amsoc forum september 2010 issue

Monthly NewsletterSeptember 2010

www.amsoc.com.brForumIn This IssueIn This Issue

TCKsPage 4: An in-depth view at the challenges of bringing up Third Culture Kids - and tips on how to ease transitions.

AmSoc Athletics

Page 6: Highlights and the full schedule of the upcoming AmSoc athletic events including a Charity Softball Invitational.

Page 7: Looking for something to do this Sunday? Read this article on what can be found when antiquing in Bexiga.

Bexiga Fleamarket

September eventsPages 10 & 11: Get the full overview on what is happening in São Paulo this month, including exhibitions and fun tours!

See improv theater at its best

The American Society of São Paulo promotes friendship by organizing social, cultural and athletic events for its diverse membership; encourages integration with the Brazilian society; and supports the American traditions of education, philanthropy and volunteerism.

Our Mission

Can you be an Angel?With two months left till the American

Society Angel Party, there’s still a lot of work to do. We need you!

The Angel Party is a Christmas party held each year, this year on November 6, for over 220 children in day care centers, orphanages and educational programs, all funded in part by the American Society and people like you. The party is held at Chapel School and the kids have a great day of food, games and fun. At the end of the party, Santa Claus comes and gives each child a special gift bag with presents for just that child.

We’re in desperate need of people to help Santa by shopping for all the items in one child’s bag. The list looks like this: tennis shoes, a backpack, a toy, pants and a shirt, socks, underwear, a coat or

sweatshirt and some candy.And then we need plenty of help with

organizing the party, from rounding up sponsors, donors, prizes and cash to helping on the day of the party. There’s a lot of work to be done. But it’s a great way to meet new people, lose weight and save the world all at the same time. Come help make the eleventh Angel Party the best party yet.

Please contact Eileen Tasso ([email protected]) or Sue Banman Sileci ([email protected]) if you would like to help.

Read more on page 9 about the impact the Angel Party makes on the participating children.

São Paulo’s Playback Theatre will be performing your story on October 24 at Graded School.

What is Playback Theatre? It’s a group of professional actors who have no specific story to tell at any given performance.

Their leader, Antonio Ferrara, will ask you, if you raise your hand, to come on stage and tell a story from your life. He elicits details as you explain exactly what happened and why the story is important to you. And then you sit down to the side of the stage and watch.

The actors, without rehearsal or discussion, act out your story, complete with props and musical accompaniment. In the process, a simple outing, misadventure in traffic, family conflict or reunion with an old friend becomes

a theatrical production that an entire theater full of people can enjoy. It’s an astounding and often emotional experience watching your, or someone else’s story, come to life.

F e r r a r a i s Brazilian but he and his actors speak English. And once the actors start performing, few words are spoken in any language.

Don’t let your lack of perfect Portuguese keep you away. You won’t need much in the way of Portuguese or English to understand what’s going on and have a great time.

All proceeds from this event will go to the American Society’s Community Action Committee. This money will then be dispersed to the orphanages, day care centers and educational programs that it supports. (For details see page 11)

Name: J enn i f e r ShowersOrigin, time here: I was born in Germany and raised in upstate New York. After university, I moved to France to teach Engl i sh (and to ski!). I went to law school in London and, after 5 years

abroad, returned to the States and worked in two fantastic cities - New York and San Francisco.Why São Paulo?: São Paulo chose me, or rather a Paulista chose me. We met in San Francisco and he imported me and our dog Piper to São Paulo two months ago.Best things so far: São Paulo is full of the best of “big city” life including career opportunities, talented people, fabulous restaurants, art, and dance, to name a few. In the midst of all of this Brazilians still manage to place great emphasis on the importance of family. It makes me wonder if this might be the perfect place to find a healthy balance between having a career and a family. Time will tell!Early frustrations: Moving to a new country is a challenge and the most difficult moments for me have related to paperwork and bureaucracy. As a multi-national couple, at least one of us will always be “living abroad” and administrative demands will always be a part of our lives. Have ‘saudade’ for anything back home?: Cranberries!!! and unsweetened juice, neither of which Customs allows me to bring in to Brazil.Progress with Portuguese: I would say that after two months of lessons my level of Portuguese is roughly akin to a very polite, smiling Tarzan. Luckily, the desire to communicate is a strong motivator and I have a great Portuguese teacher. I’ll always have an accent but I look forward to achieving competency!Favorite place to hang out: In addition to great restaurants, Vila Madelena is packed with excellent yoga and modern dance schools, hair salons, and art studios, all of which appeal to my bohemian side.

Newcomer profileThe President’s Corner

R e c e n t l y I m a d e a v i s i t over to the US Consulate in São Paulo where I had the chance to meet São Paulo’s new Consul General, Thomas Kel ly and several of the staff. It was a

pleasure to meet Mr. Kelly and the team and learn more about the work they do in our city; dedicatedly serving the American community, serving many Brazilian citizens and giving leadership to numerous Brazil - U.S. issues. The Consulate has recently made significant investments in facilities, processes and people to accelerate the visa process.

Turning to another American Society topic, here is something I’d like us allto ask: Where can I apply my Helping Hands? “My what?” you are saying. Helping Hands in the American Society is first of all a class of membership that applies 50% of your membership fee to help make a lasting difference in the lives of children in our carefully screened orphanages. Secondly, Helping Hands is part of our American Society’s mission, encouraging you and me to support our philanthropic work as led by our Community Action Committee. Finally, Helping Hands is the attitude of volunteerism that helps make Amsoc a great organization.

Where else could I apply my Helping

By Tim Scott, AmSoc president

Forum September2

Hands? Well, how about coaching the Little League? Or, how about helping with our Cultural or Social Committees? The American Society regularly hosts social and cultural activities. We have enthusiastic committee chairmen in place, but do need your Helping Hands for support, working to create quality events for the enjoyment of our Society. We are also recruiting a few additional American Society Board Members to help manage our new web blogs, web site updates and marketing.

The Amer ican Soc ie ty i s working to better connect with our younger generations. We have a new membership class for 30 and under called Junior, offering Amsoc benefits at a greatly reduced price. Coming up soon on the American Society agenda are Friday evening happy hour events, targeting young professionals; as well as those of us young at heart.

The American Society seeks to engage our membership in quality events and philanthropic work that builds a spirit of community, friendship and support. We count on your Helping Hands to join in with the activities I’ve listed above. Let us know of your interests by contacting the American Society office or me.

