amsoc forum november 2009

8/14/2019 AmSoc Forum November 2009

1/16

Monthly Newsletter

November 2009

www.amsoc.com.brFORUM

A final push is being made by organizersof AmSocs Christmas Angel Party onNov. 14 to draw in more cash donationsfor gifts and food, and volunteers to help

during the event.The focus before the big day is primarilyfor more cash donations, which areneeded to buy prizes for all the gamesand extra food like pizza for the army ofvolunteers who will be hungry by days

In This IssueIn This Issue

American ootballcatching eyes in Brazil

Page 10: The Sao Paulo Stormwill play for the first tackle footballchampionship of Brazil later thismonth, in a new league gainingpopularity throughout the country.

20 years or a dreamcome true

Page 5: Celebrate two decades ofuccess for Vivenda da Criana on

Nov. 29, a successful childrenscharity born from the ambition of

one woman.

Page 12: Free money to attend U.S.universities is there for the taking f you know where to look. AmSoc

member Kristina Dooley wants tohelp.

College scholarships

there or the taking

Sao Paulos newestCorinthiana

Page 16: Sue Banman Sileci reportsfrom the other side Corinthiansdark, dirty fan community,and says theyre more than justmisunderstood Theyre nice. Last-minute eforts or Angel Party

underway, your help needed

end. Whether theyre corporate donationsor private individuals who are feelinggenerous, more money will really makea difference.

We go to 25 de Maro to buy trinketssuch as watches, bracelets and candy forthe games, but when youre buying forover 200 kids it gets expensive, PartyCoordinator Eileen Tasso said.

Members interested in

Ex-pat community to come togetheror Thanksgiving Service on Nov. 24

The annual American SocietyThanksgiving Day Service will beheld this year on Nov. 24 at St. Pauls

Anglican Church. This free event, open to

the public and promoted as Ecumenical(meaning non-denominational), is bringinglocal ex-pat families together to remembertheir good fortune.

Nature is the theme for this yearsservice, tying into the lessons NativeAmericans taught the English settlers abouthow to work in harmony with the Earth tosurvive harsh winters in Plymouth, Mass.An Eco-Fair organized by the GradedBoy Scouts will be on display at thechurch, and Gotas de Flor com Amor, an

AmSoc-sponsored charity, plans to inserta bookmark made of recycled paper andplant seeds into each November issue ofForum, which AmSoc members can cut

up and plant at home.The evening, lasting just under one

hour, will include:A flag presentation by the U.S. MarineColor Guard.Consul General Tom Whites readingof President Obamas Thanksgivingmessage to citizens abroad.Patriotic and holiday songs sung bythe crowd and Graded ElementarysSchool Choir.Participation by Graded Schools

Brownie/Girl Scouts, Cub/BoyScouts, and the U.S. Veterans ofForeign Wars.

Short scripture readings andthoughts on Thanksgivings meaningby one offive local religious leaderswho will be on hand.

And the announcement of thisyears Erik Poliak Award-winnerfor outstanding community serv-ice. A reception will follow withfresh-baked turkey sandwiches andbrownies. (Continued on page 6)

(Continued on page 6)

The American Society of So Paulopromotes friendship by organizingsocial, cultural and athletic events for

ts diverse membership; encouragesntegration with the Brazilian society;and supports the American traditionsof education, philanthropy andvolunteerism.

Our Mission By Kim Beecheno, staf writer

By Bob Moser, editor

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2/16

Name:Debra RushO r i g i n , t i m ehere:I g r e w u p i nColorado. Havebeen here sinceJuly 2008.Profession:In the U.S. I had

a decorative vinyl business, now Im ahousewife.Why So Paulo?My husbands job brought us here.Weve lived all over the U.S. but its ourfirst time living abroad.Best thing so far:Vacationing by the beach. Weve alwayslived inland, so living near the coast isa treat for us. Itamambuca (beach) nearUbatuba is our favourite.Early frustrations:

The language barrier is diffi

cult andweve had a couple of bad experienceswith crime.Have saudade for anything back home?:Mexican food! But the sushi here makesup for it.Progress with Portuguese:I call it survival Portuguese, but Ivegot a great tutor and thats making adifference.Favourite place to hang out:Ive got four kids and three of them livehere with us, so we probably know every

mall in town!

Newcomerprofle

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The Presidents CornerO n e o f t h eobjectives in theAmerican Societyis help keep ourcultural heritageand t rad i t ionsstrong by sharingin celebrationsand holidays. Weespecially enjoyand value doing sotogether with our

Brazilian host community. Novemberthen is the month of one of the mostimportant holidays in the US calendar:Thanksgiving.

The original Thanksgiving was notheld in November, but was most likelycelebrated in late September or earlyOctober. The term Thanksgivingwas only applied to this celebrationduring the 19th century, sometimebefore Abraham Lincoln establishedit as a national holiday. The originalcelebration was however a time of

giving thanks, and is said to be parttraditional English harvest festival andpart American Indian feast.

Two thirds of the participants in thecelebration were native PokanoketsIndians, whom the Pilgrims said to bevery trustworthy, quick of apprehension,ripe-witted, and just, according toEdward Winslow, an original member ofthe Plymouth colony. The festival wasa time of eating and drinking, centeredon offering thanks to God and to theIndians for having helped the Pilgrimssurvive a very difficult 11 months since

the arrival of the Pilgrims to modern-dayCape Cod.

Three-hundred-and-eighty-eight

i

si

By Tim Scott, AmSoc president

Bob Moser, editorKim Beecheno, staff writer

141 Preview,layoutAna Claudia Teixeira,editorial

assistant

Forum is printed by Intergraf.(www.intergraf.com.br)

Views expressed in Forum do

not necessarily reflect those ofthe American Society board ofgovernors, members, or staff.

Forum reserves the right to editcontent for brevity and/or clarity.

The American Society of So Paulo

Rua da Paz, 1431 n 04713-001 So Paulo, SPTel: (11) 5182-2074 n Fax: (11) 5182-9155

[email protected]

Forum is published monthly, withthe exception of January and July, by

Abo

utForum

FORUM November2

years after the first celebration, andin the spirit of friendship and culturalheritage, the American Society will hostour traditional Thanksgiving celebrationat the St. Pauls Anglican Churchon Tuesday, Nov. 24. People of allcitizenships and faiths are invited to thisecumenical event, which will feature achildrens choir, community singing,and the presentation of AmSocs EricPoliak award, an annual award givenfor outstanding volunteerism.

