Inc - The Echo June 2013

In t e r n a t i o n a l C l u b o f R i o d e J a n e i r o

www.incrio.org.br June 2013

General Meeting Tuesday May 28th Clube Federal Rua Timoteo da Costa 988—Leblon

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President’s First Word

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Events

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LEGEP An expats shopping paradise

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Weekend Getaway… Angra with our very own French Chef

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Speaker Series notes on A Night in Noir

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General Meeting

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Taste of Rio

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Our Charity Corner

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All about Cachaca

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Thursty Thursday! Si Senor!

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What's on?

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Our June/July Calendar

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Lets Connect to Facebook

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Those who make the InC into a happening

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WWW.INCRIO.ORG .BR

Go to our website for more events and news

First Word Hello everyone, As amazing as it may seem, we have again reached the middle of the year! Before so many of you jet off to enjoy your "summer holidays" in the Northern Hemisphere, have a look at the long list of great events we have lined up for you. I hope you will join us and truly enjoy the month of June!

In July, the InC Board will also be enjoying a month of vacation and our activities will resume in August. We only have one event scheduled for the first weekend in July and that is our great Gourmet Getaway to Angra with our very own French Chef David Mansaud.

You will receive the ECHO informing you of the events in August around July 26th. There will be no Echo published in June.

One of the things Vic and I will be taking along on our trip to the Cote d' Azur and Italy, where we will welcome a new baby into the family is an iPad filled with photos of all the wonderful InC events and excursions we've enjoyed this year.

Isn't it great how the computer has truly revolutionized how we communicate, how we stay connected and is such a great way to let the folks back home see all the fun you're having in Brazil! I invite you to join our FaceBook site where we share ideas, exchange impressions, post useful information and tons of photos of the fun people in our community.

On another note, we have some great news! We will be welcoming Susan Loveland to our Executive Board in the position of Executive Secretary. She is now well settled into the Rio lifestyle and happy to contribute to the InC in such an important position.

Our very dear Mary Dwyer, who has been performing this duty, will be leaving us in June and moving back to her home in California. A big thank you, Mary, from all of us, for the many hours you have put in not only as our Executive Secretary but also for your help on the Charity Committee. We will miss you. I hope you will stay connected and come back to visit.

After lots of tender loving care and long hours put in by the board committees here is our line up of events for JUNE that you surely will not want to miss.

Hope to see you at our events My best to you all, Bonnie June 2013 The ECHO

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Events FUNDRAISER: GOURMET COOKING CLASS AND CANDLELIGHT DINNER FRENCH CHEF, David Mansaud will teach a THREE HOUR COOKING CLASS which will make even a beginner look like a grand chef at their next dinner party! After all the hard work, the partners will join in for a BEAUTIFUL CANDLELIGHT DINNER, some great conversation and the best food in town!

Date: Saturday, May 25th Time: 7:30 PM Place: Robyn and Ewen will open their home in Barra All inclusive Fundraising price: R$275.00 THIS EVENT IS FULLY BOOKED BUT WE HAVE A FEW VACANCIES FOR NEXT MONTH! NEXT DATE: SATURDAY, JUNE 22ND Sign up for the next class: president@incrio.org EVENT: NEW MEMBERS GATHERING Our New Membership Director, Liliana Perillha Rojas will be meeting and greeting those that have newly joined, as well as guests who are interested in learning more about what the InC has to offer. The board joins in and lots of information flows at this fun packed NEW MEMBERS GATHERING! We encourage our members to reach out to the wonderful people you have met here in Rio, who are not familiar with what the InC does and invite them to this informal cafezinho.

Date: Tuesday, June 4th Time: 10:30 Place: Liliana Perilla’s Home in Leblon Cost: FREE RSVP: dentijet@gmail.com EVENT: ZONA SUL CAFEZINHO AND THE DOCTOR'S SERIES Just to shake it up a bit we will exceptionally present our Doctor's series in the Zona Sul! The Barra group felt that the Dr. Leandra Metsavaht's talk on Sun Protection and skin care. Because her talk is so important, we have asked her to present it again especially for those who regretted missing it.

Date: Tuesday, June 11th Time: 10:30 AM Place: Marsia Seydoux’s home in Ipanema Cost: Free RSVP : marsia.seydoux@gmail.com EVENT: THURSTY THURSDAY Following on our Tex-Mex roll, we'll quench our thurst at Si Señor, in Leblon. An elegant restaurant, with veranda and pleasant decor, Si Señor is fast becoming one of the foremost Mexican restaurants in Zona Sul. Let's have some more Margaritas and Tortillas! Counting on the fun crowd to show up again!

