Spotlight News Bulletin by British Society São Paulo

SPOTLIGHT NEWS BULLETIN

Hadrian’s Wall winding it’s way over the Northumbrian landscape, Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland, England. - Landscapes

nº 108 MAY & JUNE 2016

EDITORIAL

spotlight news bulletin edition

We are preparing for one of the main events of the British Community in São Paulo, which is the celebration of HBM Queen Elizabeth´s II 90th birthday. The British Society will be hosting the event on Thursday 23rd June 2016 from 7pm at the Brazilian British Centre and you will see details on the British Society page and the save the date printed below. This is one of our most important social events and is an ideal opportunity for the community to meet and to strengthen connections and friendships amongst its members.

400 copies A publication directed to members of the Fundação Britânica de Beneficência Editor Derrick Marcus dmarcus@osite.com.br Graphic design project Eólica Graphic design Casamarela Arquitetura e Design Printing Ogra Oficina Gráfica Proof Reading Alison Steel British Society São Paulo Fundação Britânica de Beneficência Rua Ferreira de Araújo, 741 1st Floor, Brazilian British Centre, Pinheiros 05428-002 São Paulo SP Tel.: +55 (11) 3813 7080 contact@britishsociety.org.br

NEXT ISSUES OF THE BULLETIN Nº 109 Jul/Aug 2016 Deadline Jun 7th Nº 110 Sep/Oct 2016 Deadline Ago 7th

Put this date on your list and catch up with friends you have not seen for some time. Communication is the key to informing readers of your activities. Spotlight exists to help readers know of your activities and events and to give adequate notice to avoid conflict of various events on the same date. Derrick Marcus

BRITISH SOCIETY

3 QUEEN´S BIRTHDAY PARTY

We are nearing the time of year in which we get to- We believe in the importance of maintaining this tradigether to toast HM The Queen on the occasion of her tional event on our community´s calendar, therefore we birthday. As always, it will be a special night where we will be inviting you to make a suggested contribution meet old friends and celebrate the community´s and of R$60,00 per person towards the expense of the party the Foundation´s achievements of the year. and towards our overall fundraising efforts. This year is particularly special because it marks HM If you know any potential sponsors who would help us The Queen’s 90th Birthday celebrating “her life, her put on a great party, please let the BSSP office know love of horses, her dedication to the Commonwealth on 3813 7080 or send an email to: charlotte@britishsoand international affairs and her deep involvement with ciety.org.br. the Navy, Army and Air Force” (www.hmq90.co.uk) We are looking forward to seeing all members at this British Society of São Paulo would like to invite its com- year’s party, so please reserve the date in your calendars munity to join in this joyous celebration. A formal invit- and spread the word to the other members of the comation will follow by mail and we kindly ask all RSVPs to munity to ensure we all have the date in our diaries. be made by June 1st . The catering will be provided by Projeto Chefe Apren- Charlotte V. Cowell Jancsó diz which we feel to be a fitting act of Social Respons- Communications Coordinator ibility towards some of the underprivileged in our Tel.: +55 11 97654.0993 / +55 11 3813-7080 city.

BRITISH SOCIETY The British Society São Paulo held its first socialgathering of the year on a low key scale, a Tea - the traditional way - kindly hosted at the flat of our Welfare Committee member, Stephanie Smith. The BS rcently lauched a facebook page, which is about sharing stories about past events as well as publicising upcoming occasions, in all areas of activity. We are always eager to receive fresh information, the more variety, the better! So, if you think your piece of news is relevant to the British Community of São Paulo, please do email it to us: contact@ britishsociety.org.br Judy Beer , Rachel Govier and Terezinha Bissell

Charlotte Cowell, Lissa Codling and Penny Ahlgrimm

Joan Smith and Stephanie Smith

INTERNATIONAL NEWCOMERS CLUB

The elderly are often overlooked when it comes to charity work with people preferring the help children and babies. INC were first made aware of three homes for the elderly that needed help through the British Society and just before Christmas INC members Kaitlin, Judy, Kathryn, Lisa, Liz and I baked cakes for all three homes. In March INC became aware that Casa Madre Theodora was asking for donations of food for their residents, such as rice and beans. We knew that INC (International Newcomers Club) could help, what we didn't realise is how many other people were also prepared to help. At the start of the month, with the help of our INC Angels we started gathering contributions of food from INC members all around Sao Paulo. Staff at The British Consulate, Bon Bini and Amsoc also came on board. Finally on the 31st March a group of us visited Casa Madre Theodora and delivered the food contributions

we had collected. The staff and residents made us feel very special and very welcome in their home. It also gave us a chance to see the wonderful work being done by the staff at the home. It's because of the huge generosity of these people that we were able to make such a difference, all of you are truly angels! It is clear that there is more that we can do. We hope to continue with the food contributions as well as help and support in other innovative ways to benefit the residents of not only Casa Madre Theodora but the other two homes for the elderly. Jas Little I VP of Events INC I International Newcomers Club of SĂŁo Paulo www.newcomers-sp.com.br

THE CARAJAS SCOUTS

The Carajás Scouts started their activities at the end of February and things have been busy ever since! On the 27th February, we held our traditional Field Day. The Carajás Family spent the whole day at a sítio outside São Paulo where we carried out many activities, some of which involved the parents too. At the end of the day the Going-Up Ceremony took place, when the older Scouts are received by the Rovers and the older Cubs step up into the Scout Troops. Even with the rain that poured all morning, spirits were high and nothing could stop everyone from having fun! Luckily, the afternoon brought the sun and we all went home dry, happy and full of energy for the next event! The following day, the Carajás participated in the Encontrão Escoteiro, which took place at Wet ‘n Wild, getting together with thousands of Scouts from all over São Paulo. Needless to say, it was great fun for all the participants! In March, in addition to the Cubs, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts weekly meetings, the Rovers were quite active too. They took part in the Interclãs held in Santos with Perdidos em Alto Mar as the event theme.