Another important holiday inNovember is the Brasilian Proclamaoda Republica, or Proclamation of theRepublic. The Proclamation of theRepublic Day is celebrated on Nov.15 and commemorates the day in 1889when Brazils second Emperor, DomPedro II, was deposed and the countryof Brazil was declared.

Holidays that the U.S. and ourbeloved Brazilian host country sharehelp demonstrate our common values.While Brazil demanded the abolitionof slavery and independence fromcolonialism, the U.S. declared itsindependence with Life, Liberty,and the Pursuit of Happiness. TheThanksgiving experienced in 17thcentury Cape Cod, was also experiencedby the free and independent citizens ofthe newly formed Republica Federativado Brasil in the 19th century.

My Thanksgiving wishes for youinclude a moment of overwhelminggratitude for the blessings in yourlife, a reminder of your freedom, andan opportunity for you to extend the

graceful hand of friendship to thosearound you.


3/16

The American Societyof So Paulo

2010 AmSoc Yearbook ofers reshsurvey o member tips By Bob Moser, editor

The 2010 American Society of SoPaulo Yearbook should hit membersdoorsteps in the second week of thismonth. The 185 pages filled withcontacts and ex-pat advice representAmSocs biggest annual effort toconnect members with one another,and rake in a bulk of the organizationsyearly revenue.

Nearly 25 percent of AmSocs

monetary support comes via businessads in the yearbook. Its filled withinformation like emergency and publicagency phone numbers, descriptions ofrecommended churches, schools, socialor volunteer groups and much more.AmSoc would like to thank membersJason Bermingham, Sue Sileci andAlan Blau for their extensive effortsin developing a new member surveyon Sao Paulo that will be in this yearsdirectory. The new survey offers the

most practical, useful information yetin the member yearbook regarding tips(from members for members) on whereto go for dinner, family activities,weekend road trips and more.

A categorized listing of business ad-vertisers is included as well. Every busi-ness listed has paid to have an adver-tisement in the book. AmSoc stronglyencourages you to take advantage ofall the services offered by businessesadvertising in this years directory.Theyve chosen to support the AmSoc

community because they believe ourmembers are clients worth pursuing.

Many are also businesses which keepcoming back to AmSoc because ourEx-pat community has become loyalcustomers over a long period of time,possibly because these businesses offerbilingual service. So before lookingblindly through the phone book foryour next doctor or caterer, put yourtrust in the business relationships thatAmSoc has built with advertisers in our

directory, and Forum newsletter.Of the 32 ads in this yearbook, newbusinesses include Maison Payott, abeauty parlor in Granja Julieta, AdvisorMedical Insurance, specializing in Ex-

pat insurance needs, Audrey Clinic,which offers a variety of healthservices, and P.J. Clarkes restaurantin Itaim. Dont forget to check out thedirectorys bookmark from the GrantHyatt Hotel, which features a listingof the best years for South Americanwines.

It has become annual tradition for aBrazilian artist to donate a painting to

AmSoc for use as the yearbook covers art.This years donation came from Brazilianartist Josinaldo Ferreira Barbosa.

A native of Remanso, Bahia, Barbosais considered an international artist,having lived in Paris and displayedhis work around the world. But his artis genuinely Bahian, portraying thesimplistic beauty of his homeland, itspeople and villages, a main theme oftenbeing the Sao Francisco River.

Thanksgivingtrip to Rio sureto be a cant-miss experienceThe Thanksgiving weekend trip being

organized for AmSoc Sao Paulo andRio de Janeiro members is comingsoon, and with just a few spots left youshould sign up now if interested.

The trip price youll find below

FORUM 3009

includes round-trip airfare, charteredbus in Rio, three nights at the HotelSheraton, monitor for kids activitiesand Thanksgiving dinner. The proposeditinerary:

Thursday, Nov. 26 8:10 a.m.,Gol flight from Congonhas to SantosDumont; charter bus for our exclusiveuse for four days; check-in at SheratonHotel in Leblon (So Conrado);afternoon open or Barra Shopping;Thanksgiving dinner with AmSocRio members at the Marriott Hotel inCopacabana.

Friday, Nov. 27 Tennis and golftournament with AmSoc Rio members;monitored activities at the pool for the

youngsters; for non-players: Joatingabeach cove (some climbing required)or an alternate shopping trip; dinner andshow.

Saturday, Nov. 28 Sightseeing fornewcomers or bus tour for veterans;dinner and activity with AmSoc Riomembers.

Sunday, Nov. 29 Relax at hotel poolor 10 a.m. trip to Ipanema Hippie Fair;hotel check-out; lunch at Porcao Riosin Flamengo and off to the airport for a

5:20 p.m.fl

ight back to So Paulo.COSTS (per person)Adults & youngsters over 18 isR$1,422 including airfare, hotel(double occupancy), breakfast(3), charter bus for four days,Thanksgiving dinner and all feesand taxes for above-mentioned costs.All other meals, entertainment andincidentals are not included.Teenagers from 13 to 18 is R$995 (upto two in same room with parents).Children under 13 is R$829 (up to

two in same room with parents).Children under 2 is R$45 (noindividual seat).Payment plans are available. Please

contact the AmSoc office at 5182-2074and we will forward you an email witha travel form. Contact Alan Blau at9970-8727 for specific trip questions.


4/16

MembershipGame updatesOur Membership Game is two monthsin, and we are off to a great year with50 new members already on board withAmSoc.

You could be the person to win theGOL tickets to anywhere in SouthAmerica, or other great prizes just for

helping share the word about the goodwork the American Society does withinour community.

Have a positive impact; invitesomeone to join us today.

We want to acknowledge all our newmembers from September. Welcometo our family, and please enjoy all ouractivities, especially the ThanksgivingCelebration on Tuesday Nov. 24. Whenyou see our new members, pleasetake some time to get to know them

New members rom Septemberpersonally and make there stay with usbeneficial for all.

Thank you everyone who keepssharing the word about our society. Wehave many great things to offer andmost people just need to be invited toparticipate. Keep up the good work.