DATE: Thursday, June 13th Time: 7:30 PM Place: Av. Gen. San Martin, 1011 Leblon (near Visconde de Albuquerque Canal) Cost. Free. You pay the bar for what you consume EVENT: BARRA CAFEZINHO Lawyer Adiane Mitidiere will present the New Domestic Law which affects all who have a maid, nanny, driver or gardener . For those of you who participated last month, this is a continuation. Adiane will review what was presented and add vital information.

NOTE: WE WILL BE STARTING EARLIER TO BE ABLE TO ATTEND TO MOM'S WITH SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN Date: Tuesday, June 18th Time: 9:30 AM Place: Jolanda's Home in Barra Cost: Free RSVP: jmaltha@hotmail.com

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Events FUND RAISING EVENT: GOURMET COOKING CLASS AND CANDLE LIGHT DINNER FRENCH CHEF The first class was a resounding success and our second one will be even better. Through popular demand we will be adding a cocktail hour for both the aspiring Chefs and the spouses, who felt a need to come and keep an eye on the cooking. It is however optional.

Date; Saturday , June 22nd Time: Aspiring Chefs and observing spouses start at 5:00PM, Spouses joining for dinner only at 8:00PM Place; Hosted at the home of an InC member Cost: Cooking Class (one spouse only per event) R$90. 3 Hour session with our very own French Chef David Mansaud Cocktail per person R$ 30. Hors d'oeuvre and cheeses will accompany your Caipirinhas, wine, beer, water and soft drinks.

Dinner per couple will cost R$ 210 and it includes a starter, a main dish and a dessert plus white, red and a dessert wine which have all been harmonized to go with the meal and coffee.

THIS IS AN EVENT NOT A FUND RAISER AND ALL PRICES ARE AT COST. Sign up for the next class: president@incrio.org NEW EVENT!!!!!!! SUNDAY SUNSET HAPPY HOUR IN BARRA with Rodrigo Pimentel The famed Rodrigo Pimentel, national celebrity, former BOPE commander and screen writer for the blockbuster movie Elite Squad will be joining us for a sunset chat about his work, the changing crime scene in Rio, and his optimism for the evolution of the city. THIS IS A MUST for those of you are getting to know Rio, its problems and brilliance, and falling in love with the city. See you there.. it's on the beach so families are very welcome to bring their kids!

Date: Sunday, June 23rd Time: 4:00PM Place. Kiosk K-8, near the turn off, onto Oligario Maciel.

RSVP: presidente@incrio.org .br EVENT: GENERAL MEETING Speaker and venue still to be confirmed Date: Tuesday, June 25th Time 10:30 AM EVENT: SPEAKER'S SERIES. Creation in Movement: Esther Weitzman and Brazilian Contemporary Dance Esther is the founder of her own Contemporary Dance Company in Rio. A choreographer and dance entrepreneur, she will be giving a multi-faceted presentation about the art of contemporary dance, its Brazilian influence, and will be finishing off with a dance presentation by members of her company. Some of our members may even join in...???

Definitely not to be missed!

Date: Thursday, June 25th Time: 7:30 PM Place: Midrash Cultural Center, Leblon FUNDRAISING EVENT: An evening with David Chew and Friends Don't miss this special opportunity for an intimate performance by world-renowned cellist David Chew and accompanying musicians. We will not only dazzle your senses of sight and sound, we will also be tempting your taste buds with some exquisite wines, gourmet cheeses and other delicious treats.

Date: Saturday June 29 Time: 8pm-11pm Place: InC member's private residence in Zona Sul Cost: R$100 per person RSVP: patricia.prinsen@gmail.com NEW EVENT!!

EXCURSION TO A PACIFIED FAVELA WITH RODRIGO PIMENTEL Rodrigo will be taking us on a tour of Morro do Alem達o (German Hill), an example of what he considers a true success story in Favela pacification. Morro do Alem達o was once one of the most dangerous, and deadliest, favelas in Rio; it is now witnessing a period of relative peace after pacification. Rodrigo will give us a guided tour of the place and explain its evolution from a veritable war zone to a livable neighborhood. Details to be announced next month.

Date: Saturday, June 29th RSVP: events@incrio.org .br

News and Views

Hi everybody,

So look her up along with Vinny on the first floor and Vanusa on the second floor.

Here is a special "Insiders tip" for June and July!

