Brazil p03
p08 Made in UK
Brazilian and British business set up partnership.
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
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HEADLINES: BRAZIL:
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Rio de Janeiro's landslide death toll reaches 844.
INTERVIEW:
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Exclusive interview with, Roberto Jaguare Brazilian ambassador to UK.
MADE IN UK:
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Kate Middleton quits job to focus on wedding plans.
PORTUGUESE:
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Portugal Telecom in $5bn Brazil deal.
SHOWBIZ:
P14
Hathway cast as Catwomen.
WORLD:
P21
Mubarak's damage control: Too little, too late?
ECONOMY:
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The 10 worst places to live in the world.
SPORT:
P30
Inter and Milan to battle for Ganso.
BACK PAGE: Fernando De Noronha: Paradise in Brazil.
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HOMECOMING
OF THE STARS Brazil's economy is booming, change is the new buzzword and adding an exciting dose of magic to the country's emerging reality is the news that some of its most loved football stars are returning to their homeland to play for Brazilian teams. What has made this reversal of trend possible? Can it be called a renaissance in Brazilian football? Read more on page 2.
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Brazil
The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
BRAZILIAN FOOTBALL HOMECOMING OF THE STARS In what can only be called a happy homecoming, Brazilian players are returning to their country, reversing the long tradition of going abroad to seek their fortune and glory. Ronaldinho, the 30-year-old two-time 'FIFA World Player' left AC Milan this month and signed with Rio de Janeiro's Flamengo, following other big-name homecomings in the last few years, which have included Ronaldo (Corinthians), Roberto Carlos (Corinthians), Rivaldo (Sao Paulo) and Deco (Fluminense). National team captain Robinho and striker Adriano also returned for short spells. In fact, according to the national football authority - the Brazil Football Confederation, the number of players exported from Brazil fell 14% to 1,017 in 2009, amounting to a decrease of 25% in the total value of player exports. In contrast, the import of players into
Brazilian teams rose 7% to 707 more than double the number in 2006. No fewer than 6,650 football players left Brazil between 2003 and 2009. Since the 80's, the Brazilian league suffered setbacks, with stadiums in a bad condition, violent fans and a calendar that changed with such frequency that the majority of people could not follow it. This, in addition to the fact that football clubs in Brazil and other South American nations have traditionally sold their best players to Europe and other parts of the world in order to balance their books, meant that Brazilian football players had every reason to emigrate. The principal reason for the reversal in this trend is the Brazilian economy. As European economies struggle with the impact of the recession, Brazil's once crisis-
prone economy is developing at a rapid pace. Some 31 million people have joined Brazil's middle class since 2003, according to government figures. The value of the Brazilian real has doubled against the dollar since 2003, and risen 74% against the Euro since May 2004. The appreciation of Brazil's currency has reduced the allure of foreign salaries and started attracting skilled players back to their home ground. Club revenues in Brazil's top league rose an average of 12% in the 2008-09 period, compared to 4% in Europe's top five leagues, a study by Spanish sports marketing firm Prime Time Sport showed last year. While many European clubs are struggling with high debts and weak revenues, Brazil's clubs are seeking to run themselves better and not be forced into cash in on their best assets every year. One example of the healthier financial situation of Brazilian clubs is that of the Corinthians, who increased their player-
transfer and salary expenses by 65% to 133.6m Reais (£50m) last year. Ronaldo, the 34-year-old star, is reportedly receiving the same salary from the Corinthians as he had while playing with the Real
Madrid in 2006, which according to the Spanish paper El Mundo amounted to $8.2 million. The president of the team Andrés Sánchez said that the Corinthians are happy to pay Ronaldo a premium salary because he generates higher earnings from ticket sales as well as sponsorships from Brazil's advertisers and sports marketers (without whom none of this would have been remotely possible.) In addition to his salary, Ronaldo gets a share of the ticket sales and sponsorship income, the latter having doubled last year due to lucrative agreements with companies
like poultry major BRF-Brasil Foods SA of São Paulo. Esteve Calzada, chief executive of Prime Time Sport, makes the point that in addition to improved economic conditions, growing revenues from television rights have boosted Brazilian clubs' wealth and enabled them to raise their transfer budgets and wage bills. The 20 principal Brazilian teams saw a 12% earning increase in 2009, due to increased TV earnings, according to a study conducted by the research and consulting firm Crowe Horwath RCS in São Paulo. Comparatively, The English Premier League had an annual growth of 3% until June 2009. Another interesting aspect of the economic incentives for superstar players to return to Brazil is that Brazil has a lower taxation rate (27.5%) for its highest income group, compared to that of Spain for instance, where it is 43%. Most of the high-profile returnees are in the sunset of their careers, with some, including Ronaldinho aiming to catch the eye of the national team coach Mano Menezes ahead of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. However, skeptics must also look to examples of players in the prime of their career who were brought back to Brazil in 2010, albeit often on loan, including Vagner Love's loan period with Flamengo, and Robinho with Santos. More strikingly, Santos, the team of the legend Pele, was able to rebuff an approach from Chelsea for their 18-year-old star Neymar in the summer of 2010, by offering him a contract of £40,000 a week combined with an image rights deal with sponsors, as against Chelsea's £25m offer in a five-year contract worth £55,000 a week. While commercial deals that keep players such as Neymar in Brazil are certainly cause to celebrate, Paulo Vinicius Coelho, one of Brazil's leading soccer writers, has said that the massive exodus of Brazilian players to Europe has seen Brazil lose its capacity to nurture players with Brazilian characteristics. Pointing to the return of great players such as World Cup winner Romario during another period of Brazil's currency strength in the mid-1990s, he warns that a stronger economy alone will not guarantee a renaissance in Brazilian football.
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JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
The Brazilian Post
Brazil
03
PARTNERS BEYOND SPORTS: The Brazilian Chamber of Commerce launches the Major Sporting Events Committee The Brazilian Chamber of Commerce in Great Britain, in partnership with Major Events International (MEI), launched, on Wednesday, the 26th of January, a new committee focusing on major sporting events. In attendance at the launch were prominent members of the British and Brazilian business communities, as well as diplomatic guests including the Brazilian ambassador in England, Roberto Jaguaribe. The aim of this newly formed committee on major sporting events is to provide clear communication about the commercial opportunities present in the hosting of iconic events such as the World Cup series and the Olympics. In addition, the committee aims to provide a framework of support for members of the chamber to establish a stronger business presence in Brazil and greater collaboration in the UK. Besides the Brazilian ambassador, other important guests present were: Dennis Mills, MEI chief executive; Jaime Gornsztejn, from the Brazilian Chamer of Commerce in Great Britain; Paul Deighton, from London Organising Committee of the Olympics and Paraolympic Games; and John Armitt, from the Olympic Delivery Authority. The calendar of events in 2011 will include visits by relevant Brazilian government officials and stakeholders involved in planning and delivering sporting events in Brazil; expert briefings from commercial companies with experience in this market; and avenues for access to organizations that can assist with establishing a new business in Brazil. The Major Sporting Events Committee will be led by MEI due to their market penetration expertise and will be supported by a steering group consisting of international companies like Berwin Leighton Paisner LLP - international
law firm experienced in London 2012; Brazilian National Development Bank (BNDES) - currently financing all FIFA 2014 World Cup stadiums; Bradesco - private Brazilian bank and official sponsor of Rio 2016; Embratur - Brazilian tourism office; KPMG - international consulting firm experienced in major events, including London 2012 and World Cup 2014; Noerr - international law firm with major events experience, including Rio 2016; Rede Record - broadcasting rights holder of London 2012 and Rio 2016; TAM Airline - Brazilian airline sponsor of the Brazilian Football Team, among others. As the Committee develops, there will be a particular focus on individual sectors, which will include: sponsorship, infrastructure and procurement, renewable technologies, security and legacy. Ambassador Roberto Jaguaribe expressed how imporPhoto by Erick Oliveira
Photo by Erick Oliveira
tant the committee on Major Sporting Events is for Brazil. “I am really convinced that both countries will work very hard to have a great Olympic Games, but apart from this, I am also sure that both countries are working for the legacy that these major events represent,� he said. MEI chief executive Dennis Mills stated, "Working within the Chamber framework in developing this new committee can only help in supporting members and attendees improve business winning opportunities. It will also enhance access to key staff involved in major events, and therefore, communication and transfer of knowledge. We look forward to making the group an enduring success starting in January 2011." Exclusive interview with the Brazilian Ambassador Roberto Jaguaribe on page 5, and with MEI chief executive Dennis Mills on page 10.
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Brazil
The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Help arrives for Brazil’s landslide death toll reaches 844 stricken mountain region The death toll from floods and landslides that devastated a mountainous region near Rio de Janeiro has reached 844, according to state authorities, as rescue teams scoured the mud for the hundreds still missing. The disaster now ranks as the second-worst recorded in Brazil's history, according to United Nations data published in the Estado de Sao Paulo newspaper, eclipsed only by a meningitis outbreak that killed 1,500 people in 1974. Entire hillsides collapsed two weeks ago in the Serrana region, about 60 miles north of Rio, after the equivalent of a month's rain fell in 24 hours. Avalanches of mud and water ripped through mainly poor communities, tossing cars atop buildings and burying families alive. At least 207 people were recorded missing earlier this week, suggesting the final death toll could be close to 1,000. Local officials estimated at least 300 were missing after the landslides, which have also left thousands homeless. Fears are now growing about disease outbreaks in the area. Alexandre Padilha, the health minister, visited the worst-affected town of Nova Friburgo on Saturday, and state health authorities have warned against coming into contact with contaminated river water. Landslides and flash floods are common in much of Brazil at this time of year, but the scale of the disaster has prompted renewed concerns that authorities failed to plan or take action to prevent the disaster. Earlier this week, the Brazilian government vowed to set up a national early warning system that could alert communities to approaching natural dangers.
Brazil to launch new anti-poverty program The Brazilian federal government has opened a credit line of R$780m (US$ 460m) for the areas of Rio de Janeiro state, which were hit by floods and mudslides two weeks ago. The money is to be spent by the Ministry of National Integration and the Ministry of Transport on reconstruction work and on projects aimed at minimising the risk of such a disaster happening again. The official death toll has risen above 800, with at least another 400 people still unaccounted for. Thousands have been left homeless. The towns worst hit were Nova Friburgo, Teresópolis and Petrópolis – all about 60 miles north of Rio de Janeiro city. Medical workers in the region have been provided with additional supplies sufficient to treat 45,000 people, and the federal government has sent 4,000 food packages (each sufficient for a family of five for two weeks) to the Rio de Janeiro state government. Hundreds of military personnel are assisting with the relief and clear-up operation. President Rousseff has authorised the immediate payment of sums due to be received by Bolsa Família (Family Allowance) recipients in Nova Friburgo, Teresópolis and Petrópolis – around 20,000 people in total. The Embassy of Brazil has been informed of bank accounts both in the UK and in Brazil, that have been set up to receive donations for the relief effort - see below. Please note that it is not possible to send nonfinancial donations (clothing, medicines, etc) from outside Brazil.
Bank accounts in the UK Banco do Brasil SA. London Sort code: 40-50-47 Account name: Brasil Flood Relief 2011 Account number: 10201214 IBAN No: GB72 BRAS 4050 4710 2012 10 Donations may also be made in cash between 10am and 4pm, MonFri, at the Banco do Brasil branch offices: 4th Floor, Pinners Hall, 105108 Old Broad Street, London EC2N 1ER. (Tube: Liverpool Street / Bank)
Bank accounts in Brazil SOS Teresópolis – Donativos Bank: Banco do Brasil Branch: 0741-2 Account: 110000-9 CNPJ – 29.138.369/0001-47
SOS Teresópolis – Donativos Bank: Caixa Econômica Federal Branch: 4146 Account: 2011-1 CNPJ: 29.138.369/0001-47
Prefeitura de Nova Friburgo [Nova Friburgo municipal government] Bank: Banco do Brasil Branch: 0335-2 Account: 120.000-3
Defesa Civil – RJ [Civil Defence, Rio de Janeiro] Bank: Caixa Econômica Federal Branch: 0199 Operation: 006 Account: 2011-0
Viva Rio [Rio de Janeiro-based NGO] Bank: Banco do Brasil Branch: 1769-8 Account: 411396-9 CNPJ: 00343941 / 0001-28
Prefeitura de Petrópolis [Petrópolis municipal government] Bank: Banco do Brasil Branch: 0080-9 Account: 76000-5 CNPJ: 29.138.344/0001-43
Campanha SOS Sudeste (CNBB e Cáritas Brasileira) Bank: Caixa Econômica Federal Branch: 1041 Operation: 003 Conta: 1490-8 Source: Embassy of Brazil in London
Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff, who made poverty reduction a top priority, will launch a new program to coordinate nationwide anti-poverty actions. Modelled after the Growth Acceleration Program (PAC) launched in 2007 to improve infrastructure projects, the program was aimed at helping the poor overcome financial difficulties and reduce reliance on state welfare funds, Minister for Social Development Tereza Campello told reporters. It will not just include the government's wealth transfer initiatives, but also contain a comprehensive government agenda to alleviate poverty in broader spectrums, she added. "We will not attack poverty with only wealth transference policies. We have an agenda of social and productive inclusion, of expanding the public services network, sanitation, water, health, education and professional qualification," Campello said. Before the program's official launch later this year, several meetings were scheduled to work out the details, she said.