NAMEMEMBERSHIP

TYPECITIZENSHIP

COMPANY ORPROFESSION

Patrick Hill Single AmericanU.S. Marine

Corps

James Nelson Single American

U.S. Marine

Corps

Brandon Shaw Single AmericanU.S. Marine

Corps

Michael Thomas Single AmericanU.S. Marine

Corps

Frank & Sarah Magan Family AmericanU.S. Marine

Corps

Michael & Debra Rush Helping Hands AmericanMerck Sharp &

DohmeMarcio & Cristiane

BrandiFamily Brasilian Advisor

Peter Gallagher &Juliana de Faria Family Patron American Schering-Plough

FORUM November4

CONTESTANTNUMBER OF NEW

MEMBERSPOINTS

AWARDED

Mark Abrams 6 22

Richard Wegman 2 12

Tim Scott 1 10

Charlie Cookson 1 6

Richard Lark 1 6

Lynne Couri 1 3

Taco De Vries 1 3

Zack Henry 1 3

Tony Smith 1 3

David Warren 1 3

Other (Internet, INC,

Consulate, events, etc.)34 N/A

TOTAL 50 New Members

EVERYMONTHAMSOCMEMBERSTELLTHEFORUMABOUTSAMPAPETSINNEEDOFA

GOODHOME. HEARWHATSUESILECIHAS

TOSAYTHISMONTHABOUTTHISGUY:

ROBERTNEEDSAFAMILY! HEWASFOUND

SEPT. 19 ON AVENIDA MORUMBI, IS 5

YEARS OLD, 14 KILOS, HOUSEBROKEN

AND A WEE ONE -- JUST UP TO MY

KNEESWHENHESTANDS. ROBERTHAS

A BROKEN LEG FROM TWO TO THREE

MONTHSAGO BUTITSHEALING. HES

HAD SHOTS, WORM MEDICINE, TICKANDFLEAMEDICINE, ANDDESPERATELY

WANTS TO BE LOVED. HES GENTLE,

SHY, HUMBLE, LOVINGANDINCREDIBLY

LOYAL. HESMELLOW, CALMANDLOVES

TO SLEEP. HE WANTS TO LEARN TO

PLAYWITHTHEBIGBOYS. INTERESTED?

[email protected].

Pet Profle


5/16


Vivenda da Criana is promoting its fourthannual lunch on Nov. 29. This year marksa special occasion for Vivenda becausethe institution is commemorating its20-year anniversary since Sister YvonneVenditti started a foster home in 1989.Vivenda currently provides a five-hour-long supplementary school program to160 kids, ranging in age from 7 to 15

years old. It also administers a FamilyAction government program whichsupports 1,200 families in Parelheiros.

We will have an exhibition of Vivendamosaics and there will be an auction ofexciting products. The lunch takes placeon Nov. 29 so bring your family, inviteyour friends and join us to congratulateSister Yvonne for 20 years of work onher project, Vivenda da Criana.Date: Nov. 29Where: Spao Quat Rua Quat, 804

Vila OlimpiaTime: 12:30 p.m.Ticket price: R$70 (adults) /R$35 (children 5 to 12 years old)An interview with Sis terYvonne:Why did you start Vivenda da Criana ?

How did it happen?

The situation of street kids in Brazil

always bothered me. I was living in Curitiba

and heard that some kids were being killed in

gang wars in the periphery of So Paulo.

I thought that I had to do something about

it. Then I moved to So Paulo and workedfor nine months as a volunteer at a program

with street kids. At that time, one of the

sisters from my congregation told me that

Parelheiros was one of the poorest areas in

So Paulo. My sibling gave me the money to

buy a property in Parelheiros, and with help

from some friends we built a small house so

that we could receive the first kids

What was the biggest challenge?

It has always been the lack of resources

to pay for basic needs. I have found enough

generosity so Vivenda has always had food,but we struggled for many years to pay the

employees and I had to work day and night to

replace the employees I could not hire.

Another diff icul ty is the locat ion;

Successul charity program celebrates 20 yearsthis month, join in the celebrationBy Humberto Izidoro, AmSoc board member

Parelheiross distance from Sao Paulo has

discouraged volunteers.

What is your role at Vivenda today?

When I turned 70 years old, I decided that

I needed to step back from the day-to-day

activities. I was very tired and was working

16 hours per day. Aside from stress and

health issues related to my age, my main

concern was the sustainability of Vivenda

da Criana. I wanted to make sure Vivenda

would continue to work for the community

of Parelheiros.Today, I am part of the board of directors

and work in a more strategic role to maintain

Vivenda in its new projects with the same

values that guided the institution from the

very beginning. For instance, we realized

that we needed to invest more in preparing

the kids from Parelheiros to become good

citizens and good professionals so we will

create a Professional Center to train hundreds

of young people every year to enter the

job market in several different areas, such

as waiters, cooks, baby-sitters, computertechnicians, etc.

I think just taking advantage of life is

too little for me. I needed to do something

meaningful for society.

009 FORUM 5

The U.S. Marine Corps Security GuardDetachment of the U.S. Consulate GeneralSo Paulo cordially invites you to the234th Marine Corps Birthday Ball, to beheld on Saturday, Nov. 21, from 8 p.m.to 2 a.m., at the Renassance Sao PauloHotel (Jardins), Alameda Santos 2233.

The official program will begin withcocktails followed by the Color GuardCeremony performed by the U.S. MarineSecurity Guards, then dinner and dancing.

An Open Bar will be available throughoutthe evening. This is a formal event, andtickets are R$180 per person. For moreinformation or to purchase tickets, [email protected], or [email protected].

Marine CorpsBall a party notto be missed on

Nov. 21


6/16FORUM November6

In recent years somefamilies have shied away from this eventbecause its held on a school night.Organizers wanted to emphasize thatwhile the agenda is packed, it is a fast-paced evening that children should findengaging, parents find enriching, andwraps up within an hour.

Traditional Thanksgiving food anddrink will be available throughout theevening, and flowers have been donatedto the event by Kristen Maurice of

volunteering are stillwelcome, as the event needs around100 people. The children come fromthe 10 orphanages and charities AmSocsupports and they will arrive by bus at12 p.m. There are two shifts, from 11:30a.m. to 2:30 p.m. volunteers will workat the welcome stand, help serve lunchand organise games. From 2:30 to 5:30p.m., volunteers will help Santa deliverpresents, help kids open their gifts and

clean up.In the early afternoon, RonaldMcDonald will entertain the childrenwith songs, games and dancing. Lateron, actors will put on a production of

The American Society of Sao Paulo issearching for a person to help develop andmarket corporate sponsorship packages forAmSoc. Ideal candidates can communicatewell in Portuguese and English, are

enthusiastic, and would enjoy working withBrazilian and American companies in SaoPaulo. The position is part time. For moreinformation, or to submit your CV, pleaseemail Tim Scott, [email protected].

