all Phone: 5511 3079 8888 and 5511 8774 Portuguese; appropriate degree, some
subjects). Call Fernando Knijnik at 5100 (Maria Elisa) relevant experience, working docu-
(11) 2533-3965 or 9134-6700. ments. Spanish desirable. Résumé with
English Teacher salary history: “RESEARCHER”, to
Personal Trainer AG8@AbacoResearch.com.
Experienced native US English teacher
I will come to your home, office, or for in-company classes, to individuals Furniture for Sale
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or Portuguese. For more information cations, how to get your e-mail right, and photos.
please contact Daniela Franco at (11) and the opportunity to develop fluency
9739-6191 or dsf29@hotmail.com. by exploring a host of topics of your A classified of up to 50 words costs R$45
interest. Contact Jerry at 9832-3494 or for AmSoc members and R$80 for non-
Classified

Taylor Real Estate


Place a

at jerryfluency@gmail.com members. To place a classified please


call (11) 5182-2074 from 8:30 a.m. until
Luxury spacious houses, apartments Research Assistant 1 p.m., or send an e-mail to amsoc1@
and penthouses Sales and rentals. Ten americansociety.com.br.
years experience with expatriates. ÁBACO Marketing Research, found-
Furnished and unfurnished. Trilingual ed 1975, offers growth opportunity Forum does not check all of the advertisers
Our Readers

appearing in this newsletter. We urge you


A Note to

Real Estate agents. References from for bilingual Research Assistant in


consulates and multinationals. Photos International Department. Friendly to use these services; however, thoroughly
check prices and services prior to finalizing
sent by email. Relocation Service. environment with interesting work. any service or purchase agreement.
Consult the site: www.taylorimoveis. Convenient Avenida Paulista subway

2010 FORUM 15
FLIPSIDE

Get your snacks and horn ready


In 1963, Andy In my defense, “copa,” the correct neighborhood for several hours before
Williams released word here, means “pantry, tableware the game, after the game (when Brazil
the Christmas or cup.” But “copo,” the wrong word, wins), and of course during the national
classic, “It’s the means “drinking glass or goblet.” I anthem and with each goal. When we’re
Most Wonderful figure we could just as easily watch the not home with our dogs for the games
Time of the Year.” World Goblet as the World Cup, right? (or other holidays), we shut all the
Christmas is pretty But make this mistake around Brazilians windows, lock them in the living room
nifty, I agree, but and they’ll laugh for hours. Practice and turn on the TV loud. (Someone has
for those of us who saying “Copa do Mundo” several times to enjoy Roberto Carlos on New Year’s
have lived awhile every hour and your dignity might Eve, right?)
By Sue Banman Sileci, in Brazil, we know survive the next month. And then when Brazil scores, you leap
AmSoc member
that every four Second, you need to buy yourself from the sofa and hug the person next
years we experience The Most Wonderful some Brazil gear, a garish yellow T-shirt to you. It doesn’t matter if you know
Time In Brazil. It’s World Cup time, and will do if you can’t afford an official this person. You can shout “Goal!” at
there’s nothing more fun. jersey (And who can?). You need to get the top of your lungs too. Many people
This is the time, for one month every little Brazilian flags to clip to your car, dance about the living room, blowing
four years, that Brazil gets truly puffed lots of horns, some green hair paint, a their horns and getting more snacks,
up. They don’t puff up over their army, goofy hat, and, as a nice finishing touch, but they always race back to the TV to
their satellites, their electoral process or a Brazilian flag to fly off your balcony or watch the replay. Then everyone agrees
their rainforests, but they puff up over front porch. Also, buy lots of snacks. that the player who made the goal was
this sporting event. And they should. Then you need to call your friends a darn good choice for the team. Where
Since the first World Cup in 1930, only over to watch the games with you. You would we be without him?
seven countries have won. Of those, can’t watch the games alone, or even as Brazil usually advances to the final, a
Brazil -- the only country that has been to a family unit. You have to make an event game watched by more than 715 million
every tournament -- has won five times. of each game. people worldwide in 2006. Brazil is
Italy has won four times. Germany, It used to be that people stopped work supposed to be in every final. If there
three. And let us rejoice: Argentina, our to watch the games on a TV in the office are deviations from this planned fate, the
arch-rival, has only won twice. and then went back to work. In the past only acceptable excuse is sudden death
The U.S.? We’ve never won. People few World Cups, however, it seems or terrible injuries to many players at
ask me who I root for, Brazil or the people take the whole afternoon off, or once. And once there, if Brazil doesn’t
U.S. My gut instinct, naturally, is to even the whole day. So, from June 15 on, win, there had better be a good reason for
root for the U.S. But I suspect that most your employees, your students and your it. Brazilians are the most loving fans,
Americans, at least for the next few friends won’t be doing much on game and the harshest critics.
years, don’t appreciate what an amazing days. That’s the way it is. Just invite Congratulations for being here now,
achievement a World Cup victory is. them over to share snacks with you. And in June and July, during the 2010 World
If the U.S. won, most would probably have your TV on, ready to go. Cup. This is Brazil at its silliest, and very
shrug, “We won the World Cup? When If you have dogs or cats and won’t be best. On June 15, gather your friends
was that? Yesterday? Cool.” home with them during a game, be aware about and be ready for the fun to start.
My fantasy is that the U.S. would play that fireworks are always part of the Don’t forget the snacks.
an incredible game, losing at the last celebration. They’re blasting around the
minute in penalties with several players
injured. Galvão Bueno would search for
explanations for the Globo viewers, my
Brazilian friends would slump down on
the couch in grumpy silence and Brazil
would be scared. But in the fantasy I let
Brazil win until Americans can rustle up
some big-time enthusiasm.
Now, if you’re new to Brazil, you
might want to know what to expect and
how to get ready. First, you need to get
your Portuguese straight. The World Cup
in Portuguese is “Copa do Mundo,” not
“Copo do Mundo” as I often say.

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