BrazilExplore Magazine - Ed114

6

Edit o r ´s L e tt e r

Starting with this issue, we have officially entered the North American mainstream. For the first time in over a decade, Brazil Explore will be seen on 700 Barnes and Noble bookstore magazine stands. The internet has irreversibly changed the playing field and print has different responsibilities. The latest news and general consensus belong to the electronic medium of smart phones, wireless notepads and laptop computers. If you’re not connected you can almost feel yourself falling behind everyone who is.

Step back from this manic treadmill and take a deep breath…

Belo Monte

How do you live your real life? How do others live theirs? What is happening on terra firma? Believe it or not, more than ever, quality magazines such as ours are about permanence and excellence. You can bet that if someone is spending money to print something, they mean it.

On the internet, any bozo with a keyboard can start a blog and hope that the world will notice. Internet space is practically free. Paper is not. I consider this an advantage. Know that what you hold in your hands matters very

Now fork over your $4.99, or better yet subscribe, and welcome the new Brazil Explore to the Free World!

Djavan

Tr a ve l ................................................................... 22 Sao Paulo

C i ti z e n s .............................................................. 29 U.S. Citizenship Exam

S tyl e & I ma g e ................................................. 32 Fernanda Samaia

I n D e p th ............................................................. 38 Milena Robertson

C i n e ma ................................................................ 42 Manny’s Obituary UPP

S p o r t .................................................................... 55 John Machado

Wh a t’s U p B r a z i l ? ........................................ 58 Carnaval in Rio, Pictures by J.C. Volotão/www.volotao.com

Edward Pollard

O n T h e Ta b l e ................................................... 60

Editor

4 | Brazil Explore Magazine

T h e A r ts .............................................................. 16

Wo r l d & M a r k e t ............................................. 48

much to the publisher, the editor and the staff.

10826 Venice Blvd # 105 - Culver City, CA - 90232 - USA Los Angeles: Phone: (310) 837 4299 | Fax: (310) 837-4294 www.brazilexplore.com | info@brazilexplore.com Las Vegas (702) 878-7007 | San Francisco (415)577-4436 | New York (718) 932-7169

E n vi r o n me n t .................................................... 6

Caipirinha

CEO Marcelo Gòmez CFO Adriana S. Saraiva Gòmez Marketing Milena Mello Nani Noronha

English Editor Edward Pollard Portuguese Editor Andréa Eirado Art Director Eduilson Wessler Coan Photography Adrianno Santos

English Translator Timothy Drowne Contributors Giselle Pekelman Clara Benjamin Bel Martins-Vaccaro Gleidson Martins Manoela Maia Granja

Tatiana Megann Moreno Aneph Reis

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 5

SATELLITE USA ATENDIMENTO EM PORTUGUÊS

800-699-8090

Crisitna Mittermaier

En v i r onm e nt

8 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Belo Monte The World’s Biggest Target for Cancellation

We speak with an executive for Norte Energia S.A. to get some facts straight and connect with a photojournalist committed to revealing the human cost of this huge industrial project.

by Edward Pollard

When you think about Earth’s envi-

advice on what to do with their land.

ronment and a region that represents what is most delicate and needing of

ect has been in the works, because it seems that protests have been actively

A Job to Complete

stalling Belo Monte for decades.

preservation, you are almost certain

I spoke with João Pimentel, director

“The project began during the mili-

to think about the Amazon. It’s Brazil’s

of institutional relations at Norte Energia

tary regime in Brazil and the idea was to

lush, green, wild ticket to worldwide at-

S.A., the consortium of state and pri-

build six dams along the river,” he said.

tention. So it’s no surprise that when

vate companies in the electricity sector,

“This raised a lot of concern, so it was

developing Brazil wants to ramp up its

construction companies, pension funds

abandoned and new studies were con-

infrastructure, increase energy capacity

and investment companies organized to

ducted. The most recent study is much

and make use of its bountiful resources

build and operate the hydroelectric facil-

different from the original project. An-

from within that primeval paradise there

ity. He answered a number of questions

other design in the 1990s proposed a

is bound to be an uproar.

that arose during my research into this

dam of some 1,200 square kilometers,

modern Brazilian dilemma.

but this was also changed to the cur-

Enter the Belo Monte hydroelectric dam. If you haven’t yet heard of it, that’s because you just aren’t pay-

First off, I wanted to know why the Xingu River.

rent size of only 503 square kilometers.

It’s what we call a run-off river hydro-

ing attention. It could also be because

“The location was chosen 35 years

electric power plant, “run-off” because

Brazil has not been asking the world for

ago because of the Xingu’s characteris-

there are no big reservoirs. Half of the

its collective opinion about what to do

tics,” he said. “Unlike many Amazonian

underwater area, about 227 km2, will be

within its own borders. There is perhaps

rivers that run smoothly with almost

the riverbed itself. The remaining canal

no other region on the planet as hotly

no vertical drop, the Xingu drops from

and secondary reservoir represent the

discussed or theoretically protected by

1,200 meters to almost sea level when

rest of the flooded area. The great ma-

those who may never set foot in it as

it joins the Amazon. It is a river that has

jority of flooded area that is not riverbed

the Amazon. Yet that is likely why you

potential to generate electricity.”

is cleared plantation and cattle-raising

won’t hear any Brazilians asking for

Then I asked how long the proj-

land. People think that the whole Am-

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 9

azon is an untouchable forest, but that’s

“There is great international concern

it sound like resistance is a way for other

not true. Many colonizers were brought

raised when you build anything in the Am-

countries to get a foothold inside Brazil’s

to the Amazon in the mid-1970s and they

azon, especially a hydroelectric plant,” he

economy, and he agrees. If Belo Monte is

developed plantations. One good example

said. “This creates pressures. Right now

built according to the revised plans cur-

is Altamira, the region’s main city. It’s the

Brazil is the sixth-largest economy in the

rently being considered, it will become

second largest cocoa producer in Brazil,

world. Among the 10 largest economies

the world’s third largest hydroelectric

just a little below the output of Bahia state.

in the world, we have the cleanest energy

dam, producing a peak of 11,233 mega-

It’s not the green inferno that people imag-

mix by far. In comparison, China is based

watts. Brazil has six such dams among

ine in their dreams.”

on coal and the United States on fossil

the world’s 53 producing more than 2,000

Pimentel displayed some measured

fuels in general. This is a totally Brazilian

MW, built between 1973 and 2003. But

frustration at the seeming uphill battle that

project. We need no money or financing

calling it the third largest is overlooking the

Norte Energia has in terms of educating a

from international sources. This is inter-

fact that it will not produce this much en-

public biased against the dam.

nally financed by our development bank,

ergy all year long. One of the main conten-

“People are uninformed about the Am-

the NDS. We need no foreign equipment.

tions of opponents is that Belo Monte will

azon,” he lamented. “Ignorance of geogra-

Everything is made here. The technology

only produce at peak for several months of

phy and history is common in the North-

for building dams is particularly dominated

the year, its guaranteed capacity genera-

ern Hemisphere. One of my concerns is

by Brazilians. If we don’t do Belo Monte,

tion measuring 4,571 MW, which is 39%

that people in the United States think that

we’ll have to build a nuclear power plant

of maximum potential.

the whole country of Brazil is the Amazon

with maybe 70% imported equipment and

“It’s a dilemma, you know?” he said.

jungle, that we have snakes and alligators

maybe some of that in technology. Or we

“We either have a huge dam, and of

running in the streets and that our capital

would have to build conventional ther-

course a regular production of energy, or

city is Buenos Aires. I’m familiar with the

moelectric plants like gas-fired thermo-

we cope with the environmental rules of

perception of Brazil in the north.”

electric with the main equipment made by

Brazil, which are very strict. We had to

He is convinced that the opposition

General Electric (U.S.), Mitsubishi (Japan)

have this run-off river system. The flow of

uses this ignorance to its advantage when

or Siemens (Germany). The international

water in the Xingu at this time of year (Feb/

fighting the project’s progress. I asked

community is not selling one cent to Brazil

Mar) reaches up to 27,000 cubic meters

what he thinks is the biggest or most con-

in this project.”

per second and drops drastically in the dry

sistent source of delay in this project.

10 | Brazil Explore Magazine

I tell him that this perspective makes

season to 750 m3/sec. Right now, (Febru-

“

ary 24) we have some 21,000 m3/sec. I

a giant domino that will set off a chain of

just checked. This fluctuation is common

similar projects that will irreversibly dam-

all year round. We are going to profit from

age the rainforest’s water supply. How is

this as much as we can.”

the environmental impact of any such proj-

distributed. Is there a particular set of pri-

Belo Monte with a population of 360,000

orities?

people, and these people have no jobs,”

“This is another fallacy about Belo

Pimentel said. “Belo Monte is a kind of

Monte,” he said. “People think that Belo

redemption for them, partly because we

Monte will be supplying Brazil’s min-

are hiring people. Sixty-five percent of our

ing companies. That’s a total mistake. A

5,000 workers in Belo Monte are from the

hundred percent of the energy created

Xingu region. What we’re doing there in

through Belo Monte will be integrated into

terms of preserving natural resources and

the Brazilian grid; it’s not an isolated sys-

the river itself has never been done before.

tem. Out of this, 70% is already sold to

The city of Altamira, the largest city in the

energy utilities all over Brazil, all the ones

region, with a population of 110,000 has

that need energy on the grid. You have to

no sewage network or treatment, so it

understand our interconnected system a

all goes directly into the river. One of the

little bit, but this is how it works. Ten per-

commitments that we have as part of our

cent is going to be directed to what we

conditions is to install a treatment system

call ‘self-suppliers’ that are also partners

and a sewage network in Altamira in order

in the project. Nine percent will go to Vale,

to protect the river. People don’t talk about

a mining company, and one percent to a

this. There is no big change. We have set-

steel company called Simabras, which is

tled with the Brazilian agencies how much

much smaller than Vale. The remaining

water will flow into the so-called Big Bend.