Abraços, Tim

Lynn Cordeiro, editor and layoutSimon Tharby, staff writer

Forum is printed by EGB.(http://www.egb.com.br)

Views expressed in Forum do not necessarily reflect those of the American Society board of governors, members, or staff.

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

The American Society of São Paulo

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

[email protected]

Forum is published monthly, with the exception of January and July, by

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The American Societyof São Paulo

Forum 32010

While many of us were on vacation, New Members were joining our association in Brazil. Congratulations to the following members, who joined us in July, 2010! See you all at our Halloween Party if not sooner!!!

Your Membership committee

Welcome new members from July

Name Membership Type Citizenship Company or Profession

Robert & Miriam Mueller Family American Mirosh Ltda.

Charles McNaughton Single Brasilian Gaudencio, McNaughton & Prado Advogados

Robert Shoe & Daniela Fazoli Family Patron American BAND Idiomas & Traduções

Jose & Marcela Lizarraga Family Patron American Hotels.com

Marybeth Lynch Single American

Todd & Melissa Harkin Family Patron American Outback Steak House (YUM!)

Guilherme & Cheryl De Oliveira Family Patron American

Teresa Murtaugh Junior American

Fellowship Community ChurchThe Welcome Place since 1921

Phone (11) 3253-7609 www.fellowship.com.br

Sunday’s09:00 am - Walking in Faith Classes (English and Portuguese)

10:30 am – Worship Service (English only)

06:00 pm – Culto em português

Conveniently located on Rua Carlos Sampaio, 107 – Bela VistaJust a block and a half from the Brigadeiro Metro station on the Avenida Paulista

2010Forum ForumSeptember4 5

When a family with children decides to live away from one or both of the parents’ home countries, how the move will affect the kids is one of the most important factors taken into consideration. Whether the move is long- or short-term, these kids become part of a group that is growing larger and more acknowledged every day – Third Culture Kids, commonly referred to as “TCKs.” Perhaps today’s most famous example of a classic TCK is U.S. President Barak Obama, who was born in Hawaii to an American mother and a Kenyan father and spent part of his childhood in Indonesia. Much has been made of the fact that he filled many of his cabinet positions with other TCKs, bringing to light the idea that TCKs are known to have many of the same personality traits, interpersonal skills and problem-solving methods. So what is the difference between someone who simply lives for a time as an expat and a true TCK? And what does it mean for kids and parents of those kids?

A TCK is generally defined as someone who grows up in a culture that is not the home culture of one or both of their parents and is not their own “passport country.” In São Paulo a true TCK will not only learn to speak Portuguese, but will learn to think Brazilian. They absorb the cultures and worldviews of the country they are living in and mesh them with the cultures and worldviews of their passport country to form a unique cultural identity. Technically, TCKs are not the kids who live out of their home country for a year or two, in our case soaking in the Brazilian beaches and São Paulo traffic while attending an international school and eating a lifetime’s share of feijao e arroz, then returning to the states for the duration of adolescence. That distinction aside, many identical challenges and benefits are shared by TCKs and short-term expats, who may feel many of the same effects, though perhaps to a lesser degree.

In the mid 80’s one of the earlier researchers on the subject, sociologist Dr. Ted Ward of Michigan State University, called TCKs, “the prototype citizens of the future.” So what makes TCKs different than those who grow up mono-culturally? Statistics say that they are more likely to graduate from college and less likely to divorce, though they will graduate from college and marry years later than average Americans, and are more likely to live internationally as adults. More than anything, TCKs tend to share a set of characteristics assumed to be formed as a result of the globally nomadic lifestyle. Being multi-lingual, having a real-life global education outside of social studies class and natural mediation skills resulting from a lifetime of cultural navigation make these kids seem destined for success.

The personal growth a child or adolescent (or anyone for that matter) goes through during an international living experience is of such magnitude that its very often not moving and adjusting to a new culture that hits the hardest – it’s the returning home to their passport countries to assimilate (or re-assimilate) there.

Studies show that large percentages of American TCKs report never really feeling like they fit in after moving “home” to the United States, having missed a part of adolescence that forms among a shared culture and having experienced in its place something so profound that they have difficulty truly relating to those friends back at home who haven’t shared in their discoveries of the world and of themselves. Of course it’s very possible and likely that TCKs can thrive as a result of their larger cultural identity instead of feeling the negative effects of a cultural identity crisis.

In general, an opportunity to live abroad is considered a great way for a child to get ahead in life, to grow and learn years beyond what they would in a similar period at home. The expat

experience can make families grow closer, afford excellent educational opportunities and travel options beyond most people’s wildest dreams. Kids will have a wealth of experiences to draw from, which, without having left the comfort of home, would only be glimpsed through books and television. One hopes that for the rest of their lives goals will be more far-reaching, horizons expanded and boundaries eradicated. As the globally nomadic life takes your family to one place or another or keeps you rooted for years in a particular “third culture,” there are simply a different set of issues to be aware of as parents.

Just as you and your counterparts back home are facing the common battles of instilling good values in your kids, hoping that they make nice friends and trying as best you can to assist with emotional and social development, there is an additional and very particular set of challenges to help your TCK navigate adolescence and the world at large. And all this, while your kids are growing by leaps and bounds, deftly penetrating the ins and outs of Brazilian popular culture and probably mastering an accent that you will work hours in class to emulate.

Much research points to a fairly consistent set of “good” and “bad” traits that are the hallmarks of TCKs, but it seems many of these can be perceived as two sides of the same coin. For example, a traditionally listed “good” characteristic of a TCK is a close relationship with parents and siblings; a traditional “bad” characteristic is too much dependency on parents and a prolonged adolescence.

Advantageous side effects of living a multi-cultural lifestyle often include the ability to get along with most anyone, regardless of race, nationality or ethnicity; to see more than one “right” solution to a problem; to have a deeper knowledge of and empathy for the different cultures of the world and different worldviews.

The challenges of bringing up Third Culture Kidsby Jami Mabile Oakley, AmSoc Member



The reality is that all kids are different, and will likely experience the many challenges of being a TCK somewhere along the spectrum – from turning a particular aspect of the lifestyle into a positive to be employed throughout adulthood to struggling with an issue that becomes a lifelong challenge.

Some of the common challenges facing TCKs can easily have negative side effects. An indisputable truth of the mobile nature of international lifestyle is the transience of friends and acquaintances. This allows problems to simply “disappear” and “move on” as opposed to being resolved, potentially leading to a tendency to not follow through on interpersonal problems and disagreements. Being involved in a world filled with many things that the average child does not experience may lead to an erratic maturity level that is frustrating for both parents and kids to read. For example, a typical TCK may be well-versed in travel and even world politics, yet remain extremely dependent on parents and experience a prolonged adolescence.

