June 2015 - American Society of São Paulo
Transcription
June 2015 - American Society of São Paulo
FORUM Save the Date June 24th – Happy Hour June 27th – 4th of July Celebration November 14th – Angel Party In This Issue Alice in Wonderland Page 7: Alice Kelly da Silva impressed everyone at the AGM with her poise and eloquence at just 16 years old. Her mentors, Simone and Jason Bermingham share the story of how they took her under their wings. 2015 Gala Photos Pages 8 & 9: Check out some of our favorite shots from our annual Gala benefitting local childrens’ charities. They are all available online at http://flavianovaz.com.br/area-docliente/american-society Annual General Meeting Pages 10 & 11: Mira Hankins and Consul General Dennis Hankins hosted a lovely evening at their home for a special annual AmSoc gathering. Our Mission 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. Monthly Newsletter June 2015 www.AmSoc.com.br A Marine’s Sacrifice Sgt. Robert Hatch, U.S. Marine, Receives Purple Heart By Richard Wegman, AmSoc Board President Veteran, U.S. Army 2nd Lieutenant On Wednesday May 13 th , on the invitation of Consul General Dennis Hankins, I participated in the presentation of a Purple Heart Medal to one of the Marines stationed at the U.S. Consulate General here in São Paulo. Sgt. Robert Hatch received this distinguished award for his service in Afghanistan. The entire Consulate staff gathered at 11:30 a.m. to observe this special ceremony – one that even most longtime diplomats, including Consul General Hankins, had never witnessed before. It was a moving event honoring Sgt. Hatch’s special commitment to our nation made even more poignant by the fact that his parents were able to witness the ceremony from their home in the U.S. and offer words of support and admiration over the loudspeaker. Some may wonder about the origins of the Purple Heart: In 1782 General George Washington saw the need to recognize certain Army soldiers for their heroism, bravery and inspiration. He signed executive orders that created a number of different medals, including one now known as the Purple Heart. However, it was General Douglas MacArthur who actually submitted the medal to Congress and received approval in 1932. Incidentally, the medal was announced on the 200th anniversary of Washington’s birth to Honor the Father of Our Country, the man who established our first military medals. The Army quickly embraced the Purple Heart, authorizing its presentation to soldiers whose wounds resulted from action with an enemy and required treatment by a medical officer. The award itself was made retroactive, allowing World War I veterans who were wounded in action to receive this distinction as well. Later, President Franklin D. Roosevelt expanded the award to include the Navy and Marines, allowing servicemen killed or wounded in action at Pearl Harbor to be awarded the At top, Sgt. Robert Hatch is awarded the Purple Heart Medal by U.S. Consul General Dennis Hankins on May 13, 2015, at the U.S. Consulate São Paulo. Above, AmSoc Board President Richard Wegman, right, thanks Sgt. Hatch for his service and his sacrifice. Purple Heart. President Truman extended that authorization retroactively to April 5, 1917, so that all World War I and II sailors and marines would be eligible to receive it. Today the Purple Heart is one of the most widely recognized and respected medals awarded within our Armed Services by the population in general. It cannot be earned by courage or by exceptional service or achievement. The Purple Heart signifies one thing: SACRIFICE. Whenever you see a Purple Heart, know that it represents either a combat death or a combat wound. It represents the blood that has been shed in the defense of liberty. Please join me in offering a silent thank you to Sgt. Robert Hatch, U.S. Marine, for his continued service in defense of our liberty. It was an honor for me to represent our American Society Veterans group. I was joined by Ted Resener who is likewise a recipient of the Purple Heart. President’s Page I humbly and respectfully accept the position of President of The American Society of São Paulo and all the responsibilities associated with this Office. These were my words at our Annual General Membership meeting held on April 29th. I know that some of you were present; for the rest, I want share with you some of what was said: I have been a member of the Board of Governors for seven years and I am TOTALLY EXCITED about our future and working with this new Board! Tuesday, May 5th, marked the start of our 65th year of service here in São Paulo. We are poised and ready to take the next step in alignment with our four pillars and our mission statement. The four pillars are: 1) American Traditions and Local Culture, 2) Charity, 3) Member Resources, and 4) Social and Business Networking. You can expect to see continued focus of our efforts in all these areas. We will be implementing a mentorship program for new Board members so that they will better understand their AmSoc leadership roles and feel more comfortable in a much shorter timeframe. We want to support each of them to be successful contributors to our future. We’ll be working more closely with the American Chamber of Commerce to explore the possibility of extending our support to companies who desire to implement social responsibility programs by working through our Community Action Committee. These were the words; now I invite each of you to become part of the action. I was fun, relaxed, beautiful and successful. Frank was presented a plaque on behalf of the American Society membership with the inscription as follows: The American Society of São Paulo expresses its sincere gratitude to President Frank Pierce for his outstanding