20% will be sold to Eletrobras, one of our

It will be exactly the same water during the

main partners.

dry season. People say that the Big Bend

Currently, Brazil is not exporting alu-

will dry up, but it won’t. In the rainy season

minum; it’s importing the metal from

we will probably have half the water, but

China and other places. So it’s quite the

still a lot of water and the navigation and

opposite.”

fishing in the river will also be preserved.

Belo Monte has been compared to

Vagney Santos

“There are 11 cities in the region around Regina Santos

ect measured and accommodated?

concerns about how this energy will be

Vagney Santos

Speaking of profits, there are serious

Regina Santos

This isn’t just happening in Brazil but all over the world where governments decide they’re going to build a pipeline for oil or a giant hydroelectric dam, condominiums or a golf course.”

I asked Pimentel if Norte Energia is in-

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 11

volved in researching or developing new

tribal leader, Raoni Metyktire, to discour-

cern about the fragility of the relationship

forms of energy, but he explained that it

age international lenders from supporting

between humans and nature was forged

is a special purpose company which only

the project. More recently, director James

in her native Mexico where she grew up.

exists to build, maintain and operate Belo

Cameron entered the opposition camp.

“Nature was expected to provide food

Monte. It has been granted a 30-year con-

He likens the plight of local inhabitants

for the millions and millions of Mexicans,”

cession, after which period they will have

and the targeted environment to the na-

she said. “Nature is so limited, and yet

to bid for an extension. This helps explain

tives in Avatar who struggled to protect

it’s the foundation of all life on earth. I just

why the consortium is seemingly uninter-

their planet from humans intent on ex-

think to this day people don’t get it. It’s

ested in alternatives: it is not part of their

tracting resources without regard for the

something that has been a failure of com-

function and is simply not an option.

damage they would inflict on the delicate

munication to help people understand

balance of life.

that we can’t lean on nature so blindly.

A Commitment to Educate

It is exactly this relationship between

As I pursued my career in science, I real-

World and local opposition to the

human beings and the environment that

ized that it’s very brainy and a little elite

massive plan that is most recently esti-

sustains them which fascinates and moti-

and people in general don’t really connect

mated to cost upwards of $20 billion have

vates photojournalist Cristina Mittermeier.

with it. So I discovered photography as a

intersected in protests spearheaded by

A marine biologist by trade, she has been

better way of communicating to a larger

celebrities and tribal leaders. British rock

working in conservation for 25 years and

audience.”

star Sting voiced his opposition as far

is the president of the International League

I asked her if the public’s lack of in-

back as 1989 and toured with a Kayapo

of Conservation Photographers. Her con-

terest in science means they prefer their

12 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Crisitna Mittermaier

“

People think that the whole Amazon is an untouchable forest, but that’s not true.”

answers from another source and her reply

many other countries,” she said. When I

was quick and uncompromising.

became an adult and started traveling, it

“It’s general ignorance. It’s just the

was in Brazil that I first saw a real remote

fact that not caring and not knowing is a

indigenous community. It struck me that

lot easier than trying to understand. It’s

when biodiversity is lost and ecosystems

understandable for the large masses of

are degraded, these are the people who

people who don’t have access to an ed-

suffer the most and they’re the ones who

ucation. But those are often the people

suffer first. They depend completely on a

who rely on nature more closely and are

healthy ecosystem.”

the better stewards. The people that we

This is much the same as it is with cer-

need to reach are the middle class. They

tain animals, the so-called indicator spe-

have the power to consume and are eas-

cies. When they are no longer sustained by

ily influenced to become bigger consum-

their environment, these are the first to go

ers. They’re the ones who choose to turn

missing, the first whose populations crash.

a blind eye. When I was growing up, we

Are her pictures of indigenous human cul-

didn’t learn about the vulnerability of our

tures a warning system for the damage

planet, but even then we learned about the

that we do as a technological society?

rain cycle and understood that this is all

“Well, in my travels all over the world

the water there is. There is no more water

I’ve realized that there are some indig-

arriving to the planet. We have to take care

enous communities, for example the

of it. It’s a very basic concept, yet people

Kayapos, that are very highly politicized,”

don’t seem to understand. Luckily, our

she said. “They have a very strong politi-

kids are learning more about ecology to-

cal system, a very strong leadership, and

day and why these things matter.”

they’re the ones who are better capable

Mittermeier’s interest in indigenous

of standing up to protect their lands and

cultures was easy enough to fold into her

their livelihood. Indigenous people don’t

professional perspective. She had simply

have that kind of political structure in other

paid attention to her surroundings.

countries and they’re very vulnerable. So

“Growing up in Mexico where we have

they just crumble whenever an outside

a large indigenous population, I’ve always

threat comes into their land. It was fas-

been close to it and I’ve always seen and

cinating to watch the Kayapo empower

experienced it, probably more than in

themselves politically. They demonstrated

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 13

Photos: Crisitna Mittermaier

this when dealing with the loggers and the

morial and that they’re better stewards of

forestation and the miners and now the hy-

the land.”

droelectric dam. It’s just a natural part of

“Yes, and there are many other examples,” Mittermeier said. “I think the issue in Brazil is that most Brazilians in cities are not

Stopping Goliath

even aware of this issue, or maybe they’ve

Clearly, Belo Monte is by no means

With all the effort that has been ex-

grown tired of listening to the debate. That’s

the first serious challenge to the survival

pended to halt this massive project, is

why they’re not interested and not partici-

of the Kayapo. They have been fending off

there anything that will succeed in finally

pating. I was just on a trip to Antarctica with

various encroachments for many years.

stopping the construction of this dam?

Vice President Al Gore. He brought 100

their culture.”

“The Kayapo were not originally from

“Belo Monte?” she laughs. “I don’t think

guests, among them philanthropists and

the Xingu,” Mittermeier explained. “They

so. It’s a very sad thing. We’ve been seeing

wealthy, influential individuals from all over

were relocated there in the 1940s. Their

it built for the past 20 years. It seems now

the world to talk about climate change.

original ancestral land was being en-

that this government has made a deter-

There was a Brazilian businessman on the

croached by rubber tappers. There was

mination that it’s going forward. It’s more

guest list and he thought that Belo Monte

deep invasion of the Amazon by ma-

important for people to realize that behind

was perfectly justified, that Brazil needs to

hogany loggers. It’s been going on for a

Belo Monte are at least 30 more dams that

develop at any cost, and if the cost is to de-

long time. What fascinates me is what I

have been planned for other rivers in the

stroy the Amazon, then so be it. I think what

call the Avatar syndrome, when outside

Amazon. I think the Tapajos is next. Once

happens is true of all environmental sites. A

industrial forces come into places where

you open that line of development it’s very

handful of people stand to benefit from this

indigenous people live and dictate what

difficult to stop.”

type of development – the investors on Wall

development is going to look like as if the

There have been individuals who have

Street in New York and Rio de Janeiro and

rights of these people don’t even matter.

managed to stop the course of major in-

São Paulo – while millions of people stand

This isn’t just happening in Brazil but all

dustrial progress. In In New York City, ac-

to pay for the environmental degradation.

over the world where governments decide

tivist Jane Jacobs stopped the powerful

For these few people it’s all about money or

they’re going to build a pipeline for oil or

public authority chairman Robert Moses

the one or two points that their investment

a giant hydroelectric dam, condominiums

from building the Lower Manhattan Ex-

portfolio will increase. They’re not there to

or a golf course. And we forget that these

pressway. Her example must be inspiring

deal with the dirty water and the social is-

people have been there since time imme-

when the odds seem impossible.

sues and the relocations.”