Ex-pat community to cometogether or ThanksgivingService on Nov. 24

PETAIS.W h a t : A m e r i c a n S o c i e t y s

Ecumenical Thanksgiving Day ServiceWhen: Tuesday, Nov. 24, 7:30 to

8:30 p.m.Where: St. Pauls Anglican Church,

Rua Comendador Elias Zarzur, 1239(Parking in the church lot), Santo Amaro

How to Help:E-mail [email protected] to see what drinks anddesserts are still needed.

P.J. Clarkes, the famed New Yorkrestaurant now with a franchise in

Itaim, will offer Thanksgiving dinnermenu items. Call 3078-2965 to learnmore.The Graded School ThanksgivingFestival will be held on Saturday, Nov.28, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activitieswill include musical performance,

Other ways to celebrateThanksgiving in Sampa:

Last-minute eforts or Angel Partyunderway, your help needed

(Continued from cover page)

(Continued from cover page) High School Musical 3.Were on track and its very exciting,

Tasso said. The logistics will becomehectic in the last two weeks before theparty but thats to be expected. The mostimportant thing is that the children havean unforgettable day.

Donating or volunteering for theChristmas Angel Party is a chance totake part in bringing joy and positivityinto these childrens lives. For more

information check out the Xmas AngelParty blog link at www.amsoc.com.br.The party will be held at Chapel Schoolon Nov. 14, starting at 12 p.m.

traditional Thanksgiving meal, gamesand a mini-praca, featuring artists and

vendors. For ticket prices, [email protected] Hyatt Sao Paulo, locatedon Avenida das Nacoes Unidas,traditionally offers a Thanksgivingmenu in its restaurant. Call 2838-1234to learn more.

The exclusive representative for thefamily of Steinway-designed pianos

in Brazil.

The piano by which all others are judged

Visit us at Av. Anglica, 2530 Lj. 2

Higienpolis - So Paulo - SP

Contact: (55 11) 3892-0011 / 3892-0022

www.gluckpianos.com

Individualor

Groups

WHERECompanyHomeUniversity

ANY TIME !

www.englishintheoffice.com.brrelationship@englishintheoffice.com.br

Phone: 011 50443859

COURSEEnglishSpanishPortuguese


7/16


8/16FORUM November8

Make-a-Wish Brasil is celebrating itsfirst year, and we have already grantedmany wishes to Brazilian children withlife-threatening medical conditionsthrough its wish-granting work. Weinvite you to participate on Nov. 6 at theGrand Hyatt Sao Paulo, with a cocktailoffered by our partner Chandon, a silentauction, live auction, gala dinner and thelive music of Orquesta Imperial.

As many as 600 people, celebrities,

businessmen, opinion leaders and chefs

Make-a-Wish Brasil wants you to celebrateits frst year on Nov. 6 By Salim Tannus, president Make-a-Wish Brasil

By Kevin Ivers, AmSoc board member

will be present that night to celebratewith us. Twenty Brazilian chefs will becooking sonhos which is the Portuguesename for doughnut and means dreams.These sonhos will be sold in dreamboxes throughout the night. We will beauctioning trips, hotel stays, lunches anddinners at restaurants, spa treatments,luxury products and jewelry.

This event is a fund raising event,in which we aim to pay for one year of

granting wishes. For more information

In a city as big as So Paulo, with the levelof complexity in our daily lives, its clearthat for anything to remain relevant and vi-tal to us, it has to find its way into our dailyonline routine. Lets face it -- we live on ourbrowsers, in our email and on our handsets,

and the trend is unmistakable that much ofour lives is heading in this direction. Forthe American Society to keep pace, it hashad to adopt a forward-thinking Internetstrategy that embraces the varied habits ofour current and future members.

First, there were the basics. If youll no-tice the latest membership directory, a largenumber of the listings include multipleemail addresses. Collecting this informa-tion has made it possible for AmSoc tostay in touch on important announcements,events and vital news and for members

to be in touch with each other. Also, theAmSoc Web site (www.amsoc.org.br) hasbeen updated to act as a source of importantinformation for the American communityin So Paulo.

The AmSoc site concentrates on upcom-ing social and cultural events, as well as themany athletic activities organized for mem-bers and their families. We also launcheda blog linked from the site which includesarticles and news from the Forum newslet-ter, as well as original content. There are

also helpful links to a number of Web sitesthat provide a broad range of tips and help-ful information for Americans who havejust arrived or are in the transition to life inSo Paulo. There is also a section regard-

AmSoc Online: Spreading Out on the Internet

or tickets sales please contact Renata atour office, by calling 5081-3601. Theevent starts with the cocktail and silentauction at 7:30 p.m. Dinner will be at 9p.m. and the Orquesta will start playingfor everybody to dance at 11:30 p.m.Tickets are R$250 per person.

Make-a-Wish Brasil is affiliatedwith Make-a-Wish International, whichis present in 5 continents with morethan 25000 volunteers in 33 different

countries.

ing important services for new arrivals, keycontacts for American citizen services andemergency phone numbers like for the localfire department, ambulance, police, etc. Assomeone who moved here from the U.S.almost three years ago, I remember what

it was like to feel lost in the maze of dailylife in a new place. Resources like thesemake a huge difference, and are part of thefellowship that AmSoc seeks to promotewithin the American community here.

But the Internet isnt just about resources its also about interacting. In fact, theInternet is rapidly becoming the primarymethod of communication and interactionfor more and more of us. For that reason,AmSoc has begun planting its flag in thetop social networking sites, starting withFacebook (www.facebook.com ).

In September 2009, AmSoc launchedits own group page on Facebook (Search:AmSoc SP The American Society of SoPaulo), and within one week it had morethan 80 members, many of whom are notyet members of AmSoc. Facebook is thenumber one social networking site in theworld, with over 300 million active mem-bers in total, and growing by 1 million newmembers in Brazil every month. Facebookis expected to overtake the currently domi-nant Orkut (www.orkut.com) as the top

social networking site in Brazil by the endof 2010. Our AmSoc group on Facebookis an excellent place for our members tointeract with each other, start topical con-versations on the discussion board, RSVP

for and post photos from AmSoc events and best of all, its free. Many people ofall ages make Facebook a regular part oftheir daily routine, and now the AmericanSociety can be part of it.