and dedicated work accomplished from 2013 to 2015. Frank surmounted pressing challenges and established new goals, allowing AmSoc to better serve the American community and the AmSoc-supported charities of São Paulo. Incoming Board President Richard Wegman, right, presents outgoing Board President Frank Pierce, left, with a commemorative plaque at the Annual General Meeting on April 29, 2015. challenge each member to find a way to add to the best of what AmSoc is today, thereby contributing to our future. Come and enjoy our events, give us your ideas, let us know what you want more of or things you would prefer that we stop doing. I ask you to invite one family to join AmSoc, just one family each... you can do it! We are your Board; without you we are not necessary, so help us serve you better. Thank you in advance for actively making AmSoc the organization that you are proud to be a part of. I want to acknowledge and thank Frank Pierce, our retiring President whose tireless support of AmSoc and direct leadership moved the entire organization to a new level. Anyone who attended this year’s Gala felt the impact of our movement… the Gala About Forum Forum is published monthly, with the exception of January and July, by 2 The American Society of São Paulo Rua da Paz, 1431 | 04713-001 São Paulo, SP Tel: (11) 5182-2074 Fax: (11) 5182-9155 e-mail the editor: [email protected] FORUM His exceptional care and commitment will be fondly remembered by the American Society of Sao Paulo. April 2015 In closing, I want to thank everyone involved in our very successful Gala. This includes our corporate sponsors, people who made donations and contributions; people who bid on the prizes, our many volunteers…each and every one of you make this success possible. Of course, thank yous are in order for our Gala team that organized this fantastic event for us all to enjoy. You made our 65th Anniversary Gala the best we’ve ever had. Your care for each detail made the event truly special. Into the Future Together, Richard Wegman Ysa Rivera, editor and layout 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. Ads appearing in Forum do not constitute an endorsement of the respective product or service by the American Society of São Paulo. June The American Society of São Paulo BOARD MEMBERS President Richard Wegman [email protected] Vice-President Judy Zanchi [email protected] Treasurer Luis Boldizsar [email protected] Secretary Kaitlin Weatherly [email protected] Community Action Committee Eileen Tasso [email protected] Dan Cubbin [email protected] Sponsorship & Fundraising Luis Barros [email protected] Michael Raney [email protected] Ricky Rubeiz [email protected] Communications Ana Magalhaes [email protected] Welcoming & Membership Sean Hutchinson [email protected] Sports John Kennedy [email protected] Social Isabel Franco [email protected] Caitlin Nagel [email protected] Lucy Nunes [email protected] Marlene Rubeiz [email protected] Joe Sherman [email protected] 2015 Members Recommend This month, Jen Conway has a few fantastic recommendations she thinks you need to know about: Being in Brasil with three teenaged kids has had me scrambling on more than one occasion for that last minute something. “Mom, I need a white shirt for my choir concert tomorrow… Mom, I need a quinze ano birthday gift for the party this weekend… Mom, I need a trifold poster board for science…” are just some of the requests I have received (usually at around 11 p.m.) needed for the next day. When it comes to parties and events where my kids need to look one step up from than their usual shorts and t-shirt attire, we have a couple of favorites for clothes that are reasonable, well made and tasteful, yet still teenager approved. When my daughter needs a nice dress, we head to Costume, a boutique found in many of the malls that offers a wide array of clothes from casual to dressy. Their prices are reasonable and their clothes are “mother approved.”When my son needed a suit and dress shirt, we headed to Via Vennetto at Shopping Morumbi. They offered a wide variety of suits to choose from, and sizes for boys that aren’t small kids, yet not full grown men. Teenagers have a mind of their own and rarely do they agree with their siblings. So, whenever we ask where they want to go to dinner, we usually get three different answers. Recently however, we have found one that they all agreed on. After our beloved BOS BBQ shut its doors, we were once again scrambling to find a decent pulled pork sandwich. We found it at Butcher’s Market, Rua Bandeira Paulista 164. In addition to the pulled pork and mac and cheese sandwich, they offer an excellent burger and a taco salad. It’s not a light meal when you order the thick onion rings the size of your hand, or the seasoned fries, but make sure you save room for the toasted marshmallow milkshake. That alone is worth the trip. When we are feeling a little healthier we head to Frutaria São Paulo, Av. Helio Pelegrino 100. This wonderful juice bar and restaurant is close to Ibirapuera park and is often crowded with health and fitness buffs who have just finished strolling the park. My kids love the smoothies, as they were the closest to the ones we enjoy in the States, and the acai the best. The restaurant is complete with an outdoor section for people who have been walking the park with their dog. The outdoor patio has large tables with cushioned chairs where you can eat outside with your furry friend: each table is equipped with a water bowl for the dog. Not only will you be refreshed, but Fido will stay hydrated, too. Finally, one of our favorite things to do in Brasil is to expose our kids to the culture and customs of this wonderful country. Of course there are many beautiful beaches