14 | Brazil Explore Magazine

When they say that the dam is going to

tographer with researchers who were do-

to be with the dam. I found that so unbe-

produce all this electricity and all this en-

ing work on mahogany and indigenous

lievable. It’s no different than the American

ergy for progress, they’re not taking into

plants, that’s how I first got to know the

Indians that were bought off with beads

account the externalities, the cost to soci-

community. In some of the villages I’ve

and trinkets. You give the Indians a couple

ety of the pain. I don’t know if you’ve ever

been back so many times that they know

of sacks of rice and beans and they’re

visited the Xingu where these Indians live,

me and it’s very easy for me to integrate

happy. So Belo Monte and Electronorte

but they’re so self-sufficient. If they never

into daily village life. The first couple of

have been buying off the Indians like that.

saw another white person again, if another

days everybody’s excited that somebody

I think the international society needs to

airplane never came to the Xingu again,

has come back and then they just forget

know about that.”

they would be OK. They would find a way

that I’m there. They’re incredibly generous

Is the tribe going to take the march of

to survive because they have everything

and welcoming. They’ll feed you, they’ll

progress in stride and move somewhere

they need. When they’re forced to relocate

put you up, they’ll guide you. They’re just

else to survive?

into cities and towns, they become the

wonderful. They have a great sense of

“It’s very evenly divided,” she said.

bottom of society. They become beggars,

humor, so they’re really fun to hang out

“There are those Kayapo that are more

they become destitute. We know that’s a

with. These last few times, the last time I

closely associated with the city and they

huge cost to all of society, not just the Indi-

was there it was very sad. I was in one of

will do better. The ones that are more re-

ans but the people who are going to have

the most remote villages. The chief there

mote and the ones that don’t want the

to deal with them in cities like Altamira.”

always has a very hard time trying to bring

dam, they’re going to suffer more. You see

Having established herself as a sym-

in some money. They always want to buy

the Kayapo divided amongst themselves.

pathetic regular visitor among the Kayapo,

machetes and coffee, things like that.

So of course Electronorte takes advantage

Mittermeier is ideally suited to speak about

They rely on a variety of ways to do it. So

of those internal divisions. This frustrates

the changes she sees coming for this

he always wants to get a little money. He

me to no end, but they say that 2012 is

shrinking tribe.

was saying to me that his village is for Belo

the year of enlightenment. Maybe this is

“I started going when I was only 24

Monte because one of his warriors went

the year we discover that as the world’s

in 1991,” she said. “In the beginning I re-

to Altamira and Electronorte gave him

markets crumble we need to look at a new

turned every few years. Now I go back

some beans and rice and that’s more than

way of thinking about society and our rela-

almost every year. I first went as a pho-

I was bringing. So of course they’re going

tionship to nature.”

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 15

T he A RT s

A Simple Decision, A Shared Reward By putting aside his beloved pastime, Djavan entered a greener field than he ever could have predicted.

Marcos Hermes

by Hugo Sukman (Translation: Regina Vidal)

16 16 | Brazil | Brazil Explore Explore Magazine Magazine

“

This is what Djavan is all about:

exploration of the sound of words, unique

images, rhythm and tempo variety, unusual melodies and harmonic richness.”

Djavan could have been a soccer play-

TV Globo. From that point he started sing-

new partnerships with Aldir Blanc, Ca-

er. When he was around 11, his time and

ing soap-opera soundtracks for which he

caso and Chico Buarque, by then defini-

his passion were split between kicking the

recorded the songs of successful song-

tively top-class colleagues in the Brazilian

ball on the hard dirt fields of Maceió’s flood

writers such as Dori Caymmi, Toquinho

Popular Music scene (MPB). At this point,

plains and enjoying the quadraphonic

and Vinicius de Moraes, Paulo Sergio and

universally acclaimed by critics and public

sound system of Dr. Ismar Gatto, a school-

Marcos Valle.

alike, Djavan heard other voices interpret-

mate’s father.

Within three years, Djavan wrote more

ing his songs: Nana Caymmi recorded Du-

His first passion led him to a position

than 60 songs in different genres in his

pla Traição, Maria Bethânia Álibi, Roberto

as a midfielder for a local soccer team

spare time. Fato Consumado won second

Carlos A Ilha, Gal Costa Açaí and Faltando

(CSA), which could have developed into

place at the Festival Abertura produced by

Um Pedaço. Djavan had paid homage

a professional career. However, the sonic

TV Globo in 1975, and took him to Som

to Caetano Veloso by coining the verb

universe he discovered in Dr. Gatto’s re-

Livre recording studios where his first al-

“caetanear,” so Veloso repaid the honor by

cord collection, which for the young boy

bum, A Voz, O Violão, A Musica de Djavan

using “djavanear” in his version of Sina.

from Alagoas seemed to contain all the

(1976), was produced by the legendary

In 1981 and ’82 Djavan received the

music in the world, helped to forge Djavan,

Aloysio de Oliveira (Carmen Miranda and

Best Songwriter award offered by the Art

the artist, composer, singer, musician and

Tom Jobim among many others). It was a

Critics Association of São Paulo.

arranger.

samba album, vibrating, syncopated and

His cycle of successful albums re-

Born January 27, 1949, into a poor

unlike anything else being done at the

leased by EMI-Odeon came to a close in

family, he taught himself to play acoustic

time. From a current point of view, this al-

1981 with Seduzir, an assertion that, as

guitar by learning to read poorly edited

bum not only marked the beginning of Dja-

Djavan himself wrote on the inner cover:

music scores he found in magazines at

van’s career but also carved his own niche

“What little I’ve learned is here, complete,

newspaper stands. By the age of 18 he

as an undeniable personality in the history

from head to toe.”

was already performing at local city balls

of Brazilian music.

Following this release, he led his first

with the group Luz, Som, Dimensão (LSD

Enthusiastic about its newly signed

band, Sururu de Capote, with Luiz Avellar

- Light, Sound, Dimension). Soon he real-

artist, EMI-Odeon decided to invest heav-

(piano), Sizão Machado (bass), Téo Lima

ized that he should be writing music.

ily in Djavan’s second, eponymous album.

(drums) and Zé Nogueira (brass). This pe-

At 23, Djavan arrived in Rio de Janeiro

In 1978, with a gathering of the best mu-

riod also saw the arrival of his trademark

to try his luck in the musical market. He

sicians in the field and characterized by

thin dreadlocks, his first songs referring

worked as a crooner at famous nightclubs

great love songs, this album signaled his

to Africa, and his first cross-country tours

Number One and 706. With the help of ra-

arrival as a complete songwriter.

of Brazil conducted by producer Monique

dio broadcaster and fellow citizen Edson

Two years later in 1980 Djavan re-

Mauro, Djavan was introduced to João

leased Alumbramento and showed that

Mello, a record producer at Som Livre (TV

he could also communicate very well with

In 1982, the song Flor de Lis, an imme-

Globo’s record company), who took him to

his fellow musicians. The album initiated

diate hit from his album A Voz e O Violão,

Gardenberg and director Paulinho Albuquerque.

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 17

Raphael Dias Marcos Hermes

became Djavan’s first hit in the competi-

tion of the sound of words, unique images,

tive U.S. market sung by jazz diva Carmen

rhythm and tempo variety, unusual melo-

At 45, 20 years into his career, Djavan

McRae under the title Upside Down. It

dies and harmonic richness. Fully pres-

released Novena (1994) an album that

didn’t take long for CBS (soon to become

ent in other songs, his African ancestry is

verified his maturity. Totally self-produced,

Sony Music) to invite him to record an al-

imprinted in Meu Lado with the song Hino

written and arranged, this record consoli-

bum, Luz (1982) in Los Angeles, produced

da Juventude Negra da África do Sul and

dated his work with his band: Paulo Cala-

by one of the most important names in

even more vigorously in Soweto, his first

zans (keyboards), Marcelo Mariano and Ar-

American soul music, Ronnie Foster. The

song of protest that opened the album Não

thur Maia (bass), Carlos Bala (drums) and

result was a typical mix of Brazilian musi-

É Azul, Mas É Mar (1987) also recorded in

Marcelo Martins (brass).

cality and jazzy American influences.

Los Angeles.

provides vocals on several tracks.

Malásia was released in 1996 with a

In 1984, Djavan recorded a second

His second self-titled album, Djavan

bigger band including Marçalzinho (per-

album in L.A. entitled Lilás, followed by a

(1989), is remembered as the one with

cussion), Walmir Gil (trumpet) and François

two-year world tour. By 1986, he was back

Oceano, one of those rare songs, a clas-

Lima (trombone). It also presented three

in Brazil to record Meu Lado, a simultane-

sic, perfect in form, content, music and

tracks written by other composers: Cora-

ous return to roots and new beginning, a

lyrics.

ção Leviano by Paulinho da Viola, Sorri, a

return to samba with a style already famil-

In 1992, Coisa de Acender merged

Brazilian-Portuguese version of Smile by

iar to the public and a stroll through baião

innovative rhythms and harmonies and

Chaplin, and Correnteza by Tom Jobim

songs and ballads. This is what Djavan is

started new collaborative partnerships,

and Luiz Bonfá. This album found Djavan

all about after a 10-year career: explora-

including his daughter, Flávia Virginia, who

in a thoughtfully melodious mood.

18 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Marcos Hermes

Bicho Solto emerged two years later

help of Max and João Viana and Flávia Vir-

One of these paths is clearly lighted in

showing a joyful, dancing artist setting fire

ginia, and also the return to his hometown,

his eagerly anticipated album Ária (2010)

to the dance floor with the rhythm of funk.