Let them know you are a member of the InC so For those of you who will be traveling home you and your friends will be treated to a whopthis July and are desperately trying to think of ping 20% discount on your purchases. Just for something original to take along as gifts from your information, the generosity of Legep also Brazil. LEGEP is the place you want to go! extends us an additional 10% which they send us at the end of each month giving us a big For those of you who are staying and want to hand in running the club and our many charido something special with your visitors Legep ties, To get this 20% discount, payment must be is a MUST SEE! in cash. Debit and Credit Cards are given a 10% Here is a great little video to give you an idea of discount. what a treat a visit to Legep would be like.

A great big thank you to Legep for generously http://youtu.be/4qmnchcLtck providing the InC with the most fantastic raffle prizes throughout this past year. Our CaipirTake your friends, neighbor and visitors. It's a inha and Brazilian Comidinhas Fundraiser was a field trip believe me! Many of the special interest huge success with the helping hand of both groups have made it into a day trip. Stop for a Legep and Leblon Cachaca. Check out the sophisticated lunch at the Rio Design Mall or try event and the prizes on our Face Book site. the Gallo Carioca right across the street from https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?

Legep. If you let me know you and your group set=oa.195196527296995&type=1 are coming, I will put in a special word! Just send me a quick email, presiEnjoy your visit and please give us some feeddent@incrio.org.com back. We would be happy to post your groups photos on our site.

Brenda, the lovely young lady in the photo is yet another one of the very friendly and help- Avenida das Americas 16551— Recreio ful Legep team that can assist you in English.

dos Bandeirantes RJ 22790—701 Tel: 21 2437-8957/6307/8574

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News and Views

Weekend Getaway.. Angra with our own French Chef

The IlhaGrande week-end for us was a wonderful "pause" in a somehow busy busy life : wonderful weather was of course the condition that helped the group of friendly people blend in such a nice way. David's lovely food was a treat and not to forget the boat trips to discover this beautiful island with its paradisic beaches.

Beijos!

Aline and Patrick

We were able to join last minute. We had to miss out in April when traveling in France. After our trip we were simply hungry again for a bit of French food! The trip went smoothly and sunny over land and sea.. We arrived on our holiday island, and there was our French starcook waiting for us in full gear. Arnaud said: the French can never relax, but it was meant as the greatest compliment, David looked simply great. Our thirst was quenched quickly with a full-blown Caipirinha, delicious starters on the grill to satisfy our mounting appetite.

Lunch was great, and in good company, after all we were with InC-ers!

A trip per luxury boat (thanks to the new upholstery of Bonnie and Vic’s boat) for a swim and then a short while to relax in our rooms, shower, etc.

We had a delicious dinner outside, fish prepared the way only a Frenchman can (sorry!),

fresh pesto and berinjela to accompany, white wine and desert with a not - so - usual - but - delicious Spumante (merci David!)

The entire group was in an excellent mood and we stayed friends even the next day! After a hearty breakfast off to the white wished sandy lopes Mendes beaches at Ilha Grande. No complaints: its really one of the most beautiful places in Brazil.

After yet again a feasty fiery lunch and the over - delicious caipirinhas (and some novelties such as the crepes suzettes with a whiskey sauce (c’etait bien ca David..??) off to Rio! Thanks for a Great weekend to the organizers, to David and his staff, to Bonnie and Vic Patricia & Arnaud

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News and Views In theory the size of the lunch meant we should all have retired to our rooms, particularly as by now the afternoon was welladvanced but it was back on the boats and off west to the Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon). We stopped in the lee of two islets, very close to B&V's house, where all the fish in the sea seemed to congregate. After watching them from the boat for a while in the clear blue water we dived in amongst them! We then were treated to the most beautiful sunset on the way back. Cold beers on the boat and we were living the life of luxury! Clunk!! Our boat - doing a fair whack and mostly out of the water - hit a semi-submerged plank. We continued back to base - with a bit of a shudder - but learned the next morning that we'd put that boat out of action!! Luckily we had two boats!!Doing the weekend in style, accompanied by someone who

knew the place well, had taken care of all the arrangements and even made her newly refurbished boat available to our party for the whole weekend was a real treat and not an experience we'd have had if we'd gone on our own. Rio & all its attendant hassles seemed a long way away for 36 hours. Yes it's a bit of a millionaire's playground and yes, we were lucky the weather was so stunning but we kept reminding each other that this is one of the experiences we came to Brazil for and having this kind of luxury in our lives, albeit briefly, made it very special.

Definitely a weekend we won't forget in a hurry! — Kate and Patrick

Early on Saturday morning we drove down to Angra dos Reis and then crossed over in a speedboat owned by the trip organiser to the pousada where we were staying. The owner of the pousada is being trained by Chef David Mansaud as part of a program run a Brazilian organisation called Estacio. David himself trained under Alain Ducasse, a renowned French chef. David was there in person with a team of cooks to treat us to some very good food. On arrival we had a BBQ lunch and then took the boats up to the Blue Lagoon on the northern end of Ilha Grande where we swam in the warm waters.