in this country, but one of our more recent trips (and definitely one of our favorites) was to Chapada Diamantina National Park. Located in the state of Bahia near the city of Lencois, 400 kilometers inland from Salvador, the area is typified by mountains, valleys, monoliths, waterfalls and caves. We stayed in a fabulous pousada called Hotel Canto das Aguas. With a huge river running behind the hotel, the “singing of the waters”hotel is located within walking distance to town. An English speaking guide took us to many blue hole caves which are truly breathtaking and some are swimmable. If you enjoy hiking, start with Morro do Pai Inacio. A short (slightly steep but easy) hike that will offer you a view of the entire valley. For the more adventurist, take the day long trek to Cachoeira da Fumacinha. Well worth the sore legs and 12 km getting there and back. The view from the top is spectacular. If you need something milder, but still spectacular try the Mosquito Falls trail. Go early when it is not crowded and you will have the whole place to yourself. It is a great waterfall that you can soak in, with not a mosquito in sight! This park is a must see while in Brasil. And this is one thing all three of my teenagers agreed on! Want to be featured next month? Send your recommendations to [email protected] FORUM 3 Consulate Corner: Plan Ahead for Summer Travel By Devin Kennington, Vice Consul, U.S. Consulate General, São Paulo S ummer is a busy time for travel and demand for passport and visa services is high. It is essential that all travelers plan ahead to ensure their travel documents are current. Appointments are required for passport services, and during the summer season the wait for an appointment is often longer than other times of the year. While the consulate can, in limited circumstances, produce emergency passports on an expedited basis, poor planning or a failed attempt to travel with an expired passport are seldom Wednesday, June 24th at 6 p.m. Location TBD Your first drink is on AmSoc! considered emergencies for this purpose. Therefore, it is important to check passport validity before purchasing a plane ticket. Federal law requires all U.S. citizens to enter and exit the United States on a valid U.S. passport, even if they are also citizens of another country. U.S. citizens may not enter the United States on an expired passport, naturalization certificate, birth certificate, or a passport issued by another country. There is no way to extend the validity of an expired passport, nor is there a letter the consulate can provide to allow travel by citizens who do not have U.S. passports. In order to avoid delays, please be sure that all required documents, fees and photos are prepared prior to your passport appointment. All requirements for passport applications should be reviewed at http://travel.state.gov before applying. Note that all applicants under the age of 16 must be physically present when the application is submitted. The appearance or consent of both parents must also be provided. Parents living abroad may sign a notarized consent form if they cannot be present at the time of application. The Department of State has proposed discontinuing the consular service of adding additional visa pages to U.S. passports beginning January 1, 2016. The U.S. Consulate General in São Paulo aims to lessen the burden that may be placed on frequent travelers who need more pages by now routinely issuing 52-page passports. Once a passport application has been approved, it takes approximately 10 business days for a passport application submitted in São Paulo to be processed. This processing time is much quicker than the expedited service available in the United States, and can rarely be further expedited. Please take advantage of our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) where you can register your presence in Brazil and receive emergency updates from the U.S. Consulate in São Paulo. To register for this free service, please log on to step.state.gov/step and click the create account tab. Tr a v e l e r s c a n a l s o c o n s i d e r in enrolling in the Department of Homeland Security’s Global Entry Program, which grants U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents expedited clearance through immigration and customs upon arrival in the United States. To find out more about the Global Entry program and how to apply, visit www.cbp.gov/global-entry/about. Register at amsoc.com.br Saturday, June 27th 4 FORUM June The American Society of São Paulo To Our New Members: Welcome! We are very grateful for the support of those who recently joined AmSoc – please encourage others to sign up, too! Name Spouse Madeleine Blankenstein Colleen Coimbra Paulo Coimbra James Eberts Rebecca Fernandes Alexandre Fernandes Paul Malicki Nationality Neighborhood E-mail Address Brazilian/Dutch Bom Retiro [email protected] American Itaim Bibi [email protected] American Vila Progredior [email protected] American Cerqueira Cesar [email protected] Polish Vila Ipoujuca [email protected] Glen Roscoe Michelle Roscoe American Pinheiros [email protected] Custodio Toledo Ana Paula Toledo Brazilian/American Campo Belo [email protected] Jackie Wyant João Marcelo Pereira Alves American Vila Indiana [email protected] GET TO KNOW ONE OF OUR NEWEST MEMBERS Favorite place to hang out? Parque do Povo Places you want to visit? The coast and other areas of South America Surprising fun facts about yourself? I teach fitness classes in English like barre and Zumba! VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: DANA DENISSEL Other overseas assignments you have been on? I have lived in Sydney, Australia and New York, NY What do you like to do in your free time? I love playing tennis or cycling with my husband, eating out, wine tasting and playing with my son. BRITTANY BENDALL Where were you born? Richland, WA Length of Time in Brazil? 