Alagoas, an omnipresent northeastern

the first in which Djavan exclusively prac-

theme.

ticed the art of interpreting other com-

Both records celebrate Djavan’s 20year career, the first highlighting his per-

In 2004, the musician celebrated his

poser’s songs. Always strict as to how

sonal style and the second his artistic reju-

total independence with the creation of his

he conducts his career, Djavan waited for

venation. His guitar-playing son Max Viana

own record company, Luanda Records,

was among his collaborators, now defini-

which released his next two original al-

tively incorporated into the band.

bums Vaidade (2004) and Matizes (2007)

the height of his vocal maturity to pursue a repertoire chosen from the space between his selective memory and his con-

Ao Vivo, a double album, reached two

and also the remixed dance versions of his

million in sales in 1999. As the first engi-

songs collected on Na Pista, Etc... (2005).

neered outside the studio, it brought to-

It was the emergence of the entrepre-

gether what amounts to a virtual anthology

neur Djavan Caetano Viana. But what does

of Djavan’s work with 22 big hits among

Djavan the Entrepreneur want from Djavan

covery of treasures hidden within. Good

24 tracks. This double LP sent Djavan on

the Artist? Only that he go from swing to

music, indeed.

a three-year tour.

blues, through ballads to his instantly rec-

This is the self-same ear and enthusi-

Milagreiro (2001) represented a double

ognizable samba, keeping his right hand

asm of a boy from Maceió who one fate-

return back home. It was the first album

on the acoustic, enriching his lyrics with

ful day exchanged his soccer ball to follow

fully recorded in his home studio with the

the inspiration of daily life.

the rolling path of music

stantly twitching antennae, capturing what is musical and interesting. The result is a re-invention of classic songs and the dis-

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 19

alguém aqui

fala a minha língua?

Solicite um intér prete: É o seu direito.

E É A LEI. As leis estaduais e federais exigem que hospitais e clínicas forneçam intérpretes e materiais traduzidos a pacientes que não falam inglês fluentemente. O diagnóstico, tratamento, medicação e instruções corretas só são possíveis através da boa comunicação -- não através de uma criança, membro da família ou vizinho -- mas por um intérprete profissional que entenda a linguagem médica.

Escreva uma carta em seu idioma sobre sua experiência com dificuladades encontradas no sistema de sáude. Ajude outras pessoas compartilhando sua história. Mande uma carta para o jornal ou revista onde viu este anúncio para: Attention: Language Access.

Para maiores informações sobre o Language Access e o sistema de saúde de sua comunidade, visite www.ncmonline.com/languageaccess

Este anúncio foi patrocinado pelo THE CALIFORNIA ENDOWMENT

T r avel

22 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Foto: Jefferson Pancieri - SPTuris

São Paulo:

Latin America’s Friendly Colossus This sprawling urban center is the world’s gateway to Brazil.

By Andrea Eirado in collaboration with www.imprensa.spturis.com

São Paulo is the fourth largest city in

tional companies, across all sectors, have

the world with 11 million inhabitants, com-

branches either in the city itself or in São

prised of more than 70 nationalities and

Paulo state.

Brazilians from all regions. The city is the

The city is well known for its sheer

dynamic center of the country’s wealthi-

number of shopping malls, open seven

est state and the main port of entry for in-

days a week, ranging from garden variety

ternational visitors (11.7 million tourists in

to the most upscale, as well as special-

the city in 2010, 1.6 million foreigners and

ized trade streets. Additionally, there are

10.1 million Brazilians). It is where every-

more than 90 museums and exhibition

thing in Brazil happens first, which makes

halls. Moreover, the city offers the beauty

it the prime location for every major event.

of numerous chapels, churches, convents,

São Paulo receives tourists from all over

monasteries and the recently restored met-

the world for international events such as

ropolitan cathedral in the city center. There

the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the International

are more than 50 green areas for open-air

Film Festival, the Arts Biennale and 107

events, besides many other theme parks

other business trade fairs, the Saint Silves-

minutes from downtown.

ter Road Race, Carnaval and more.

São Paulo is Latin America’s largest

São Paulo is the financial heart of Mer-

metropolis and Brazil’s vanguard and cul-

cosur (the Southern Common Market),

tural center. It must first be known and dis-

where the companies comprising South

covered to be cherished; only later does

America’s main technological center are

it become impossible to forget, as his-

to be found. The vast majority of multina-

tory has demonstrated. São Paulo state’s

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 23

Museu Paulista Theatro Municipal

Foto: Alexandre Diniz - SPTuris

Foto: Caio Silveira - SPTuris

Foto: Jefferson Pancieri - SPTuris

Foto: Jefferson Pancieri - SPTuris

Foto: Andre Stefano - SPTuris

Memorial do Imigrante

Templo Budista

24 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Mosteiro de S達o Bento

Foto: Caio Silveira - SPTuris

“

Memorial do Imigrante

Foto: Wanderley Celestino - SPTuris

Foto: Andre Stefano - SPTuris

Foto: Caio Silveira - SPTuris

São Paulo is Latin America’s largest metropolis and Brazil’s vanguard and cultural center. It must first be known and discovered to be cherished; only later does it become impossible to forget, as history has demonstrated.”

Mercado Municipal

Horto Florestal

457-year-old capital was founded by Je-

phistication of national and international

São Paulo is for grandmas and grandpas,

suits, situated at an elevation of 750 me-

brand names at Rua Oscar Freire, of the

for grandchildren, for modern or traditional

ters and separated from the ocean by one

boutique hotels, of the Praça Benedito

parents. In short: São Paulo is a city for the

hour and the Sea Mountain range (Serra

Calixto antique market, the 59 themed

whole family.

do Mar). It only really became populated in

and specialized streets, of the spas and

With continued focus and growth, São

the 19th Century with the beginning of the

advanced medical centers, of stimulus to

Paulo has realized that it is not only the

so-called Coffee Cycle.

meditation, of universities and art schools.

largest economic center in Latin America,

São Paulo belongs to Paulistanos, the

São Paulo is the romance of Japanese

but also the Latin American capital of cul-

citizens of São Paulo, and to numerous

ofuro baths, of fondue in winter and din-

ture, fashion, entertainment and knowl-

other peoples who have chosen to live

ners with a view to the city’s skyline, of the

edge. It is also a place where economies

there for its opportunities. São Paulo is

best pizza in Brazil and cozy bars.

and talent are becoming stronger. Its cui-

the city of the pastel de feira (a fried pastry

São Paulo is the city of rhythms, of

sine represents more than 50 nationalities

sold in open-air markets), the Ceratti Bo-

night life, forró, of Terça Insana (Crazy

(more than 12,500 restaurants), a true mo-

logna sausage sandwich, of bars and ate-

Tuesday, a humorous show performed on

saic of culture reflected in its identity.

liers from the charming Vila Madalena. It is

Tuesdays) of the Phantom of the Opera, of

Tours

the city of Avenida Paulista’s high modern-

the Painted Bodies and happy hour. It is

Avenida Paulista: The pride of São

ism, of Ibirapuera Park and 54 other parks.

the same city that hosts SP Fashion Week

Paulo. Here are the MASP (Museum of Art

It is the city of the Japanese Liberdade

and the largest LGBT Pride parade in the

of São Paulo), Trianon Park, the Gazetta

district, of the Paulista Museum, of the so-

world. It is for all ages, tastes and budgets.

Building (the start and finish of the Saint

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 25

Foto: Wanderley Celestino - SPTuris

Silvester Road Race), the Conjunto

History

Nacional, the Cultura Bookshop and

Jesuit priests José de Anchieta

plenty more.

Sé Cathedral: A fine example of Catholic architecture.

Foto: Jefferson Pancieri - SPTuris

Marginal Pinheiros

Foto: Wanderley Celestino - SPTuris Foto: Wanderley Celestino - SPTuris

Estádio do Morumbi

Foto: Caio Pimenta - SPTuris 26 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Ipiranga

a safe place to catechize native Indians. Upon reaching Piratininga plateau,

points in the city, home to a traditional

they found the ideal location. Noting

restaurant with a beautiful view.

the region’s “cold and tempered winds

Municipal theatre

such as those in Spain” and “a healthy

Copan Building: An Oscar Nie-

and fresh land with good waters,” the

meyer project, it was built in an “S”

priests signaled their positive assess-

shape and is home to hundreds of resi-

ment.

They built a college on a low hill,

MASP (São Paulo Museum of

close to river Tamanduateí and An-

Art): It has one of the largest collections

hangabaú where they said a mass.

of Latin American art, including works

It was January 25, 1554, the date

by Raphael, Botticelli, Titian, Monet,

we celebrate the anniversary of São

Cezanne, Renoir, Van Gogh and the top

Paulo. Almost five centuries later the

names in Brazilian art.

small village of Piratininga became an

Municipal Market: spices, exotic

11-million-inhabitant metropolis. Only

fruits, cheeses, cold meats, traditional

the foundations of the buildings made

fish pastry and the mortadella sandwich.

by priests and Indians are left in Pateo

Ipiranga Museum: Its real name

do Collegio.

is the Paulista Museum, home to the

Piratininga took 157 years to be-

legendary painting “Independência ou

come a city named São Paulo, the de-

Morte,” which depicts D-Day. Pedro I

cision ratified by the king of Portugal. At

proclaimed Brazil’s independence on

that time, São Paulo was still the start-

the banks of the Ipiranga River.

ing point of bandeiras, expeditions de-

Luz Station

signed to enslave indigenous peoples

The Portuguese Language Mu-

and to locate precious ores and stones.

seum: With an interactive presenta-

In 1815, the city became the capital

tion, this innovative museum takes

of São Paulo province. It was only af-

its visitors on a journey to understand

ter the coffee culture expansion at the

and learn more about the Portuguese

end of the 19th Century that São Paulo

language through creative, original

became an important economic center.

and interactive exhibitions.