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
The Brazilian Post
Brazil
05
OLYMPICS WILL BRING BRAZIL AND UK TOGETHER An exclusive interview with Roberto Jaguare, Brazilian Ambassador to the UK Q: Do you think Brazil will play an important role in the changing international economic scenario for the years to come?
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Roberto Jaguaribe has had a sparkling career that has seen him travel the world representing Brazil. (His previous addresses include USA, Chile and Switzerland.) Now, as the Brazilian ambassador to the United Kingdom, he talks about Brazil and its evolving relationship with the UK; the Olympic Games; and what he thinks the challenges and opportunities of the near future are, in this exclusive interview in the first English edition of The Brazilian Post.
A: The international economic scenario is both an opportunity and a challenge, but one thing is for sure – if a country does not adapt itself to this new reality, it will not survive and grow. I think Brazil is doing a good job developing its economy and adapting to the new economic realities of our time. Q: You attended the launch of the Major Sporting Events Committee, which aims to develop partnerships between British and Brazilian businesses. Do you believe that Brazil and England will come together, particularly commercially, for the 2016 Rio Olympics?
Q: During the last eight years, President Lula did some amazing work in the external policy arena. Now we have a new president, Dilma Rousseff. Do you think we will face any changes in terms of external policy during his term? A: Brazilian foreign policy has the benefit of consistency for many years and this consistency creates credibility. There's no doubt that in recent years, there has been an important surge for Brazil and this has been due to several factors. The improvement inside the country has helped the external aspect as well. And of course, former president Lula worked very hard to achieve this reality. I do not believe that we will see any significant change in external policy in the next four years, but clearly we have a new president who has her own strong personality and will put her viewpoints across, but she will stay on track for targets that are important to the issue of foreign policy. President Dilma is keen to develop projects and partnerships abroad, so while it is possible that some changes may happen, I believe that we will stay on track for all our important foreign policy goals to be achieved. Q: Now let's look at a few issues on the domestic side. In your opinion, what are the major problems Brazil faces today? A: To a great extent, Brazil's challenges are tied to its social problems. However, if you look at the history of the majority of the countries in the world, you will see that social issues have always been a target of important work. In the case of Brazil, there is an increasing incorporation of the most marginalized classes, not only economically, but also culturally, socially and politically. However, we cannot deny that the most important aspect of inclusion for those who live in poverty is the economic aspect. These complex issues are being tackled, and it is important to remember that our domestic state of affairs are more than connected with our external image and the power of our country in an international market. Q: There is criticism about Brazil having a very low profile in the international trade arena. What is your opinion about this? A: Brazil still has a major gap between its huge economic size and its foreign trade figures. Generally speaking, we are about the seventh or eighth largest economy in the world, but our trade figures are only among the world's thirty largest, so there is a disproportion there. Many people think that this is something really negative, but there are those who
A: There is no doubt that the Olympic Games in both countries in 2012 and 2016 respectively create momentous opportunities for the UK and for Brazil. An event like the Olympics goes much beyond sport, though sport is very important in and of itself. Beyond the spectacle of the sporting arena, the Olympic Games will also help to generate income, development and employment in both countries. There is no doubt that businessmen from both countries are very aware of the possibilities that this event will provide. Q: You are the highest Brazilian Authority in U.K. authority. Can you say some words to the Brazilian community living here?
consider it not so bad. I think there are always several ways to view reality. For example, the fact that we were less exposed to the international market in 2008-2009, made us less fragile to the international crisis that ensued in those years. Q: And what about the economic partnership between Brazil and Africa which was something so encouraged and developed by former President Lula? Can we believe that we will continue our economic relationship with African countries? And also, will this remain a feature of Brazilian foreign policy - seeking partners in Africa and Asia? A: We are living in times of change. There is an emergence of new and relevant actors in the international economic stage, which were perhaps not traditionally known as strong players before. Africa, Asia, Latin America are all new actors and there is an abundance of opportunity for them in the international market. Partnerships with these emerging economies will have positive results for everyone, not only economically, but also culturally and socially. Of course, the commercial factor is really important. For example, in 2002, we started with a US$ 5 billion trade exchange with Africa. In 2008, we passed US$ 25 billion. This makes the African region probably our third or fourth largest trading partner.
A: I see the Brazilian community here as being motivated, hardworking, energetic, and extremely peaceful. The Brazilians here are proud of and very attached to their tradition and culture and continue to pass their strong values on to their children. I hope that these positives about our community will endure. • Photo by Erick Oliveira
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Brazil
The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Starting February, Public transportation mostly used by urban Brazilians new ID for Brazilian people Approximately one hundred thousand people from seven cities received a letter from the Brazilian Ministry of Justice last week, inviting them to replace their old ID card with a new one called Registro de Identidade Civil (Civil Identity Register), or simply RIC. The seven cities chosen were Brasilia, Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, Itamaracá (in Pernambuco), Hidrolândia (in Goias), Nísia Floresta (in Rio Grande do Norte) and Rio Sono (in Tocantins). By the end of 2011, more than 1.9 million people will receive the same letter to replace their old ID with the new RIC. According to Marcos Elias Araujo, who works as director of the National Institute of Identification in Brazil, the first hundred thousand recipients of the letter were selected by the government according to a list of the
Supreme Electoral Tribunal, which is responsible for elections in Brazil. At the current stage of the change-over process, it is not possible for citizens to put in requests for new IDs. However, the old ID and the new ID will coexist for 10 years, which is the period presented by the Brazilian Government for the replacement of all old IDs. The RIC has no less than 17 security features, and in addition to preventing fraud, it was designed to make life easier for citizens by simplifying the process of procuring social benefits and private contracts, opening accounts and banking operations and reducing the possibility of errors and losses. The new ID now makes it possible to have multiple pieces of information, such as voter registration and social integration program (PIS), conveniently available in one document.
Public transportation, especially taking the bus, is the means of transport most often used by Brazilians in urban areas, according to a study released last week by the Institute of Applied Economic Research (IPEA). According to the survey, 44% of the urban population travels by bus, followed by car usage (23.8%), and motorcycles (12.6%), while 12.3% of the urban population travels on foot. Researchers interviewed 2,770 families across the country for the study, which also covers Brazilians' attitudes toward the quality of transportation. According to the study, 19.2% of the respondents say the public transportation system is bad, 19.8% deem it is very bad, while 26.1% think it is good, and only 2.9% of the respondents consider it very good. "This study draws attention to the inadequacy of this model. There is room to advance public policies," IPEA President Marcio Pochmann said during the presentation of the report. As the report shows, 66.6% of the urban population faces traffic jams at least once a month, and among them, 20.5% is bothered by this problem at least once a day. In Brazil, the number of vehicles has increased
significantly over the last decade. About one in every eight persons owned one car in 2000, but last year, about one in every five persons owned a car.
Diplomatic passport to be limited by Brazilian government The Brazilian government has finalized a proposal to restrict the issuance of diplomatic passports. According to the new measures, all new issuances of these special passports will be required to be published in the Brazilian government's official newspaper, the Diário Oficial. There have also been restrictions on the validity period of these pasports. The decision to rewrite the rules of issue was signed by Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff, after the Brazilian Foreign Ministry had granted diplomatic passports to former president Lula's sons and grandsons. In some cases, diplomatic passports were issued two days before president Lula's term as Brazilian president had ended. As a result of the negative press about the cases involving former president Lula's relatives, the Brazilian government has decided to limit the issuance of such diplomatic passports through the new regulation issued by the Foreign Ministry.
30 Brazilian soldiers suspended amid looting allegations Brazil's army has suspended 30 soldiers accused of looting in a Rio de Janeiro slum they occupied last November after chasing out the drug traffickers who previously controlled it. The move follows dozens of complaints of abuses committed by police officers against local residents, complicating the government's attempts to return to state control large swaths of Brazil's second city which for decades have been run by heavily armed drug gangs. More serious accusations were denounced to the United Nations by local human rights groups who documented cases of illegal entry, extortion, intimidation, illegal detention and threats of torture and death by police officers against shanty town or favela residents. Twenty-three police officers are already suspended while under investigation for crimes against residents, but this is the first accusation against soldiers. They make up the overwhelming majority of the 2,000-man force patrolling a string of favelas in the north of the city that the state reoccupied after a violent stand-off with gangs. The 30 soldiers all came from the elite parachute regiment. They were suspended after their patrol was accused of looting an empty house in the Fazendinha favela, which makes up part of the Complexo do Alemão, one of the city's biggest slum areas. According to soldiers who reported the incident to military authorities, the patrol's lieutenant took an air-conditioning unit while men under his command stole other items from the house. The army was sent into the Complexo do Alemão in November after the
gang which controlled it and the neighbouring Vila Cruzeiro favela unleashed a wave of violence across the city in an attempt to force the state to halt its policy of retaking control of gang-dominated slums and then building police stations in them. Residents in the complex have welcomed an end to the rule of young gang members who frequently turned the area into war zones as they battled the police and rival gangs. However, there have been 55 recorded complaints against the police which accompanied the military into the retaken favelas. Most of the accusations involve theft of property. In one case, police officers are accused of taking more than €13,000 from an evangelical preacher in Vila Cruzeiro. In the days immediately following the occupation of the favelas by the authorities, soldiers discovered tonnes of drugs and huge quantities of money abandoned by traffickers, who melted into the population before the army-led assault. Brazil's own army admits that despite its heavy presence in the favelas, drug trafficking has returned, with cocaine again being sold and several gang murders reported.
Made in UK
The Brazilian Post
07
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Kate Middleton quits job to focus on wedding plans The big day is fast approaching, and Kate Middleton has decided to quit her job at her parents' online party supplies business to throw herself full-time into planning her wedding with Prince William. They are now spending all their free time together at their cottage on Anglesey, close to the RAF Valley base where he works as a helicopter pilot. According to one friend, Kate, who helped organise parties in her former guise, has taken on the planning role with "gusto and energy". The friend, who was quoted in Hello! magazine, said: "Catherine is a naturally creative individual and has spent her professional life in the creative industries having worked at Jigsaw, then as a website designer, photographer, marketer and events organiser. Skills she has built up in her working life translate naturally to organising a wedding."
Royal insiders say that while most of the big decisions have been taken, the couple will hold back on publicising some key details to keep them as surprises for April 29. These include the identity of the dress designer, the design of their wedding rings and the words of their vows. The insider said: "They don't want the world to be sick of their wedding before they become husband and wife. To them it is very important for people on the day to feel they are a part of something which is fresh and new." However, some key decisions have still to be made. There is also uncertainty about where the couple will live after the prince finishes his training on Anglesey in 2013. Some expect their London base to be St James's Palace but insiders say Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace have not been ruled out.
Tube warns commuters to stay away in evening rush-hour Millions of commuters were told, last week, to stay away from Victoria Tube station at evening rush-hour for an entire year. Underground bosses issued the unprecedented warning because overcrowding is set to worsen during a ÂŁ700?million redevelopment of the station. Passengers on the Victoria, Circle and District lines will all be affected by the revamp, which involves the closure of escalators. Victoria, one of the capital's busiest stations, is already often closed by congestion caused by more than 220,000 travellers a day. Daily journeys will be even more chaotic from this Monday, when London Underground starts work on each of the three long escalators there. The rush is on to get the work completed in time for the 2012 Olympics. One escalator at a time will be out of action from Monday. Because more passengers leave the station in the evening than enter, the remaining two escalators will only carry people up from the platforms to the concourse. This means very restricted access into the station.
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Made in UK
The Brazilian Post
Students and unions protest against cuts, high fees
Students and trade unions are voicing their anger with the coalition government's spending cuts with protests in London and Manchester. Thousands of people have attended rallies to protest against spending cuts and an increase in tuition fees. The National Union of Students and the Trades Union Congress joined forces to stage the protests. Protesters in Manchester started a peaceful march escorted by mounted police, but but some students later broke away from the rally. They were being escorted by police to the city centre. In London too, thousands took part in protests.Student unions accused the government of "betraying" young people. Sally Hunt, general secretary of the University and College Union, accused ministers of prioritising billions of pounds in tax breaks for business as the government triples the cost of university. She said the government was "at war with our young people". TUC assistant general secretary Kay Carberry told the rally that young people should not pay the price for the government's "reckless gamble" with the economy. The government has said it will invest in creating jobs for young people. "Our new Work Programme will provide young people with additional personalised support and training to help them into sustainable work and the introduction of Universal Credit will ensure that work always pays," employment minister Chris Grayling said.
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
London to celebrate Chinese New Year
London is as cosmopolitan a city as they come, and the Chinese are a very important part of London's multicultural landscape. The sheer number of Chinese families that have been living in the UK through the generations makes the Chinese New Year a tradition in the country. Every Chinese New Year is represented by one of twelve animals, each with its own special characters, and each representing a series of years. 2011 is the year of the rabbit. The actual new year's day according to the Chinese calendar is February 3rd, but in London, the big celebration will take place on Sunday, February 6th in Trafalgar Square, Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue from 12 to 6 pm. Traditionally, Chinese people wear red during the occasion.