More importantly, from an organization-

al standpoint, using sites like Facebook em-powers AmSoc committee leaders, boardmembers and event organizers to easily postevent information, send out invitations, col-lect RSVPs and update confirmed attendeeswith last-minute information. This helpsdecentralize the responsibilities aroundAmSocs events, maximize the use andefficiency of volunteer time, relieve someof the pressure on the staff, and reduce ouroperating costs. It also allows us to reachnew people, and show them more aboutwhat AmSoc is about, to expand our mem-

bership. Given the number of new peoplewho have appeared on our Facebook grouppage already, it seems to be working.

Our strategy will continue to expandin 2010. Well launch an Orkut commu-nity in January, and post items in relatedcommunities inviting more Brazilians tofind out about AmSoc on Orkut. We willcontinue to add more of our events tothe Facebook page, and well continueencouraging current members to becomemore active on both sites, inviting their

friends and family to join our AmSocgroup and community, to visit our web-sites helpful resources, and multiplyingthe expansion of the American Societysfootprint in So Paulo real and virtual.


9/16


009 FORUM 9

While happily eating a hamburger atthis years AmSoc 4th of July party,I heard a voice over the loudspeakeroffering a great deal at Spa Sorocaba. Ithought to myself what a good gift formy loved one, so I placed a bid in theauction and won the package for onlyR$1,400, which much to my surprisedended up being less than half the normalprice. I was very excited being able tocontribute to AmSoc through an auction,and receive an exciting spa package.

The real surprise had yet to come.We arrived at Spa Sorocaba late on

a recent Thursday afternoon, and werepleasantly greeted and shown around thespacious grounds which included twooutdoor pools and two indoor pools, arestaurant, gymnasium with basketball

courts, tennis courts, and a play areawith games like Ping-Pong, etc. Thespa and massage area was very private,quiet and inviting, I was ready to let thestaff go to work. I immediately signedup for a four-handed massage, withtwo people working in a synchronized

manner to relieve all the stress. Thefeeling is beyond words.The spa program is complete

with medical overview, nutritionist,acupuncturist, and everything required

to identify a specific program to help youlive a more healthy life. You can alsochoose a diet program that is best foryou, or eat free. With six food servingsper day youll never be hungry. Thefood is deliciously prepared withoutartificial substances, and the flavor wastop-notch.

Rooms there are large and well-maintained. Each afternoon your roomis prepared for the evening with freshfiltered water and hot water for tea. You

always have a complete selection oftea, coffee or juices available to inspireyou to hydrate a lot while enjoying theservices.

Our time under the sun was wonderful,even when we were exercising with thegroup in the pool we had bright sunshine

with trees surrounding the outer areasof the spa. Since Im not a writer, mywords cant do justice to the fantasticexperience we had at Spa Sorocaba. Weencourage everyone to go for a few daysand take advantage of this amazing spa,

just an hour-and-a-half drive from So

Paulo. You deserve the surprise of goodpeople taking great care of you in a placewhere you can replenish your health andpersonal well-being.

Donating to the American Society for

Pamper yoursel at Spa SorocabaBy Richard Wegman, AmSoc board member

MEMBER TIP

an unknown spa package was one of thehighlights of the year for me in Brazil.In the future, take a chance on the greatpackages offered by AmSoc during ourfundraising auctions, I believe you willbe pleasantly surprised at the value youreceive.

Learn more at www.spasorocaba.com.br .


10/16

American ootball gaining ground in Brazil, SPteam plays or title this month

South, the Curitiba Brown Spiders, the

Barigui Crocodiles and the JoinvilleGladiators face off. Finally in the West,the Cuiaba Arsenal and the Tubares doCerrado from Brasilia go at it. The fourbest groups will classify for the semi-finals and finals. More teams are hopingto join the tournament next year.

Its incredibly competitive, saidLewandowski, who loves the Americangame because of the mix of physicaleffort and mental agility required.

The organisation of the teams meansthey now trade tips, know-how and

players, and they consider football thefastest growing sport in Brazil. BandSport and ESPN have been covering thegames, which were arranged to coincidewith the NFL season in the U.S.

Were taking strong, steady stepsand trying to break away from a cultureof sports that has been traditionallyinefficient said Lewandowski, whopoints out that the tournament is more anevent than just a game. Its free to comeand watch, we have cheerleading, raffles,

a marching band and commentators whoexplain the game as its being playedlive.

They also have a growing legionof loyal fans and are expecting a

FORUM November10

American football fans who thoughtthat moving to Brazil meant missingout on their favorite sport can crackopen a beer and prepare for someraucous cheering, as the TorneioTouchdown 2009 tackle footballsemi-finals and finals will take placeNov. 20-22 in Sao Paulo.

This is the first year a tacklefootball tournament has been

organized; in the past flag istraditionally whats played in Brazilsince equipment for tackle footballwas expensive and hard to come by.There are more than 20 flag footballteams in Brazil and its played inevery state.

The So Paulo Storm teamformed in 2006 as a flag footballteam and took part in the So PauloLeague (Liga Paulista), but theintention was always to transform

itself into a tackle football team.Mario Lewandowski, president ofthe Storm, tried to form a nationalentity to organise football in Brazilin 2005. Although unsuccessful then,he discovered a much larger interestin football across the country than hehad imagined. It turned out that tacklefootball was being played in many areas,simply without the protective equipment.

The rules vary in different areasdepending on what equipment theyhave, but by working together we can

unify the sport and raise its profile, saidLewandowski, who who has great plansfor the sport.

Fortunately, 2007-08 saw a biggrowth in interest for the game andthe contacts Lewandowski had madeallowed people to work together to bringhelmets, shoulder pads and leg pads intoBrazil. With help from contacts in Rio,the Touchdown Tournament was createdin 2009 as the first championship fortackle football.

The tournament is composed of eightteams from six states, forming threedivisions. In the East, the So PauloStorm, Rio de Janeiro Imperadores andthe Sorocaba Vipers compete. In the

ByKim Beecheno, staf writer

SPORTS

Storm wide receiver Stifler (#11) hauls in the winningtouchdown during a recent game against Rio deJaneiro.(photo by Rachel Camargo)

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4,000-strong crowd at the finals, withpeople coming from all over Brazil.