Back to the pousada for a fine dinner. Sunday morning we took the boats down to Praia Pouso and walked over the hill to a beach called Lopes Mendes which is rated highly.

Went for a 'paddle' and a long walk along the beach. We then went back to the pousada for another BBQ lunch and then headed back to the mainland.

A great weekend! - Jane Wood

Next trip to this wonderful place is July 6 and 7; if you want to be a part of this great trip please RSVP to president@incrio.org Space limited to 9 rooms . See photos of this trip in our Facebook page!

News and Views Notes from a Night in Noir: Creation and Violence , Truth and Torture Our April Speaker Series at Midrash Cultural Center presented Art also clarifies, and teaches, according to Rodrigo. Before quite an interesting duet, or would we say Trio?

Elite Squad, Rio’s militias were regarded in a positive light, as stabilizing forces against a violent and corrupt police force.

Midrash’s beautiful wood-panelled, book-lined room was After the film, which portrays the militias as the mafias that packed, with extra lines of chairs against the walls. The rest- they are, the popular view of these gangs changed: the mililess audience of around 70—made up of ex-pats, bi-nationals tias were now seen as a destabilizing, anti-democratic force, and Brazilians, waited anxiously for the guests to arrive. dangerous, deadly and toxic to the fabric of Brazilian society.

I had the enormous pleasure of moderating, and simultaneously translating, two quite distinct and fascinating speakers, Elite Squad, according to Rodrigo, was a fictional story ying and yang, man and woman. patched together from a mosaic of real-life incidents, whereas Elite Squad 2 was inspired by real facts.

On my right, Rodrigo Pimentel, the national celebrity, former Special Operations policeman, author, screenwriter and inspi- The making of the first Elite Squad exemplifies the serendipity ration for the blockbuster movie Elite Squad and its sequel, behind the artistic process. This was Rodrigo’s first screenElite Squad II; on my left, the accomplished academic and play, and he pitched it to newbie director, José Padilha (who crime fiction analyst Lilian Fontes, Ph. D. in Communications, until then had only the documentary, Onibus 174, to his writer and specialist on the adaptation of crime to the big and credit). The two first-timers then set out to put together an small screen, and to the written page. acting cast of amateurs—a driver and a ticket seller among them. The only star, Wagner Moura, who portrayed Captain Rodrigo, with his street smarts, wit, sharp intellect, and exNascimento, stumbled into the main role by chance. The main ceedingly casual outfit (white T-shirt and jeans), played the character was supposed to be that of Matias, played by the first notes of the evening by stressing that, contrary to recent ticket seller André Ramiro. One of the funniest moments of headlines, crime in Rio has gone dramatically down, while the evening was Rodrigo’s description of Ramiro on the set. It crime in Brazil as a whole has gone UP, especially in the turns out the ticket-sellar-turned-actor proved to be a tough Northeast. Furthermore, there is no corollary between incustomer to handle, complaining constantly about his sub-star creasing social economic indicators and crime—44 million treatment in food, transportation and lodgings, so, according Brazilians have risen from poverty into a fledgling middle to Rodrigo, he and Padilha opted to kill his character already, class; nonetheless, despite their “refrigerators, flat screen TVs, after only 9 weeks of shooting (to the eruption of vivid laughter air conditioners, cars and dish washers”, Brazilians are comfrom the audience)! mitting more and more crimes.

On these notes, Rodrigo transitioned to Lilian Fontes, who From these initial pre-notes, Rodrigo transitioned into the continued along the lines of violence and the creative process, theme of history, crime and art, and the creative process. His especially in fiction writing. focus, of course, was his blockbuster hit, Elite Squad, based on his own real life experiences as captain of the Brazilian Lilian, elegant and urbane, began by explaining that Brazilian Special Operations Police (BOPE), and its actions against crime fiction began late, in the 60s and 70s, when crime writer drug traffickers in the Favelas.