On that note, having a stable family life is of above-average importance when raising TCKs, lest they feel particularly insecure in the world without the safe harbor of their family to follow wherever the expat life may take them. This puts extra pressure on couples to keep their marital relationship and their relationships with their children strong and healthy. “Problems between parents usually affect children emotionally and behaviorally regardless of location, but when there are marital conflicts abroad, children feel doubly insecure in their new setting,” says São Paulo-based psychotherapist Pam Wax, who is married to a Brazilian and is raising three TCKs.

Of course, like all kids to every situation, every TCK is going to react differently to the adventure of living in multiple countries and cultures. Some ways to help your kids to adjust can be useful whether you are a short-term expat or are raising a “citizen of the future” who has yet to live in his or her passport country.

TIPS

Communication and Sensitivity are Key

Communicate, about the good and the bad and what YOU are feeling as well. “Children can benefit from hearing their parents express their emotional reactions, both the positives and the not-so-easy sides to moving internationally. Be sensitive to your kids’ needs. Emphasizing only the new and exciting activities and new friendships to be made is a mistake. Encourage them to express their feelings, including their sadness and/or anxiety about saying goodbye to friends and places,” says Wax.

Encourage the Grieving Process

Help kids to have closure and/or to continue relationships with friends who move on or as your family moves on. Wax suggests that parents “assist kids in seeing that friendships can be maintained after parting. “Good-byes” are a way of life for many TCKs and parents can do a lot to help their children through the partings and to value the process, even when it’s painful.” This goes for the initial move from the home country and subsequent moves as well – let your kids grieve for places and former homes instead of being too insistently perky about “new experiences.”

Keep Things Consistent When You Can

Give them chunks of consistency, no matter where in the world you are. This can include daily routines and holiday rituals incorporating home and host countries, or even just a traditional vacation spot that never changes.

Don’t Oversimplify the Move Back “Home”

Seek out additional support upon moving back to your home country and/or when a teen leaves for college. Many companies and the U.S. Government now provide re-entry

support just as they provide cultural training when leaving the U.S. Take advantage of this and other resources so that you are not surprised when it comes time for the opposite of what we’ve all already been through – reverse culture shock can be worse. “I probably don’t have to tell you that coming back into the home culture is usually more difficult than going through culture shock overseas. We think we should feel at home in “our” culture, but that is often not the case,” says Wax.

Find a True Peer Group for TCKs

Help them to connect with other TCKs and TCK groups. This is easy via the internet, and many groups have physical chapters in cities around the world. Wax recommends the book Third Culture Kids: The Experience of Growing Up Among Worlds, by Ruth van Recken and David Pollock, as well as their website community www.tckworld.com. It might also be beneficial to connect with an Adult TCK group as well, for some personal insight and to learn how similar families react to the challenge and adventure of international life.

Softball: the big event will be an Open Tournament co-hosted with the Brazilian Beisbol Confederation on Oct23-24 and then the finals on Nov. 7. All games will be at Ibuina Park, a bit past Cotia on the Raposo Tavares. We expect to have up to 16 teams entering, multiple teams from the Americans, Brazilians, Japanese and Korean communities. There will be a Homerun hitting contest too. The

other days marked on the calendar are afternoons at either the Graded or Chapel School´s fields for all players to get together for a pick-up game or a practice.

Golf: the big event will be the 5th Challenge Golf Cup, which the Scots will organize this year. They have said it will most likley be on Nov. 26 at San Fernando Golf Club. This team golf match is now tied at 2-2.

Football: the big event will be the Abacaxi bowl on Feb. 5th of next year, but we plan to have some organized pick-up games after the softball season is over Nov. 6 so teams and players can start preparing for the grueling 1-day Abacaxi Bowl on Feb. 5. We have reserved 3 Saturdays at the end of this year, 2010, and hopefully we´ll have 2 more Saturdays in January to offer players who want to practice so more before the Abacaxi bowl!

Tennis: we hope to have an Open Team Tennis tournament before December, where teams of 4 players will play in a round robin event and enjoy a BBQ during the day.

Forum ForumSeptember6 7

AmSoc AthleticsCommentary from the desk of John Kennedy, Director of AMSOC Athletics

Adult Sports schedule Softball:

8/21 Chapel School – noon til 5pm Pick-up games8/28 Graded School – noon til 5pmpick-up games9/11 Chapel School – noon til 5pm – pick-Pick-up games9/25 Graded School – noon til 5pm Pick-up games110/16 Chapel School – 9am til 5pm Pick-up games10-23 & 24 IBUINA Park– AMSOC Softball Tourney - preliminaries11/7 IBUINA Park – AMSOC softball tourney –semi-finals & finals

Tennis:Date and location to be determined, most likely in mid November

Golf:11/26 5th Challenge Golf CupSan Fernando Golf ClubTeam golf (US vs. Scots)

Flag Football:11/13 Graded School – noon til 5pm Pick-up games11/27 Chapel School – noon til 5pm Pick-up games12/11 Chapel School – 9am til 5pm Pick-up games1/22/2011 9am til 5pm Pick-up games to be scheduled1/29/2011 9am til 5pm Pick-up games to be scheduled2/5/2011 Abacaxi Bowl – 9am til 5pmLocation to be determined

CHARITY SOFTBALL INVITATIONALOctober 24-25 & November 7, 10am

At Ibuina, home of Brazil´s national Baseball team. 3-Day Tournament: 16 teams

(R$40 for members and R$60 for non-members)

Fundraising: Funds will be matched by the AMSOC Charity Matching Fund, serving over 1,700 children in the greater SP area.

Food & Drinks: BBQ: offering burgers, hot dogs, soft drinks and beer on the FIRST

WEEKEND, drinks on the SECOND Saturday.

Reserve your spot asap, first come serve basis! Call/email AMSOC to pay and reserve now for DEADLINE is Sept. 30 !!



Antiquing in São Paulo: The Bixiga Fleamarket

A clay bowl filled with rock salt, garlic and an amethyst crystal guards a pile of sequin gowns on the sidewalk. A set of 1960’s Jacaranda chairs with damaged cane seats lean against a rusty VW van. Lace linens, fake jewels and cafezinho cups. This is the Bixiga flea market on a Sunday afternoon in São Paulo, Brazil. Sifting through the piles of junk and antiques, an American living in São Paulo, with a stylist’s eye, can discover, or even gradually acquire, a collection of furnishing and objects that speak of Brazil’s history of decorative arts.