MASP

Serra do Mar mountains in 1553 to find

Terraço Itália: One of the highest

dents.

Viaduto do Chá

and Manoel da Nóbrega walked up the

Today, São Paulo is the financial

São Bento Monastery

heart of Latin America, still welcoming

São Paulo Fashion Week: With

people who wish to live and work in a

two annual editions, this event has put

tolerant environment, respecting diver-

the city well and truly on the interna-

sity of creeds, ethnic groups, sexual

tional fashion calendar.

orientation and tribes.

The Soccer Museum: Takes visitors on a journey through the history of

www.cidadedesaopaulo.com

association football and its history in

www.imprensa.spturis.com

Brazil.

www.saopaulominhacidade.com.br

Foto: Jefferson Pancieri - SPTuris

Foto: Caio Silveira - SPTuris

Foto: Wanderley Celestino - SPTuris

Theatro Municipal

Horto Florestal Foto: Wanderley Celestino - SPTuris

Mercado Municipal

Horto Florestal

Memorial do Imigrante

Catedral da SĂŠ

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 27 Foto: Jefferson Pancieri - SPTuris

Foto: Jefferson Pancieri - SPTuris

CITIZ E NS

Can You Pass the U.S. Citizenship Exam?

Naturalization is the manner in which a person not born in the United States voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. But before the candidate for naturalization can officially be bestowed with the rights of U.S. citizenship, she must pass a 10-question exam and get at least 60 percent of the answers correct.

The exam evaluates the following:

by George Castro, CEO of Brazil Visa Center

percent of the questions above correctly, don’t feel bad about

- Knowledge and understanding of the English language

it. These questions are rather difficult in nature, and do require

- American history

some preparation before taking the exam. For what it is worth,

- American government

just enjoy learning all the new information above.

- Integrated civics (geography, symbols and holidays) Thus, a lot of preparation is needed, considering that most

Send your comments to info@imigrarusa.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

candidates have not been educated in the United States. Many questions are easy in nature, but some can be very tricky, even for natural U.S. citizens. See if you can get the right answers to the official naturalization questions below. There are no multiplechoice questions in the official exam.

Answers: 1. Sets up/defines the government; protects basic rights of Americans.

1. What does the Constitution do?

2. The Bill of Rights.

2. What do we call the first 10 amendments to the Constitu-

3. Everyone must follow the law. Leaders must obey the law.

tion?

Government must obey the law. No one is above the law.

3. What is the “rule of law”?

4. Six

4. How many years make up one term for a U.S. senator?

5. Nine

5. How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

6. Provide schooling and education; provide protection and

6. Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states.

safety; issue a driver’s license; approve zoning and land use.

Name one of those powers.

7. John Boehner.

7. What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Repre-

8. Freedom, political liberty, religious freedom, economic op-

sentatives?

portunity, practice their religion, escape persecution.

8. What is one reason that colonists came to America?

9. U.S. diplomat, oldest member of the Constitutional Con-

9. What is one thing Benjamin Franklin is famous for?

vention, writer of “Poor Richard’s Almanac,” started the first

10. Name one American Indian tribe in the United States.

free libraries.

So, how did you do above? If you answered 6 out of 10

10. Cherokee, Navajo, Sioux, Chippewa, Choctaw, Pueblo,

questions right, congratulations! By passing the naturalization

Apache, Iroquois, Creek, Blackfeet, Seminole, Cheyenne,

exam, you may have what it takes to become a U.S. citizen.

Arawak, Shawnee, Mohegan, Huron, Oneida, Lakota, Crow,

If you are already a U.S. citizen and did not answer at least 60

Teton, Hopi, Inuit.

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 29

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S t y le & I ma g e

This pageant winner discovered the joys of beach life in California.

By Edward Pollard 32 | Brazil Explore Magazine 32 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Photo: Caesar Lima

Queen at 19

Photos: Greg Rice

Born into a family of doctors, you could say that Fernanda Samaia, Miss Brazil

“It was a new experience,” she says

USA 2011, is privileged but not spoiled.

“because where I live in Brazil it’s the same

She’s the quintessential good girl who

people, the same social level and here it

did her homework and wasn’t swayed by

was another story. There are people here

temptations of the ego.

from all over the world. The way they teach

“When I was in Brazil I never competed

is really different, and I was fascinated so I

in anything, pageants or modeling, but I

decided to stay. I found a host family that

always loved it,” she says. “I paid more at-

accepts students in their home because I

tention to my studies.” This is an admirable

couldn’t live at my friend’s house forever. I

attitude and one that was more of a chal-

finished high school and am now attend-

lenge to maintain once she entered an ex-

ing Santa Monica College. I just applied to

change program in her junior year of high

UCLA and UC Berkeley, so hopefully I’ll be

school. At the age of sweet 16 Samaia left

transferring in July as a psychology major.”

behind a fairly homogenous setting in São

Adapting to life in sunny L.A. may be

Paulo where she attended a private school

fun, but sometimes even a lovely young

called Colégio Santo Américo and landed

woman will experience a few snags. “One

in multicultural, economically diverse Santa

time I went to a water park as soon as I

Monica High School in southern California.

got here,” she recalls. “I wore my Brazilian

“It’s a completely different situation

bathing suit. One of the park employees

than I had in Brazil where I had everything

noticed and came to me and said, ‘Lady,

in my hands and now I have to fight for it,”

this is a family park. You cannot wear that.’

she says. “I didn’t know English when I got

I was offended because for me it’s normal.

here. I had to do things on my own.”

Do I have to buy shorts? Because that’s

Fortunately, a best friend of hers had

the kind of bathing suit my grandmother

moved to California years ago, so she was

would wear. But here it’s not, so I had to

able to stay with her family when she first

learn those kinds of things.”

arrived. Originally, it was only going to be a

“

six-month stay. Isn’t it always?

I used to go to those house parties in high school and the girls would show up wearing jeans and Uggs and I would arrive in heels.”

Then she realized there’s a giant, san

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 33

34 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Photo: Caesar Lima

Photos: Tim Sabatino

dy water park very close by where skimpy

love to go to the gym, so I try to do differ-

and Uggs and I would arrive in heels.” It’s

Brazilian bikinis are welcome. “I lived far

ent stuff. I’m taking a ballet class in school

enough to give a girl an identity complex.

from the beach in Brazil and now I could

and sometimes I ride a bike.”

Still, Samaia, now 19, showed her

never live far from the beach anymore,”

Ironically, she sees southern Califor-

composure and rolled with the changes.

she says. “I love going there; it’s one of my

nians as mostly underdressed. Apparently,

It was at a party that she was approached

favorite things. Right now it’s harder for me

São Paulo is more like New York City when

by local Brazilian style-maven and host of

to go because of my schedule, but I go

it comes to style. “People are well dressed

Miss Brazil Los Angeles, Giselle Claudino,

when I can. In high school my friends and

everywhere you go,” she says. “Here, peo-

to enter the competition. According to Sa-

I would go after school.” To a large degree

ple don’t really care if you’re dressed up or

maia, Claudino called her twice to make the

she is still more Brazilian when it comes

not. When I first got here, people thought

request. “My friends all supported me, so I

to being active and getting exercise. She

I was from New York. I absolutely love to

just did it,” she says. “It was a big decision.

prefers it natural. “I definitely have to go to

dress up, but I didn’t fit in. I used to go

I was not expecting to win. Two days after

the gym more here because the food is a

to those house parties in high school and

winning in L.A. I was already on my way to

lot more fattening,” she says. “I don’t really

the girls would show up wearing jeans

New York to compete for the finals.”

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 35

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IN D E PTH

A Sweet Life

By Clara Benjamin

When you first hear the words Japan,

reer took off. “I worked there for about four

Giorgio Armani and brigadeiro; you might

months, and after that I never stopped,”

think that they have nothing in common...

she says. Robertson’s next stop was Ja-

until you meet Milena Robertson. Rob-

pan, then Paris. There she had the oppor-

ertson is a former model, now pastry

tunity to be in the same runway show as

chef, who has traveled to Japan 28 times,

world-famous Naomi Campbell and Linda

modeled some of Armani’s best collec-

Evangelista. Needless to say, this was when

tions and if she could personify any Brazil-

her international career had no brake pedal.

ian dessert she would be a brigadeiro.

“I was the mannequin for all of the Chanel

Her modeling career began when she was only 16. Her first international trip was to Milan and Zurich and after that her ca38 38 | Brazil | Brazil Explore Explore Magazine Magazine

dresses and I also did all of their private showings for the royal families,” she says.

A trip to Los Angeles changed her life.