The Boy Scouts had an outing to the Museu do Futebol, Parents’ Evenings were held and we also had Group representatives at the Assembléia Regional Escoteira. All in all, an excellent start to 2016! Come and visit us and find out more about Scouting and the Carajás Scout Group! “The spirit is there in every boy; it has to be discovered and brought to light” Baden Powell / Grace Downey Group Leader - Carajás Scout Group

SĂ&#x192;O PAULO GARDEN CLUB

DISH GARDENS This indoor garden is a miniature landscape created in an open shallow container using plants with similar needs of water, light and soil. Cacti and other succulents seem to be the most widely used in this type of planting, since they come in a wide range of sizes, shades and shapes, grow slowly and require low maintenance. To play safe, define the landscape before you start planting. Ingredients for a dish garden: - One shallow clay, glass or plastic container, at least 5cm deep, with or without drainage holes. Where to place it: Treat it as an ornament; place it on coffe tables, desks, - Plants as defined in your project. - Potting mix, builderÂ´s sand, charcoal and small counters or any flat surface in a well-lit spot, a way from pebbles. direct sunlight. - Stones and accessories to complement your landSue Burt scape. Planting your dish garden: - Place a layer of pebbles and charcoal at the bottom of the container. - Add a mixture made of equal parts of potting mix and sand up to 1cm below the rim of the container. - Distribute the plants and accessories according to your project. Maintenance: - Water the pot only when the soil feels dry to the touch; it is better to under-water than to over-water. With no drainage hole, the water accumulated at the botton will damage the roots. Eliminate faded or damaged leaves

ENGLISH SPEAKING UNION SÃO PAULO FINALS 2016

The São Paulo finals of the ESU Public Speaking Competition took place on Friday 18th at the Duke of York Auditorium of the Brazilian British Centre. The International Public Speaking Competition celebrates its 36th anniversary this year. It is the largest public speaking competition in the world and is present in over 50 countries involving over 40,000 students. This annual event is hosted by the Cultura Inglesa São Paulo. This year there were four finalists, two from Cultura Inglesa: Emma Jovanovic and Pedro Anitelli and another two from St Paul’s Scholl: Eliza Zhao Hang and Gabriela Szasz Jatene. Participants must deliver a 5-minute speech on a specific theme. They can choose a title for their speech and every speech is followed by questions from the audience. The theme for the national heats this year was ‘THE MOST COMMON WAY PEOPLE GIVE UP THEIR POWER IS BY THINKING THEY DON’T HAVE ANY’, and it will be used at the national final in Belo Horizonte, on 7th April. The São Paulo representative will compete with representatives from Belo Horizonte, Brasília and Rio de Janeiro.

The national finalist will go to London for the International final in May. It is a 5-day programme with various events including excursions, debates, workshops and a two-day speaking competition. All participants receive training at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London. This year we had the pleasure of having Ms Eileen Wallis, Mr Derrick Marcus and Mr Richard Stevens acting as adjudicators. They have to analyse the participants’ presentations on stage as well as the content of their speeches, considering expression and delivery, reasoning and evidence, organisation and prioritisation besides evidence and response. The participants’ level was very high. They talked about heritage; teenagers’ rights and duties besides mind power, mentioned philosophers and aroused the audience who responded with interest shown by the questions posed and long applauses. The jury had a tough time deciding on the best speaker: Pedro Anitelli, and Emma Javanovic as runner up. Congratulations to the four participants on their courage and resolve to take part in such a demanding competition. Ana Maria Pelegrini - Operations Manager at Cultura Inglesa and President ESU São Paulo

CULTURAL SYNOPSIS

Going places: The Japanese Pavillion in the Ibirapuera Park. It is totally Japanese in every way, but what is especially interesting is the museum IS built like the imperial palace Katsura in Kiyoto, which dates back to 1620. It is a wooden structure without nails. It was built in Japan (in 1974), shipped out in parts, mounted and covered with the Kyoto mud to give texture to the walls. The rocks in the garden also came from Japan and consist of volcanic lava. Av. Pedro Álvares Cabral, gates 3 and 10. Open Wed, Sat, Sun, holidays , 10h to 12h and 13h to 17h. T. 5081-7296 – R$10. In the museum there is a permanent exhibition of Japanese culture. Ceramics, decorative objects and clothing of the samurais. Canion Quartelá in the state of Paraná in the Parque estadual Tibagí –Paraná, between the towns of Castro and Tibagi (centre –east of Paraná). It opens on Sunday & holidays from 8:30 to 16:30, offers fabulous views and walks, besides the many primitive rock paintings to be seen. People often just go to Tibagí and look for any kind of accommodation; or else, contact Tibagí Turismo (42)32751357 contato@tibagiturismo.com.br – who offer interesting walks in the canyon, and rafting, rappel and bathing in rock pools in the rivers Iapó & Tibagí. If you go to New York in July, visit the Kings Theatre, on Flatbush Ave, 1027-Brooklyn.A luxurious cinema seating 3000, also used for shows and parties. It was built as a theatre in 1929 by the Rapp Brothers, in French baroque style. It opened with the film “Evangeline” and closed in 1977 with the film “Islands in the Stream” by George Scott, remaining so till 2015. After closing, a documentary, ‘Memoirs of a movie palace’ was made there. Diana Ross performed on re-opening night in Feb. 2015. Go to its website. If you are a go-nowhere-in-particular kind of visit Tarantino, Bar-Bearia-Tattoo on the Rua Bela Vista, 360 loja 5 Chácara Sto Antonio T. 33845530 www.barbeariatarantino.com.br .Free parking available. (It is part of the convenience centre just on the right of the Borba Gato