Looking for something to do on a Sunday in São Paulo? Exploring the Bixiga flea market is entertaining and free unless you decide to buy. Don’t let the peddlers with their dirty brick-a-brack covered cloths deter you in a quest for remembrances of Brazil’s past. The flea market is on Sundays from 9:00 to 3:00 on Plaza Praca Dom Orione in Bixiga, the Old Italian neighborhood in Boa Vista is not the Porte de Clignancourt flea market in Paris but here you can find junk merchants and antique shops selling wares that express a particular essence of old Brazil back to the days when Avenida Paulista was lined with grand mansions built by the coffee kings or when Brazil was a frontier of futurist design.

Did you ever notice those men caning chairs on the street corner in Jardins? Just try getting a chair caned in Hamptons. Let’s take advantage of what São Paulo has to offer, and scour the market for battered or broken cane chairs at a discount. Brazilian caned furniture originates from the Portuguese Court’s artistic exchange with the India in the 17th century when India’s art of weaving cane was adapted by Portuguese furniture makers and exported to the colonies Keep your eye out for colonial antique, modernist cane chairs and canapé benches. For the

most beautiful look, restore the cane seats with the real rattan straw (ask for ‘palha’), imported from India, without stain or paint. Do not use the plastic substitute, even though the lower price might be tempting.

Mid-century modern Brazilian furniture is another flea-market treasure. A movement called Tropical Modernism emerged in Brazil in the mid-20th century among visionary Italian immigrants who created futurist furniture for the domestic market. The glossy dark wood of the Jacaranda tree, native to Brazil, is often combined with woven cane or leather seats. In Bixiga, you may find modernist couches, chairs, tables and consoles by unknown artisans or pieces by well known designers like Sergio Rodrigues, who in 1961 created the ‘Mole’ couch and chair out of slouchy saddle leather and Jacaranda wood.

Tropical Modernism includes one-of-a-kind tables and chairs carved out of tree trunks. This furniture is often created by unknown wood sculptors, but occasionally you may find a chair sculpted by Jose Zannine Caldas, a Brazilian designer, who made a collection of furniture out of discarded trees from the rainforest.

The Bixiga flea market can take more than an hour to troll through, so stop for an agua de coco and a kibbe

from a street vendor, or a cafezinho at the Italian restaurants.

Then start checking out small stuff like ceramic parrots, tropical botanical books, and the hand-blown glass by artisans who immigrated to Brazil

from Murano, Italy in early 20th century. The Murano style vases with swirls of hot color and flecks of gold leaf are perfect vessels for your orchids from CEASP’s flower market. Hand-carved quartz crystal teardrops shimmer in a dusty bin. As you rummage through grand chandelier pieces it is easy to imagine how great a real rock crystal chandelier would look over a tropical modernist table. São Paulo’s flea markets also have everything you will ever need for a formal Brazilian table setting.

In Bixiga you can find handmade antique lace tablecloths from the Northeast region or the Canary Islands as well as silver candelabras, Limoges plates, elaborate fruitiers, cake stands and silver coffee services which include a tray, a coffee pot, a creamer and a sugar bowl. Coffee culture is an important part of Brazil’s history. Why don’t you start a collection of vintage demitasse cups for serving cafezinho? Don’t forget to look for hand-blown shot glasses to serve sparkling water.

Now rest a moment in a tattered reproduction of a Louis XV chair. Brazil has a passion for French style. There are many variations of this classic design-- wide seat, slightly curved back and carved wooden arms---floating around the antique shops. If you decided to buy a pair, give your Louis XV’s a second life with fresh upholstery and be sure to stuff the seat cushions with real goose down.

Stephanie Rudloe is an interior stylist. For more information about her services email [email protected]

By Stephanie Rudloe, edited by Antonio Regalado


Over 20 members of the American Society attended a brunch hosted by Vivenda da Criança community center in Parelheiros, São Paulo on Saturday, August 14th, 2010. The brunch showcased freshly baked goods produced in Vivenda’s onsite bakery, including a delicious pao de queijo, breads, and a chocolate cake. Everything was prepared by a local youth who was trained as a baker at the center.

The brunch provided Vivenda an opportunity to thank the American Society for its on-going support during the past decade. In particular, Vivenda was a beneficiary of the American Society’s 60th Anniversary party in May, which yielded R$40,000 in donations for Vivenda. The funds will be applied towards helping the bakery reach its goal of self-sustainability.

The bakery, built entirely from private funding, was launched a few months ago as part of a “social entrepreneurial” project. The bakery project has two primary goals. The first is to provide bakery training and employment opportunities for local youths. The second is to generate funds towards the center’s self-sustainability.

Originally founded over 20 years ago by a tireless Franciscan nun, Sister Ivonne, Vivenda has evolved from

Vivenda da Criança thanks AmSoc

a small foster home for boys into a community center and professional training center. It currently serves 1200 families in the surrounding area. During that time, the American Society has partnered with Vivenda and has

supported the institution with funds, volunteers, and in-kind donations.

As part of the brunch, Vivenda dedicated the library in its professional center to the American society. Tim Scott, American Society President, and Marlene Rubeiz, chair of the American Society’s 60th Anniversary party committee, spoke on behalf of the American Society during the library’s dedication. A plaque with an inscription on Vivenda’s library entrance sums up the relationship:

“We dedicate this space, frequented by people seeking to acquire more knowledge, to the longstanding partnership between Vivenda da Criança and American Society, with the certainty that real opportunities are to provide access to learning and constant flow of ideas – free and unprejudiced. São Paulo, August 7th 2010. “

If you are interested in visiting the bakery, please contact Deborah Rebouças, Vivenda da Criança manager, 11 5920-8492 .

By Maria Stiehm, AmSoc member

American society members enjoy the brunch served by Vivenda



With this year’s Angel Party fast ap-proaching, (planned for November 6th), have you ever wondered what it might be like to be a guest at this event? Well, The Forum has been lucky enough to find out. Josenilson, now 18 years old, was kind enough to talk to us about his experiences attending the event.

Living in a foster home in Parelheir-os, called Vivenda da Crianca, he was first in-vited to the Angel Party in 2004, when he was 13 years old. At this time he had been at Vivenda for 9 months, and described himself as, “still very angry with many things in my life.”

The party was a welcome surprise and one of the moments he remembers when people cared about him, “The first party you never forget, right!” It clearly made a strong impression on Josenilson;

“I loved the first party because I could not imagine anything close to what I saw there. Lots of delicious food, nice treats and games, and the best part; I received a pair of jeans, a really cool shirt, a skate board and a complete set of clothing! I will never forget that.”