Kevin May is an American whoplays quarterback for Storm. I playflag football for the So Paulo SilverBullets and tackle for Storm, said the46-year-old May, Im currently in thebest shape of my life.

Anybody interested in playing cantry-out for Storm, they just need to

get in touch. An American team couldeven join the league if there are enoughpeople who want to form one, Maysuggested. For information on tryingout or attending the games, check outwww.touchdown.net and www.spstorm.com.br


11/16


Youve read dozensof online blogs,accounts of livingabroad, perhapseven a book ortwo on the Ex-pat Edge or somesuch thing.

These anecdotes,s t o r i e s , a n dexamples havehelped quell some

of your anxiety a bit, but is it enough

for you? Do you sense there is moreto merely enduring each day? Couldthere be new and exciting experienceswaiting for you in this new environmentwhich you may not be having for somereason or another?

I will tell you that I write to you asthe following, in no particular order: anEx-pat two times over in the last twoyears, a new Ex-pat offive months inBrazil, a father of two young children,a psychologist, and just a regular guy

trying to make his way, enjoy, andsupport his family here in Sao Paulo.I found myself arriving here,

reluctantly, as the spouse of a nativePaulistana. We had met on neutralground, in Zurich, and lived as fellowEx-pats for four years there. However,when the fates led us here to her homecity the dynamic was altered quitedramatically.

I found myself somewhat afraid,dependent, alone, and in deep waters,one might say. Not to mention I did not

speak Portuguese, was attempting tobegin my work from scratch, and knewno one outside of our little family.

Having undergone a recent Ex-pattransplant a few years earlier, I felt thatmy only chance was to employ some ofthe principles demanded of me at thattime. These are what I hope to share.

My first observation upon realizingthat I was living in Sao Paulo was howchaotic, disordered, and unstructured itwas. It was my natural reaction -- being

in a state of heightened insecurity,anxiety, and disorientation -- that Istrove to take control and make thingshappen on my own terms. And yet,this is precisely the opposite response I

Thriving in The Ex-Pat Experience: You and Brasil

009 FORUM 11

By Matthew Van Lokeren,AmSoc member

Yoaa

tpsu

s

should have had, because it is a reaction,and not a response.

It was only when I surrendered tomy surroundings, the conditions as theywere and the fact that nothing wouldhappen except on its own terms, thatI was able to take in and comprehend,if even a little, where I was and whatactions or nonactions were requiredof me.

This reminds me of the one mostcommon pieces of advice I heard fromEx-pats about living here: Drink

more. That, and Relax, and dontcompare were by far and away themost common admonishments fromveteran Ex-pats living in Brazil.

Certainly, drinking is only a temporarysolution to a more permanent problem,but the relaxing is what I am referringto mainly. Perhaps it is to trust theprocess you have been put into and letit guide you.

Regarding comparing, we all cometo Brazil missing something, harboring

and trying to contain the saudades forour previous life and relationships.What has seemed to quell those very

deep heart-felt emotions is findingsimilarities. What I mean is again,perhaps the opposite of what we mightdo making comparisons, and thereby

judgements about differences.An example: I moved from the

U.S. where playing basketball was anintegral part of my fitness routine andenjoyment. I came to Brazil knowingthat soccer was the predominant sport

and that Brazilians did not play basquete

much. So, I resigned myself to runningin Ibirapuera nearly every day. Aftera few weeks, I noticed that the samegroup of men, nearly my age, weregetting together there and playingbasketball, and were quite good at it.I continued to watch, mainly making

judgments.One day, I walked over and in my

best, broken Portuguese asked if theywould take another man. They werehappy I came by. Not only do I nowplay three to four times per week with

them, but Ive become friends and havelunch occasionally with the group.Furthermore, I have learned a great dealfrom them about Brazils customs, thework environment, music venues, andeven how to be more tranquilo.

My point is, seek out and makeconnections in the same arenas fromwhich you came. You will be surprisedhow much translates! And, it willprobably help you enjoy the differencesbetween cultures.

Lastly, I would say that any changethis dramatic has to be consideredan initiation, of sorts. You have beenthrust into a strange and sometimesbizarre world. Have some patience, bekind to yourself, and try and adopt abeginners mind. The more you do,the more you will enjoy.

And, if none of that works, by allmeans, have a caipirinha.

Matthew offers psychotherapy andvarious groups for Ex-pats from hisSao Paulo office. Contact him at

[email protected] .


12/16


13/16


Guide or moving Brazilians to the United States

Volunteer othe Month

Argentinean-bornMaria Cavallin hasdiscovered enor-mous satisfactionvolunteering atthe orphanage VilaAcalanto once aweek and helpingout over the pastfew months with

preparations for AmSocs Christmas

Angel Party.

If you are an American citizen planningto move to the United States permanent-ly, your Brazilian spouse (and children)mustfirst obtain an immigrant visa prior

to traveling. The process for obtainingthe visa can appear daunting. But withsome prior planning and preparation,theprocess can be stress-free. Its a goal ofthe U.S. State Department to make thisprocess as efficient as possible whilemaintaining its integrity. The follow-ing is a general outline to help achievethat goal.

A multi-step processObtaining the proper visa to move

to the U.S. permanently is a multi-stepprocess. First the American citizen (the

petitioner)files a petition with the De-partment of Homeland Security (DHS)requesting permission to apply for animmigrant visa on behalf of his/herqualified relatives (the beneficiaries).Next, the U.S. Consulate General in Riode Janeiro will contact the petitioner andbeneficiaries. In the case of the spouse,minor child or parent of an Americancitizen, the wait is usually only a fewmonths. The wait for a sibling or anadult child of an American is signifi-

cantly longer.The next step is to gather the requireddocumentation. The Rio Consulate willrequest information and documentationfrom the petitioner and beneficiaries.

ByMike Whipple, vice consul, American Citizen Services, U.S. Consulate General

v

of

Maria began volunteering at orphan-ages in China several years ago, whenher husbands job took the family therefrom the U.S. where they had been liv-ing for 15 years. Since moving to Brazil,she has become very active in AmSocand will soon become the liaison of-ficer for AmSocs Community ActionCommittee.

I was asked to help at last yearsChristmas Angel Party and it had a bigimpact on me, Cavallin said. Seeingthe kids open their presents, the lookof joy as they pulled out socks andsneakers, such simple things made themso happy. The party is a real communityservice.