statue). The barber uses the traditional method of hot towels. You can enjoy cold draft beer, special brands of beer and even look into the tattoo-shop on the premises. ‘Supera-ginástica do cérebro’. Two hours a week, doing maths exercises with the Japanese Abaco, group dynamics and ‘neurobics’ (doing something with your other hand). The course lasts for 18 months and basically works the connections between the neurons in your brain, to increase cognitive capacity and enhance memory. It should be good for you as you grow older. It is a franchise business, has been in Brazil for 10 years and there are branches in many districts and cities. There is one in Alto da Boa Vista, T.23697345 and they’ll tell you all you need to know. If you enter their site they give you a fabulous description of what it is all about. There is also a course for children with concentration difficulties and it helps increase self-esteem. “Heaven left a hole in your heart. But it’s up to you to choose if that hole will be filled with pain, anger, and the eternal darkness of loss ; or, if you will choose to fill it with light and love and have that hole shine out of you like a spotlight into your life, keeping memory alive” . Tessa shaffer Christina Thornton

SCHOOLS

THE BRITISH COLLEGE OF BRAZIL INTERNATIONAL DAY With over 35 different nationalities, the BCB International Day was a fabulous celebration of different cultures. Parents were responsible for taking over the classrooms and transforming them into representations of their home countries. Each room provided the pupils with an experience of the food, dress, music and culture of the countries. There were rooms representing India, Brazil China, Spain, UK, Sweden, Korea, France and more. The families were given a passport which was stamped upon entering each country. It was a wonderful day and with performances from our international communities, it was our best international day yet. GALA BALL The International communities of BCB enjoyed a night of good food, wine and dancing at the annual Gala Ball. This year R$ 30,000 was raised for our charities Arca do Saber and Casa de Crianças. The Gala Ball is organised by a dedicated team of parents from the school and funds were raised from sponsorships and an auction of artwork created by the pupils of BCB. Tiffany’s kindly Stuart Young - Headmaster donated a prize for the grand raffle. This event is a won- The British College of Brazil derful way to raise funds for our charities as well as www.britishcollegebrazil.org providing BCB parents a time to enjoy a night away from Chartered by The British Schools Foundation – World the children! Partying went on until the early hours.... Class Education

St. Francis College Top in the World for Cambridge IGCSE First Lan- to earn this prestigious award. We are very proud of guage Portuguese her, she has earned it! On Wednesday, 24th February, we celebrated the achievement of Isadora Martins da Nobrega in our Secondary assembly. Isadora received the “Top of the World” award from Cambridge International Examinations for achieving the highest score in the world in the First Language Portuguese course. Fabrizio Rossi, the Country Manager for CIE, was on hand with Mrs. Hazell to deliver the award to Isadora. Across all schools in Brazil that offer the IGCSE, Isadora is the only student

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FRIEDRICH T. SIMON, M.D. G.P., OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY English and German spoken Panel doctor for the British and German Consulates Albert Einstein Hospital, Bloco A1, Conj. 118, Av. Albert Einstein 627, Morumbi, SP Tel. 2151 3118 / 2151 3027 / 3813 1933

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VISIT BRITAIN

Thrillingtheatre throughout 2016

From new Shakespeare productions starring Games of Thrones actors to Broadway’s production of Disney’s Aladdin bringing its magic to London, Britain is awash with impassioned, fun-packed stage entertainment throughout 2016. Here are some of the best productions taking to the stage in Britain this year in London’s West End and beyond.

MAY Disney’s Aladdin at Prince Edward Theatre (7 May - 1 October) This fabulous tale of magic, deceitful sorcerers and hilarious genies brings a whole new world to London’s West End. Featuring much-loved songs including A Whole New World, and Arabian Nights, along with new songs written especially for the stage production, Disney’s Aladdin features new music by The Lion King’s Sir Tim Rice, and is directed by The Book Of Mormon’s Casey Nicholaw. www. aladdinthemusical.co.uk Running Wild at Regents Park Open Air Theatre (13 May - 12 June) A holiday to Indonesia turns into a fight for survival in the first full staging of Michael Morpurgo’s heart-breaking adventure Running Wild. Will’s and his mother’s holiday plans take a terrifying turn when a tsunami hits the coast and, clinging on for dear life as Oona the elephant charges deep into the rainforest. Now, Will must learn to survive in a hostile environment. Running Wild features puppetry design by former War Horse puppetry directors. www.openairtheatre.com/ production/running-wild Romeo and Juliet at Garrick Theatre (13 May - 19 August) Richard Madden and Lily James star in Shakespeare’s classic love story Romeo and Juliet, directed by Kenneth Branagh. Reuniting following their roles in Kenneth Branagh’s hit film Cinderella, Games of Thrones’ Madden and Downton Abbey, star James take on the title roles in the Bard’s tale of forbidden love.www.branaghtheatre.com/romeo-and-juliet