Rubem Fonseca entered the scene with incredibly graphic, bloody, and sexually explicit writing. So extreme for the times If art is a manifestation of the Spirit of the Times, then Elite was Fonseca’s literature, that the military dictatorship cenSquad hit a very sensitive note at a watershed moment in Bra- sored his short story book, Feliz Ano Novo (Happy New Year), zilian history. Rodrigo stressed that in 2007/2008, the time the in 1975. film came out, Brazilian democracy was producing its first, very high-profile political scalp: the Senate leader, Jader Bar- The first story of the book describes a scene that would later balho, was forced to resign from the Senate under charges of become sadly mundane, not only in Brazilian daily life, but in corruption. This was the very first time such a high-profile Bra- the media, in cinema and literature: a New Year’s Party in a zilian politician resigned from office. posh apartment is invaded by a gang of thugs, who then proceed to rampage the entire party and shoot the guests, in a The Brazilian population was hungry for honesty and account- playful, cold-blooded manner, one by one. ability. Elite Squad, with its flawed hero, Captain NasciThis narrative was a first of its kind, in Brazil. Fontes then promento—who verbally abuses his wife, smacks prisoners in the ceeds to trace the evolution of crime fiction, from this brutal face, and takes heavy anti-depressants—fit this profile. This portrayal, as it develops together with Brazilian democracy was one of the first times, in the history of Brazilian crime film, itself: the opening of the media to exposing mundane, extreme that the hero was “of the establishment”, if you will, instead of violence, the increasing reports of corruption and violence in a criminal or a downtrodden, marginalized character. Follow- all aspects of Brazilian daily life and institutions, the coming-toing this spirit, in Elite Squad II, one of the most applauded terms, finally, of Brazilians with this aspect of their society and scenes in the film is when Captain Nascimento hits a politician history. in the face.

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News and Views This immersion into violence seeps into the creative process at an unconscious level, Lilian explained. She would begin her novels and short stories open to any kind of development, but they would gradually evolve into crime stories. A female protagonist in a story would turn into a detective. Another female character, an attorney, would become involved in a corruption scandal. A story line around an NGO develops into a novel that is released in the very same year of a major scandal in Brazil involving NGOs. Lilian and Rodrigo then began to riff around the theme of defensive violence and torture. Rodrigo, surprisingly, and adamantly, defended the use of torture.

According to him, in the 90s, at the height of the Brazilian epidemic in high profile kidnappings, torture was widely used to extract very important and relevant information that helped resolve many kidnapping cases. He also cited a colleague of his in the special operations police. His colleague, in a law class at a major Brazilian university, gave a double-edged answer to his professor on the question of the efficacy of torture: initially, the colleague said he was against torture, until…..he wasn’t, until there was an urgent necessity to extract invaluable information. “Torture works”, expressed Rodrigo, unapologetically.

Lilian went on to distinguish the ideologically-driven and obscenely barbaric torture practiced during Brazil’s military dictatorship, against “enemies of the state”, from the kind of “defensive” torture practiced by the Brazilian police against kidnappers and drug traffickers, or even by ordinary people (like her characters), against their attackers.

The themes gradually evolved towards the efficacy of Rio’s UPPs (Unidade de Polícia Pacificadora), the Police Pacification Units operating in the favelas. Rodrigo defended these UPPs passionately—stating categorically that they work, period. He cited a mother whose two sons grew up in two vastly different settings: the oldest, to the sounds of gun shots and screams; the youngest, to the silence of the post-UPP setting.

Questions from the audience abounded: about torture, about the UPPs, about violence.

The themes hit a particular nerve among the Brazilians present--some young people from the pacified favelas themselves, contesting Rodrigo on the efficiency of the UPPs in their communities.

So intense became the debate that questions became longer and more detailed, as did Rodrigo’s answers—in Portuguese. The evening appeared to never end---the guests could have gone on until the early morning hours, and the audience didn’t want to leave.

We exceeded the time allotted by Midrash-but there were still several members of the audience anxious to ask questions.

A group formed outside the cultural center after the event, as people surrounded Rodrigo and Lilian, anxious for more.

All in all, people were very satisfied, feedback was excellent, and the pictures speak for themselves.

If you missed this event, you might not want to miss the follow-ups to it: Rodrigo Pimentel will be getting together with International Club members and other guests for an informal conversation on June 7th. The conversation will be held at the beachside in Leblon, and will be followed the next week (June 15th) by a guided visit to Morro do Alemão, formerly one of the most dangerous favelas in Rio, which has now been successfully pacified. Rodrigo, fervent defender of Pacification, will guide us through this Favela, a living example of the policy he so adamantly defends. He will also be writing an article for us in The Echo for publication in June as well.

Soo, June is Rodrigo month. There isn’t a more charismatic, lively or knowledgeable speaker about Rio’s urban problems and history than Rodrigo Pimentel, and we are thrilled beyond words to have him!

We hope to see all of you there.

Cheers, Melissa Mello e Souza Events Director, International Club-Rio

What's on?