3 months Family with you? Or at home? My husband, Pete, and our 5 month-old son, Cooper What do you find great about Brazil? I love the atmosphere, the weather, the active lifestyle and how everyone here just loves babies. 2015 What has surprised you the most about São Paulo and/or Brazil? How much there is to explore in the city. When I visited previously, I had no idea where to go and basically only saw rows and rows of apartment buildings. What part of town/neighborhood will you be living? Jardim Europa Contact info: [email protected] Biggest question you have today to ask a Brazilian: Where on earth can I get my pictures printed and framed? The Annual General Meeting was a great success! Thank you for organizing this outstanding event! To nominate next month’s Volunteer of the Month, e-mail [email protected]. FORUM 5 CONSULAR COMMENTARY EducationUSA Helps Students Return to U.S. for College By Chad Roedemeier, Vice Consul, U.S. Consulate General, São Paulo I t is hard enough to figure out how to apply for college and pay tuition. But it can be even more difficult for American high school students who live abroad and want to return to the United States for college. After all, campus visits aren’t so simple when you live in Brazil, more than 4,000 miles away from the nearest American university. But there is a resource close by that can help: EducationUSA, a network of college advising centers supported by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs. There are hundreds of advising centers around the world, including one in São Paulo. The EducationUSAAdvising Center at Associação Alumni, located in Morumbi near the Morumbi Bridge, offers sound advice and up-to-date information about what it takes to enroll in American schools and universities. It is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays. “We’re here to help anyone who wants to attend college in the United States,” said Cristina Tavares, supervisor for Alumni Advising-EducationUSA in São Paulo. “Whether it’s international students or American students living abroad, EducationUSA is here in Brazil as a resource for everyone.” In effect, EducationUSA brings American universities here to visit you in São Paulo. Angel Party EducationUSA Advising Center Associação Alumni Rua George Eastman 98 Morumbi, São Paulo Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays (11) 3759-3216 [email protected] Blog: https://eduusaalumni.wordpress.com/ Website: www.educationusa.state.gov/centers/ associacao-alumni-sao-paulo Every month, representatives from a number of universities visit the office in Morumbi and offer information sessions. It is a great way for students to learn about academic programs and connect with admissions officers. August and September are particularly busy months for visits, so students should keep an eye out for events and dates posted on EducationUSA’s Facebook page and blog. The advising center, in conjunction with Mission Brazil, also organizes an annual EducationUSA Fair, which last year brought representatives from 90 U.S. universities to São Paulo. The 2015 fair will be September 23 at the Hotel Intercontinental at Alameda Santos in Jardins. Information on how to register will be available at a later date through social media and the blog. The advising center also offers advice at any time for high school students looking at college, or for more advanced students looking at graduate school. Advisers can help with building a list of potential colleges, writing the allimportant college essays, and reviewing your applications. They can also do certified translations of your academic records, if those records are in Portuguese. The center offers plenty of free information and advice, but there are fees for the individual, personalized services. The hourly rate in São Paulo is R$160 for a private session, but there are discounts for students who want a package of multiple sessions. Advising sessions can be in person or via Skype; students and their parents are welcome. It is also good to remember that EducationUSA has 28 other advising centers spread out across Brazil, from Manaus in the Amazon, to Porto Alegre in the South, all offering a range of services. EducationUSA also has advising centers in more than 170 countries, so no matter where you move next — within Brazil or to another country — EducationUSA likely has an office close by. You can find locations at educationusa.state.gov. Planning for college may never be easy, but it is good to have help close at hand. Dental Care Dr. Karen Bygdal Andreasen CROSP 47616 Partner of American Society for 12 years English, Danish and Portuguese spoken!! General Practice – Adults and Children: Functional Jaw Orthopedics Specialist November 14, 2015 at Chapel School If you’re interested in sponsoring a child, contact Sue Banman Sileci at [email protected] 6 FORUM R. Vieira de Morais, 420 - cj. 32 - Campo Belo - São Paulo Tel (11)5531-4698 • Emergencies: (11) 9.9811-6172 [email protected] June COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE The American Society of São Paulo HELEN DREXEL Alice’sNight at the AGM By Jason Bermingham, AmSoc Member Many American Society members met 16-year-old Alice Kelly da Silva at this year’s Annual General Meeting, where she spoke briefly about Associação Helen Drexel — one of a handful of non-profit organizations AmSoc supports. To follow up, I would Alice Kelly da Silva, center, addresses the crowd in attendance at our Annual General meeting held April 29, 2015, at the U.S. Consul General. like to share the story of how Alice met that evening. “Eu