JUNE

The Deep Blue Sea at The National Theatre (1 June - 17 August) Helen McCrory plays Hester Collyer - one of the greatest female roles in contemporary drama in Terence Rattigan’s portrait of need, loneliness and long-repressed passion. www.nationaltheatre.org.uk The Go-Between at Apollo Theatre (7 June - 15 October) Two-time Olivier Award-winner Michael Crawford returns to the West End in a moving coming of age musical, The Go-Between, based on the novel by L. P. Hartley and directed by Roger Haines. Leo Colston finds himself embroiled in a forbidden secret love affair, acting as the go-between in a furtive relationship between beautiful upper-class Marian and lowly tenant-farmer Ted. www.apollotheatrelondon.co.uk/the-go-between Mamma Mia! Birmingham Hippodrome, Birmingham, central England (28 June - 3 September) For the first time, Mamma Mia! will be performed in Birmingham at the Hippodrome. Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of Abba. www.mamma-mia.com Breakfast at Tiffany’s at Theatre Royal Haymarket (30 June - 17 September) Pixie Lott stars as Holly Golightly in Nikolai Foster’s production of Truman Capote’s classic tale. Set in 1943 New York, Breakfast at Tiffany’s tells the story of young writer Fred as he meets Holly Golightly, a charming, vivacious and elusive good-time girl. Everyone falls in love with Holly, including Fred, but Fred is poor and Holly’s other suitors include a playboy millionaire and the future president of Brazil. As war rages on in Europe, Holly begins to fall in love with Fred - just as her past catches up with her.www.trh.co.uk Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London (booking until 4 June 2016) David Greig’s adaptation of Roald Dahl’s novel is the musical tale of Charlie Bucket, whose winning golden ticket gives him the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enter the top-secret factory owned by mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka. www.charlieandthechocolatefactory.com Mitsi Golias

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING

Care for Caregivers Having discussed the stigma that often prevents people with mental health problems from seeking help (last “Spotlight”), I am also aware that even when people do ask for help for those in their care, they are often not taken seriously enough. It took my friend Vanessa over 5 years to get a diagnosis for her husband Michael (see obituaries), especially since he was in denial, so the doctors thought the problem was hers, and that she was making an unnecessary fuss about the changes in his personality. We know our loved ones (usually better than the doctors do), and when their personalities change it is a sure sign that something is wrong. Vanessa has given me permission to discuss Michael’s case in the hopes that it will help others avoid similar delays. Michael’s diagnosis was an awful shock, but the following ten years were, Vanessa said, easier to cope with than the 5 years of “not knowing”. Recent studies have concluded that a third of babies born today in the developed world will live to be over 100, which is good news in most respects. However, this also means there will be many more people in need long-term care. Some illnesses, such as Michael’s, are not limited to the elderly, and watching someone you love gradually deteriorate into a vegetative state is always a painful and lonely experience. Although the self-sacrifice is usually an act of love (Vanessa called it a “privilege”), it is nevertheless one of the most stressful of life experiences, often more stressful than being the patient—especially when the patient is unaware of what is happening and can’t show gratitude or provide companionship.

Whatever assistance the caregiver can get from friends, family, a support group or a counsellor can be a lifeline. (One of Vanessa’s life-lines were the Admiral Nurses of Cornwall, alas, not available here!) Fighting burnout is a matter of self-care, which is a necessity, not a luxury, for all full-time caregivers. Too often caregivers avoid asking for help and become overtired, overwhelmed and/or depressed, which has a long-term negative impact on their own mental and physical health. All full-time caregivers also need regular breaks, and it often helps to schedule some “talk time” with a counsellor. (Send me an email to book a free session if it would help). Counselling, in addition to helping caregivers work out the best possible coping strategies for the individuals(s) involved, can also help by taking some of the pressure off other personal relationships, making it easier to relax and enjoy the time spent with friends and loved ones. Finally, there is also practical help available via the “British Society—São Paulo”, which is our “extended family” in times of crisis. (Website available in this bulletin). However, the British Society needs our financial support if it is to have a long-term future, so please remember that charity begins at home! Penny Freeland is a qualified counsellor and coach. For further information please contact PenelopeFreeland@gmail.com All communication will remain confidential.