This year, Cavallin has been helping

009 FORUM 13

In addition to the documentation, ben-eficiaries will have to have a medicalexam. This exam must be conductedby Consulate approved physician. Also,

adult benefi

ciaries will need to obtain apolice report. The U.S. Consulate in Riomay require additional documents, forexample military certificates for malebeneficiaries.

The last major step in the process isthe interview with an American officer.All immigrant visa interviews take placeat the U.S. Consulate in Rio. The officerwill determine whether the relationshipbetween the petitioner and beneficiaryis valid and qualifies for an immigrantvisa. The officer will ensure that all the

paperwork is in order. Another respon-sibility that the officer has is to confirmthe beneficiary doesnt have any ineli-gibilities that would prohibit the U.S.government from issuing a visa. Oncethe officer verifies a qualified relation-ship, has all the paperwork in orderand has confirmation that the petitionerdoesnt have an ineligibility, he will is-sue the visa.

Role of the U.S. Consulate Generalin Sao Paulo

As is evident by the preceding ex-planation, most of the immigrant visaprocess takes place at the U.S. Consulatein Rio. However, we do have a role herein Sao Paulo.

Most petitions for immigrant visas arefiled in the United States. But if the peti-tioner has been residing in Brazil legallyfor over six months, he/she may submit

the petition in Brazil. That is where theConsulate General in Sao Paulo comesin. We are able to accept the petitionand the accompanying payment at theAmerican Citizen Services section atthe Sao Paulo Consulate. Simply visitus at www.consuladoamericanosp.org.br and click on U.S. Citizen Servicesto make an appointment. At the timeof the appointment, the petitioner andbeneficiary will submit the petition, paythe fee and have an initial interview withan American officer.

Odds and endsHere are a couple more suggestions

to ensure a smooth process. Be excep-tionally diligent when gathering yourdocuments and completing the requiredforms. Before submitting documents,be sure to check for completeness andaccuracy. This will help you avoid un-necessary delays.

It is also important to plan your travelsoon after the issuance of the visa as thevisa is valid for a maximum of six months.

The U.S. Consulate General in SaoPaulo is pleased to play a part in thislife-changing process. If you have otherquestions, please email [email protected] or visit www.uscis.gov.

to recruit and organise the volunteersand has been instrumental in gettingdonations for the event. At Vila Acalanto,she helps the teachers and nuns to takecare of the children and plays with them.

Its a way of giving somethingback to the country that is hosting youand there are so many places that needhelp, said Cavallin, who adds that as ahousewife she has some extra time on herhands to be able to volunteer. She alsofeels that volunteering at the ChristmasAngel Party helped her teenagers realise

just how lucky they are.We are part of a privileged society;

volunteering brings you back down toearth and reminds you of the realities

of life.


14/16

air bag, suspension, steering, brakes,battery, alternator, fuel pump Completepre-purchase car inspection Av. Eliseu deAlmeida 1018 - Butant tel. 3721-1256email: [email protected] English

and Spanish spoken Honest, fast andimpeccable service recommended byAmSoc member Mark Abrams

For Sale

For sale: 2005 land rover (blindado),discovery 3 hse v8, excellent condition,sale by owner - recently returned to us,60,000 kilometers, new tires, brakes &windshield, blindagem level 3a by hp2,priced @ r$90m, cristiane, 3365.5671,[email protected]

Math and Science Tutor

Former Graded and Chapel teacher, with20-years experience, tutors Math, Phys-ics, Chemistry, and Science for all levels,including but not limited to the IB, IGCSE,SAT-I & II, AP and Brazilian vestibular.Elementary and middle school students arealso welcome (all subjects). Call FernandoKnijnik at (11) 2533-3965 or 9134-6700.

Need

A future grandmother (Feb./2010) is help-ing the future parents of TWIN BOYS tofind items necessary for this adventure.Required among other necessities is pri-marily a STROLLER for 2 (e.g. Gracco,McLaren or similar) and possibly otheritems which are for sale.Please call Andr at: 4397 9102 (workinghours), or e-mail [email protected]. Cel. Phone: 9957 4644.

Personal Trainer

I will come to your home, office, orworkout facility and create an exercise/fitness program tailored to your healthconcerns, fitness goals, and schedule.For adults and children, individuals orgroups. Sessions in English, Spanish, orPortuguese. For more information pleasecontact Daniela Franco at (11) 9739-6191or [email protected]

Psychotherapist for Ex-Pats

Serving Adults, Children, and Families

(also couples) struggling with all adjustmentissues. Specializing in issues of divorce,separation, and reconciliation. Many yearsexperience with drug/ alcohol issues.

or behavioral difficulties, featuring indi-vidualized recommendations for schooland home. For more information, contactDr. Morhaime at 5538-0099 or 9669-8057or visit www.expatpsychologist.com.

American-LicensedPsychotherapist

In this busy and ever-changing world, peo-ple often feel stressed and overwhelmedwith no place to turn. Psychotherapy/coun-seling can provide a safe place to receiveprofessional guidance and support. Briefor longer term therapy offered dependingon your needs, goals and expectations.Services: individual, couples, child/adoles-cent.Certified to conduct Adoption Home

Study for American Citizens. Contact:Pamela Wax, MSW/LCSW at 5051-5988or 9656-2106. Located in Moema.

American PsychologistServices for Expats

Sukie Miller Ph.D. early director of Esalen,former Board Member Jung Institute SanFrancisco, 35 years experience privatepractice as coach, psycho-therapist withadults and couples in eclectic approach topersonal/professional growth, womans

issues, adjustment So Paulo, goal setting,dream work, anxiety. Call Dr. Miller at11- 9823-8730.email [email protected].