Being an AngelBy Simon Tharby, staff writer

Things we missedWhat Mark Abrams missed: Good Mexican Salsa and Plain Corn Chips

What he found: Dippa Doritos Chips and Dippas tomato dips (cheese and tomato). I always try to incorporate enough time to my international trips to be able to purchase delicious salsa to take back to Brazil. Rarely can one find it on the shelves of any of the supermarkets in São Paulo. Even the emporiums and specialty stores don’t seem to stock it. Now, however, thanks to the wonderful folks at PepsiCo’s Elma Chips we have those great plain corn chips that even come in a large bag (approximately R$ 3,75 for a 170 grams). Thankfully the days are gone when we could only find Doritos Nacho flavored chips here. Now for the salsa: The best way I’ve found to improvise an easy to make salsa-like dip as an appetizer for say 8 to 10 people is to take 2 cans of the Dippa tomato dip (approximately R$ 4,85 per 170 gram can), half an onion, half a green bell pepper, a small tomato, lime and Tabasco sauce. I dice the onion, tomato and green pepper together, add to the Dippa tomato dip base, squeeze in the juice from a wedge of lime and add around 1/8 fl.oz or 3.7 ml. of Tobasco sauce because we like it HOT! I’ve also found that some people like a little sugar added to reduce the acidity of the tomatoes. The amount of Tobasco really depends on your preference for hot, medium or mild so experiment continuously as you add a little Tobasco at a time to get it to the spiciness you like.

‘Things we missed’ is a new column that introduces products and services that are new or were hard to find in Brazil. If you have an idea for a product or service that could be featured please write to [email protected]

Please note that Forum is not endorsing these products and services and does not take any responsibility for quality and/or performance or lack thereof.

He attended the the following three Angel Parties, up until 2007. Thinking back on these experienc-es, Josenilson said, “What I learned is that you need to help people to be helped. I was very young and in a very bad place.

Nowadays, I see how important these parties were for me, because I saw so many people help-ing me and other kids, so we could have the party and the gifts.”

And final-ly, Josenil-son, wanted to speak

directly to those who have worked at, or contributed to, the Angel Par-ties; “If I could be face to face with everyone who gave me the presents and worked as a volunteer in the party, I would say two things:

1. God bless you and thank you for all your work. 2. Kids like me need more than gifts. They need coaching. So if you can, be a tutor for a kid that does not have someone to guide him or her.Thank you !”

Volunteers are needed to help prepare the annual Halloween Party. Come and be a kid again. Whether to bring back candy from USA on your next business trip or to help decorate or to make cupcakes, we need you!

Organizational meetings will be held at the home of Ruth Hollard on Wednesday September 8th and Wednesday September 22nd. [email protected] or 9405-6424.

Come and volunteer for the Halloween party!


Mark your calendars!71ST ANNuAL FLOWER SHOW

Where: The Brazilian British Center is located at Rua Ferreira Araújo, 741, in Pinheiros.

When: September Sat 11 & Sun 12

By kind permission of the Cultura Inglesa, the São Paulo Garden Club will present its 71st Anual Flower Show this coming Sept 11 and 12.

The theme this year is “BRAZIL FROM NORTH TO SOUTH”, and exhibitors will show, with flowers, their interpretation of the Amazon rainforest, the Pantanal, Brasília-50 years, the influence of Italian immigrants and carnival and many more.

The exhibition will open to the public Saturday, Sept. 11, from 10a.m. to 6.30p.m. and Sunday, Sept 12, from 10a.m. to 5 p.m.

The admission is free.Lunch and tea will be served on Saturday and Sunday.

BETTER HEALTH FOR YOuR BODY AND VISION – Seminar with Marianne Asmussen Aguirre

Come and participate in a sample class of exercises using the Meir Schneider Self-Healing Method.

We will work on body and vision – they are interrelated. You can create profound changes in your body through gentle movement, breath work, self-massage, visualization and vision improvement.

Working on your vision and body in a group setting is fun, effective and empowering, as people around you experience improvements in their own needs. Unbalanced, poor visual habits and accumulated eyestrain compromise the health and function of the eyes. Relaxation of the eyes and proper use will improve vision.

Relaxation of chronically overused muscles and use of unused muscles enhance circulation and bring the body into better balance.

Scandinavium – Campo Belo - Wednesday, September 15th from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Coffee and Petit Fours

Investment: R$ 25,00Register at 11 99889974. With Marianne Asmussen Aguirre

HORSEBACK RIDING & SuNSET

Where: Itu (92 km or 57miles from São Paulo)

When: Saturday, September 18, 2010, 1:15PM - 11pm

Meeting point: American Society parking lot.Price: R$ 225.00/person includes: transport, farm entrance ticket, horse, dinner, drink vouchers (R$ 15.00) and sun set! RSVP by Monday, September 13For more details contact Luciana (11 8393 7779 [email protected])

PICNIC IN JARDIM BOTâNICO

Where: São Paulo

When: Tuesday September 28, 2010

Meeting point: American Society lobby. Price: R$ 90.00/person includes: transport, Jardim Botânico entrance ticket, lunch

RSVP by Monday, September 20For more details contact Luciana (11 8393 7779 [email protected])



Upcoming cultural eventsJuLY 31st - SEPTEMBER 5th

KEITH HARINGCaixa Cultural Av. Paulista 2083

A wonderful exhibit of 94 selected works of art, photographs and videos of American Pop artist and icon, Keith Haring. An amazing exhibit not to be missed!

THuRSDAY - SEPTEMBER 9th

EXCLUSIVE JEWELRY DESIGN TOUR

An exclusive tour specially organized by Flavia Liz of unique in SP.

This is a unique opportunity for a private visit with internationally rewarded jewelry designers in their ateliers! Have a coffee, informative and personal chat, and learn from the designers how they create their pieces of jewelry!

9am meeting point American Society parking lot. Cost depends on number of persons. RSVP Kim Corcoran [email protected] or call 3071-1685. To learn more about Flavia Liz and her tours visit www.uniqueinsp.com

AuGuST 14th - SEPTEMBER 4th

EXHIBIT NAIVE ARTIST ISABEL DE JESUSGaleria Jacques Ardies

This gallery is known for it collection of Brazilian naive artists. Located in a charming converted house, it is a wonderful place to see the colorful work of artist Isabel de Jesus.