HEALTH AND FITNESS

THE ZIKA SCARE From time to time your columnist seems to be burdened with the obligation to cover the latest epidemic scare. This time, however, the disease involved is not particularly deadly, but imposes a cruel trial on pregnant women: the possibility that their baby will be born with brain malformation. We are talking about Zika virus. The virus has this name because it was first identified in the Zika Valley in Uganda, Africa in 1947, and is spread by Aedes mosquitoes, the same species that carries two other diseases, dengue fever and chikungunya. This mosquito can also carry yellow fever, a very serious viral infection. The tragic fact is that a pregnant mother can pass the virus to her baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth. There have been reports that the virus can spread through blood transfusions and sexual contact. Most people who get the virus do not get sick. One in five people get the symptoms, which may include mild fever, rash, and muscle pain. Other symptoms can be a headache, red eyes (conjunctivitis), and a feeling of general discomfort. Symptoms usually begin from two to seven days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The virus rarely causes serious complications, but in rare cases, Zika has been associated with Guillan-BarrĂŠ syndrome, a disorder that can cause partial or complete paralysis, usually starting in the legs, most often temporary. Zika has also been tied to cases of microcephaly in babies born to infected pregnant women. Microcephaly stunts a baby's head growth, causing devastating, sometimes fatal brain

damage. It can also result in miscarriage or stillbirth. In Brazil, the disease first appeared in May last year, and has caused panic after more than 4,000 babies were reportedly, born with microcephaly. Although other causes for microcephaly exist in babies, such as genetic problems, and exposure to toxic substances, the link between the virus and microcephaly seems to be getting stronger the more that researchers learn. Research has suggested, in addition, that infection during the earliest stages of pregnancy, when organs are still forming, seems to be linked to the worst outcomes. In January, the World Health Organization declared birth defects linked to the Zika virus an international public health emergency. Some experts advise women to consider postponing pregnancy if they live in an affected area, Women who are already pregnant should avoid mosquito bites by using mosquito repellent throughout the day. As mosquitoes that spread Zika are aggressive daytime biters often found indoors, pregnant women are advised to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, both indoors and out. Pregnant women should also insist on the use of condoms, or abstain from sex during pregnancy. There is no specific antiviral treatment for Zika virus disease. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms with rest, fluids and medications to relieve joint pain and fever. No vaccine exists as yet to prevent Zika virus. MICHAEL ROY SMITH, M.D. MOBILE ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY Phone: 99183-2093

E-mail: mrsmith@terra.com.br

MULTICULTURALISM

Multiculturalism, Diversity and other quintessentially British words. Part 2. Life is great Up North Adolescent years are never easy. We can probably all remember how the body seems to suddenly sprout hair, voices get deeper (at least for us men), clothes don’t fit, pimples and other unsightly blemishes appear on our skin. We are full of doubts as to who we are, who we want to be, where we want to live. Oh that agonizing time when we still needed our parents but secretly wanted to rebel against everything they represented. How old and “out of touch” they seemed. Their taste in music, their clothes, their conformity …. Adolescent years are about rebellion. My experience was no different from that of the average teenager, except in one respect. I knew I was going to be gay. To be a teenager is to rebel. However, at the same time as the teenager wants to throw away so many things, the teenager also needs to conform. Conform with his/ her peers. To feel part of a group. To believe he/she belongs to a new entity, different from the family of his/ her childhood. To be an adolescent in late 1970s and early 1980s Britain was a multi-faceted experience. Of course, this was a time before internet, before mobile phones. When Channel 4 started it was seen as so modern and different. I remember watching a film in 1985 called “My Beautiful Launderette” about a gay relationship that blossomed between two men, one a young Pakistani and one a white British guy as they fought to defend both their business (the launderette) and their relationship. It was wild. A breath of fresh air for a teenager who just knew he was different. Homosexuality has been around forever. How society has assimilated, reacted, rejected or accepted homosexuality has changed throughout the years. Just as I was beginning to accept my own sexuality through the

tender adolescent years of the early 1980s, so Britain, as a society, was starting to come to terms with the fact that attitudes needed to change. It was a great time to be growing up. The 1980s brought the Pet Shop Boys, Oasis and other musical groups who seemed to be sending a message to society that it didn’t matter who you loved as long as you were happy. To be happy was the goal. As in any society, young people looked for change. Older people, not exclusively but in their vast majority, were not so accepting. Many pointed to the AIDS crisis as if it were a punishment for this “liberal and deviant” life style. “Homosexual illness” was in the news. Longing for freedom, it seemed as if that freedom could only be attained by associating it with a degree of risk. In addition to all of the doubts on sexuality, of course, came religion. Judaism, like society has evolved considerably over the last 30 years, however, the idea of being Jewish and Gay in 1985 was a NO-GO. You “had” to marry a girl, settle down and conform. If not, you were seen as an outcast, somebody just too different. But Britain and my religion (Judaism) were starting to change. The 1980s in many ways was a turning point. People wanted to make money. The City of London was awash with bankers, traders, financial institutions. Everybody down South was guzzling champagne, getting richer and richer. However, in other parts of the country, traditional manufacturing was in serious decline and poverty was on the rise. Disparity between the regions was clear. The country seemed to be pulling in two directions at once. Almost as if the economic tear was a metaphor for a rift between tradition and something new. The “rich” South and the “poor” North.