Also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, this is a traditional festival, for which the Chinese enjoy the longest holiday of the year. Similar to Christmas in many ways, the most significant part of the festival is the annual reunion dinner on new year's eve, where families gather for a meal. Food is prepared in no small quantity, and in the north of China, dumplings are essential dishes on the dinner menu, for dumplings, because of the similarity of their shape to old Chinese money, symbolize wealth! On New Year's day, it is the elders who play Santa by putting 'lucky money' into little red envelops, with their best wishes to the kids, for the new year ahead.
BBC online to cut 360 jobs Bad news for journalists. The BBC announced last week that they will cut around 360 jobs and close hundreds of websites as part of "a more streamlined" approach to its online service in order to cut its online budget by 25% from ÂŁ137 million to ÂŁ103 million by 2013/14.
- Text by Chloe Huo
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
The Brazilian Post
Made in UK
09
Brazilian group studying immigration in the UK
The Brazilian Migration to the UK Research Group (GEB), promoted it's third annual seminar about Brazilian migrants in London last week, titled Brazilians in London: Culture, identity and belonging. The event took place in the Brazilian embassy. The research group which hosts similar meetings on a monthly basis, aims to continue studying and fostering a dialogue with the Brazilian Diaspora in the UK. “Studies involving the Brazilian community in London are really useful, as they allow us to know more this community and to collect data that will help this group develop an identity in this country,” explains Brazilian Dr. Ana Souza, who develops such studies for the Goldsmith College and is one of the coordinators of the GEB group. However, she also points out that events like this are extremely important to allow members of the group to know more not only about the Brazilian population that lives in London, but about Brazilians everywhere. “This study does not pertain solely to businessmen or students, but to professions across the board – to teachers, cleaners, to legal and illegal immigrants…” and once this information is collected and studied, it
will be used by the researchers to help this community and serve it better. During the seminar, she made a presentation about Language and Cultural Identity. “Language is a very simple example of cultural aspects, but there are so many others that are directly connected to the idea of who we are when we are living in another country”, said Ana. Two panels provided an opportunity to disseminate and discuss recent academic research, which focuses on different aspects relating to the experience of being Brazilian in London. The speakers for the first panel, 'Identity and Belonging among Brazilians in London' also included Dr Yara Evans (Queen Mary, University of London) - who pre-
sented the topic 'Brazilians in London: new socioeconomic profile, 2010'; Olivia Sheringham (PhD Student, Geography, Queen Mary, University of London) - who presented the topic 'Religion and Belonging'; and Graça Brightwell (PhD Student, Geography, Royal Holloway, University of London) - who presented the topic 'Food and Identity'. Brightwell's presentation was really interesting in that it showed how there are so many aspects that are connected, and together affect the Brazilian Diaspora. She presented the seminar about 'Food and Identity' and demonstrated how simple elements like food are important to make immigrants feel at home, and establish their identity in a
foreign country. In addition, she explained that the majority of the 70 Brazilian restaurants in London are decorated with Brazilian symbols, with Brazilian music and for sure, they are places where people can speak Portuguese – thus taking the idea of identity through food beyond the cuisine itself. After a coffee break, during which Brazilian food was served, it was time for the presentations of the second panel, 'Brazilian Cultural Production and Consumption in London'. Among the speakers for this panel were the Brazilian singer Monica Vasconcelos; Mestre Silvia, from London School of Capoeira Herança; Luis da Costa, owner of Brazilian restaurant Sabor Mineiro; and Paul Heritage, People's palace projects, Queen Mary, University of London. After the seminars, the public got a chance to be part of a Capoeira presentation. You too can be a part of the meetings of the Brazilian Migration to the UK Research Group. To be added to the group's mailing list, and receive news, information and the latest research, please send an email to: geb.anasouza@yahoo.com.br - Text and photo by Filipe Maciel
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Made in UK
The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
An Interview with Dennis Mills
BRAZILIAN COMPANIES MUST GET INVOLVED WITH LONDON OLYMPICS Major Events International (MEI) is a company that provides support for those bidding for, hosting or supplying into major events. MEI will be working together with the Brazilian Chamber of Commerce in Great Britain in order to promote the Major Sporting Events Committee. The Brazilian Post met with MEI chief executive, Dennis Mills, to talk about the new committee, the importance of the partnership for Brazil and England and the challenges both countries face in order to maximize the potential of the Olympic Games. the business community and the diplomatic community, including the Brazilian ambassador who came to show his support.
What was the first step in the creation of the Major Sporting Events Committee? As a company, what we do is basically help other companies to get new markets. We started looking for the current membership of the Brazilian Chambers of Commerce and there are a really good number of companies, and a reasonable mix of companies too, but not all these groups are connected to major events like the Olympic Games. So, we approached the chambers and we explained to them that we believed that both UK and Brazil, which are involved in a series of major sports events, could use these events as a platform to improve collaboration between both nations and to transfer knowledge and take advantage of the legacy of these events. We got a very positive and enthusiastic response from the chamber, as well as from the business community and the companies that we approached.
And how do you see this partnership for both countries? This is a complementary way to do business. It aims not only to strengthen relations between Brazil and England, but also to develop economic activities within the two countries. Projects like this have the potential to make the participating countries even closer. Moreover, the benefits of such a partnership stand to have an enduring positive impact, such that even after the games, these business relationships can last a long time. If these partnerships do come to an end for any reason, which I don't foresee happening, then it will only really be after the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.
I guess part of the aim of this committee is also to show how events like the Olympic Games go beyond sports activities, correct?
The idea is really interesting, but unfortunately, many people, including businessmen, don't recognize how events like the World Cup or the Olympic Games go beyond sports activities. What would you say to these people?
Absolutely. It is not just about sport activity or the Olympic Games, but all the services for events like this. We need to think about what social changes you want and how integrated planning is vital. You cannot just build a football stadium and then not consider the transport. And after taking care of transport, what about the e-ticket system or the hotel to host everybody who wants to be part of the event. Also, we are dealing with people and how to do a good job for them should be the priority. We need to think about safety, health, hotel, public transport, food, etc.
Each time we approach a company, no matter how big or small it may be, or how related or unrelated to sports activity it may be, we ask one simple question: what are you doing to increase your business as a result of these major events. And some of the answers that we receive are: I don't know who to speak to, I don't know what the dates are, I don't know what to do to get involved. So really, what we are trying to do is to build a support structure for these companies so that what they thought was impossible, has at least now become visible. So basically the aim is to try to remove obstacles in their way, and make everybody closer.
And what is the next step now? Well, to think about a legacy for these events, you have to start now. So, for example, in order to help Brazilian companies develop capabilities in Brazil for their own games, it is important that we get them, somehow, involved with people and companies who are working for London 2012 or Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2014. Then, they will form partnerships and will become stronger and more able to build business societies around major events in Brazil. So for this, everything must start now.
What is the most difficult aspect in an event like this? It is to understand how big it is and how everybody can get involved. A simple and scary example is related to how these major events are extremely connected to time. You have a fixed deadline that is totally unchangeable. Billions of people are watching live or through television, so you have no choice. So the first big message is about time and for this reason, you need to start to prepare yourself or your company as early as you possibly can. It is also important to think about the legacy of such an event and what social changes you want from it and how integrated planning is vital.
The launch of the Major Sporting Events was a success, so I guess everybody is ready to start now‌ This is true, the launch was great and we had a great mix of people from
2012 is really close, so what advice would you give to Brazil that would help us for the Olympic Games in 2016? I say this not just for Brazil or England, but in general: that for an event like this, it is important to have ideas, but it is of utmost importance to make these ideas a reality. So the most important advice is really to work hard and, once again, to deal with time efficiently is of absolute importance for any project of this scale and nature.
Portuguese Parlance Portugal boasts EU's second highest rise in car sales
While car sales dropped by 5.5% throughout the rest of Europe, last year Portugal enjoyed a healthy rise in the number of people buying passenger vehicles, outdone only by Ireland. Based on last year's performance, experts predict 2011 will be an “extremely competitive” year. Of all 27 EU state-members, Portugal's car sales were surpassed only by sales in Ireland. Data supplied from the European Association for Automobile Manufacturers (ACEA), which documented EU car sales throughout 2010, confirmed sales in Portugal have been steadily growing since the beginning of last year. Since January 2010, the national market has been leading the way in sales and has registered the quickest growth. Portugal's performance could however, be somewhat explained by comparing last year's figures with 2009's, which was described as a “black year”. Sales fell by 25% in 2009, compared to 2008, leading industry experts to deem 2009 as Portugal's worst year for car sales in 22 years. Twelve months later, and it has been concluded that 2010 was the most positive year in eight years in
terms of passenger vehicles sold. Last year, approximately 223,491 new cars were sold. The last time such figures were registered was at the beginning of this century, when in 2002 new sales totaled 228,574; in 2001 sales reached 255,244 units; and in 2000 they soared to 295,490 vehicles. Nonetheless, the industry was still surprised by last year's rise in sales. In December alone, sales increased by 62%, representing 12.5% of the year's total. Manufacturers suggest imminent tax rises could have spurred people to buy now before a new car becomes more costly. Another contributing factor could be the eradication of financial incentives to scrap cars that are ten years old or older. As of this year, such incentives are available only for those looking to trade in their old car for an electric one. Nonetheless, manufacturers view the next few months with pessimism and foresee the onset of fierce competition among brands. “It will be an extremely competitive year” said spokesmen for Peugeot Portugal, Jorge Magalhães. He concluded “The biggest doubts are about March and April, particularly regarding purchases made by renta-car companies.”
The Brazilian Post
11
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Cape Verde to receive second aid package from Millennium Challenge Corporation The board of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) said last week in Washington that Cape Verde would receive a second aid package (compact) from the Millennium Challenge Account. At the end of a meeting of the board of directors of the MCC, chief executive Daniel Yohannes contacted the Cape Verde embassy in Washington and the Cape Verdean government to inform them that the archipelago would receive the second MCA compact. The next step is to discuss the projects that the country has to put forward for this compact so that they can be assessed by the US government body, in order to decide the amount of funding to be attributed to Cape Verde. At the end of the first compact, in October 2010, the possibility of Cape Verde receiving the second pact was almost a certainty, and the government planned to apply the second package to the areas of water and sanitation, and education.
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Portuguese Parlance
The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
MOZAMBIQUE: Portugal Telecom in cooking gas shortage $5bn Brazil deal continues
Apparent shortages of LPG cooking gas in Maputo, are continuing, with the main vendors of gas immediately selling out of the small amounts of this fuel that they are receiving from the supplier, Petrogal Moçambique. Petrogal is still not providing any information as to the cause of this crisis, which is leading to speculation, as dishonest middlemen sell the gas at prices much higher than the official price stipulated by the government. The director of the Mozambican fuel import agency (IMOPETRO), Manuel Braga, cited in Wednesday's issue of the Maputo daily "Noticias", guaranteed that enough gas had been imported to supply the entire country, and Maputo in particular, and he did not know what had gone wrong with the distribution. "As importers, we guarantee that there is enough gas to supply the city during the entire month, and we continue to receive between two and four truckloads of this fuel every day", declared Braga. He insisted that there was no reason for alarm, and expected that the situation would soon return to normal. The Ministry of Energy also insists that there are no problems with stocks of gas. It suggests that the current situation results from the "opportunism" of some vendors who are hoarding gas. They receive the same amounts as normal, but release it onto the market little by little. It is this which has led to price speculation, with a bottle containing 11 kilos of gas, which should cost 581.5 meticais (17.8 US dollars), selling for 750 meticais. Meanwhile, GALP has announced that it is to invest 11 million euros (15 million US dollars) in building two deposits for LPG, with the capacity to store 6,000 cubic metres of gas, in the southern city of Matola. According to Fernando Gomes, the executive director of the company, this project will allow the country to be supplied LPG from South Africa by sea and not by truck. Speaking to reporters after inaugurating a GALP petrol station in Maputo, Gomes said the company is also involved in hydrocarbon exploration in the Rovuma basin, in the far north of Mozambique, where it expects to drill its first well in May. “GALP is not interested merely in distributing fuel and LPG", he said. "It is also interested in the national biofuels project in several regions. This year the first seeds produced in Mozambique will be transformed into oil and bio-diesel".
Portugal Telecom is to pay R$8.32bn ($5bn) for a 22.4% stake in Oi, Brazil's largest telecom group, as part of a deal that will see the Brazilian company replace Spain's Telefónica as the largest shareholder in the Portuguese operator. After selling its 50% stake in Vivo, Brazil's leading mobile operator, to Telefónica for €7.5bn in July, the agreement marks an attempt by Portugal Telecom to export its successful "triple play" broadband internet, phone and pay-TV business model from Portugal to Brazil. "We have changed paths, but not direction," Zeinal Bava, Portugal Telecom's chief executive, said on Wednesday. "Brazil remains our most important strategic option for future growth." Portugal Telecom would use its experience in fixed-to-mobile convergence, pay-TV channels and fixed and mobile broadband to leverage Oi's strong market position", he said. According to Portugal Telecom, Oi accounts for about 30% of Brazil's fixed-lined telecom market and 20% of wireless operations. Mr Bava said Oi, whose shareholders include pension funds as well as Citigroup and Opportunity Asset Management, intended to buy 10% of Portugal Telecom, the same stake held by Telefónica before the Vivo deal. The transaction would take place before April. Following the deal, overseas operations focused on Brazil and Africa would represent more than 40% of Portugal Telecom's pre-tax earnings this year and
more than 50% of revenue, Mr Bava said. The Lisbon government used controversial special "golden share" veto rights last year to temporarily block Portugal Telecom from selling out of Vivo, insisting that the group maintain a strategic position in the Brazilian market. Portugal Telecom will also acquire a direct stake of 19.9% in CTX, Oi's holding company for contact centre services. It will then merge its Brazilian contact centre unit, Dedic/GTPI, with CTX's Contax and receive R$200mn in net cash. Mr Bava said that under the overall deal Portugal Telecom would acquire a minimum economic stake in Oi of 22.4%. But transactions with Oi shareholders meant the Portuguese group would be able to consolidate 25.6% of Oi and 44% of CTX.