General Meeting Date: Tuesday, May 28 Time: 10:30 am

Contact person: Please RSVP to Melissa Mello at events@incrio.org.br

Francesca Romana Diana is the leader in haute couture jewelry in Brazil.

She is original and unique and takes inspiration from the beauty of Brazilian nature, modern architecture, historical art and everyday life to create stunning and stylish pieces. Her collections have been acclaimed in Vogue, Bazaar and Instyle Magazines. Her superior quality, eyecatching designs and reasonable prices, make Francesca Romana Diana the perfect presents and mementos from Brazil. Don't miss this opportunity to know more about the designer and her jewelry.

Clube Federal—Rua Timoteo da Costa ,988 Leblon *Clube Federal is offering us an executive lunch for only R$18 pp.

Stay with your friends and enjoy the view and great food!

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Find out more about the InC’s most exciting fundraiser.

Taste of Rio is all about having fun, making friends, doing something meaningful for the communities of Rio and being a part of a project in which we can all be truly proud.

Date: Tuesday May 28 Time: Around noon for lunch (on your own account) Place: Clube Federal Rua Timóteo da Costa, 988 Leblon Info: contact Anna at whyteanna@gmail.com

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Charity Corner

SPEAKEASY ENGLISH PROGRAM

In October 2011, The INC Board recruited a small team of professionals to compile 10 draft lesson plans led by Kristina Richardson, a qualified and experienced teacher of English as a Foreign Language. These were presented to a group of 6 new volunteer teachers at a Training Day in March 2012. From there, three newly created teams rolled out the lessons, once a week during 2012, to three separate groups of teenagers in some of Rio’s poorest communities: Rocinha, Cidade de Deus and Botofogo Due to the success of the program in 2012, we decided to hold another Training Day in February this year. It was well attended by 20 enthusiastic volunteers and we have now re-commenced our teaching programs in Botofogo, Rocinha and Cidade de Deus. In fact several new classes have been added due to the demand in Rocinha and Cidade de Deus.

The Speakeasy English course is aimed at Brazilian teenage students of English who are studying at beginner or near to beginner level (although some can be more advanced) and aims to introduce students to active, everyday spoken and written language through fun, interactive games and activities. Some activities encourage collaborative effort, often in fun competitive games, and others are aimed at individuals. Although the course is not aimed at producing fluent English speakers, it should give the students a taste of the language, build confidence and introduce them to other English speaking countries, cultures and traditions in a fun and lively way.

I want to thank our many volunteers for their dedication and hard work in continuing to keep this program alive.

Catherine Bruce and Mary Dwyer have been two of the driving forces behind the program and unfortunately both will be leaving Brazil very soon!. We wish them all the best of luck in their new adventures and hope that they will stay in touch.

We still need volunteers to help in the class room situation and to fill in when our regular volunteers are travelling.

If you would like to volunteer or know more about the Speakeasy English program, please contact Robyn Thompson - retho55@hotmail.com June 2013 The ECHO

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Charity Corner

ReFazer – Grupo de Apoio á Criança e ao Adolescente Donation 2013: R$2000 Computer Equipment

Current INC Volunteer Participation: INC has started an English course at the centre to REFAZER was founded in 1995 with a mission to support impoverished families with chronically ill train selected staff. children who are patients of Instituto Fernandes INC volunteers are also assisting with computer Figueira, a maternity and children’s hospital in Rio data entry. de Janeiro.

Families who cannot afford the medications and Other Volunteer Opportunities: basic necessities are referred to REFAZER for sup- Office support. Computer input port with basic food supplies, special baby formutracking donations received and dislas and medications as well as orthopedic and resbursed. piratory equipment. Transport assistance for - Handicraft Room - A creative permedical appointments is also given as needed. son/s is needed to assist with teachThe aim of the program is to prevent readmission ing the mothers various crafts that of the children or worsening of their condition by allowing them to recuperate and exist in a healthcan be made and sold. ier environment with the proper nutrition and - Cutting out of fabrics in preparation medication.

Families of the children participate in an educational program covering subjects such as health and hygiene as well as income generating activities. By focusing on improving their self-esteem and strengthening their sense of community, REFAZER hopes to improve each family's quality of life.

for work to be sewn - Administrative assistant for handicraft room - To photograph and document the description and technical details of the items to be produced.

- Social Services - Sorting and distribution of donated clothing Wednesdays 12pm to 2 pm.

- Food distribution at the centre, Wednesdays 12pm - 2pm

One source of funds for the organization is the manufacture and sale of a variety of craft goods.