MULTICULTURALISM

Conformity to old ways and the desire to create something new. In a nutshell, Britain was discovering that not everything was uniform throughout the “green and pleasant land” but that multiculturalism and diversity were also starting to creep in. In 1983 I went to University “Up North”. For a good Jewish boy from North West London, this was one destination in those years that was far enough away from home to be different yet sufficiently familiar enough to be able to enjoy a good degree of comfort. Manchester. Now I am very partial when it comes to Manchester. Like any University student I have very fond memories of my years spent there, but Manchester today, as it was then, is still a very special city. Large, multi-cultural and diverse. A vibrant city well worth visiting. Already in the 1980s it was far more advanced compared to most other cities in the UK. People were lovely (like in

most places in the North of England) and even the bus conductor called you “Luv”. The cultural offering was huge and the income low but buzzing areas of Rusholme and Fallowfield offered all of the Indian take-away restaurants an impoverished student could ever hope for. The Jewish community in south Manchester was like a home away from home with Chicken Soup and Friday night Shabbat meals available whenever I wanted. Gay bars were opening left right and centre in Canal Street. A time for exploring. Nowhere quite like Manchester …. Britain was changing, shaking off an old coat and starting to look for a new direction. Just like me. To be continued Richard Lawrence

SUDOKU Puzzle Number 60 | Level: Hard The rules of Sudoku are simple. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square. Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Solution on page 23

7 3

3 4 4 5 7 8 8 3 4 9 1 5 2

1 5

5 3 8 6 1 7 5 3 8

Time to spring into action; nobody does it like London - By Ed Freeman Spring is a beautiful word - /'spring/ - even phonetically she’s a stunner, but she shies from her talents. Spring implies a sense of sudden energy and movement, a lively, upbeat quality. She’s a source of fresh water, of mineral and vitality. We pang for her familiar caress at night, on the soft and responsive mattresses that revive us so. No doubt about it, spring is a versatile and sassy mistress. Perhaps to the average Brit, however, the most enchanting thing about spring is the fact that she isn’t winter. Spring, I put to you, is the heroine of the fab four seasons. Summer, often the headline act and full of promise, casts a large shadow, but there is something magical and understated about spring. No other season can create such a swell of anticipation and deliver it so gracefully. Astronomically speaking the March equinox (19th to 21st) denotes the official unveiling of spring, but we are an impatient lot, we Brits – Londoners worse still and celestial officialdom is for nerds. Come 1st March, come spring! For once we would embrace our Welsh brethren on this point, given that the Celts nabbed the very same day to celebrate their patron daffodil picker, St. David. Quite why the English opted for 23rd April to celebrate St. George is a matter of meteorological inconvenience, given that rain is all but guaranteed. Incidentally the Irish traditionally believe that spring starts on St. Brigid’s Day, 1st February, which is about as ridiculous as the historical credence given to the beer-soaked shenanigans of St. Patrick’s Day (17th March; if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em). As for the Scots, the origins of their seasons, “cold” and “even colder still”, are less obvious. Spring denotes a time when people remember how to socialise. Hibernation is over. The long dark winter, only briefly punctuated by the hearty distraction of Christmas and New Year is, finally, drawing to an end. New Year’s

resolutions have long since been cast aside like unwanted stocking fillers and the uncompromising “dry” January did nothing but invoke reclusive paranoia. It’s catch-up time, drunk on the notion that going to buy the paper is no longer an “extreme” sport. Fold away the cashmere and stow away the duffel coats; springtime is in bloom. So what is it specifically about March and April, given that spring stretches until 21st June (the Summer Solstice, any nerd will tell you) that gets us all giddy? Well January and February have been struck off, for a start, but it is more than just our first glimpse of sunshine; it is an attitude. Fashions change, the winter collections turfed out like an overdressed gate-crasher, flinging the door wide open for blossoming floral designs and pastel coloured paisley prints. Green-fingered hopefuls start to believe their horticultural horoscopes and conjure up images of Pimms-fuelled garden parties. Entertainment schedules deflect their focus from the red-carpet banality of awards shows in an attempt to flog boastful summer blockbusters. Pubs frantically update their blackboards from “Escape the bitter cold with a cold bitter” to “We have a beer garden and don’t mind kids, anymore”. March and April, our cherished “Posh and Becks” of spring, bring us renewed energy and enthusiasm. As if overnight, things don’t seem so bad, do they? Your boss seems less pedantic today. You avoided arriving (and leaving) the office under the cover of darkness. That after-work drink was less bitter tonight, and lighter in some way; more “bubbly” perhaps. You feel refreshed, revived. And inexplicably, everyone - no it’s not the prosecco talking - appears considerably easier on the eye. Spring is, in every way, about rejuvenation; a collective

19 reawakening of the senses. This barrage of stimuli is nature’s way of congratulating us for our tenacity and endurance, for knuckling down and perfecting our stiff (and chapped) upper lip, which has persevered on our wind-torn faces for too many months. But no more shall we cower in the shadows, and take refuge in the shelter of flimsy shop-front awnings and overcrowded tube stations. And maybe that is why, after all, British people talk so passionately about the weather. Cultural stereotyping has us forever bemoaning the weather as we daintily sip our Earl Grey, but perhaps this is unjust to a nation that simply likes a good natter (we’ve been dormant all winter), and is powerlessly governed by the climate. The calendar year, categorized into chunks of distinctive (mostly foul) weather forces us to prepare and adapt, in a way that seldom troubles more clement climes. Spring in Brazil, to this point, given the relative consistency of the climate is arguably less significant. March itself represents the onset of autumn and is usually a bit

of a damp squib. Daylight savings take effect a little earlier in these parts, meaning atmospheric calibration gets going a little sooner. But, Brazilians, given the less perceptible change, tend to remain less emotionally engaged in this process. The hot and sticky summer months of January and February, equally brutal in their own way, give way to a more comfortable temperature. With this welcome relent comes epic rain. The chuvas de março (March rains, which often pour well into April) are the Sampa version of April showers, but tropically torrential. Flash flooding and landslides are real threats, which is cruelly ironic given that much of the continent suffers extensive drought during the first trimester of the year. As I type I am blinded by a typically brilliant São Paulo skyline. It’s the purest shade of baby blue imaginable and quite magnificent. But, as splendid as it is, I know that part of me is missing at this time, something inherent to my nature; the spring in my step that is March and April in London (isn’t she amazing, what other season can define itself so eloquently).