HEADLINES: JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
GUIDE
Showbiz: Pregnant Emma Bunton reveals engagement. Page 14.
Fashion: What is your street wear style? Page 18.
Horoscope: In the stars: Don't forget to check your sign. Page 20.
And the new Catwoman will be‌ Anne Hathaway! The latest actress to squeeze into the Catwoman suit and portray Selina Kyle will be none other than Anne Hathaway, after such actresses as Michelle Pfeiffer and Halle Berry have donned the suit before her. Hathaway will also cohost this year's academy awards (List of nominations on page 15.)
Its time to have
FUN! An outdoor exhibition of sculptures by the acclaimed London-based artist Anish Kapoor, an ancient Egyptian 'Book of the Dead', a dose of Shakespeare, a Flamenco festival, bringing in the Chinese new year‌ in short: your guide to the interesting and varied things that London has to offer. Read more on page 19.
The best Brazilian food and snacks has a new address
70 Cleveland Street, London W1T6LY
078 8342 4868
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Showbiz
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
The Brazilian Post
Anthony Hopkins to play Alfred Hitchcock?
From a scary cannibal serial killer to a much-admired director, Anthony Hopkins may soon take a stab at starring as Alfred Hitchcock according to the Hollywood Reporter. Hopkins is in talks to play the Master of Suspense in the planned film, "Alfred Hitchcock and the Making of Psycho," based on Stephen Rebello's non-fiction book. So not only are we going to get a glimpse inside the making of one of Hollywood's most influential movies, we'll also get to know the man behind it all.
HATHAWAY Cast as Catwoman in 'Dark Knight Rises' So it has been decided. After months of speculation, including a pool of actresses ranging from Naomi Watts and Keira Knightley to Blake Lively and Jessica Biel, Warner Bros. has announced who will join Tom Hardy's Bane in Christopher Nolan's third and final installment of Batman: The Dark Knight Rises. And the winner is… Anne Hathaway! Hathaway, who will co-host the Oscars next month with James "I Cut My Arm Off" Franco, will be the latest actress to squeeze into the Catwoman suit and portray Selina Kyle, both a villain and ally to Batman, and often a love interest. Previous actresses to have donned the Catwoman suit include Michelle Pfeiffer in 1992's Batman Returns, and Halle Berry in her stand-alone Razzie Award-winning performance as Patience Phillips/Catwoman in 2004.
BABY ELF In the first snaps of Orlando Bloom with newborn son Flynn, we can see the Pirates Of The Caribbean and Lord of the Rings actor is clearly besotted with his little bundle of joy. Enjoying a sunny stroll in one of Australia's national parks, Orlando held the adorable three-week-old baby close to his chest while planting kisses on his tiny forehead. The shots come just days after new mum Miranda Kerr revealed the first picture of baby Flynn in his new home. “We are so happy and are enjoying our time together as a family. He is our little ray of sunshine," Miranda posted on her website. And after seeing these pictures of the tiny tot, we think he might just be our little ray of sunshine, too.
Katy Perry's new album workart Adding more excitement to the anticipation of her upcoming dance track “E.T.” – Katy Perry has released a photo of herself in the costume she dons in the video. Revealing the picture via Facebook, the “Firework” gal is posing with blunt bangs, a heavy cat eye and a pleather and fish-scale sequined top. She wrote, "Here's a sneak peek of the artwork for 'E.T.,' the next single off 'Teenage Dream'! Stay tuned for a new music video and remixes coming soon." Of the actual song, Perry explained, "This next song is about falling in love with a foreigner, like far away ... not even in England."
OPRAH
reveals her big family secret Oprah Winfrey's big secret is that she has a little sister. She held a family reunion on The Oprah Winfrey Show (TV) last week and introduced her half-sister, Patricia. Patricia, who was given up for adoption by Winfrey's mother, Vernita Lee, in 1963, lived in foster homes until she was 7. By age 17, she was a single mother, and now has two grown children. Winfrey commented that the Milwaukee woman has known about their relationship since 2007, but never tried to take advantage of the media mogul or sell her story. Winfrey learned about Patricia just before Thanksgiving and was unaware at the time of the adoption since she was living in Nashville with her father. Lee said she later tried to find her daughter, but to no avail.
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
The Brazilian Post
Showbiz
15
List of nominations for the 83rd Annual Academy Awards announced The King's Speech leads the nominees for the 83rd Annual Academy Awards with twelve nominations. True Grit is next with ten nominations, followed by Inception and The Social Network with eight nominations each. James Franco, up for Best Actor for 127 Hours, is set to co-host the awards show with Anne Hathaway at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles on February 27. Here's the complete list of nominees:
David O. Russell, The Fighter Tom Hooper, The King's Speech David Fincher, The Social Network Joel Coen and Ethan Coen, True Grit
Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role Javier Bardem, Biutiful Jeff Bridges, True Grit
Jesse Eisenberg, The Social Network Colin Firth, The King's Speech James Franco, 127 Hours
Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role Christian Bale, The Fighter John Hawkes, Winter's Bone Jeremy Renner, The Town Mark Ruffalo, The Kids Are All Right
Geoffrey Rush, The King's Speech
Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role Annette Bening, The Kids Are All Right Nicole Kidman, Rabbit Hole Jennifer Lawrence, Winter's Bone Natalie Portman, Black Swan Michelle Wiliams, Blue Valentine
Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role
BEST MOTION PICTURE OF THE YEAR
Amy Adams, The Fighter Helena Bonham Carter, The King's Speech Melissa Leo, The Fighter Hailee Steinfeld, True Grit Jacki Weaver, Animal Kingdom
Black Swan The Fighter Inception The Kids Are All Right The King's Speech 127 Hours The Social Network Toy Story 3 True Grit Winter's Bone
Best Foreign Language Film of the Year Biutiful (Mexico) Dogtooth (Greece) In a Better World (Denmark) Incendies (Canada) Outside the Law (Hors-la-loi, Algeria)
Achievement in Directing Darren Aronofsky, Black Swan
JIMMY BUFFETT Hospitalized After Concert Fall Jimmy Buffett made a frightening, unexpected exit from the stage during a concert in Sydney last week. As horrified fans looked on, the entertainer, 64, took a nasty tumble off the front of the stage, then was taken to a hospital with a head injury, according to reports. Before the accident, the singer's "Welcome to Fin Land" tour was scheduled to continue on Saturday in New Zealand, and resume in the States this April.
Donald Sutherland Gets a Star Next to Kiefer's
Bestowed his very own sense of Hollywood immortality, Donald Sutherland received the 2430th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame last week. The 75-year-old actor was presented the honor by "Horrible Bosses" co-star Colin Farrell during a laid-back ceremony taking place next to Donald's son Kiefer's Walk of Fame star.
Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem celebrate the arrival of their first baby Spain's premier couple, Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem, has welcomed their first child together. The 36-year-old actress gave birth to a little boy. The new arrival was born in Los Angeles' world-renowned Cedars Sinai hospital. It is not yet known what the first-time parents have decided to name their son. By Penelope and Javier's side were the actress' family, including her mother Encarna, her younger brother Eduardo and her sister Monica, accompanied by her actor boyfriend Alex Gonzalez. The Cruz family were seen arriving at the hospital and were later snapped embracing a beaming Javier outside. It had originally been thought that Penelope would choose to give birth in the Spanish capital, but after spending Christmas in LA, she decided to have her child there to ensure the baby had dual nationality.
Pregnant Emma Bunton reveals engagement Former Spice Girl Emma Bunton announced her engagement to longterm boyfriend Jade Jones live on ITV's skating show last week. Bunton, who is expecting her second child, declared: "I'm a very happy lady," as she shared the good news and revealed the sparkling ring on her finger. The singer told fans in November last year she was pregnant via micro-blogging website Twitter. She wrote: "So our family grows, we are SO excited to announce we're having our 2nd baby and beau's wish for a brother or sister has come true! Xxxxxxx". The star, who gave birth to son Beau in August 2007, rose to fame as Baby Spice in the charttopping girl group The Spice Girls. The group had nine number-one singles before splitting up in 2000. Jones was previously in boy band Damage before becoming a chef.
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Achei na Semana
The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
BRAZILIAN happenings in London It was a bust week for Brazilians in London. Adelaide House hosted the launch of the Major Sports Event Committee, and for the night birds and party-goers Guanabara and Soul Brazil were the it destinations! Check out the photos. - Photos by Erick Oliveira and Thiago Vianna.
Business men together after launching of Major Sporting Events
The launching of the Major Sport Events at Adelaide House
If you want to have fun, go to Soul Brazil
Friends enjoying a night out at Soul Brazil
Zeu Azevedo playing the accordeaon while his fans Katia and Ritinha don't take their eyes of the singer
Achei na Semana by
The launching cocktail of Major Sport Events Committee
Soul Brazil is the right place to meet friends
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
The Brazilian Post
Achei na Semana
Andreia Harwood having a great time together with friends
Daniel Assis Franchini (blue shirt) celebrating his birthday with friends at Guanabara
Best friends Haidee Laure, Daisy Oliveira and Patricia Ten贸rio know how to have a great time together
Guanabara is a place where everyone has a great time
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18
Fashion
The Brazilian Post
Inessa,21
The Brazilian Post's exclusive fashion page brings you the latest fashion trends, and tells you exactly where to find the pieces you're looking for! With so many options, you're sure to find ideas for clothes and accessories that fit your style and budget. So nothing can get in the way of you getting the look!
Russian Graphic design student Headphone: Sony:£20 Jumper: Bik Bok:£15 Jacket: Femme:£200 Trousers: No One Shop:£56 Shoes: Vagabond:£50 Music: Electronic, Chemical Brothers Best thing of London: youth
Gabi,27 Brazilian Publicist Umbrella: J04:£20 Glasses: Vintage Shop:£5 Shirt: Urban Outfitters:£45 Leather Jacket: All Saints:£270 Faux Fur Coat: Rockit:£50 Shorts: Levi's Vintage:£20 Tights: Primark:£4 Boots: Urban Outfitters:£32 Bag: J04:£18 Music: Rock,Folk Best thing of London: the chaos
COOL HUNTER BY
ZAZA OLIVA
Nadia, 17 Londoner, Student Jumper: H&M:£15 Coat: Vintage shop in Camden Town:£25 Shorts: Vintage:£12 Tights: H&M:£5 Shoes: 4ever21:£15 Bag: Charity Shop:£3 Music: Alternative Best thing of London: The people, the style
Neto, 32
Brazilian Sound Engineer Hat: Candem Market:£10 Polo Shirt: Fred Perry:£50 Jumper: UNIQLO:£30 Belt: Vans:£15 Coat: Merc:£100 Trousers: GAP:£10 Boots: Cattepilar:£99 Music: Ska Best thing of London: walk by the River Thames at night
Victoria, 23 from Brighton, Actress Scarf: from Scotland:£30 Playsuit: E-Bay:£8 Belt: Charity Shop:£1 Cardigan: Vintage Shop:£5 Blazer: Vintage:£9.50 Bag: Vintage Market:£40 Socks: Wool Factory:£10 Shoes: E-Bay:£8 Music: Alternative Best thing of London: theatre, gigs, films, galleries
Augusta, 26 Londoner Photographer Hat: Tk Max:£4.99 Scarf: Missoni:£100 Faux Fur scarf: Vintage Shop:£12 Jacket: John Lewis Kids:£89 Belt: Zara:£19 Trouser: UNIQLO:£18 Shoes: E-Bay:£45 Bag: Gallery in Glasgow:£3 Music: Everything Best thing of London: The River
Alissa, 28 American Store Manager Scarf: Vintage Shop:£3 Shirt: Joseph:£149 Belt: Top Shop:£19 Jumper: Stella Mccartney:£1.000 Leggings: American Apparel:£30 Shoes: Fred Segal:£100 Bag: Joseph:£200 Music: Rock Best thing of London: Fashion
What's Up
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Welcome to the world of multidisciplinary new media art and its range of concepts in robotics, sound, light, science, technology and the like.
London spoils you with choices of things to do! Dada Bueno, author of this weekly column, helps you fill your calendar with the best programs and cultural events taking the city by storm this week.
Kinetica Art Fair is produced by Kinetica Museum with contributions from over 35 galleries and 150 artists, and featuring special events, screenings, tours, talks, workshops and performances.