The centre teaches the mothers skills such as sewing and jewelry making and then sells their items in a donated kiosk space in Gavea Shopping, a gift Person to contact for further information: store in the hospital and at various holiday baRobyn Thompson retho55@hotmail.com zaars.

Re-Fazer supplies the materials and the mothers make the items. The women are paid a wage for their participation which helps them to support their families.

Website: www.refazer.org.br

News and Views

cachaças available in the marThe Confraria de Cachaça Copo Furado was founded in 1994 and is the ket. Available asking by email via the meeting of people who enjoy Brazil’s finest national drink, Cachaça. There is a rich heritage that goes with the preparation and drinking of Cachaça. Members experience Cachaças from hundreds of producers throughout Brazil and learn about the subtle factors that affect the flavour, character and quality of this prized national drink. The Confraria de Cachaça Copo Furado is a unique organization, a non-profit, legally registered entity, with a cultural focus.

Active InC member Hélène Ariane is a proud member of the Confraria having been canenized (as in “sugar cane blessed”) in 2006 in recognition of her volunteer work which including an export of some of Brazil´s finest specimen to Europe.

On the first Tuesday night of every month the group gathers on the top floor of the Bar Thodomeu, Rua Maria Quitéria 46 – Ipanema, to enjoy quality Cachaça produced in alembics. Aficionados welcome! http:// www.confrariacopofurado.com.br/ As promised at our brilliant event Saturday May 18th, the following is a free adaptation of an extract from PRIMER OF INTRODUCTION TO THE UNIVERSE OF CACHAÇA, a small booklet © 2013 José Alberto Kede, current President of the Confraria and Paulo Magoulas from the Academia Brasileira da Cachaça, to help All understand and enjoy the different

website.

HOW TO CHOOSE AND TASTE A CACHAÇA There are basically three types of Cachaça: the most common is referred to as “white” Cachaça, the second is often referred to as “rested” Cachaça and is “aged” Cachaça, often the color of honey. All three types of Cachaça are completely clear liquids. When you shake a bottle of Cachaça there should never be any impurities or suspensions present in the liquid.

Rested and aged Cachaças get their color from the wood that either it was passed through or it may have seeped from the wood barrels. One can affirm, without error margin, that the Cachaça is the most versatile distillate in the world as it is the only one that can grow old, due to the richness of Brazilian forests, in more than 20 types of barrels of different woods. Many individuals who enjoy drinking whisky, enjoy the flavor of aged Cachaça aged in oak barrels. Aged Cachaça is offered straight up and is not used to make caipirinhas. Both white and rested Cachaça can be used to make caipirinhas and the flavor of each is enhanced by the fruits that are combined in the making of different types of this drink. Almost any fruit can be used to make a caipirinha from: limes, lemons, pineapple, kiwi, mangos, lychees, berries knowing that the traditional, authentic version is with lime alone.

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News and Views

Rested and aged Cachaças get their color There are three seals to look for when buyfrom the wood that either it was passed ing Cachaça: through or it may have seeped from the INMETRO (National Institute of wood barrels. One can affirm, without error Metrology, Quality and Technology) margin, that the Cachaça is the most versaseal is internationally renown and tile distillate in the world as it is the only certifies the quality of physicalone that can grow old, due to the richness chemical properties of the Cachaça. of Brazilian forests, in more than 20 types of This is the most important seal. barrels of different woods. Many individu- AMPAQ seal from the Associação als who enjoy drinking whisky, enjoy the flaMineira dos Produtores de vor of aged Cachaça aged in oak barAguardente de Qualidade/ Associarels. Aged Cachaça is offered straight up tion of Producers from Minas Gerais and is not used to make caipirinhas. Both State of Quality Cachaça white and rested Cachaça can be used to - the seal of the Internal Revenue make caipirinhas and the flavor of each is service usually on the top of the botenhanced by the fruits that are combined in tle over the lid and the registration the making of different types of this from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livedrink. Almost any fruit can be used to make stock and Supply (M.A.P.A.) is a seal a caipirinha from: limes, lemons, pineapple, that appears on the back of the bottle kiwi, mangos, lychees, berries knowing that - Another interesting seal is the Orthe traditional, authentic version is with ganic label indicating the non-use of lime alone. pesticides.

This is a drink that was historically subject to To appreciate a good cachaça, a small prejudices, oppression, imposition of culamount can be poured into a glass and then tural colonialism, yet is still there, each time inhaled. The aroma could be like fruits, mo- more evident and alive, playing its imporlasses, brown sugar, green apple or other tant role. fresh or dry fruit. If it has an unappealing Cheers! smell, it could be off and should not be con- About the Academia Brasileira da Cachaça: sumed. http://www.istoe.com.br/ Cachaça should be sipped and savoured, not reportagens/31740_EU+BEBO+SIM+ consumed in one gulp.