SPOTLIGHT HUMOUR My goal for 2016 is to lose just 10 pounds: only 15 to go. Ate salad for dinner. Mostly croutons and tomatoes. Really just one big, round crouton covered with tomato sauce, and cheese. FINE, it was a pizza. I ate a pizza. How to prepare Tofu: 1. Throw it in the trash. 2. Grill some Meat. I just did a week's worth of cardio after walking into a spider web. I don't mean to brag, but I finished my 14-day diet food in 3 hours and 20 minutes. A recent study has found women who carry a little extra weight live longer than men who mention it. Kids today don't know how easy they have it. When I was young, I had to walk 9 feet through shag carpet to change the TV channel. Senility has been a smooth transition for me. Remember back when we

were kids and every time it was below zero out they closed school? Me neither. I may not be that funny or athletic or good looking or smart or talented? I forgot where I was going with this. I love being over 50. I learn something new every day and forget 5 others. A thief broke into my house last night. He started searching for money, so I woke up and searched with him. My dentist told me I need a Crown. I said, "You bet, pour mine over rocks." I think I'll just put an "Out of Order" sticker on my forehead and call it a day. PS: Sunday, 13 March, 2016, begins Daylight Savings Time. Don't forget to set your bathroom scale back 10 pounds on Saturday night. "JUST REMEMBER, ONCE YOU'RE OVER THE HILL YOU BEGIN TO PICK UP SPEED." - Charles Schultz

RUGBY

Historic Rugby Football Game São Paulo Athletic (SPAC) x São Paulo Railway – 1898 Chácara Dulley – 24th July 1898 (Rio News – 2nd August 1898) The teams were: SPAC Back: F. Sparkes ¾: S.Crowther Smith, F. Blacklock, Charles Miller & J. Wilson ½: H. Kirkman & M. King Forwards: H.R. Pennington, P. Comber, J. Bierenbach, W. Weigall, E. Hume, W. Jeffery & T. Happe S. P. Railway Back: E. Wyatt ¾: E.A. Duffield, J. Shaw, E.G Knight & J.S. Webster ½: L.M. Howe & J. Mawson Forwards: W.J. Ingoldby, F.C. Fforde, W.F. Ware, J. Finlayson & R.V. King Touch Judges: Mrssr. Steward & Rendall Referee: E. Bartlett These clubs met for a friendly game played at Chacara Dulley on 24th July. Winning the toss SPAC elected to play with the sun behind them. At 4.30 pm Fforde kicked off for the Railways, who played two short. Ths first scrimmage took place in the Railways quarters, but owing to the weight and dash of their forwards the ball soon travelled to the other end and from a judicious pass to Kirkman, Blacklock got well away, passing to Miller and for some time the Railway lines were in danger until Wyatt relieved by a long kick. Knight and Webster following well up, caused Miller to touch down. Kickman kicked out and the SPAC forwards getting well together rushed the ball down and from a scrimmage in the Railway 25, Blacklock picked up and passing to Crowther Smith, the latter ran round and grounded the ball behind the Railway posts. Miller took the kick but without result. At half time the score stood: São Paulo Athletic Club, 1 try to nil.

On resuming, the Railway made a strong attack on SPAC´s defence. Mawson putting in some useful runs, and Wenster playing a fine game at centre threequarter, but the locks of SPAC´s defence were too good, and the ball was gradually worked back forcing Knight to touch down for the Railway. After the kick Webster came back with a fine run, but the ball was ruled back. Then from an offside penalty on SPAC´s part, Wyatt put in a free kick from his own 25, the ball just missing goal and Miller touched down. Following the kick-out well up, SPAC´s forwards took the ball into the Railway quarter, passing to Blacklock who grounded the ball behing the Railway´s goal. Kirkman made good shot for goal but without effect. This reverse put the Railway on their mettle and with combined rushes and good luck play they carried the ball over SPAC´s line. Then SPAC got away again and for some five minutes before time, Miller coming away with a smart run, passed to Crowther Smith who scored the third try for SPAC. Wilson kicking a poster. A most enjoyable match and both players and spectators ended leaving SPAC victorious by three tries to nil. The Railway are to be congratulated on making such a plucky fight, specially as they played two short in their forwards, although their extra weight made up a great measure for this. The return game will be looked forward to with a great deal of interest. (Credits to Victor Sá Ramalho Antonio and Thiago Kater Pinto - Researchers and rugby historians of the LUDENS - USP (Núcleo Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas sobre Futebol e Modalidades Lúdicas da Universidade de São Paulo). (Transcribed by John Robert Mills)

ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL

21 Mothering Sunday:

In the 18th century, Mothering Sunday became a day when domestic servants in England were given a day off to visit their 'mother church', usually with their own mothers and other family members. It was often the only time that whole families could gather together, since on other days they were prevented by conflicting working hours, and servants were not given free days on other occasions. The traditional Anglican Service for Mothering Sunday and Holy Communion was held by Bishop Roger & Elizabeth Bird on Sunday, 6th March at 10:00. The chorus sang beautifully, accompanied by the sounds of the magnificent organ and trumpet. Also very moving was the Ave Maria solo by Catherine Bird Doutel. People at the service each brought a flower to place on the floral cross which was built in honour of each and every person´s mother, both living or passed away.