quero agradecer entered our lives and tell Forum readers and three or four other children. Alice recently turned 16, which tudo que vocês fizeram para mim,” she how much that exceptional evening means she will be leaving the shelter wrote. “Só tenho que agradecer.” meant to her. If you were at the AGM, you saw Simone and I were introduced in two years. She will rely on an to Alice at the AmSoc Angel Party inadequate public-school education and first-hand what Helen Drexel does for has no immediate children who have been separated from at Chapel School family help her in their families by state mandates. The seven or eight the transition to association provides shelter, nutrition, years ago, when we Eu quero agradecer tudo adult responsibility. education, and discipline until the were just starting out as volunteers. que vocês fizeram para mim. The professionals at children return to their families — or Helen Drexel will until the children become adults, if a Alice impressed us help Alice find a return is not possible. And without the with her empathy Só tenho que agradecer. house and a job, but financial support of institutions like the and leadership. She her fate will depend American Society, Helen Drexel would always seemed more ~Alice Kelly da Silva mostly on her own not be able to operate. worried about the Like all the kids at the house where ability to adapt to life other kids in her she lives, Alice has an uncertain future. beyond the shelter. group than herself. When Simone and I accompanied But her chances of achieving financial And she was the person the other kids turned to when something got lost or Alice to the AGM, our goal was to help independence through a stable livelihood her gain confidence in formal situations. are improved with the support this when a question needed an answer. The following year we chose Alice She was nervous at first, but her voice association has given her. If you would as the recipient of our gift bag and from didn’t waver as she told her story at like to learn more about volunteering at that point on our bond grew stronger. the podium in front of a room full of Helen Drexel, please contact Angélica Simone and I started visiting Alice at the English-speaking strangers. Alice sent at [email protected]. For home where she lives in the Santo Amaro us a message a few days ago, asking questions about donations, contact the neighborhood with her brother and sister that we pass it along to everybody she AmSoc office at [email protected]. “ ” 50/50 Raffle Thanks to everyone who donated cash on the spot at the Gala to benefit the charities that AmSoc supports. The 50/50 raffle raised R$6,000 in just 2 hours! Congratulations to Paul Malicki, who won R$3,000. “I have never won anything before,” said Paul. As seen in the photo at right, he seemed thrilled with his prize! Casa Limiar and Vida Jovem will each receive R$1,500 in addition to the proceeds generated by the Gala. 2015 FORUM 7 Gala 2015 It was a night to remember! There was great food, good company, beautiful people, lively auctions, dancing, and fantastic prizes ...all to benefit Casa LimIar, Vida Jovem & AmSoc Activities Wellington Nogueira was our special guest and made for a spectacular auctioneer! 8 FORUM June The American Society of São Paulo Thank You, Gala Sponsors for your generous support! 2015 Aecio Sarti, artist • American Airlines • Resorts • Kaa Restaurant • Karen Bydal Andrea Pronotti • Aprenda2 • Arte da Andreasen DDS • Kerocolo • La Bottega Costura • Aspen Ski Company • Atlantica Restaurant • La Mar Cevicheria • Hotels • Azul Airlines • Bagatelle L’Amite Restaurant • Lara Matana, artist Restaurant • Barra do Sahy Beach • LeiaSgro • Lineth Veilleux • L-officiel Rental • Charlie Garcia • Belmond Hotel Romana Hair Salon • Luiz Gustavo das Cataratas • Beth Householder • Bia Massola, artist • Mark Abrams • Marriott Doria, artist • Bistro de Paris Restaurant Hotels & Resorts • Marriott Executive • Boakye Family • Bodytech • Cantaloup Apartments • Modas Fillity • Monica Restaurant • Carlos Yamassaki • Casa de de Godoi, artist • Nara Coló Rosetto • Shows Terra da Garoa Ltda. • Christie Nespresso • Ornato Presentes • Oster • Helm, artist • Claudia Kiatake, artist • Pearls of Wisdom • Arlene Bassett • Pop Courtyard by Marriott • David Dalmau Art Pipocas Gourmet • Port of Virginia Barrus, artist • Delta Airlines • EcoTravel • LATAM • Prime Burger Restaurant Agency • Elon Brasil, artist • Fairfield Inn • Prosa • Protea Hotel • Quinta de and Suites by Marriott • Fast Forward Baroneza Golf Club • Radisson Villa Language Institute • Fazenda Bela Vista Olympia • Raquel Taborelli, artist • Four Points by Sheraton, Curitiba • • Red Sushi Restaurant • Regina Fogo do Chão Restaurant • GOL Linhas Alcântara, decorator • Renaissance Aereas • Grand Hyatt • Gregory Fink, Hotels & Resorts • Renaissance Sao artist • Guarapiranga Golf Course Paulo Hotel Spa • Ritz Carlton Hotels • Havanna • Helena Mottin Moda • & Resorts • Santa Clara Eco Resort • Hertz Rental Car • Hotel Fazenda Dona São Paulo Futebol Club • Single Malt Carolina • Hotel Frontenac • Hotel Tasting Club of São Paulo • Solange Nau Royal • Hotel Shangrila • IN THE Catarina, arquitect • Spa Med Sorocaba KNOW • Iovanaldo Veloso de Melo, • Spazio Bella • Speranze Restaurant artist • Irene Lamadrid • Isabel Franco • Studio Gabriela Rossi • Sushi Koba • Italy Restaurant • Jennifer Conway • Restaurant • Swarovski • The 1661 Joselyn Andueza • Josinaldo Ferreira Inn & Hotel Manisses • Transamerica Barbosa, artist • Juma Amazona Lodge Comandatuba • Twin Flames • Vila • Justin Abrahms • JW Marriott Hotels & Chocolat • WellClinic • Yoga Flow FORUM 9 Annual General M at the U.S. Consul General’s ho Joe Sherman & Alan Blau Previous Poliak