It was there that Robertson met her hus-

who could offer that; so I thought it would

band. Even though they married in 1999,

be a great opportunity to sell that idea.”

she continued modeling until 2005. As the

There is a large selection of sweets and

pregnancy progressed, Robertson found

treats to choose from. Each one is as pre-

a way to introduce her new “bump” into

cisely made as the next, all are handmade

her career by doing maternity campaigns.

to give your event that extra something. “I

“Even though I was pregnant, I was still

feel very honored to do what I do, and I

working,” she says. “I worked for a lot of

put so much love into it that you can taste

different brands and did three Old Navy

it,” she says. I’ve had the pleasure to eat

campaigns in that period.”

some of these delicacies and it was like

After the arrival of her first daughter, it

tasting a piece of heaven. Robertson uses

wasn’t long before her maternal instincts

her grandmother’s recipes and hopes to

took over. She put her modeling career

one day pass this family tradition on to

aside to become a stay-at-home mom

her daughters. “Every time I went to my

and pastry chef. “As a mom, I felt the need

grandma’s house, she would be waiting

to stay home with my two girls more,” she

for me with rosquinhas de pinga and she

says. “Since I have always enjoyed cook-

taught me how to make them among

ing, I decided to open my own business.”

other treats,” she reminisces. I wonder

Dolce Fine Treats offers the tradition

what Robertson will make while awaiting

of tables set up with Brazilian sweets and

the arrival of her grandchildren. Without a

treats for any occasion. “When I got mar-

doubt the treat will be as special as they

ried, there was nobody in Los Angeles

are to her.

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 39

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Cinema

Aspiring filmmaker maximizes an opportunity with the help of his church community

by Andre Wacemberg

42 | Brazil Explore Magazine

It all started with a small group of teen-

the teacher said. Of course, I knew they

agers trying to do something for Easter

expected some pantomime with a teen

2011 at their local Brazilian church in Los

dressed in white as Jesus, carrying the

Angeles. Their Sunday school teacher

cross and defeating Satan in the end with

asked one of the parishioners who had

some victory dance. Still, I was unable to

theater experience at the church to pre-

ignore my CSI-themed Easter concept.

pare a play. He should prepare something

I couldn’t help developing the idea to its

to perform for the holiday service, a piece

logical conclusion. I was excited to tell that

that would need to be finished in two short

very old and familiar story in a different

months.

way, as a crime investigation. Once I men-

After spending a week considering

tioned that there was a scene with a gun, it

what to do, this man arrived the following

was easy to get the teenagers to back me

Sunday with a finished script for a 20-min-

up on the project.

ute short film about the passion of Christ

In the film industry people say that ev-

set in the present era. This came as a to-

ery movie starts with an idea, but after my

tal shock to the teacher and the church’s

life experience I would rephrase that to say

board of directors. It was easily out of

that every movie starts with money. Since

reach for a humble church group, but

I came to the United States nine years

the guy responsible for stepping way out

ago, I’ve had hundreds of ideas for movies

of the Easter basket was me. I was that

and none of them came to life for lack of

crazy guy.

a budget. I knew this was going to be our

“That’s not what we had in mind,”

“

Once I

mentioned that

there was a scene with a gun, it

was easy to get the teenagers to back me up on the project.”

biggest problem, or perhaps I should say

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 43

“

The kid who played the title role kept his part as an uplifting surprise for his mother who was going through a tough time in her personal life.” the boulder blocking the entrance to the

ian restaurant owners at our church gave

tomb.

them a free pass, but I totally forgot to

That’s when the first miracle hap-

tell them that the picanha (Brazilian steak)

pened. A friend volunteered to ask some

was the best stuff. It was both sad and

businessmen at church for money, then

funny to see their plates with only two

joined the rank of supporters himself. Voi-

sausages and noodles and no beef.

là, we had $600 to start production, plus

Our bases were covered. We were set

a promise from church officials to cover

to start shooting with a Hollywood actress

any additional expenses not to exceed

and a whole film crew. It was probably this

$400.

short moment of relief when I realized “Oh

I quickly started working on pre-pro-

my God, what am I doing?!” Although I

duction with my wife, buying props for

have a degree in journalism and took a

the shooting, including the all-important

cinematography class at UCLA Exten-

firearm. I also prepared the teenagers to

sion, I wasn’t sure that my passion for

act and cast them for their roles. By this

movies would be enough to direct the

time, we got most of the church involved

passion of Christ, or any other movie for

as volunteers for catering, production as-

that matter. I had some experience do-

sistance, make-up, background and act-

ing amateur theater, but this was going

ing work, etc.

to be my first real movie! After eight years

It was fortunate for me that actress Maria Olsen was available to play the

44 | Brazil Explore Magazine

of waiting for that moment, my fondest goals were being realized.

main role of Tammy Hill, the detective who

It was a reward that came with a

would investigate Manny’s death. I knew

price. I spent a sleepless night before our

Olsen from a small acting job we did to-

first day of shooting. I even got out of bed

gether in the past, but her fame increased

to write an additional scene that mentions

noticeably after her turn as Mrs. Dodds

Judas, and engaged two more good ac-

in Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief.

tors from church who hadn’t been avail-

We also signed on a great director

able when the project began. I should

of photography, Alexander Aguirre, who

have been tired and asleep, because we

had just graduated from the University

actually spent that whole day doing the

of Southern California. He proved to be

set decoration. We basically turned our

a package deal because he brought a

church building into a Hollywood studio,

couple of film students to work on our

all the scenes, but one, were shot there.

project for college credit. They also did a

The hall became the police station, the

great job with sound and production and

parking lot the school, an old room be-

camera assistance. Since they didn’t ask

came the morgue and a children’s room

for money, we made sure to thank them

became the hospital, with a fancy eleva-

properly, at least food-wise. The Brazil-

tor shot as well.

When it all came together, I had the

pantomimes. He who dares…

feeling that I could do this for the rest of

It meant a lot to me that this, my first

my life. With megaphone in hand to direct

movie, came to life. I also noticed how

the police station scene – a surreal setting

much it meant to the church members

in which church members were costumed

who took part in this ambitious project and

as prostitutes and criminals – it was fi-

used their talents and efforts to make it

nally my turn to feel like Steven Spielberg

happen. I was especially touched when I

for a little while. We edited the footage as quickly as possible, hiring another student so we could maintain the rate. Our lead actor Josian Gattermeier, who plays law graduate Carlos, applied some computer wizardry to the DVD setup as well as our poster. Getting a convincing dead man’s foot meant trying different pairs of feet, but they were either too ugly, too fat or too feminine. Appropriately, the best set

Synopsis This is a modern version of the passion of Christ. Det. Tammy Hill investigates the death of a teenager named Manny (a nickname for Emmanuel), who was murdered at a public school in Los Angeles by

heard that the kid who played the title role

gang members. In order to do so,

kept his part as an uplifting surprise for his

she relies on the support of Brazilian

mother who was going through a tough

law student, Carlos, to assist her in

time in her personal life.

conversations with Manny’s friends.

Later, the movie was selected by film festivals in the United States, South Africa, England, Peru and Brazil. Then we got the news that we were in the official selection of the 5th Los Angeles Brazilian Film Festi-

During the investigation, Manny’s body mysteriously disappears from the morgue. In the process of interrogating Manny’s closest friends, famous characters from the passion of Christ become recognizable, like

val. It is one of 17 shorts among a total of

Matthew, Peter and Mary Magdalene.

When Easter Sunday came around we

37 movies selected from more than 200

As the story unfolds, viewers will

were ready, and were greeted by a packed

submissions. This should end the festival

discover if the doubter of our story,

house for the premiere of Manny’s Obitu-

cycle for Manny’s Obituary, and hopefully

Det. Hill, will accept the supernatural

ary. It was a rousing success! If such a

open new doors for the future. Ideas I have

testimonies from those witnesses, or

miracle is possible, it outdid the more pre-

in ready supply. It’s that other “fundamen-

if she will uncover a criminal plot.

dictable offering of those garden-variety

tal” little problem that I’m working on.

belonged to Manny himself.

www.mannysobituary.com

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 45

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W o r l d & Ma rk e t

UPP

A New Order for the Favelas of Rio de Janeiro New peacekeeping units aim to wrest control from criminal network and restore civil oversight.

By AndrĂŠa Eirado Photos Governo do Estado do Rio de Janeiro

48 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Marino Azevedo

After decades of domination by illegal

peace a permanent community standard.

drug trade, the favelas of Rio began to

In accordance with Decree no.

experience a new sense of order after the

42,787 of January 2011, which lays out

first Unidade de PolĂ­cia Pacificador (Po-

the implementation, structure, guidelines

lice Peacekeeping Unit) or UPP was es-

and operations of the UPP, this special

tablished in the neighborhoods of Morro

task force was created to undertake a

Santa Maria, Botafogo, and the southern

peacekeeping mission and to restore

region of the city beginning in December

and preserve law and order. The State’s

2008. The UPP represents a new ap-

Secretary of Defense identified vulnerable

proach to public security and a new style

areas with very low income residents in

of police work that promotes closer ties

neighborhoods with minimal infrastruc-

with residents by joining forces to rees-

ture, which are the primary target of the

tablish social order in their respective

bands of armed criminals that are chal-

communities. By reclaiming territory once

lenging the democratic state.

occupied by illegal drug dealers and their

At the International Conference of

armed militias, the UPPs hope to make

Criminal Law hosted by Interpol, Eurpol

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 49

Marino Azevedo 50 50 || Brazil Brazil Explore Explore Magazine Magazine

Carlos Magno

Carlos Magno

Marino Azevedo

“

Participants… who gave their support in exchange for this informal welfare system contributed to the creation of a parallel power structure headed by elite criminal leaders.”

and the Corps of National Police in 2011,

unofficially designating the city as Brazil’s

Jose Mariano Beltrami, Secretary of Pub-

new financial center. This mass exodus of

lic Security in the state of Rio de Janeiro,

important financial players and the abrupt

made the following observation concern-

shift of power away from Rio left large

ing this threat to the areas surrounding the

numbers of city dwellers with no means of

city: “In order to understand public security

support. Lacking political backing and in

in Rio, one must become familiar with the

need of basic public services, these mar-

historical context in which Brazilian society

ginalized families moved into undeveloped

was established.”

urban areas that we now know as favelas.