Following the service, there was a Parish Lunch in the Church Hall where each contributed with a dish to make up the communal table. A special moment of fellowship indeed! The traditional annual Clothing Sale took place on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17 April

Dean Rev. Aldo B Quintão Bishop Roger D. Bird Bishop Glauco S. de Lima Rua Com Elias Zarzur, 1239 Alto da Boa Vista, São Paulo 04736-000 Tel/Fax (11) 5686.2180 www.catedralanglicana.tv.br

Lissa Codling´s Chocolate cake with floral cross decor

BIRTH

| DEATH |

OBITUARY | SUDOKU SOLUTION

SUDOKU SOLUTION

EDNA BRODIE Deaths Puzzle Number 60 | Level: Hard As we go to print we have just heard of Born in São Paulo in March 1921 to the sad passing of Maria King and earlier

James & Dorothy Rushworth, Edna spent

in the month of Allen Moreton Treacher

her whole life in São Paulo. She was a

(Bill). Our sincere condolances.

pupil at St. Paul’s School though her education was interrupted by a serious bout

Obituary of pneumonia. In October 1947 she marMICHAEL FLEMING

ried Douglas Brodie and was married to

Died peacefully at home in Cornwall on

him for 50 years until his death in 1997.

2nd February 2016, aged 77, with his

The main focus of her (and Douglas’) life

wife Vanessa by his side. Michael and

was caring for their daughter Maureen

family lived in São Paulo between 1972

over a period of 50 years. Maureen re-

and 1977, where Michael worked for

quired constant care arising from com-

Gessy Lever (now Unilever). They made

plications following brain surgery in

many lifelong friends during their posting

1958. Edna died in 2010. She also man-

in Brazil, and Vanessa was greatly sup-

aged to devote a couple of years to

ported by the presence of many of these

working at the Associação de Assistência

friends at his funeral, and during the time

a Crianças Defeituosas where she was

since she became his full-time nurse after

much loved and highly respected for her

he was diagnosed with a rare form of

contribution to the cause of crippled

early onset dementia called FTD (Pick’s

children. She died on Wednesday, 24

disease) over ten years ago. He will also

February 2016, in the Hospital Santa

be greatly missed by his four sons: Mark,

Maggiore in São Paulo, following emer-

Julian, Patrick and Rupert (who was born

gency surgery, just short of her 95th

in São Paulo) and his 7 grandchildren.

birthday. She is survived by her only son, Keith Brodie, his wife Louise, 3 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, all of whom live in Sydney, Australia.

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BIRTH Richard and Dimitra Anderson wish to announce the safe arrival of their first son Allan Angelidis Anderson on March 16th weighing 2.790 kgs and 49 cms., a third grandchild for Dora and Willie Anderson.

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GENERAL COMMUNITY CALENDAR |

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Check out for more details. Visit www.britishsociety.org.br Event

Date

Time

Place

Sponsor

Choral Society Concert

May 10

19.00

St Pauls´School

Festa Junina Anglicana

May 26

12.00

St Paul´s Anglican Cathedral

Munro Golf Cup

May

São Fernando Golf Club

St Andrew Society

Scottish Dance Practice

Jun 06

Brazilan British Centre

St Andrew Society

Brazilan British Centre

British Society

SPAC

Royal British Legion

SPAC Higienópolis

St Andrew Society

St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral

Assoc. de Amparo aos Animais

SPAC Santo Amaro

Carajas Scouts

Queens´Birthday Celebration June 23 Legion Members Lunch

July 19

12.00

Winter Celidh

Aug 13

Pet Show

Aug 20

Going Up

Aug 21

23rd Alpha Course

Sep 3

16.00

St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral

24rd Alpha Course

Sep 4

19.45

St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral

Quiz Night

Sep 14

Brazilian British Centre

St Andrew Society

Carajás Super Party

Sep 24

to be defined

Carajás Scouts

Legion Churrasco

Sep 25

SPAC

Royal British Legion

Annual Flower Show

Oct 1/2

Brazilian British Centre

S˜åo Paulo Garden Club

Caledonian Ball

Nov 22

Clube Transatlântica

St Andrew Society

Berlin Tattoo

Nov

Berlin

St Andrew Society

Christmas Bazaar

Dec 3

St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral

AGM

Dec 8

Brazilian British Centre

British Society

Camp Fire

Dec 3

to be defined

Carajás Scouts

Christingle Service

Dec 21

19.45

St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral

Christmas Day Service

Dec 25

10.00

St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral

Jamboree Panamericano

Dec 27 - Jan 2

Ecuador

Carajás Scouts

12.00

11.00

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