Argos Dog Kennel

Traveling? What about your dog? ArgosKennel Hotel could be his second homein the country. Food, water, and shelterwith lots of love and personal care. Nolonely kennel for him, but our home andthe freedom of a spacious garden. Fetch

and carry service. English and Frenchspoken. Call Jean or Christine at (11)4661-1430 or (11) 9687-1815 or send ane-mail to [email protected]. EmbuGuau, So Paulo.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Trust on Sani-Dry to clean your car-pets, area rugs, upholstery and drapery.Commercial & Residential. Call Now!Proudly Serving So Paulo City & Met-ropolitan Area. www.sani-dry.com.br

(11)7870-4296 (11) 3735-2854

F1 Servios Automotivos

General mechanic: electronic ignition,

CLASSIFIEDS

FORUM November14

Housing

Apartment for Rent

Entire 6thfl

oor of apartment building;220 square meters, 3 rooms, ample sitting/dining room, service and kitchen areas,maids room, 2 elevators, garage. Centrallocation. Rua Visconde Ouro Preto 165,Next to SPAC So Paulo Athletic Club.Available as of November 2009. Rent3000. Tels. 5044.8803/[email protected]

Furnished Apartment for Rent

Vila Nova Conceio. So Paulos best

place to live. Near Ibirapuera Park.Modern building with sports facilities,heated swimming pool, three bedrooms(one suite), a living room with terrace,complete kitchen, maids bedroom andbathroom, big service area, two parkingspaces. Fully furnished with all appliances.Telephone included. Call Alex or Eliane at(11) 3849-7085 or (11) 8635-7788, or sendan e-mail to [email protected].

Ubatuba Beach Rental

AmSoc member rents charming bungalowor luxurious villa in high-security gatedcommunity. Large sweeping yard,incredible ocean view, complete privacy.Available weekends or weekly.www.ubatubaescape.com.

American-LicensedClinical Psychologist

Heloisa Garman, Psy.D. U.S. LicensedClinical Psychologist (covered by U.S.health insurance). Bilingual, with ex-tensive private practice in Chicago andformer therapist at the Family Institute atNorthwestern University. Treats individu-als, couples, and families. Specialized inanxiety, depression, cultural issues, andadjustment disorders. Call Dr. Garman at(11) 7179-9723 or 3898-2330 or send ane-mail to [email protected].

American-Licensed Psychologist

Richard Morhaime, Psy.D. offers skilledpsychotherapy for children and adults. Healso provides complete diagnostic evalua-tions in English for children with academic

Services


15/16


16/16

FLIPSIDE

About two monthsago, I became aCorinthiana.

This was big. Itwould have beeneasier to tell my hus-band Riccardo thatI wanted a divorcethan to break this tohim. No! Youre

kidding, right? Comeon. Youre joking. Say youre joking. Hehen stared at me with his mouth open,

shook his head, asked again if I was seriousand left the room. The good news is, hesnot a fanatic about his team. It could havebeen much worse.

If youre new to So Paulo, you mightnot know why this is a big deal. There arehree main soccer teams in this city. Thereshe So Paulo Futebol Clube, whose sta-

dium is just up the street, here in Morumbi.

Making sweeping generalizations, theyresorta-kinda the team of the upper classes.Then theres Sociedade Esportiva Palmei-ras, founded by members of the Italiancommunity. Theyre noisy, devoted anddressed in green.

Finally, theres Sport Club CorinthiansPaulista, the constant underdog. Sixtypercent of the entire of state of So Paulopassionately supports Corinthians, the vastmajority belonging to the middle and lowerclasses. Theyre ridiculed as the team ofhe convicts, the poor, the toothless and

he long-suffering. Typical jokes aboutCorinthians fans go like this: If you see aCorinthiano riding a bike down the street,why dont you run him over? Because thebike might be yours.

Black and white and egg-saladsandwiches supporting the underdog

By Sue Banman Sileci,

AmSoc member

But one day a few months ago, I joinedthe downtrodden. Why?

First, I became friends with two lovelyCorinthianos, Luca and Clay -- certainlynot toothless criminals. Theyre greatguys and fanatics about the Timo. Then,Corinthians inspired all of us who are afew pounds overweight and past our primeby hiring 33-year-old Ronaldo, the high-est goal scorer in the history of the World

Cup, three-time winner of the FIFA playerof the year award and, till that moment,widely considered over the hill. Finally,through research about Carandiru prison, Ilearned that one of the Corinthians officialfan clubs, Pavilho 9, started as a charitythat promoted informal games against in-mates. Their mascot is a Beagle Boy (thecriminals constantly trying to rob DonaldDucks uncle). I find that kind of goofinesspretty irresistible.

So there I was, a newbie Corinthiana,

getting an offi

cial team shirt for my birth-day and putting up with plenty of heckling.It was time to see a game at the stadium.

I got plenty of warnings in advance.Make sure you go with someone bigand strong. Dont sit in the cheap sec-tion. Dont go when theyre playing SoPaulo or Palmeiras. Dont get involved infights. Stay away from organized cheer-ing sections like Gavies. Run if you hearshooting.

There was a game against AtlticoParanaense coming up and it looked tame

enough for Clay, Luca and I to buy ourtickets. Nearing the stadium, we joinedup with fellow Corinthians. They beat allstereotypes: they had teeth, they werenthooligans and they had grandmothers and

children in tow. In the stadium parkinglot, the different cheering sections wereplaying drums, dancing and singing, butno one was getting beat up.

As we settled into our seats, I enjoyedthe pre-game activities. These included atrip to the port-a-potty bathroom at fieldlevel, cheering our goalie as he warmedup, buying water and eating homemade eggsalad sandwiches, watching the differentorganized cheering sections unroll theirhuge banners (stadium-sized T-shirts thatcovered entire sections) and booing Atl-tico Paranaense as they took the field.

Corinthians lost 3-1 but thats OK. Thelive game experience was so different fromwatching the Denver Broncos play. For

example, after Atltico made its first goal,the entire stadium sat in stunned silenceand then suddenly everyone began singinga love song something along the linesof We love you! / Keep going! / Dontworry! / Its OK! Cheers were shoutedwith arms raised, fans beseeching the teamlike evangelical preachers. The cheeringsections never stopped cheering, especiallyGavies, who sang and waved their ban-ners even through the national anthem.

It wasnt all clean and pretty. The com-

ments I heard got more graphic as the scorewent from bad to worse. In the beginning,most comments involved the streetwalkinglives of the refs mothers. Later, we heardmore about the manner in which refs wereborn to these mothers and much about malebody parts and secretions which contrib-uted to the conception. There were evensuggestions as to where inside their bodiesthe refs could put their bad decisions.

All in all, it was a marvelous evening.My Timo might not be winning this par-ticular championship but theres always

the next one. Until then, heres the songIm struggling to memorize: Aqui tem umbando de louco / Louco por ti Corinthians /Aqueles que acham que pouco / Eu vivopor ti Corinthians!

AaC

webIhhB ue Banman Sileci

amsoc forum november 2009

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