From 1960 to 2010, the population of

Rise of the Favelas

Rio nearly doubled, from 3.3 to 6.2 mil-

Following the gas and oil crisis of the

lion inhabitants according to the Brazilian

1970s, Rio experienced an economic cri-

Governmental Institute of Research (IBGE).

sis and significant political changes. One

This population explosion dramatically in-

by one, large companies relocated south

creased the number of people living in the

to São Paulo, including the Stock Ex-

favelas, which put even greater demand on

change. Shortly thereafter, the Centennial

the limited resources available to people

Stock Exchange set up shop in São Paulo,

who built makeshift houses on the hillside

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 51

“

…The number of homicides has been cut in half since the city implemented the UPP program.”

UPP Operations 1. Santa Marta Start: 12/19/2008 Commander: Capt. Pricilla Azevedo Manpower: 112 Community served: Santa Marta Neighborhoods: Botafogo and Humaitá

4. Babilônia and Chapéu Mangueira (Zona Sul) Start: 06/10/2009 Commander: Capt. Felipe Magalhães dos Reis Manpower: 96 Communities served: Babilônia e Chapéu Mangueira Neighborhood: Leme

2. Cidade de Deus (Zona Oeste) Start: 02/16/2009 Commander: Maj. Felipe Romeu Manpower: 344 Communities served: Cidade de Deus Neighborhood: Jacarepaguá

5. Pavão-Pavãozinho and Cantagalo (Zona Sul) Start: 12/23/2009 Commander: Capt. Leonardo Nogueira Manpower: 176 Communities served: Pavão-Pavãozinho and Cantagalo Neighborhoods: Ipanema and Copacabana

3. Jardim Batam (Zona Oeste) Start: 02/18/2009 Commander: Capt. Ricardo Ribeiro Manpower: 106 Communities served: Batam Neighborhood: Realengo

6. Tabajaras and Cabritos (Zona Sul) Start: 01/14/2010 Commander: Capt. Renato Sena Manpower: 131 Communities served: Ladeira dos Tabajaras, Morro dos Cabritos,Pico do Papagaio and Mangueira (in Botafogo) Neighborhoods: Copacabana and Botafogo

52 | Brazil Explore Magazine

7. Providência (Centro) Start: 04/26/2010 Commander: Capt. Glauco Schorcht Manpower: 208 Communities served: Providência, Morro do Pinto and Pedra Lisa Neighborhoods: Gamboa, Santo Cristo and Saúde 8. Borel and Andaraí (Zona Norte) Start: 06/07/2010 Commander: Capt. Bruno Amaral Manpower: 278 Communities served: Morro do Borel, Chácara do Céu, Casa Branca, Indiana, Catrambi and Bananal Neighborhood: Tijuca 9. Formiga Start: 07/01/2010 Commander: Capt. Alessandra Carvalhaes Manpower: 102 Communities served: Morro da Formiga Neighborhood: Tijuca

Carlos Magno

Marino Azevedo

Carlos Magno

(Morro) without fresh water or sanitation. It

lence” who gave their support in exchange

Program Shows Improvement

was within this unstable social backdrop

for this informal welfare system thus con-

According to statistics provided by

that illegal activities and the sale of drugs

tributed to the creation of a parallel power

the Institute of Public Security of Rio de

took root and grew rapidly.

structure headed by elite criminal leaders.

Janeiro, the number of homicides has

Faced with this powerful and entrenched

been cut in half since the city implement-

Spike in Drug Trafficking

adversary, the Secretary of Public Security

The arrival of the drug trade marked

created the UPP, whose primary purpose

the boom of organized crime in Rio. Over

was to regain control of the communities

time the drug dealers increased their pow-

and restore law and order to the favelas

er and influence over the community by

through armed resistance against crimi-

providing basic necessities to residents of

nal forces. Once in place, the government

cluding violent crime, car theft and rob-

the favelas, including food, medication and

could then work to promote the rights of

bery. See the table below for the details

support in exchange for their cooperation.

its residents and work toward social and

in chronological order for each of the re-

Participants in “the law of complete si-

economic development.

gions impacted by the UPP.

10. Salgueiro (Zona Norte) Start: 09/17/2010 Commander: Capt. Plínio César de Macedo Manpower: 138 Community served: Morro do Salgueiro Neighborhood: Tijuca 11. Turano Start: 09/30/2010 Commander: Capt. Almir Beltran Manpower: 176 Communities served: Turano, Chacrinha, Matinha, 117, Liberdade, Pedacinho do Céu, Paula Ramos, Rodo and Sumaré Neighborhoods: Tijuca and Rio Comprido 12. Macacos (Vila Isabel) Start: 11/30/2010 Commander: Capt. Felipe Barreto Manpower: 215 Communities served: Morro dos Macacos, Pau da Bandeira and Parque Vila Isabel Neighborhood: Vila Isabel

13. São João, Matriz and Quieto (Engenho Novo, Sampaio and Riachuelo) Start: 01/31/2011 Commander: Capt. Bruno Xavier Manpower: 200 Communities served: Morro do São João, Morro da Matriz and Morro do Quieto Neighborhood: Engenho Novo 14. Coroa, Fallet and Fogueteiro (Rio Comprido) Start: 02/25/2011 Commander: Capt. Elton Costa Manpower: 206 Communities served: Morro da Coroa, Morro do Fallet and Fogueteiro Neighborhood: Rio Comprido

ed the UPP program. It has also brought about a reduction in the top three indicators of crime according to the Secretary of State in charge of security for Rio, in-

15. Escondidinho e Prazeres (Santa Tereza) Start: 02/25/2011 Commander: Capt. Jefferson Odilon Manpower: 179 Communities served: Morro dos Prazeres and Escondidinho Neighborhood: Santa Teresa 16. São Carlos (Estácio) Start: 05/17/2011 Commander: Capt. Luiz Piedade Manpower: 241 Communities served: Morro do São Carlos, Querosene, Mineira and Zinco Neighborhoods: Estácio and Rio Cumprido 17. Vidigal Start: 01/18/2012 Commander: Capt. Fabio Pereira Manpower: 246 Communities served: Vidigal, Rocinha and Chácara do Céu Neighborhood: São Conrado

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 53

S po rt

Road to Wisdom

Brazilian jiu-jitsu master John Machado looks at the big picture he has painted in life as a martial artist.

by Edward Pollard

54 | Brazil Explore Magazine

Success comes in many forms, some-

variety of backgrounds and experiences.

son, who we are training,” Machado says.

times it is highly visible and accompanied

His base is his martial art and his life ex-

“The kid has the best debut of the year in

by the trappings of power and influence.

perience enriches his ability to adapt to the

the UFC and was awarded knockout of

At other times it is invisible, completely un-

needs of individuals.

the night at UFC 143 (meaning he received

connected to money, and influential on a

In a candid interview with this respect-

a substantial cash prize in addition to his

psychological level that inspires trust, loy-

ed and fun-loving martial artist, Machado

contracted pay and win bonus). He’s our

alty, often love.

revealed a humble nature, one that ele-

top project right now.”

In the world of martial arts, there are

gantly keeps him out of unnecessary con-

many applications for the lessons learned

flict and shuts out the white noise of our

and the hours devoted to receiving that

busy cyber-age.

A Matter of Balance Machado is the father of four children

knowledge. One of those is to prove that

He is currently involved in an ongoing

ranging in age from 8 to 23 years. How

your discipline is effective, whether in

project to synthesize the educational influ-

does he manage to balance the personal

combat, self-defense or competition. An-

ence of the Machado brothers across the

and professional sides of his life?

other is to instruct others, to pass on the

United States.

knowledge that you have spent decades

“RCJ Machado is a franchise concept

“I’ve had kids for so many years now that when I get home I’m a daddy,” he

“

When you

earn your black

belt then you start

creating new things like your own combinations. It’s like playing music” internalizing. When you come from a long

all over the country,” he says. “I’m estab-

says. “When I’m the teacher at school I’m

tradition that your family was instrumen-

lishing my schools and the brothers are

the professor. Those are different things I

tal in founding, then you have the option

working together on RCJ. We’ve been

have to do in my day-to-day. I’m a much

of carrying that tradition forward. It’s no

building a big organization. It’s a different

better father today and a better husband

small thing.

school concept.”

than I was when I started more than

This is the life that John Machado was

Martial arts, especially Brazilian jiu-

twenty years ago. You learn to get better.

born into. He has run the gamut of experi-

jitsu, are typically expected to prove their

You cannot be the same. The martial arts

ences as a martial artist, even branching

potency through mixed martial arts com-

change, your game changes, of course

out into the creative and entertainment

petition, especially the Ultimate Fighting

I’ve changed.”

arts, fields that have openly welcomed his

Championship (UFC). Are the Machados

tradition.

active in this regard?