Award Winners David Warren David Ivy, Jr., Fuad Gattaz, Julie Gattaz & Ruth Hollard Victoria Schulsinger, Isabel Badra, & Alice Kelly da Silva The Rubeiz Family 10 FORUM Mira Hankins and Sharon Knode Frank Pierce and Richard Wegman June The American Society of São Paulo Meeting ome on April 29th Rya Freitas & Friend U.S. Consul General Dennis Hankins and his wife, Mira, generously opened their home to host this annual event wherein our general membership is present at a monthly meeting of the Board so as to formally elect new officers and acknowledge the dedication of outgoing officers. After some amusing remarks and a blessing from Pastor Richard Solbert, Former Board President Frank Pierce returned to São Paulo from his new home in Phoenix, Arizona, and in his comments stressed the importance of helping children here. He also noted that while corporate support has shifted in this economic environment, membership is growing and our youth sports programs are more active than ever. The first formal order of business was the approval of Board officers and new members, which were unanimously approved by many members in attendance. With that, current Board President Richard Wegman took the helm; his speech is recapped on page 2. As Jason Birmingham noted on page 7, a particularly special guest this year was Alice Kelly da Silva, a young lady who has benefitted greatly from personal relationships with AmSoc members and from the philanthropic aspects of our organization, as she is a resident at the Helen Drexel Home. Having her there was a great reminder of what an impact AmSoc’s charitable aspects have on the daily lives of so many in this community. To close the meeting, Board Member Marlene Rubeiz talked briefly about the Erik Poliak award and invited all former recipients of that honor before announcing the newest member of their ranks, Kelly Maurice. Since Kelly was out of the country, her husband John O’Brien, accepted on behalf, noting, “Kelly is like a bird that sings and she doesn’t know it makes everyone else happy.” On that note, everyone at the event surely had a lovely evening thanks in large part to AmSoc member Dana Denissel, who expertly organized the elegant and memorable affair. Hely Villaça Lucila Monteiro, a friend of AmSoc, and Beatriz Nascimento 2015 FORUM 11 ATHLETICS BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT COUGARS ARE BACK ON TOP By John Kennedy, Sports Chairman On May 9th at the Graded School in Morumbi, AmSoc hosted its annual Adult Basketball Tournament. Eight teams entered this year, the most ever and 4 were first-time entrants. The games were comprised of two 12-minute halves of demanding 5 on 5 full court basketball, with Brazilian league referees calling the fouls and managing the clock. It started at 10 a.m. with each team playing three games decided by a random draw. Then the four best records after 3 games went on to play in the semi-finals and then the final. This year´s first seed entering the playoffs was determined by just 1 point, and it was new entrant Underdogs beating out former champion Cougars for the top spot. The other two seeds in the playoffs were past year´s finalists, White Cats and PACA, who beat out another new entrant DCL by just a few points for the fourth seed. And the semifinals proved to be every bit exciting and hard fought that they were supposed to, with the White Cats seeking revenge against the Cougars for their OT loss in the 2011 finals. And a running, gunning and tournament highscoring PACA team seeking revenge for a first round loss to the Underdogs. In the tournament´s highest scoring game, PACA just ran out of gas since their team had whittled down to 6 players due to injuries. In the end, it was the Cougars’ solid defense and rebounding that earned the championship, their second in 5 years. 2015 Basketbal Tournament winning Cougars team takes the championship for a second time in 5 years on May 9, 2015. 2015 Basketbal Tournament winning Cougars tip off in the final round against the Underdogs on May 9, 2015. 12 FORUM June The American Society of São Paulo EVENTS 4th of July Picnic Celebrates AmSoc’s 65th Anniversary By Lucy Nunes, Independence Day Party Chair On Saturday June 27th, we will host our Annual Independence Day Picnic at the U.S. Consulate. We want to especially thank Consul General Dennis Hankins for co-hosting this event in the recreational area which is perfect for our kids’ games and picnic lunch. The gates will open at 2 p.m. so we can all enjoy the fireworks after dark (around 6:30 p.m.). We’ll use the entrance on Henri Dunant side again this year. Our opening ceremonies will include the Marine Color Guard, and President Obama’s welcome message to us all. We will be presenting checks to Vida Jovem to build a cover over their outside classroom and Casa Limiar to remodel their kitchen. These proceeds were generated at our Annual Gala. A typical picnic lunch will be served complete with hot dogs, hamburgers, fixings, and YOUR homemade salads and desserts. The U.S. Marines will be serving beer and maybe carparinhas to help cover the cost of their annual Marine Ball held every November in São Paulo. We’ll be entertained with some great music and Curumim party organizers will host the children’s activities with monitors and face painters. Here’s what you have to do participate in this important and entertaining event: • Call the American Society Office at 5182-2074 – First-come firstserve basis (no reservations after June 22nd due to guest security clearance activities) • Make your reservation – Please furnish names of all attendees including babas, document ID numbers, and ages of all children. • Sign-up for salad or dessert – Making the event as homey as possible, we ask each family to bring along a HOMEMADE dish of your favorite recipe. Our office will tell you what type of dish we need at the time of your reservation. • This is a members only function (except Consulate staff) – JOIN NOW on-line by clicking the link on our site at www.amsoc.com.br Sampagram Recognize this spot in São Paulo? e-mail the location to [email protected] If answered correctly we’ll announce a prize winner in next month’s Forum! May Sampagram: Jardim Botanico Congratulations to Mark Mueller, who was the first to name last month’s location! He will receive a delicious gift basket of pães de mel from Honey Bee. Honorable mention goes to Jim Wattengel who also guessed correctly! 