What happens after death? The Egyptian Book of the Dead
BY
DADA BUENO Anish Kapoor Turning the world upside down
The Egyptian Book of the Dead is a compilation of fragile papyrus carefully made and used for something like 1500 years between 1600BC and 100AD. The exhibition shows how the Egyptian civilisation faced death and what would come after that. These articles, with prayers, spells, hymns and instructions is part of the legacy of how the ancient Egyptian population dealt with death, and how it prepared itself to make a safe journey to the afterlife. Until March 6th 10am - 6pm £12.00 British Museum Great Russell Street Bloomsbury London WC1B 3DG Information: 0871 971 5937
The King Lear
Until March13th Kensington Gardens W2 2UH
Wine Event Old World X New If you love wine and like to socialize, this is a great opportunity you simply can't miss. 'Made in Camden' and 'Bibendum' invite you to a series of brand new wine tasting events - Wine in Camden.
The Royal Shakespeare Company brings David Farr's production to the Roundhouse with Greg Hicks taking the title role and Sophie Russel playing the fool.
Flamenco Festival
February 8th - 19th Tickets: £10 - £40 Sadler's Wells Theatre & the Lilian Baylis Studio Rosebery Avenue London EC1R 4TN Information: 020 7863 8198
Chinese New Year at Trafalgar Square Year of the Rabbit
The Chinese New Year falls on February 3rd, but in London the big celebration will take place on Sunday, February 6th. Trafalgar Square, Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue in Central London will be the stage of this colorful and cultural event to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit, with dance, acrobatics and other performances.
The first event, on February 9th, will be 'Old World' versus 'New' where you will be tasting some classics from the heart of Europe and their New World rivals, accompanied by some appropriate dishes – all for only £15!
Kinetica Art Fair
One of Shakespeare's greatest plays, The King Lear is a tragedy of cruelty and greed in which the king decides to split his kingdom between his three daughters, but not before asking them for some proof of their love.
February 4th - 6th Tickets £8 - £20 At P3 University Of Westminster 35 Marylebone Road London NW1 5LS Information: 0207 392 9674
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Explore new wines, or taste old favourites, in fun and informal surroundings. Each month you will be able to appreciate a range of wines, some from the restaurant's list, loosely arranged around a theme, and accompanied by delicious samples from the 'Made in Camden' menu. The events will be a great chance to have fun and find out more about wine, and food and wine matching.
February 9th Time: 7pm Tickets: £15 Age: 18+ Made in Camden is located at the Roundhouse Chalk Farm Road London NW1 8EH Information: 020 7424 8495
The Royal Parks and the Serpentine Gallery are hosting an outdoor exhibition of sculptures by the acclaimed London-based artist, Anish Kappor. The exhibition, wich runs till March, showcases four monumental sculptures made of stainless steel reflecting and distorting images of the surrounding environment in Kensington Gardens. Born in Bombay (Mumbai), Kapoor has lived and worked in London since the early 1970s. The turner prize-winning sculptor has produced a number of large works, including his famous work of steel and flesh-coloured PVC (320 m2) at the Turbine Hall of Tate Modern.
Until February 5th Tickets from £25 Roundhouse Chalk Farm Rd London NW1 8EH Information: 0844 482 8008
The feature exhibition focuses on the Evolution of Consciousness and will explore the progression of the human body, brain, mind and consciousness in reference to our place in the universe. Among the attractions of the third Kinetc Art Fair you will find moving mechanical skeletons, robotics installations and many other weird and unique art works that will certainly amaze you.
The Brazilian Post
The annual season of flamenco is coming to London for the third time. The two-week festival will feature shows with a mix of traditional and contemporary flamenco dance. Artists from all over the world will be performing music, singing and dancing in this not-tobe-missed spectacle.
Free event 12pm - 6pm Trafalgar Square, Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue
UK Wedding Show London If you have been proposed to and have not started to organise your wedding party yet, this is the right event for you. At the London Wedding Show you will be able to find everything you need, all at the same place, to make your wedding perfect. Find the best cake, dress, photographer, music, car, venue and much more. February 5th and 6th 10am - 5pm Tickets £9 - £10 ExCel London One Western Gateway Royal Victoria Dock London E16 1XL Information: 0871 971 4219
Sacred Chat CREATIVE, ENERGETIC PRESENCE
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JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Society is made of relationships, which are maintained through the application of ethical and moral codes. Often, we hear an outcry for enforcing "moral order" or for returning to "old-fashioned values''. Such talks of morality are essentially driven from one or the other institutionalised religious teaching. For example, one may come across an impassioned plea to stress on the moral values based on Christian belief. But then, is morality of Christians different from that of the Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists? If yes, then there can never be peace in the world. Since time immemorial attempts have been made to reduce God to a set of concrete, conceptualised and ritualistic definition. This may have served the purpose of the priest in asserting non-empirical factors in shaping religion into an almost chaotic, superstition-ridden random belief system; it certainly deprived people of the experience of God as a presence rather than as a person. Today, science carries implicit pressing message that the universe is nothing but an energetic presence. As science continues to go deeper into the matter, it is mystified in observing the fact that matter is essentially a mass of energy, that it is energy, which is manifested, in myriad forms throughout the universe. Undergoing a radical change in its perception and understanding, it is now being realised that science and religion are not "separate and mutually exclusive". Science also has come to see that it is an
ARIES Your planetary ruler, Mars, is conjunct this Aquarius New Moon and this suggests that your natural leadership abilities could be useful in motivating friends or groups to work for a common goal. Jupiter is in your sign bringing an expansiveness and optimism, but it can also expand the ego and the waistline, so you will do well as long as you aren't throwing your weight around too much. There is a tendency with Jupiter's influence to overdo and overindulge, to general excess, but if you can maintain some balance, the positive energy can also bring success. You could experience conflict with friends or groups this week if you are too defensive and rigid about your beliefs.
TAURUS Your planetary ruler, Venus, is in Sagittarius squaring Uranus in Pisces during this Aquarius New Moon so you could experience conflict or tension with friends or groups who seem to hold very different values. You may even feel a strange attraction to friends groups or organizations that seem quite radical or unusual and challenge you to stand up for what you feel is right. With Mars conjunct this New Moon, you seem to be more aggressive, passionate and energetic in pursuing your career objectives, perhaps embarking on a whole new direction in your career path and your life, generally. You do seem to be ready to look at things from a different perspective now.
GEMINI During this very fiery Aquarius New Moon your planetary ruler, Mercury is in Capricorn, sextile Uranus in Pisces, so you seem to be ready to learn about new concepts and ways of interpreting the current 'reality'. You could experience some exciting new insights this
week and it is a great time to begin a new course of study that can broaden your perspective and increase your understanding. Venus is in your opposite sign, Sagittarius, and is square Uranus this week, so there could be some challenges in your relationship with a partner or others as they may not be 'on the same page' with you and may find your ideas too 'far out'.
CANCER As sensitive as you are to the lunar cycle, with the Moon being your planetary ruler, you may be feeling unusually impatient, irritable and defensive or experiencing others as being more reactive or aggressive now as Mars conjuncts the Sun and Moon at this Aquarius New Moon. Mercury is in your opposite sign, Capricorn, aspecting Uranus in Pisces this week, suggesting that you could receive surprising news from a partner or concerning your relationship and might experience an unexpected breakthrough in your perceptions about your relationships. An exciting attraction to a co-worker or client could challenge your beliefs about what is right or true.
LEO The New Moon conjunct Mars is in your opposite sign, Aquarius, on the 2nd so you are likely to get along best with a partner or others if you are working towards a common goal. If the energy of Mars isn't focused on some sort of activity it is more likely to manifest as irritability, impatience, defensiveness and aggressiveness. Your sign tends to have a great deal of energy and you seem to be directing a lot of your energies towards others now, so if you feel others are taking too much from you, you could feel resentful. As Mercury aspects Uranus this week, you could have some brilliant ideas,
exciting news or breakthroughs regarding your work.
VIRGO Your planetary ruler, Mercury, is in Capricorn as it sextiles Uranus in your opposite sign, Pisces, this week suggesting that you could have a real breakthrough in your relationship with a partner or others, or possibly that your partner gains some sudden, unexpected insights that bring you closer. Either or both of you might be challenged to break free from some of the conditioning from your family of origin, particularly beliefs about love, which could enable you to relate in a whole new way. Mars' conjunction with the Aquarius New Moon suggests that you are ready to work hard to achieve success and satisfaction in your job. Physical exercise will be very beneficial to your health now, too.
LIBRA Saturn is in your sign as the SunMoon-Mars conjunction in Aquarius trines it at this New Moon, suggesting that you may be able to harness the fiery energy and channel it in a disciplined and productive way. Your planetary ruler, Venus, is in Sagittarius squaring Uranus in Pisces during the New Moon, too, and both are semisquare Sun-Moon-Mars so there are likely to be some challenges and conflicts this week, particularly where a lover, children or creative expression are concerned. However, Mercury's sextile with Uranus indicates that you could have some surprising insights and real breakthroughs regarding your past or your family.
SCORPIO Mars' conjunction with the New Moon in Aquarius suggests that you could be experiencing some
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expanding universe. The very word Brahmn, too, means that which is ever expanding. In other words, God is not the Creator, but creativity. God is an uninterrupted process of creativity. As humans, our ultimate fulfilment is in creatively manifesting our energy. Osho said: "The urge to create is the first stirring of the divine within you. The urge to create is the presence of God. You have the first message; the first ripple has reached you. It is the beginning and the birth of prayer... To be creative is to be religious." In the ongoing creative process, God is what Krishna says in the Bhagavad Gita: a catalytic agent. God does not do anything, only his energetic presence works. Hydrogen and oxygen become water when electricity is passed through them ^ it is the missing link. Electricity does not mix or do anything; it is simply there. Krishna says, He does not create, His very being, His very presence makes creativity possible. In the tenth verse of Chapter Nine in the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna says: "With Me as the supervisor, Nature brings forth the whole of Creation, consisting both sentient and insentient beings; it is due to this cause that the wheel of samsara is going round. That is, "My very presence alone creates the universe and in my very presence itself the universe keeps dissolving and recreating again." To be religious, therefore, is to realise that God is a creative presence; that you are a manifestation of God's creativity and you too can creatively manifest God. Religiousness consists in recognising that we need to create God every moment we are the rock, we are the sculptor and we are the carved image of the Divine as well.
conflict or challenges involving a parent or family member and the situation has the potential to be very volatile and explosive. There may be feelings of anger and resentment that need to be released, and as Mercury in Capricorn sextiles Uranus in Pisces during the New Moon, you could have some sudden flashes of insight, unexpected revelations or a real breakthrough which changes your thinking, perceptions and perspective. The biggest breakthrough you could have is in your sense of self-worth as that really seems to be at the heart of it all.
SAGITTARIUS Venus is in your sign as she squares Uranus in Pisces during this Aquarius New Moon, so your desire for freedom is unusually strong, particularly when it comes to relationships. In fact, you could even have a sudden romantic attraction, which might be very exciting, but unstable and, with the influence of the SunMoon-Mars conjunction in Aquarius, also likely to be quite volatile and full of conflict. You seem to be extremely restless, impatient and impulsive now and very reactive, defensive and easily irritated . It seems that the slightest thing might 'set you off'. As Mercury sextiles Uranus now, you could also have some sudden insights or breakthroughs in understanding how you earliest experiences have affected your sense of self-worth.
CAPRICORN Mercury is in your sign as it sextiles Uranus in Pisces during this Aquarius New Moon, so you could have some real flashes of insight, surprising revelations and breakthroughs in how you think and perceive your 'reality' and your role in life. As Mars conjuncts the Sun-Moon during this New Moon, you seem to be highly energized and competitive when it comes to
making money and you are likely to react with a great deal of anger if you feel that your money, possessions or material security are threatened in any way. You seem to be uncharacteristically impatient, impulsive and volatile and your behaviour may surprise even you.
AQUARIUS The New Moon in your sign is a very fiery one as Mars conjuncts the Sun-Moon, so your new year is starting with a bang. While you may feel extremely energized with this planetary influence, you are also likely to be very impatient, impulsive, defensive, competitive and reactive. This would be a good time to be physically active, making sure that you are getting plenty of exercise, otherwise the Mars energy can come out as volatile, angry outbursts, or, if it is too repressed, could manifest as headaches, fevers or infections. Using this energy for productive work and physical activity will minimize the tendency to be easily irritated, frustrated and angry.
PISCES Uranus is still in your sign as it is squared by Venus in Sagittarius, sextiled by Mercury in Capricorn and semi-squared by the Sun-Moon-Mars conjunction in Aquarius at this New Moon, so you could be feeling quite restless, impatient, easily irritated, frustrated or angry. It seems that there may be some repressed or suppressed anger that is now ready to erupt, making you appear to be unusually unpredictable and volatile. Conversations with friends or group discussions could bring some surprising flashes of insight, unexpected revelations or breakthroughs as others may be able to give you a different perspective on things.
World
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JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Australian floods affect more than 3 million
Flooding in Australia has affected more than 3 million people, making it one of the costliest disasters in the nation. The cost of the damage surpasses past tragedies like the major bushfires two years ago and floods in the 1970s, Treasurer Wayne Swan said. The cost of the recent flooding is much higher because of a spike in population in the state of Queensland, Swan said. "While the state's whole population in 1974 was just 2 million, more than 3.1 million people have been affected by the latest floods," said Swan. In his first economic note of 2011, Swan said, "it's still too early to quantify the impact with any certainty at this stage." But he added that there's "no question that the economic impact of these floods will be enormous." Swan said the floods have devastated crops, tourism, retail and manufacturing and have disrupted major urban areas like Brisbane. "One of the biggest casualties is likely to be our coal exports, with many mines shut down in big coal mining regions like the Bowen Basin, and supply chains severely hampered," Swan said. "While this will be partly offset by higher prices, the loss of production will be hit much harder." Swan said the government has already made about $227 million in disaster recovery payments to people who have been affected by the floods. "Over the coming weeks, months and years, the Commonwealth Government will be investing billions of dollars to get Queensland back on its feet," Swan said.