For more information visit www.ardies.com

WEDNESDAY - SEPTEMBER 29th

BAKING CLASS AND BRUNCH AT VIVENDA DE CRIANCA

9am depart from AMSOC parking lot, return 2pmVivenda will have a van to take peopleRua da Paz 1431, Santo Amaro RSVP Kim Corcoran [email protected] or call 3071-1685Cost R$ 150,00 per person (which is a donation to Vivenda da Criança).For more info on Vivenda visit www.vivendadacrianca.com.br

This is a special opportunity to visit with one of AMSOC community assistance programs, Vivenda da Criança’s newly inaugurated bakery!

We will have an exclusive class given by the students on how to make their delicious Pao de Queijo and more! Afterwards a wonderful brunch will be served. Will be exciting for all! Imagine learning how to make the Brazilian treats from a young group of Bakers!

THuRSDAY - OCTOBER 7th UNIQUE STREET ART TOUR

9am meeting point to be determined cost depends of number of persons RSVP Kim Corcoran [email protected] or call 3071-1685

This is an unusual and fascinating tour exclusively organized by Flavia Liz of Unique in SP.

A look at the urban interventions of world-renowned Brazilian artists that re-draw the personality of the metropolis. The tour may include a chat with an artist, a visit to a street art gallery or to an important social project. Truly a one of a kind opportunity to see a different side of São Paulo!

SuNDAY - OCTOBER 24th

PLAYBACK THEATER5.30pmGraded SchoolAv. Pres. Giovanni Gronchi 4710

An interactive Theater Group that improvises a story or situation from a

volunteer in the audience.Brilliant, creative and lots of fun!

Not to be missed! Tickets: R$30,00 (call the American Society to purchase your ticket). 100% of ticket sales go towards AMSOC Community Assistance programs. Each ticket will provide the holder admission to the performance and a chance to win an outstanding raffle prize. Not recommended for children under 12yrs of age

THuRSDAY - NOVEMBER 4th

CHARITY EVENTBrazilian Contemporary Art Auction Cocktail 7pm to 9pmAuction 9pm to 11pm Mube Museu Brasileiro da EsculturaAv. Europa 218

Many of Brazil´s most well known contemporary artists will be donating works to be auctioned in support of Associação Vida Jovem and ILADH (Latin American Human Rights Institute). Over 100 outstanding works of art and 15 truly unique items (resorts, restaurants, sports related memorabilia) will be auctioned.

A private guided tour is planned for AMSOC members on the day of the auction by renowned art critic Paul Klein. This will be a wonderful opportunity to see the artwork and learn more about the artists!

THuRSDAY - NOVEMBER 11thSãO PAULO FASHION TOUR

9am meeting point to be determined, cost depends of number of persons.RSVP Kim Corcoran [email protected] or call 3071-1685

Designed especially by Flavia Liz, another most unique tour! Imagine having the opportunity and access to Brazil’s creative and important designers, all a part of the avant-garde fashion world!


Corporate Sponsors - Without YOU where would we be?

By Richard Wegman, AmSoc Board member

In today’s world Social Responsibility is becoming a corporate direction which helps put a good face to the public. Well, that’s not all bad, because over the last sixty years the American Society of São Paulo has been providing a place for many charities to receive the financial support and personal commitment to make their communities a better place to live. In addition, AMSOC provides training for these charities to support sustainability and continued expansion of services.

Some of these services come with technology, some with old fashion work and personal involvement and some through generous financial contributions. All of these areas are necessary to have an impact on “making a difference” in our communities.

Last month many of us at AMSOC took advantage of an opportunity to visit one of the charities we support. We were extremely impressed by the commitment of the people within the organization and the level of professionalism with which they conducted their activities for children and the community at large.

They have combined technology and personal activities to build an entire community center which

includes training for the children to become active members of society.

Many financial contributions have allowed them to install and operate a bakery, a hair salon, a school, a library, and an organic garden, all of which are used to provide the children with skills that are necessary to earn a living and provide for the future (theirs and their future children).

This was an amazing visit and a BIG eye opener about what can be accomplished when vision, personal commitment and financial contributions come together for the greater good of others.

So, THANK YOU to all of our corporate sponsors, for your continued support, truly, without you our impact on the community would be only a fraction of what is happening.

A very special thanks goes to Mangels Industrial S.A., both personally and professional. Robert and Sandra have supported AMSOC for many years, not only financially, but by hosting our annual Egg Nog party and other events as well. Many Thanks again for your continued support.

Your Corporate Sponsorship Committee

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WHERECompanyHomeUniversity

ANY TIME !

www.englishintheoffice.com.br [email protected]

Phone: 011 – 50443859

CouRsEEnglishSpanishPortuguese



The St. Andrew Society of the State of São Paulo will hold its annual Caledonian Ball on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at the Rosa Rosarum in the Pinheiros neighbourhood of São Paulo.

For those of you who are new to São Paulo, the Caledonian Ball is one of São Paulo´s most popular black tie events, and it is a wonderful Scottish evening with something for everyone. The cocktail reception will begin at 8:00 pm followed by a four-course

dinner with fine wines, whiskys and other beverages. Throughout the evening, there will be Scottish bagpipe music provided by the St. Andrew Society Pipes and Drums, as well as Scottish country dancing. For those who enjoy a bit of pop or disco, additional music will also be provided by a DJ. Ticket prices are R$ 240 per person (R$180 for teachers and anyone under the age of thirty), and can be purchased individually or for tables of eight to ten. As always, profits from this event are donated to charities for

impoverished and underprivileged children in the state of São Paulo.

For those who would like to polish their Scottish dancing skills before the ball, the Society will be hosting Scottish dance practices for the Caledonian Ball on the following evenings at 8:00 pm at the Brazilian British Centre, Rua Ferreira de Araujo, 741: August 9th (in the foyer) September 8th (on the first floor) and September 13th (in the foyer). These evenings are always great fun and are

free of charge and open to everyone, even those who don´t intend to go to the Caledonian Ball. So please come and join us.

For further i n f o r m a t i o n about the ball, or to make r e s e r v a t i o n s and purchase tickets, please contact Marcia Furlani at: 5502-6875 or by email marcia.f u r l a n i @

lloydstsb.com.br. As always, a very large turnout is expected for the ball. Space will be limited, so everyone is urged to book tickets as early as possible.

2010 Caledonian ball Members tipSweetCarolina, “The Art of Cake” by Paola PuchettiRecommended by Marcia and Matthew Smith

SweetCarolina is an exclusive boutique pastry shop in São Paulo that offers unique and delicious design cakes and cupcakes. With her Italian background and American education Paola brings exquisite Italian and American recipes to the finest Brazilian audience.