2015 • We could use some volunteers to help things go smoothly, just let the office know if you can help with decorations and set up in the morning or putting out the salads and desserts during the picnic or with taking down the tables and chairs after the Fireworks. Since we’ll be inside the Consulate gates, we’ll need to conform to the strict security regulations, so if you don’t have a reservation you will not be allowed past security. You will be allowed to enter with cell phones and cameras, but nothing that would normally be considered a security issue or risk. Here’s what you have to do to enter the Consulate compound: • You must present a valid photo ID for each person attending the event. It can be a passport, RG, RNE, etc. • No cars will be allowed inside the compound, but on Saturdays it is easier to park and we will be making arrangements with a parking lot for those interested (we will post the address on the website before the event). Come prepared for good food, good friends, good weather and a fantastic event! Farewell, Victoria! By Richard Wegman, Board President Victoria Schulsinger, AmSoc’s wonderful Office Manager, is leaving to follow her dreams within the legal field. We want to extend to Victoria our gratitude for bringing new energy into our organization and the office, training our new staff and her commitment to excellence. We will miss your “can do” attitude and forthright behavior. Thank you, Victoria, for all you have given. We look forward to seeing you at many of our upcoming events. On behalf of the Board, good luck in all that you do! FORUM 13 CLASSIFIEDS I will come to your home, office or workout facility and create an exercise and fitness program tailored to your health concerns, fitness goals, and schedule. For adults and children, individuals or groups. Sessions conducted in English, Spanish or Portuguese. For more information please contact Daniela Franco at (11) 99739-6191 or [email protected] Dawn Morelli, LCSW Licensed American Therapist and Counselor My expertise includes mood, anxiety, cultural issues, relationship and family concerns, self-esteem, trauma and personal growth. I have strong skills in assessment/evaluation which allow to identify the best and most effective treatment. I work with individuals, families and children. Contact me at 98963-2871 or [email protected] Fernando Knijnik has been offering tutoring services for over 25 years. Physics, math and chemistry are taught for all levels, including IB, SAT, ACT, AP, GMAT and Brazilian vestibular, to name a few. Mr. Knijnik has worked for several years in the international schools of SP. For more info, please call (11) 991346700 or e-mail [email protected] Place a Classified Personal Trainer Math and Science Tutor A monthly classified ad of up to 350 characters costs R$80 for AmSoc members and R$90 for nonmembers. A discount is available for placing ads for more than one month. To place a classified, call our office at (11) 5182-2074 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., or send an e-mail to [email protected] A Note to Our Readers S ervices Neither Forum or AmSoc confirm or verify the information offered as a convenience to our readers by advertisers or fellow members appearing in this newsletter. We gladlypromotetheseoffers;however, we urge you thoroughly check prices and services prior to finalizing any purchase agreements. Intercultural Life Coach Are you wanting to do something meaningful in your new life in São Paulo, but don’t know where to start from? Would you like to do something different but don’t know what that is yet? Or do you know exactly what to do, but just can’t find the motivation? Beta Raffaelli is an Intercultural, Leadership and Life Coaches specialized in working with expats and spouses. Please contact her at roberta@ transitioncoaching.com.br. Face-to-face and virtual sessions. Housing Family Dentistry Vila Nova Conceição – São Paulo´s Best Place to Live Dental care you can trust for your whole family. We want to make sure you are comfortable and confident in our care. We work only with the highest quality products and equipment, bringing specialists to you so that you don’t have to face traffic and providing you with clear information to make the dental decisions that are right for you. Native English. (11) 3044-3111; www.familydentistry.com.br. Near Ibirapuera Park. Modern building, with all sports facilities, pool, gym, play room, barbecue and sports court. 