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Belgians press politicians to form government Defying the normal conventions of protest politics, more than 30,000 Belgians rallied in Brussels on Sunday not to try to get rid of a government, but to press their squabbling politicians to form one. The demonstration, which students began on the internet and labeled “Shame,� was the first clear sign of popular frustration at the country's protracted political crisis and its worrying effect on financial markets. More than seven months after elections produced political deadlock, the impasse has increased speculation that Belgium, which is divided between Dutch speakers in the north and French speakers in the south, might ultimately split. The country recently achieved the dubious distinction of becoming the European nation that has gone for the longest time in recent history without a government, overtaking a record set in the Netherlands in 1977. A tongue-in-cheek website has set up a countdown to the potential moment when Belgium would take the world record in this regard, which is currently held by Iraq. For months, the crisis had relatively little effect on life in Belgium, a country of about 10 million people, where much power and most everyday services are already administered at the regional level. Lately, however, the financial markets have begun to make the country pay for the failings of its political leaders by increasing borrowing costs. With the euro in the throes of a debt crisis, the intransigence of Belgium's politicians has begun to take on a more serious complexion. About 34,000 people attended the march through central Brussels according to Christian De Coninck, a spokesman for the Brussels police, who said the event was trouble-free by mid-afternoon of the march.
Egypt asks Berlin to return Nefertiti bust Egypt is officially requesting the return of the 3,300-year-old bust of Queen Nefertiti that has been in a Berlin museum for decades. The bust, dating back to the 14th century B.C. monarch, tops Egypt's wish list of artifacts the country hopes to bring back as part of a campaign to retrieve thousands of antiquities spirited out during the colonial period and afterward. Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities on Monday quoted its chief, Zahi Hawass, as saying an official request was sent to German authorities. Germany has declined past Egyptian requests for the bust's return, saying it was in Germany legally and is too fragile to move. The bust is currently at Berlin's Neues Museum. Egypt contends it was taken out with fraudulent documents in the early 20th century.
Waves of Unrest Spread to Yemen Thousands of protesters on Thursday took to the streets of Yemen, one of the Middle East's most impoverished countries, and secular and Islamist Egyptian opposition leaders vowed to join large protests expected Friday as calls for change rang across the Arab world. The Yemeni protests were another moment of tumult in a region whose aging order of American-backed governments appears to be staggering. In a span of just weeks, Tunisia's government has fallen, Egypt's appears shaken and countries like Jordan and Yemen are bracing against demands of movements. In Yemen, organizers vowed to continue protests on Friday and for weeks to come until the 32-year-old American-backed government of Ali Abdullah Saleh either fell or consented to reforms. Unlike in Egypt, the peaceful protests in Yemen were not led by young people, but by the traditional opposition, largely Islamists. And the opposition remained divided over whether to topple the Saleh government or simply push for reforms.
10 dead in German train collision Ten people died when a regional passenger train collided with a goods train in eastern Germany, police and firemen said. Up to 20 other people were seriously injured in the accident which happened at Hordorf near Oschersleben, in Saxony-Anhalt. Contrary to earlier reports from police the trains did not catch fire, according to fire service officials. The passenger train derailed and landed on its side. The regional train was the HarzElbeExpress (HEX) travelling between Magdeburg and Halberstadt. The causes of the accident were not immediately known.
Mubarak's damage control: Too little, too late? Looters rampaged through malls and luxury shops in upmarket Cairo, as more army men doffed their uniforms and joined the unprecedented movement for Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's ouster that has left over 100 dead in the last six days. Breaking into malls along the Nile, looters picked up TV sets, furniture, electronic items and clothes defying curfew and and heavy presence of security personnel in the capital. A beleaguered Mubarak, 82, had on Saturday showed first signs of handing over power as he appointed for the first time his intelligence chief, Omar Suleiman as Vice-President after 30 years of autocratic rule. Thousands of protesters defied the curfew for the second night and Cairo's central Tahrir (Liberation) Square remained filled with protesters. Troops and armoured vehicles have been deployed across the city to guard key government buildings, and major tourist and archaeological sites. At least 102 people have been killed in five days of anti government unrest, security and medical sources said.
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The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Bin Laden message warns France
A speaker claiming to be terrorism mastermind Osama bin Laden warned in an audiotape aired last week that the release of two French journalists abducted by militants hinges on France's military role in Afghanistan. "We repeat the same message to you," said the speaker in an audiotape played on the AlJazeera satellite news network. "The release of your prisoners from the hands of our brethren depends on the withdrawal of your soldiers from our countries." One U.S. counterterrorism official said he would not discuss whether it was in fact Bin Laden on the latest tape other than to say, "there has never been a recording that has been false (about its claim to be him.)” On the tape, the speaker, believed to be al Qaeda chief Bin Laden, warns the French government that its alliance with the United States will prove costly. "The dismissal of your President (Nicholas) Sarkozy to get out of Afghanistan is the result of his subservience to the United States and this (dismissal) is considered to be the green signal to kill your prisoners without delay," the speaker said. He goes on to say that "we will not do that at the time that suits him (Sarkozy) and this position will cost you dearly on all fronts, in France and abroad." France, however, said the message would not deter it from its Afghanistan strategy. "We are determined to stay in Afghanistan with our allies for the Afghan people," said French Foreign Ministry spokesman Bernard Valero.
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World
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China grooming deft politician as next leader President Hu Jintao of China returned home after a trip intended to repair relations with the United States. But the next time the White House marches out the honor guard and polishes the crystal for a Chinese leader, it is unlikely to be for Mr. Hu. Following a secretive succession plan sketched out years ago, Mr. Hu has already begun preparing for his departure from power, passing the baton to his presumed successor, a former provincial leader named Xi Jinping, now China's vice president. While Mr. Xi is expected to formally take the reins next year in China, the world's second-largest economy and fastestmodernizing military power, he remains a cipher to most people, even in China. But an extended look at Mr. Xi's past, taken from wide-ranging interviews and official Chinese publications, shows that his rise has been built on a combination of political acumen, family con-
nections and ideological dexterity. Like the country he will run, he has nimbly maintained the primacy of the Communist Party, while making economic growth the party's main business. For much of his career, Mr. Xi, 57, presided over booming areas on the east coast that have been at the forefront of China's experimentation with market authoritarianism, which has included attracting foreign investment, putting party cells in private companies and expanding government support for model entrepreneurs. This has given Mr. Xi the kind of political and economic experience that Mr. Hu lacked when he ascended to the top leadership position. Unlike the robotic Mr. Hu, Mr. Xi has dropped memorable barbs against the West into a couple of recent speeches: he once warned critics of China's rise to “stop pointing fingers at us.” But he has enrolled his daughter in Harvard, under a pseudonym.
Colombian police capture pigeon carrying drugs to prison The bird was flying towards a jail in the north-eastern city of Bucaramanga when it was discovered nearby by officers with a bag strapped to its back. Police recovered 40g of marijuana and 5g of a paste containing cocaine and believe the package was too heavy for the bird to clear the prison walls. "We found the bird about a block away from the prison trying to fly over with a package, but due to the excess weight it could not accomplish its mission," said Jose Angel Mendoza, the local police commander. "This is a new case of criminal ingenuity." Carrier pigeons trained by inmates or accomplices have previously been used to smuggle mobile phone sim cards into the same jail, according to police. In September last year, police in the Colombian city of Barranquilla captured a parrot they said had been trained to act as a lookout for drug dealers – by squawking 'run' when police approached. The pigeon found in Bucaramanga is now being cared for by the local ecological police unit.
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World
The Brazilian Post
Rice: Send Palestinian Refugees to South America
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Venezuela demands TV soap featuring dog called 'Little Hugo' is dropped The country's National Telecommunications Commission condemned a programme for its "degrading treatment of Venezuela" and asked Televen to immediately stop broadcasting it. In the show, called Chepe Fortuna, the female character called Venezuela has a better behaved sister called Colombia. In one episode, Venezuela is shown searching for her dog after he goes missing, calling out: "Little Hugo? Baby? Baby? Cutie?" Later Venezuela is seen crying as she talks to someone over the phone and asks: "What will become of Venezuela without Little Hugo?" A man replies: "Venezuela will be free. Lately Little Hugo was defecating everywhere." The show was not screened on Friday and in a speech on Saturday, President Chavez said: "What disrespect for Venezuela! That soap is so horrible. At least Televen agreed." Relations between Colombia and Venezuela were damaged last year over claims that Venezuela was harbouring Marxist guerrillas who want to overthrow the Colombian government.
Moscow airport terror Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice suggested giving Palestinian refugees land in South America as an alternative to letting them return to their former homes in Israel and occupied territories, according to a report from the British newspaper the Guardian. Rice made the comments at a meeting in June 2008 with American, Israeli and Palestinian negotiators in Berlin, according to minutes shown to the Guardian. "Maybe we will be able to find countries that can contribute in kind. Chile, Argentina, etc (ie, give land)," Rice said, according to the minutes. The minutes are not verbatim, but have the initials CR before the quote. Rice was the only one there with those initials. Chile has a large Palestinian community that dates back more than a century, the Guardian reports. Both Chile and Argentina have large tracts of sparsely populated land. In the spring of 2008, 117 Palestinian refugees were transferred to Chile, a few months before the Berlin meeting. The group of refugees had lived in Iraq for several years, but were in a camp along the Syrian border following the ouster of Saddam Hussein. Chile accepted the group after a U.N. appeal.
In a suicide bomb blast carried out in Moscow's busiest airport last week, the bomber detonated the device in the international arrivals hall of the airport, causing scenes of chaos and carnage. At least two Britons were feared to be among the 35 victims of the blast, which sent shrapnel, screws and ball bearings ripping through the air. Prime Minister David Cameron condemned the
Jared Loughner pleads not guilty to Arizona shootings Jared Loughner, the suspect in the shooting of Democratic congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, pleaded not guilty in court, in his first response to the charges, last week. Silent, but displaying the grin that has become his trademark, Loughner made his second appearance in public since the attacks on January 8, at the federal courthouse in Phoenix, Arizona. He is alleged to have killed six people and injured a further 13, including Giffords, during a deadly shooting rampage at a public meeting at a supermarket car park in Tucson. Witnesses inside the courtroom reported that Loughner - shackled and dressed in an orange jump suit – smiled broadly throughout the hearing, including the moment when his lawyer entered his
plea of not guilty. Nicholas Riccardi, a journalist for the Los Angeles Times, said the 22-year-old "continued to flash an uncanny, self-satisfied grin throughout the otherwise routine nineminute arraignment". Loughner was surrounded by heavily armed marshalls on his journey to and from the courtroom. He faces five federal charges, including one of attempted assassination of a member of Congress, two charges of killing an employee of the US and two charges of intent to kill employees of the US. He will almost certainly receive Arizona state charges as well, and is likely to face the death penalty if convicted. Loughner's lawyers gave no hint how they planned to defend him against the charges. When Judge Larry Burns asked if there were any doubts about Loughner's ability to understand the charges, his lawyer Judy Clarke said: "We are not raising any issues at this time." Loughner's next court appearance is on March 9, when the full extent of charges against him will be revealed.
"appalling attack" while Russian President Dmitry Medvedev vowed to track down those responsible. President Medvedev ordered security at Moscow's two other commercial airports and other key transport facilities to be put on high alert. He also vowed a thorough investigation, suggesting Russia's terror laws may not be working. "After previous similar events, we passed appropriate legislation, and we have to check how it has been applied because obviously there have been lapses, and we have to get to the bottom of this." Reports on Russian television suggested the suspected bomber was carrying a suitcase and shouted "I'll kill you all!" before detonating the device in the passengerfilled hall. The Interfax news agency also cited law enforcement sources saying the head of the bomber had been found on the blood-spattered floor. Eyewitness Artyom Zhilenkov, a 35-year-old driver, said: "I saw the suitcase, the suitcase was on fire." He added: "The guy standing next to me was torn to pieces."
Economy
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JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
USA: Economists see U.S. companies dump more hiring on the way billions into China In another sign of a strengthening economy, U.S. companies say they are planning to hire more workers, and expect economic growth to pick up in the first months of 2011, according to a survey released last week. The National Association for Business Economics said the hiring outlook for the next six months is at a 12year high. "The number of firms expressing positive hiring plans is at a level not seen in over a decade -- a sign of improving labor-market dynamics," Shawn DuBravac of the Consumer Electronics Association said in a statement. 42% of companies surveyed said they expect to hire more workers in the next six months, a 13% increase over the same time last year. Meanwhile, 51% expect no change in hiring, while only 7% expect a decrease. The survey of 84 NABE members also showed that industry demand continues to move higher, and profit margins are expanding. GDP projections are also at moderate to high levels, with 62% of respondents planning for real GDP growth of 2% to 3% in 2011, and one in five expecting GDP growth in the 3% to 4% range. In total, 82% of respondents expect GDP growth in excess of 2%, a sharp increase over the 54% who expressed the same level of optimism last year.