After an MBA in Finance and a subsequent career on Wall Street, Paola decided to follow her passion by attending pastry classes with the famous Colette Peters in the US and then opening her own pastry shop in São Paulo.

At SweetCarolina all the cakes and cupcakes are made to order and tailored to cater for every type of event. Only the finest ingredients are used to guarantee delicious rich flavors. Paola’s decorating techniques achieve beautiful and delicately designed sweet works of art.

She has in the past catered parties for a number of AmSoc members who vouch for her quality and wholeheartedly recommend her services to Forum readers.

[email protected] (11) 8787 3050Follow us on Twitter @SweetCarolCakes and Facebook!

American Psychologist Services for Expats

Sukie Miller Ph.D. early director of Esalen, former Board Member Jung Institute San Francisco, 35 years ex-perience private practice as coach, psycho-therapist with adults and cou-ples in eclectic approach to personal/professional growth, woman’s’ issues, adjustment to São Paulo, goal setting, dream work, anxiety. Call Dr. Miller at 11- 9823-8730 email [email protected].

American-Licensed Psychotherapist

In this busy and ever-changing world, people often feel stressed and over-whelmed with no place to turn. Psy-chotherapy/counseling can provide a safe place to receive professional guid-ance and support. Brief or longer-term therapy offered depending on your needs, goals and expectations. Ser-vices: individual, couples, child/ado-lescent. Certified to conduct Adoption Home Study for American Citizens. Contact: Pamela Wax, MSW/LCSW at 5051-5988 or 9656-2106. Located in Moema.

Argos Dog Kennel Traveling? What about your dog? Ar-gos Kennel Hotel could be his second home in the country. Food, water, and shelter with lots of love and personal care. No lonely kennel for him, but our home and the freedom of a spacious garden. Fetch and carry service. Eng-lish and French spoken. Call Jean or Christiane at (11) 4661-1430 or (11) 7143-0837 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Embu Guaçu, SP.

Math and Science Tutor

Former Graded and Chapel teacher, with 20-years experience, tutors Math, Physics, Chemistry, and Science for all levels, including but not limited to the IB, IGCSE, SAT-I & II, AP and Brazil-ian vestibular. Elementary and middle school students are also welcome (all subjects). Call Fernando Knijnik at (11) 2533-3965 or 9134-6700.

Cognitive Psychologist - Adults/Teenagers

Beatriz Paes, CRP 06/73973 - As a psy-chotherapist, I am committed to helping clients develop greater personal insight and behavioral change. Psychotherapy can end self-criticism, and improve re-lationships. My approach is relaxed, and collaborative. Portuguese and English - Home visits available. Eve-ning and weekend appointments also. Contact: (11) 7642-0552 / [email protected] / http://sites.google.com/site/therapybr

Portuguese classes

Experienced teacher, graduated from the Catholic University of São Paulo, in Portuguese andEnglish. You can improve your spoken Portuguese, and your reading and writ-ing skills. Get in touch with tips about social and professional life in Brazil, and learn local expressions. Classes are tailored according to your needs. Contact Bia at (11) 5051-2838 or [email protected].

Psychotherapist for Ex-Pats

Serving Adults, Children, and Fami-lies (also couples) struggling with all adjustment issues. Specializing in is-sues of divorce, separation, and recon-ciliation. Many years experience with drug/ alcohol issues. USA licensed as MFT. Jungian Analyst experienced in Sandtray, Dreamwork (groups also), and Cognitive/ Behavioral therapy. Please call/ email Matthew: 7734 5793 or [email protected] for a free initial consultation.

American-Licensed Expat Psychologist

Richard Morhaime, Psy.D., offers skilled psychotherapy for children and adults. He also provides complete di-agnostic evaluations in English for children with academic or behavioral difficulties, featuring individualized recommendations for school and home. For more information, contact Dr. Morhaime at 5538-0099 or 9669-8057 or visit www.expatpsychologist.com.

classifieds

Forum September14

Housing

Elegant furnished house in Tamboré

Beautiful recently professionally deco-rated furnished house for rent. 600 m² with 2,000 m² of land. Heated swim-ming pool. Nice barbecue area and out-door porch. 4 suites, family room, liv-ing, dinning, large kitchen, maids room and 3 car garage. The House is complete ready to live in for high level execu-tive. To see photos, visit www.suzimo-niz.com.br – Avenida Marília,105. To visit the house, call (11) 8179-3131.

Furnished Apartment for Rent

Vila Nova Conceição. São Paulo’s 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, maid’s bedroom and bathroom, big service area, two park-ing spaces. Fully furnished with all appliances. Telephone included. Call Alex or Eliane at (11) 3849-7085 or (11) 8635-7788, or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Moving

For Sale - American King Bed & Ma-tress and matching night stands. Please call: Duncan 5548.2828 or [email protected]

Taylor Real Estate

Luxury spacious houses, apartments and penthouses. Sales and rentals. Ten years experience with expatriates. Fur-nished and unfurnished. Trilingual Real Estate agents. References from consul-ates and multinationals. Photos sent by email. Relocation Service. Consult the site: www.taylorimoveis.com. Email - [email protected]. Phone: 5511 3079 8888 and 5511 8774 5100 (Maria Elisa).

Services


Personal Trainer

I will come to your home, office, or workout facility and create an exercise/fitness program tailored to your health concerns, fitness goals, and schedule. For adults and children, individuals or groups. Sessions in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. For more information please contact Daniela Franco at (11) 9739-6191 or [email protected]. Research Assistant

ÁBACO Marketing Research, founded 1975, offers growth opportunity for bilingual Research Assistant in Inter-national Department. Friendly envi-

2010 Forum 15

calendarLearn more about this month’s AmSoc events (highlighted) at www.amsoc.com.br.Important Dates: 6 Labor Day (Us) / 7 InDepenDence Day (br)September 2010

ronment with interesting work. Conve-nient Avenida Paulista subway location. Requirements: Grammatically correct English, moderately fluent Portuguese; appropriate degree, some relevant ex-perience, working documents. Spanish desirable. Résumé with salary history: “RESEARCHER”, to [email protected].

Piano Class

Beginning and advanced music classes for piano or keyboard. Special method for children 4 years and older, teenag-ers, adults and senior citizens. Classes in Portuguese or English. Contact: Sue-ly Azevedo, 8456-5365 – 48 year old

A classified of up to 50 words costs R$45 for AmSoc members and R$80 for non-members. To place a classified please call (11) 5182-2074 from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., or send an e-mail to [email protected].

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Forum does not check all of the advertisers appearing in this newsletter. We urge you to use these services; however, thoroughly check prices and services prior to finalizing any service or purchase agreement.