130 m2, 3 br (1 suite), living room with terrace, complete kitchen, big service area, two parking spaces. Fully furnished with all appliances. Contact AnaBeatriz(11)996266229or(11)38497085– [email protected] TREATMENT FOR LEARNING DIFFERENCES WITH IN-HOME SUPPORT Specializing in sensory cognitive treatment for Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorders, AD/HD, Learning and Communication Disorders, and Behavior Modification. Comprehensive Learning Evaluation In-depth pre- and post testing for: • • • • • Expressive Language Mathematics Phonology Reading Written Expression Team Consultations include: • Identification of strengths and areas for improvement • Recommendations for follow-up treatment and/or support • Homeschooling available Dr. Wendy M. Smith Licensed Learning Specialist 55 (11) 3885.7256 [office] 55 (11) 9.9236.5267 [mobile] The International Dyslexia Association {Provider Directory/Description of Professional Services} www.interdys.org Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder {Resource Directory/Description of Services and Licenses} www.chadd.org 14 FORUM June The American Society of São Paulo CALENDAR June 2015 Learn more about this month’s AmSoc events at www.AmSoc.com.br. Important Dates: JUNE 4TH is CORPUS CHRISTI DAY & JUNE 12TH is LOVER’S DAY in brazil 3 Wednesday Deadline to register for the Foreign Service Officer Test Have you ever wanted to become a diplomat for the U.S. government? Come take the first step towards a great opportunity. During the month of June, the Foreign Service Officer Test will be offered in São Paulo, Brasilia, and Rio de Janeiro. There is no fee to take the test. For information on test dates and exact locations, visit the test administrator Pearson VUE website at www.pearsonvue.com/fsot 24 Wednesday Happy Hour Starting at 6 p.m. Location to be determined: Stay tuned on our Facebook page Your first drink is on AmSoc! 27 Saturday Annual 4th of July Celebration 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. U.S. Consulate: Rua Henri Dunant, 500 - Chácara Santo Antônio For more information, visit the AmSoc website at www.amsoc.com.br Seeking Volunteers The best way to meet new people and have fun is to get involved! As it happens, we need volunteers in many of our committees! E-mail [email protected] if you can help in any of these roles: 1. Forum Editor: Edit the content, design the pages, and manage advertising for the Forum on a monthly basis. Familiarity with Adobe InDesign (or an ability to learn how to use it) is a plus. 2. Forum Liaison: work with the Editor on each issue to be sure she has the required articles, graphic elements, photos, articles, new member Q&As, board member bios, and travel photos on time and to help her find guest writers and generate story ideas. 3. 4th of July Party on June 27th: Event chairwoman Lucy Nunes needs someone to coordinate decorations. 4. Membership Committee: New Board member Sean Hutchinson is going to get membership rolling! This includes reviewing renewal materials, our welcoming process, attendance at events, ans seeing how we can generate an increase in membership. 5. VIP Cocktail Party coming up in September: Is someone willing to plan and organize this event for about 150 people? 6. Kids’ Halloween Party: Kaitlin Weatherly will chair the event, but 2015 she needs an assistant. 7. Little League Youth Sports: Paul Groom runs the program, but he needs a“Team Mom”(or Dad!) to help him with the paperwork. Our big sign up day is in August at Graded School. 8. Community Action Committee Chairperson: Are you looking for a valuable project? Volunteer with CAC. We have 9 awesome charities we work with throughout the year. We also host the Angel Party and Children’s Field Day. Chairperson duties include coordinating the regular group meeting, documenting donations made to the charities, coordinating the Helps Hands Funds dispersement to the charities, coordinating and documenting other cash and in kind donations, assisting with choosing the Gala beneficiaries, and communicating current happenings to the Amsoc Board. 9. CAC Liaison: We also need a liaison for one of our Charities. This includes maintaining a relationship with head of the charities, assessing the needs of the charity, bringing the needs to the CAC meeting, and coordinating the charity involvement in the Angel Party and Children’s Field Day. Please contact Eileen Tasso at [email protected] if you want more information about CAC. Held Wednesday, May 20th James Eberts & Mark Mueller Sante Bar owner, Chris, & Tom Hanson Ruth Hollard, Judy Zanchi, & Irmgard Ambrelen FORUM 15 Blog of the Month: Biscoito Globo Originated in São Paulo?!? Every month, Forum’s last page will introduce you to a blog from the English speaking community. This month, we feature a post from Discovering São Paulo, written by European mathematician turned marketeer Pierre Larose and German business owner Albert Knuth. Visit their frequently updated, always interesting page at www.discoveringsaopaulo.com/ D on’t tell the Cariocas but the much loved, iconic and super famous Biscoito Globo is actually originally from São Paulo. It’s a little known fact but the story goes like this. Back in 1953 three brothers from a São Paulo family left their parental home after a bitter separation and went to live with their cousin in the Ipiranga neighborhood. Milton, Jaime and João Ponce’s cousin owned a local bakery so amongst other recipes they learned to make biscoitos de polvilho (manioc starch flour biscuits). A year later in 1954 Rio de Janeiro hosted a large religious gathering and, sensing an opportunity, the Ponce brothers decided to travel to Rio to sell biscoitos in the capital of the neighboring state. They were a huge success. So much so, that the Ponces decided to move to Rio where they were “discovered” by the Globo bakery in Botafogo. And the rest, as they say, is history. There are now two variants, the traditional savory one and the sweet one distinguished by the color of the packaging (green for savory and red for sweet) so as to help non-literate street sellers tell the difference. And to this day 150,000 Biscoito Globos are churned out on a daily basis and every single one of them still comes from a single factory in Rio. Let it be known, however, that the first biscoito, however, came from São Paulo.