10 worst places in the world Five years ago researchers at the Legatum Institute, a London think tank, set out to rank the happiest countries in the world. To avoid the touchy-feely connotation of the word "happy", they use the term "prosperity". Legatum recently published its 2010 Prosperity Index, which ranks 110 countries – covering 90% of the world's population. Each nation is evaluated according to 89 variables sorted into Robert Mugabe, President of Zimbabwe, worst of the lot. eight subsections: economy, entrepreneurship, governance, education, health, safety, personal freedom and social capital. The Bottom 10 are: Zambia (101), Cameroon (102), Mozambique (103), Kenya (104), Yemen (105), Nigeria (106), Ethiopia (107), Central African Republic (108), Pakistan (109) and Zimbabwe (110).
HUNGARY: Third month of inflation Hungary's central bank raised interest rates for a third month to curb accelerating inflation, defying a government that wants lower borrowing costs to aid growth. The Magyar Nemzeti Bank lifted the benchmark two-week deposit rate to 6% from 5.75% in its third quarter-point increase in as many months, matching the forecast of fourteen analysts in a Bloomberg survey. (Three had expected no change.) Policy makers may be accelerating rate increases before a parliamentary committee dominated by the governing party fills four vacancies on
the rate-setting panel from March, according to economists including Timothy Ash, at Royal Bank of Scotland in London. The central bank earlier cited accelerating inflation for abandoning a record-low 5.25% rate after six months. “The central bank remains hawkish and Monetary Council members probably want to frontload rate hikes prior to the committee being revamped in March,� Ash said in an e-mail after the rate decision. The currency rose 1.7% against the euro in the past month, more than the Romanian leu, which rose 0.4%, and trailing the Czech koruna and Polish zloty, which strengthened 4.1% and 2.3%, respectively.
While U.S. businesses are still reluctant to invest in new plants and jobs in the United States, many are pouring money into China. But not for the reasons you'd think. Rather than "outsourcing" their operations to China's low-cost environment to produce cheap goods for U.S. consumers, multinational corporations are pouring billions into China to meet demand from the rapidly growing Chinese middle class. Total investments in China by U.S. multinationals were worth $49 billion as of 2009 -- up 66% from two years earlier, according to U.S. Commerce Department figures. And 2010 was another banner year for the Chinese -- U.S. companies poured an additional $6 billion into China in the first three quarters of 2010 alone. "American investment in China is still growing," said Nicholas Lardy, a China expert at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. "It's one of their most profitable markets, if not their most profitable market. No one is pulling back." In 2010 General Motors (GM) sold more cars in China than in the United States for the first time, but did not export any cars from China back to its home market. GM, which
closed 13 U.S. plants since its bankruptcy filing in 2009, has opened 15 plants in China in the last 10 years. Yum Brands (YUM, Fortune 500), owner of fast-food chains like KFC and Pizza Hut, reported $1.2 billion in Chinese sales in its most recent quarter, surpassing its declining U.S. sales for the first time. It added 245 restaurants in China in the first nine months of last year while selling off U.S. locations. And as Chinese President Hu Jintao meets with President Obama during a state visit, top business leaders are lining up for a chance to get into China's good graces.
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Economy
The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Amazon BG Group to invest may hold $10bn in Brazilian ‘super giant' deepwater oil fields oil fields BA-Iberia Overtakes Air France by Market Value International Consolidated Airlines Group SA, formed from the combination of British Airways Plc and Iberia Lineas Aereas de Espana SA, was valued at 5.3 billion pounds ($8.5 billion) on its trading debut, giving the company a bigger market capitalization than rival Air France-KLM Group. Marking the end of a two-and-a-half-year merger process, IAG showed a rise in its main listing in London.The new carrier is also listed in Madrid and will report earnings in euros. Joining with Iberia allowed British Airways to overtake Air FranceKLM's market value of $5.4 billion and narrow the gap to Germany's Deutsche Lufthansa AG, which is worth the equivalent of $9.7 billion. The enlarged business will also act as a platform for further deals, Willie Walsh, the BA chief executive officer who is now head of IAG, said in a statement today. “This is a step on the road but it's not the end of the journey,” said Laurie Price, director of aviation strategy at Mott MacDonald Group Ltd. “If they're aiming for global dominance they'll have to move out of Europe at some stage.”
Brazil inflation may rise in 2012
Analysts covering the Brazilian economy increased their 2012 inflation forecast for the first time in more than two years, raising bets the central bank will accelerate rate increases at its next meeting in March. Economists expect consumer prices to rise 4.54% next year, up from a week-earlier forecast of 4.5%, according to the median forecast in a January 21st central bank survey of about 100 economists. Analysts lifted their 2011 inflation forecast for a seventh straight week to 5.53%, up from 5.42% a week earlier, the survey said. “This shows there are doubts about whether the central bank will do the necessary rate adjustments to bring inflation back to target,” Jankiel Santos, chief economist at Espirito Santo Investment Bank, said in a phone interview from Sao Paulo. “This reinforces the need for the central bank to keep acting, and there is no other way than by increasing rates.” Traders are wagering the central bank will raise the benchmark interest rate next month for a second straight meeting, lifting the Selic rate to as high as 12% from its current 11.25%, Bloomberg estimates based on interest rate futures show. Policy makers increased the overnight rate last week from 10.75%, saying higher borrowing costs coupled with measures to curb credit growth will help slow inflation toward its 4.5% target.
Speaking to Margaret Brennan on Bloomberg Television's "InBusiness”, chief executive officer of HRT Participacoes em Petroleo SA, Marcio Mello, said that the Brazilian oil-exploration company, which raised about $1.5 billion in an initial share sale in October, will start producing from its Amazon wells as early as June. Brazil's Amazon may hold “super giant” fields of light oil in an area the country is starting to explore, Mello said. The Rio de Janeiro-based oilexploration company will start producing from its wells in the Amazon's Solimoes river basin as early as June, Mello said in the Bloomberg Television interview in New York. HRT will begin drilling in February and expects to reach an oil reservoir in May, he said. HRT raised about $1.5 billion in an initial share sale in October to help fund exploration in the Amazon and off the coast of Namibia. It has majority stakes in 21 exploration blocks in the Solimoes Basin and five offshore blocks in the African nation. HRT will drill 12 wells in the Amazon this year. “The oil at Solimoes is the best in the whole of South America,” Mello said. “The Amazon is a completely unexplored frontier.” HRT shares gained points, in the wake of this announcement. HRT plans to transport production from Solimoes by river to state-controlled Petroleo Brasileiro's refinery in Manaus. HRT has secured the environmental licenses it needs to explore and produce oil in the Amazon for the next two years, Mello said.
The company is aiming for an output of 400,000 barrels of oil a day by 2020, which would make it Brazil's second largest oil producer after the state-run energy giant Petrobras. The plans were revealed by Nelson Silva, president of BG Brazil, who said the firm is also searching for locations in Brazil to build a global technology centre. “BG is here to stay,” Mr Silva told the Brazilian business newspaper Valor Economico. “We want to be operators and have a sustainable project in Brazil. We are going to shape our structure in the country and this means investment in research, local incentives and support for social programmes and the environment.” The investment is double the $5 billion that BG has invested in Brazil since establishing it's first office in South America's largest country 16 years ago.
Brazil 2010 electricity consumption jumps by 7.8% Brazil's electricity consumption picked up 7.8% in 2010, on the back of an increase in industrial energy use amid the global economy's recovery, according to the national energy research corporation, the EPE. Electricity use totaled 419,016 gigawatt-hours last year, up from 388,688 gigawatthours in 2009, the EPE said. Industrial use rose 10.6% in the period, the EPE said. Energy use during December rose 4.9% on year to 36,187 gigawatt-hours.
Chilean Justice suspends merger of TAM and LAN Airlines The merger of the airlines TAM (Brazil) and LAN (Chile) was suspended this weekend by the Chilean Justice. The decision responds to a request by a consumer organization of the Andean country in order to verify that the business complies with the law. The agreement between the two companies was signed last August. In the last 19 days, they announced the signing of terms and links to union business, which has been approved by the respective Boards of Directors. With the decision of the Judiciary of Chile (taken by a court for protection of competition), the process of uniting the operations of airlines are suspended. The new company will be called Latam Airlines and will be the largest sector in Latin America if the merger takes place.
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JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
The Brazilian Post
Cameron says Economic shocks won't derail efforts to reduce the U.K. deficit
Sales of new homes in the U.S. are doing well Purchases of new houses in the U.S. rose more than forecast in December, propelled by a record surge in the West, as buyers in California may have rushed to qualify for a state tax credit before it expired. Sales climbed 18% to a 329,000 annual pace, figures from the Commerce Department showed in Washington. The percentage gain was the biggest since 1992, and was led by a record 72% jump in the West. “The increase being driven by the West definitely looks suspicious,” said Daniel Silver, an economist at JPMorgan Chase & Co. in New York. “New-home sales are definitely lagging behind other economic indicators. As we see job growth and signs of economic stability, the housing market will improve, but when that will happen is hard to say.” Following the industry's worst year on record, builders may keep facing competition from a growing glut of foreclosed existing homes that is depressing prices. The lack of a sustained housing rebound and unemployment above 9% are among the reasons Federal Reserve policy makers have said they'll press on with a second round of stimulus that will pump $600 billion into financial markets by June. The median estimate of 79 economists surveyed by Bloomberg News called for a rise to 300,000. Estimates ranged from 270,000 to 315,000. Last month's sales pace was the highest since April. The Commerce Department revised November purchases down to 280,000 from a previously reported 290,000 rate.
Prime Minister David Cameron reacted to the first economic shocks of his eight-month-old coalition by sticking with a vow to eliminate the budget deficit. A government report last week showing that the economy unexpectedly shrank in the fourth quarter, following last week's news that inflation was accelerating, prompted pledges to maintain spending cuts and tax increases with record-low Bank of England interest rates providing a cushion. “There is no need for a Plan B if Plan A is right and sensible, as it is,” Business Secretary Vince Cable told the British Broadcasting Corp. Cameron was pressed by the opposition Labour Party to slow the pace of cuts as Britons contend with an increase in sales tax and soaring food and fuel prices that drove inflation to an eight-month high of 3.7% in December. The opposition said the government risks doing further damage to the economy. The Treasury “must urgently re-think their reckless plan to cut the deficit too far and too fast and start putting growth and jobs first,” said Ed Balls, Labour's Treasury spokesman. Gross domestic product shrank by 0.5% in the fourth quarter, the most since the second quarter of 2009, the Office for National Statistics said last week. Growth would have been “flattish” without heavy snowfall in December, it said.
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AkzoNobel
invests $122.5m in Brazil plant AkzoNobel, a Dutch chemical group, announced that it will invest $122.5 million in a new Brazilian plant, in a bid to double sales in the Latin American country to $2.04 billion, Reuters reported. Under the mentioned fifteen-year agreement, AkzoNobel will construct a plant supplying the world's largest pulp mill, which is scheduled to come onstream in September 2012, and will be operated by Eldorado Celulose e Papel. In September, AkzoNobel said it aimed to double its Brazil sales to $2.04 billion as part of plans to lift emerging markets sales to 50% of group revenues, up from 40%. AkzoNobel is targeting $27.22 billion in group sales in 2015.
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Economy
The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
South African farmers planting soybeans and sunflower seeds South African farmers may have planted a record amount of soybeans and sunflower seeds after prices surged, encouraging producers to switch away from corn, the government's Crop Estimates Committee said. Farmers may have planted an estimated 575,200 hectares (1.42 million acres) of sunflower seeds, up from 397,700 hectares a year ago, the Pretoria-based committee said in a statement. Land used for soy probably increased 41% to 438,000 hectares while the total corn area, including both white and yellow corn, may fall 8% to 2.52 million hectares. “Soy and sunflowers took land used by corn,” Rodney Dredge, chief director of economic and statistics services at the Department of Agriculture, said last week. “The increase in the soy and sunflower crops, and the drop in the corn crop, is probably a result of prices.”
The price of sunflower gained 47% over the past year on the South African Futures Exchange, based in Johannesburg, while soy increased 38%. White and yellow corn gained 23% and 22% respectively over the past 12 months. South Africa has a corn surplus of about 4.5 million metric tons, according to a November estimate, which may have discouraged planting of the crops. While land allocated for soy and sunflowers has increased, crop yields may be low because of unusually heavy rains and flooding this month, Dredge said. “The crop planted before November is looking pretty healthy, but the post-November plantings may not yield as well,” Dredge said, adding that the estimates by the committee are preliminary and may still change once aerial assessments have been done.