A No

te to

Ou

r Rea

ders

music teacher with 30+ years of suc-cessful experience! Class in your house in Morumbi and South Area.

6 Monday scottish country dancing St. Andrew’s Scottish Dancing at the BBC – 8 pm Further information at 5502-6875.

7 Tuesday lauryn Hill concert in sao Paulo! Where: Credicard Hall at 9:30 pm Tickets range from R$100 to R$ 250. For more information visit www.ticketmaster.com.br

9 Thursday Jewelry design Tour See page 11

11 saturday little league Bring your kids to Chapel School for lots of fun and enjoyment! From 9 am until 12 pm. Visit www.amsoc.com.br to know more!

11 saturday softball Games Pick-up games to be held at Chapel School from noon to 5 pm. Please contact John Kennedy at [email protected] for more information.

11/12 saturday / sunday

71th Plant and art floral exibition by são Paulo Garden club

From 10am to 5:30 pm at the British Center, Rua Ferreira de Araújo

15 Wednesday self Healing seminar with Marianne aguirre See page 10

16 Thursday cultural / corporate sponsor cocktail Corporate Sponsor, Patron and Helping Hands Cocktail. More information to come!

17 friday Happy Hour social starting at 8:30pm at A Lanterna in Vila Madalena.Contact Cristina Celaya at [email protected] for more information.

18 saturday Horseback riding & sunset See page 10

18 saturday Music at fellowship church Starting at 4 pm / Free entrance. More info at 3253 7609

18 saturday caledonian Ball See page 13

25 saturday little league To be held at Graded School from 9 am until 12 pm. Visit www.amsoc.com.br to know more!

25 saturday softball Games To be held at Graded. Please contact John Kennedy at [email protected] for more information.

28 Tuesday Picnic in Jardim Botanico See page 10

28 Tuesday amsoc’s cac Monthly MeetingCommunity Action Committee meeting from 1 to 3pm. Open to all AmSoc members interested in contributing to our philanthropic efforts. Please contact Kelly Maurice [email protected]

29 Wednesday Bakery class and Brunch at Vivenda da crianca

30 Thursday Pantanal & chapada dos Guimaraes Trip From 9/30 to 10/5 with Hanna & Louise from Scan-Suisse Tours. Further information at 5531-7100 or [email protected]

Do you GoGirl?

fliPside

I’m turning 50 in September and I love i t . My cronehood is starting. It’s liberating to tell litterers what I really think. It’s l i b e r a t i n g t o walk the dogs in my pajamas. And, because of a new product I

discovered, it’s liberating to use public toilets – anywhere, any time and just the way they are, without worry. At 50, a new me is being born.

The product I’m talking about is the GoGirl Female Urinary Device. “Don’t take life sitting down,” the package says. “GoGirl allows women to urinate standing up. It’s hygienic, portable, discreet and reusable.”

Well yeah!

See, I have some complaints about public toilets in general. They’re just plain gross and getting grosser as I move towards 50. How do women handle dirty toilet seats? Many don’t sit on them at all; they balance themselves above. Do I have muscles that can hold me long enough? Yes. Do my muscles hold one part of me but release another part at the same time? No. I have to sit. There are often tissue paper covers you can put over a questionably clean toilet seat, but I’ve never possessed the stealth and cunning to lay it down, turn around and sit before the paper has floated away or slipped into the toilet itself.

And so when I saw the GoGirl online, I ordered a 12-pack (sure that everyone I knew would want one) and picked them up at my mother’s home in the U.S. when I visited her in April. I didn’t have a chance to use mine till my return trip home when I had an eight-hour wait in Terminal C of the Newark Airport. And that’s when I became hooked.

The GoGirl is basically a specially-shaped funnel made of Barbie pink medical grade silicone. Knowing I had eight hours in the airport plus a ten hour flight to Brazil, I was really hoping it would keep me feeling daisy fresh through the long day and night. When the first opportunity arose, I locked myself into a bathroom stall, fussed with my clothing just so and then put the GoGirl against my body, standing facing the toilet like a man. I’d been on a three-hour flight and drunk an entire bottle of water so I was nervous. The spout didn’t look terribly big.

It worked fine. There was no backsplash, no overflow and no mess. I finished the job, put the GoGirl aside, buckled up and walked out to the sink to wash both my hands and my new device. No one looked my way, no one gaped or gawked and no one asked to inspect it. (I was almost disappointed.) I then rolled it up, put it into the handy carrying tube it came in, stuck it in my purse and went back to my home base at Gate 24, a new woman. I half expected people to notice the new me. They didn’t.

That wait in Terminal C was long, but I boarded the plane feeling daisy fresh. (At least, till I decided to get a massage halfway through the day and got oil in my hair. Suddenly unfresh in a way I hadn’t anticipated, I washed my hair in the bathroom sink using hand soap. This time I didn’t look up to see if people were staring as I crouched with my head under the power hand drier, looking like a NASA pilot doing G-Force tests.) I used my funnel on the plane, I used it in the Guarulhos airport and I wanted to keep using it at home. But that was overkill, I realized.

There were a few startling moments, of course, as I stopped taking life sitting down. One was the noise level. I stood like a man and suddenly sounded like a man as the flow came from higher than I was used to. And, the moment of doing just what GoGirl says to do, which is to go, didn’t come easily. That first moment of

letting loose and trusting my pink funnel was a big one.

I was so excited about my new find that I even told my 70-year-old stepmother about it. She looked perplexed and said, “But I’ve been using one of those for years. It’s great for camping.” I practically shouted, “Why didn’t you tell me?” She looked surprised. “You hate camping,” she replied. I do, but I can see why it would work great in the woods. I even have fantasies about writing my name in the snow. (Which I maybe could if there were snow – and privacy – nearby.)

Since my return from Terminal C, I’ve used my GoGirl here in São Paulo at a hole-in-the-wall bathroom at a Thai restaurant in Liberdade, at the port-a-potties during a Corinthians game, at the Jardim Sul shopping mall and in the bathrooms at the Consolação Cemetery. Its usefulness is unlimited. Perfect for city and country!

So, as a new semester starts and we all strive to stay sane, out of traffic and most of all, daisy fresh, consider this not a product endorsement but rather a public service announcement. I sold my first box of 12 within three minutes after a simulated demonstration for a group of friends. I have a new box of 12 so let me know if you’re interested. I’m not out to make money, only to keep us all feeling our very best!

By Sue Banman Sileci, AmSoc member

amsoc forum september 2010 issue

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