Essentially, Machado is a Brazilian jiu-

“We have a fighter right now in New

jitsu master whose students come from a

York City, Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thomp-

Aside from the belt ranks, what are the distinct stages of learning jiu-jitsu, from beginner to master?

“First you have to learn the techniques,

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 55

John Machado with sons Jean (L) and John (R)

which is like learning a new language,”

ica I’d been doing it since I was a little kid

pression of the whole art. I like the chal-

Machado says. “You have to learn the

because of my Gracie cousins. My uncle

lenge of fighting guys in good shape; it’s a

moves and how to put them together,

Carlos Gracie, the founder, learned from

fun way to test myself, but it’s just a game.

how to execute effectively. You learn by

the Japanese master Maeda and I had

Competition isn’t reality because you can

seeing, by copying and repeating; then

the privilege of growing up with the Gra-

train for it, there are referees and points.

you pass that point as you evolve through

cie family. Being related to them I learned

Life, on the other hand, can surprise you at

the ranks. When you earn your black belt

from the source. I remember doing jiu-jitsu

any moment without warning or prepara-

then you start creating new things like your

when I was five or six. I knew the basics,

tion, it just happens and you do what you

own combinations. It’s like playing music. I

but I started serious training when I was

have to. But you can still benefit from the

think mastery takes a lifetime. I don’t know

a teenager, about 12 or 13. That’s when I

tournament format.”

everything, but I keep progressing. Apply-

really jumped into it. But I always knew the

Even though the fight settings are not

ing that approach to your life is the most

foundations, the guard, the mount escape,

especially realistic, would Machado say

important.”

I knew all of them.”

that competition has the effect of a labo-

Just to get an idea of Machado’s in-

At what point did competition enter the

volvement, I ask him how long he’s been

picture? As he stated, it’s not for everyone.

“It can be a great place to test and ex-

“Competition is a choice,” Machado

periment if you leave out the ego trip of

“I’ve been teaching in America for 22

reiterates. “It was something I really want-

winning,” he says. “When you turn into a

years,” he reveals. “Before I came to Amer-

ed to do. Competition is just a small ex-

trophy collector it becomes nonsense. You

doing jiu-jitsu.

56 | Brazil Explore Magazine

ratory?

grow from the experience. You compete and improve your game without getting caught up in the results and your ego.”

How does being a master affect his view of competition?

“I see everything as an expression of martial arts,” he says. “I see acting like that because it’s an art form. I think people focus too much on one area of the game only and think: ‘Oh, I have to be an MMA fighter or a competitor.’ No, you can be

“

Competition isn’t reality because you can train for it, there are referees and points. Life, on the other hand, can happen at any moment without warning or preparation…"

a successful teacher and create great champions. You can act or you can work with law enforcement. There are so many different things besides MMA. Not everybody can be a champion. In earlier days, I had that phase where it was about being champion, which I won many times back in Brazil, but I got past that early on. You must be a champion in different areas of your life, like raising your family properly, maintaining a healthy marriage and keeping yourself healthy. So I think when you talk about being a master, which includes everything, you have to be a master in all these areas, you know?”

Machado is respected and addressed by his students as a master, a professor of jiu-jitsu. At this point in his career having amassed decades of demonstrable knowledge affects his life in useful ways.

“It makes me more patient and gives me better understanding of my own limitations, gives me more acceptance of my limitations and those of others,” Machado admits. “When you train in martial arts you deal with physical and mental aspects. The third side of this triangle is spiritual. The idea of all martial arts is to eventually connect with your spirituality, regardless of the religion you follow. What matters is how you connect to your highest level. This union makes you a better human being all around. You express that in whatever you do.”

Brazil Explore Magazine | 07/2012 | 57

What´s Up Brazil?

Photos & text by J.C. Volotão | www.jcvolotao.com.br

The artistry involved in creating these fantasies is amazing. Look at the colors, details and especially the makeup — all for just one day of celebration.

International celebrities like Playboy heir Cooper Hefner go crazy for this festival that is unique in the world.

The joy experienced by people in the carnaval parade is great. They spend a fortune on their outfits but they have a lot of fun.

Rafaela is the flag bearer for Imperatriz Leopoldinense.

She is well known in the carnaval and her photos are always in magazines and newspapers.

The creativity displayed in costumes is unbelievable and never repeated. Where do they get all that inspiration?

The women featured in schools are chosen from among thousands of beauties, like Andrea Machado who is representing Escola Renascer.

Couples like this emerald pair who dress up to enjoy carnaval together are always good in pictures.

A large, multi-level float that carries the highlights. Some have motors and others are people-powered.

58 58 || Brazil Brazil Explore Explore Magazine Magazine

Even with paralysis in their legs, these smiling and enthusiastic teenagers paraded on crutches for Renascer de Jacarepaguá.

Portela samba school presents this traditional eagle on the show-opening float. Her head turns and her wings flap.

Here’s another stunning highlight.

The play of light is perfect for these incredible displays of perfection.

Here is another highlight of the Renascer de Jacarepaguá school. Some parade on street level and others ride the big floats.

Behind this highlight is a large replica of a church presented by Imperatriz Leopoldinense.

São Clement Samba School got this innovative balloon from the same company that makes giant balloons for Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

Some revelers cannot keep up and faint before the end of the parade, whether from emotion, fatigue or both. This is not unusual.

Here’s another stunning highlight atop a float. Even from the street, the play of light is perfect. The common goal of displaying perfection is incredible. This always makes for good pictures.

Black Eyed Peas band member Fergie put on a show for whoever was there in between samba school parades.

Many feathers are used in carnaval costumes like Bruna Bruno’s, the queen of Escola União Ilha. I wonder if the birds suffer from donating their feathers.

Even though she is sitting on a bench before the show, she wouldn’t lose an opportunity to pose.

If you’ve never had the pleasure of participating, join your friends or family and head for a samba school.

Look at this joyful trio.

It’s really a shame that so many costumes are discarded after the carnaval.

They should be exhibited in a museum or gallery where others can enjoy them.

Many in this group were foreigners who left their costumes behind. What else can they do? You can’t pack these for your return flight.

To the untrained eye, this is just another highlight of the Grande Rio Samba School. Some of us know her as Luciana Gimenez, mother of Lucas Jagger— Mick Jagger’s son. She has a TV show, but during Brazil carnaval she forgets everything.

How did mixed-martial arts fighter Antônio Rogério Nogueira become a highlight for the Rio Grande Samba like| he’s ExploreSchool?

MagazineHe| looks 07/2012 59 enjoying himself.

ON TH E TA BLE

Meyer Lemon and Mint Caipirinha This is Brazil's national drink. Its distinctive f lavor comes from cachaça,

by Chef Letícia Moreinos

a distilled spirit

Ingredients:

made from fermented

2 Meyer lemons

sugar cane juice.

2 to 3 Tbsp cachaça

2 Tbsp sugar 5 fresh mint leaves Ice cubes Cachaça can easily be found at wine and liquor stores.

How to prepare: 1. Cut a lemon into small chunks or six small wedges.

2. Using a mortar and pestle or even the end of a wooden spoon, mash the lemon with the sugar, making sure to squeeze all juice from the lemon and dissolving the sugar.

3. Transfer the mixture to a drink shaker. Add the cachaça, mint leaves and ice cubes. Shake well about 8 to 10 times and pour into a glass.

Total Serving: one caipirinha.

“Editor's note: Some ingredients are only familiar to Brazilians. They should be available in Brazilian markets.”

60 | Brazil Explore Magazine

(Note: You can always add more cachaça to taste.)

Brasilian BLOW DRY BAR

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Receive up to 20,000 Bonus Miles with your first Card use*.

Every purchase you make with your LANPASS Visa Card earns more miles, getting you closer to visiting family and friends via LAN, it’s affiliates and oneworld® partner airlines.

APPLY TODAY! cALL | 866-401-6046 Ext. 93681 VisiT | lanpassvisa.com/93681 * One-time new LANPASS Visa Cardmember First Use Miles will be awarded when you pay your annual fee or use your Card for purchases. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for First Use Miles to be credited to the primary cardmember’s LANPASS Mileage account. LANPASS Visa Card must be open and in good standing at the time of the Mileage award. This offer is valid for new LANPASS Visa Card accounts only. Previous accounts closed within the last 12 months will be reopened and no First Use Bonus Miles will be awarded. This offer may not be combined with any other enrollment offer. The LANPASS Visa is available to legal U.S. residents with a Social Security number. Subject to credit approval. This Card is issued by U.S. Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A., Inc.