What's on?

Come join us quench our thUrst at Si Senor in Leblon.

An elegant restaurant, with veranda and pleasant décor, Si Senor is fast becoming one of the foremost Mexican restaurants in Zona Sul. Let’s have some more Margaritas and Tortillas and what not, ok? Counting on the fun crowd to show up again!

Date: June 13th Time: 7:30 pm Location: Av. Gen. San Martin 1011—Leblon

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What's on?

June Cafezinhos Barra da Tijuca

Zona sul Doctor series—Dermatology talk

Domestic Law with Lawyer Adiane Mitidiere

Tuesday June 11 10:30 am RSVP to marsia.seydoux@gmail.com

Tuesday June 18 9:30am RSVP to Jmaltha@hotmail.com

General Meeting June 25th 10:30 am Come and see what’s in store for the months ahead Location to be confirmed

Speaker Series Featuring Esther Weitzman June 25th 7:30 pm Midrash Cultural Center

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for your calendar

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

1

2

3

4 New Members Gathering Leblon

5

6

7

8

9

10

11 Zonal Sul Cafezinho Doctor Series

12

13 Thursty Thursdays Leblon

14

15

16

17

18 Barra Cafezinho about new Domestic Law

19

20

21

22 Gourmet Cooking Classes and Candlelight Dinner

23 Sunday Sunset Happy Hour in Barra

24

25 General Meeting and Speaker Series

26

27

28

29 Excursion to Pacified Favela and Wine and Cheese Fundraiser.

30



Catherince Bruce

June 4



Joe Wagner

June 16



Carole Murphy

June 7



Gay Lynn

June 24



Sandee Walker

June 9



Carol Gibbon

June 24



Ian Sanders

June 10



Victor Harrison

June 25



Monica Wolff

June 12



Anna de Mello

June 28



Robert Muller

June 12



Loriann Lewis

June 29

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Lets Connect!

Join the InC Secret Facebook Group! Only open to members, the InC Facebook Group is a place where you can: *Connect with other members *Ask questions and share Ideas *Learn about the InC’s Planned offerings *Brainstorm and plan future activities and events We would like for this group to be a helpful and friendly resource for you during your time in Rio de Janeiro. If there is something you think should be here, please post it!

If you want to join, email Naomi Cohen at naomircohen@gmail.com, with the email address you use to access Facebook. Please note, the InC Facebook Group is different than the InC Facebook page, which is public. Only members of the InC Facebook Group can post in the group , see what’s been posted, or view other members.

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those who make it happen E xec utive Board 2013 President Bonnie Kobert Harrison president@incrio.org.br 7281.1866 Vice President Mike Royster mr.royster@uol.com.br 8128.7910 Treasurer Tina Wagner treasurer@incrio.org.br 9576.8175 Secretary Mary Dwyer dwyermsw@yahoo.com 6716.7697 Membership Director Jackie Stern jdb@amcham.com 2540.0958 Charity Director Robyn Thompson cc@incrio.org.br 9895-8855 Fundraising Director Anna Whyte whyteanna@gmail.com 2422.7286 Communications Director Jolanda Maltha 3647.0578 / 8362.5398 Events Director Melissa Mello e Souza melissamsouza@globo.com 8015-2020 C o o r di n a t o r s Communication Team communication@incrio.org.br Webmaster Jolanda Maltha 3647.0578 / 8362.5398 The Echo Brenda Ledesma / 9378.0045 InConnection Denise Luna 2267.1285 / 8635.7879 Facebook page Victor Harrison Facebook Group Naomi Cohen naomircohen@gmail.com General Meetings Jackie Stern jdb@amcham.com 2540.0958 Hospitality VACANT Welcome Coordinator Tanya Matheus tanya_matheus@yahoo.co.uk Cafezinho’s: Zona Sul Jane Wood Barra Carolyn Stacey Ac t i v i t y Co o r di n a t o r s Book Club Robyn Thompson retho55@hotmail.com 9895 8855 Bridge Coca Caputo coca.caputo@globo.com 2491.7830 / 9601.7413 Concert Information Margarita Mari 2256.8419 Cuisine Workshops Christa Pickering princesschoti@hotmail.com 8040.4100 Needle & Thread Club Maria Lu marialu.usa@gmail.com 6922.5369 Fun Cooking Club Lucia Helena Assad lhassad@uol.com.br 9982.9596 / 2434.8167