Soy prices will probably remain at “export parity,” Riaan Gerber, a trader at Pretoria-based Derived Market Investment, said, referring to a level where South African prices are considered competitive to other markets. Sunflower prices “may come under some pressure,” he said, adding that aver-
Brazil credit growth slows, auto financing rates jump Brazilian credit expansion slowed and rates for vehicle financing jumped the most in at least two years, after policy makers tightened liquidity requirements to prevent a consumer credit bubble. State and non-state bank lending expanded 1.6% in December to1.7 trillion reais ($1 trillion), the slowest increase since July, the central bank said in a report distributed last week in the capital Brasilia. Tighter reserve and capital requirements pushed the average interest rates for auto loans to 25.2% in December from 22.8%, the biggest monthly gain since at least 2008. The central bank last month took steps to remove 61 billion reais from the credit market and targeted consumer loans with maturities longer than 24 months. Vehicle financing surged 49% last year and payment terms were offered up to 80 months, as regulators investigate Banco Panamericano SA, the biggest lender for used cars, for alleged fraud in the sale of consumer loan portfolios to other banks. Altamir Lopes, head of the central bank's research department, told reporters that credit will grow 15% this year, slower than the 20.5% pace in 2010. Policy makers said last week the measures to rein in credit will also help slow inflation running at a 25month high. “The figures show a discrete slowdown in credit growth, so, to a certain extent, the higher reserve requirements had an impact,” Andre Perfeito, chief economist at Gradual Investimentos in Sao Paulo, said in a phone interview. “But it is too early to say what will be the impact on inflation.”
Vale says investing 'heavily' in Brazilian fertilizer output is a priority Vale SA, the world's largest iron-ore exporter, is investing 'heavily' in fertilizers to meet rising Brazilian demand, according to a company official. Rio de Janeiro-based Vale plans to start up at least two new projects in Brazil by 2015, part of a $12 billion expansion into the fertilizer industry, Edison Souki, Vale's global fertilizer sales manager, said in an interview last week. “Vale keeps a close eye on market tendencies, and the growing purchasing power of the middle class means more food demand even as there's less arable land per capita,” he said from the Peruvian capital of Lima, where he was attending a conference. “We're focusing all our reserves on Brazil.” Brazil, the world's biggest sugar-cane and coffee grower, aims to reach self-sufficiency in nitrogen-based fertilizers by 2013 and lower imports of crop additives made of phosphates to 20% from 50% in six years, Mining Secretary Claudio Scliar said in an interview in November. Vale is the only company producing potash in
ages for both crops may still exceed the committee's latest estimates. South Africa's summer farming season mainly runs from October to April. Corn, soy, sunflower, dry beans, sorghum and groundnuts are grown in summer. South Africa is the continent's biggest producer of corn, the country's staple food.
Brazil, supplying 9% of domestic consumption. Vale, which spent about $3.8 billion buying fertilizer assets from Bunge Ltd. in 2010, aims to sell shares in this unit as soon as the second quarter after making cost savings, Chief Financial Officer Guilherme Cavalcanti said in October last year. Last week, the company denied that it's in talks or negotiating to buy an additional fertilizer producer, and said it's focused on organic growth, after speculation it may be interested in Mosaic Co.
German inflation accelerates at fastest pace in more than 29 years German import prices rose at the fastest annual pace in more than 29 years in December, driven by soaring costs for commodities such as energy and metal. Import-price inflation accelerated to 12% (the highest rate since October 1981) from 10% in November, the Federal Statistics Office in Wiesbaden said in an e-mailed statement last week. Economists predicted the rate would rise to 10.8%, according to the median of 12 estimates in a Bloomberg News survey. However, prices increased 2.3%, almost double the 1.2 % forecasted by economists. Germany's booming economy and rising commodity prices are fueling euro-area inflation, creating a dilemma for the European Central Bank. While the ECB has toughened its inflationfighting rhetoric, it is also battling a debt crisis that's damping growth in peripheral nations in the currency block. “The pressure in the inflation pipeline has just risen again,” said Andreas Rees, chief German economist at UniCredit in Munich. “We will see a rise in inflation through the first quarter, and that's something we have to keep a very close eye on.” Energy was 34.2% more expensive in December than a year earlier, the statistics office said. Iron ore prices soared 98.4%, while non-iron ore metals cost 37.9% more.
Sport
The Brazilian Post
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JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
Elbow injury forces Henin Football world bids farewell to to quit tennis
Former world number one Justine Henin has confirmed her retirement from tennis for the second time, after failing to recover from the elbow injury she sustained last year. The 28-year-old Belgian - the winner of seven grand slam titles in a glittering career - initially quit the sport in May 2008, but returned at the start of last year and subsequently reached the final of the Australian Open. However, she sustained an injury to her right elbow in last year's Wimbledon tournament, and
despite playing through the pain to reach the third round at Melbourne this year, Henin has now decided to call it a day after listening to medical advice. Confirming the news on her official website, Henin said: "After my crash at Wimbledon last year I knew it would be difficult to come back, but I had decided to give everything to overcome the injury. However, in these recent months I have rarely been spared from the pain and only returning to the tennis court would give me answers. Unfortunately I suffered a lot last week and every day gave me more and more pain. I have had tests on my injury and the results are clear - my elbow is too fragile and damaged for me to continue playing tennis at the highest level." Henin will go down as one of the greatest players of her era, although failing to win a Wimbledon title she twice lost in the final - is the one missing piece in her impressive career that saw her win four French Open titles, two U.S. Opens and an Australian Open crown. She topped the world rankings for two years but off-court problems, including a much-publicized divorce, were blamed for her sudden initial retirement from the sport after the 2008 French Open.
England legend Nat Lofthouse
The football world paid tribute to former England and Bolton legend Nat Lofthouse who died on January 15 at the age of 85. Lofthouse's funeral was held in his hometown of Bolton where he played for English Premier League side Bolton Wanderers from 1946-1960. Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson, England legend Bobby Charlton and Bolton-born world boxing champion Amir Khan were among 500 guests at the service, listened to on loudspeakers by many more of Lofthouse's fans outside the church. Born and brought up in the northern English town, Lofthouse scored 255 times for his club as well as scoring an impressive 30 goals for his national side in 33 appearances. Since retiring from the game in 1960, Lofthouse remained a fixture at Bolton - most recently as club president - winning him a new generation of fans.
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Sport
The Brazilian Post
SPORT
360º
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
2005 and 2010, and for a coach in charge of a big team like Arsenal, five years without a title is huge, but Arsene Wenger is still in command and has the support of the fans and owners. So what is his secret? Arsenal has become one of the biggest teams in the world in Arsene Wenger's hands and for most people they play the most beautiful football in England. Wenger's talent to discover young new players has become the key of his success as a coach. Moreover, the club is financially profitable and has established itself as one of the giants in the football arena, so maybe because of Wenger, coaches can now have a long career even without winning titles.
NEYMAR THE NEW GARRINCHA?
ARSENE WENGER AN EXCEPTION TO THE RULE? When we talk about successful careers in coaching, names like Sr. Alex Ferguson, Jose Mourinho and Pepe Guardiola come to mind, because there is no doubt about their skills and the way they command their teams. Their jobs are lucrative, but not easy. The pressure to win titles is enormous, and at the end of the day, success and career longevity depend on the win-factor more than anything else. But one top league coach is changing this trend: Arsene Wenger was nominated Best Coach of the decade. Wenger's career has a noticeable gap in title wins between
Neymar, the new Brazilian treasure, compares himself to Garrincha, the twotime world champion (1958 and 1962) and football legend. The 18-year-old confident player almost joined the Chelsea squad last year but after Santos offered him an extraordinary career package he decided to stay. He is the Brazilian star in the South America Under-20 tournament hosted by
together they will make the 2011 Brazilian Championship more exciting than ever.
FERRARI IS A DREAM FOR EVERYONE Peru. (This competition qualifies the top 4 for the Under-20 World Cup later this year in Colombia, and the top 2 get places in the 2012 London Olympics.) Neymar has already scored four goals in the South America tournament and helped the Brazilian team to go through to the next round. He represents Brazil's hopes to bring back some of the magic of the country's football scene, and of course better the Brazil team's chances of bringing home the coveted title it is waiting for: an Olympic gold.
The red car has seduced many F1 drivers during the years, and for Adrian Sutil it is no different. The German 28-year-old is the favourite to drive an India Force's car in the 2011 season, but he has never hidden his wish to drive a Ferrari one day in his career. “The car in the streets is cool, the team is cool and the colours are cool as well. Certainly it is something special”, said Sutil. He also said that he would like to drive with Lewis Hamilton again, remembering the 2005 partnership, when both were driving ASM's car in the F-3 Euroseries. - By Tico Silverio
THE GLAMOUR IS BACK The 2011 Brazilian Championship will start in May and it promises to be the most glamorous one in years. With as many as nine teams with serious chances of winning the title, the tournament is one of the most competitive in the world. Looking at the last three seasons, the point difference between the winning team and the team to get third place was less than 3 points, with the title being decided in the last match. This year the teams are investing a lot and bringing stars back home: Rivaldo (ex-Barcelona), Elano (ex-Manchester City), Mancini (exRoma) and Ronaldinho (ex-Barcelona). These stars will join players such as Neymar, Ganso, Fred (ex-Lyon), Kleberson (ex-Manchester United), Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos (ex-Real Madrid), who are already shining on the football pitch, and
Inter and Milan to battle for Ganso Brazilian international midfielder Ganso is attracting the interest of both Milan clubs, who will battle for his signature in the summer. Ganso, 21, currently plays for Brazilian club Santos and has won rave reviews for his performances. He has a release clause in his contract reported to be 50 million euros, but Santos are believed to be ready to listen to offers in the region of 20 million euros in the summer. Inter director Marco Branca claimed that the club was looking at the midfielder, but played down talk of an imminent move. "Ganso is a midfielder that we are talking about for the future, and not for January," he said. And that prompted AC Milan chief Adriano Galliani to also confirm his interest in the player. "Leonardo [Inter coach] likes Ganso? I never went to Brazil for a holiday... his [Ganso's] clause? This is very negotiable," Galliani told Il Corriere dello Sport. One of the player's representatives revealed that Milan were leading the chase for his client and claimed that they were close to agreeing to a deal. "Milan are in advantage now in terms of Ganso's preferences. The deal could happen already by the start of next season," he said. Ganso is currently contracted to Santos until 2014, but a knee injury has stalled talks over an improved deal and could also hinder any move in January."I am injured, but still a big European club wants me, the club world champion team [Inter] wants to count on me…" Ganso was quoted as saying on Calciomercato.com last week, "... but Santos don't want to value me."
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
The Brazilian Post
TheBrazilianPost
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The Brazilian Post
JAN 31st - FEB 06th 2011
FERNANDO DE NORONHA: PARADISE IN BRAZIL
When you think of Brazil, what may come immediately to mind is the image of beautiful, untouched beaches… Well, this image is absolutely true – Brazil boasts some truly spectacular beaches – away from city dwellings, as well as within big cities like Rio de Janeiro. However, there is a group of islands in Brazil that is the secret address of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Say hello to the group of islas bonitas called “Fernando de Noronha”. Preservation is the key word of the administration of the archipelago, which belongs to the state of Pernambuco, northeast of Brazil. Caring for the islands can also be considered a superlative, as access is restricted on some beaches, and there are some activities that are prohibited. Jetskiing? Not in this exclusive setting. Swimming with dolphins? We don't disturb our animals here. But all such bans are part of the preservation initiatives undertaken for this group of islands, and are meant to safekeep the natural beauty and harmony of Fernando de Noronha for the enjoyment of holiday makers. Recognized internationally for its clear water beaches, Fernando de Noronha is an island paradise for visitors and residents alike. It enjoys the title of World Natural Heritage Site, awarded by UNESCO in 2002.
SURF IT UP! - Fernando de Noronha is really a place for everybody, including surfers. The ideal place to catch the best waves of the archipelago is on Cacimba do Padre beach, one of the longest beaches on the island. Known as the Brazilian Hawaii, Fernando de Noronha's surfing season begins in December, when national and foreign surfers descend on the islands. The end of the season is in March. The waves are amazing, and reach up to four meters in height. DOLPHINS - The Dolphin Bay, located on the west side of the main island, is a real feast for your eyes. Though it is inaccessible to visiting tourists and residents, the
sea of blue waters is a favorite place for the dolphins, who rest and feed in the bay, and the ban does not hamper viewings of the large mammals. From the viewpoint of the 50-meter-high Dolphin Bay, it is possible to see groups of dolphins swimming, jumping and relaxing in the waters. The ideal time for these viewings is early in the morning when the dolphins are concentrated within the bay. In the afternoon, they move to feed on small fish and squid at sea.
SHARKS - The shark is synonymous in many places with fear and death in the oceans. But in Fernando de Noronha, which has a totally balanced ecosystem, the probability of this marine predator attacking a human is near zero. "This way, you can swim with the sharks without any problems," explains fishing engineer Ana Paula Leite. "Most people think that the shark will emerge from the seabed with the sole intention of attacking and killing humans, but that does not tally with reality, especially in Fernando de Noronha, which has no aggressive species," explains Ana Paula. However, she calls attention to the fact that swimmers should remember that when they are swimming in the natural habitat of these animals, it is important to respect their space and keep a safe distance from them. HOW TO GET THERE - There is no direct flight from England to Fernando de Noronha, so travellers have to go via Recife, the capital city of Pernambuco. The good news is that there are two daily flights from London to Recife – one operated by the Brazilian airline TAM, with a connection through São Paulo, Brazil; and the other operated by the Potuguese airline TAP, with a connection through Lisbon. From Recife, one can either fly to Noronha (30 minutes), or go by cruise, which takes about a day. For more information, including hotels and hostels, please visit: www.noronha.pe.gov.br