Monthly NewsletterAugust 2012

www.AmSoc.com.brForum

Visa Issue

Page 10: Did you know that Brazil is being considered for the Visa Waiver Program?

Visas in South America

Page 12: Who needs a visa to go where? Our comprehensive list for your travels around South America.

The American Society of São Paulo promotes friendship by organizing social, cultural and athletic events for its diverse membership; encourages integration with the Brazilian society; and supports the American traditions of education, philanthropy and volunteerism.

Our Mission

Visa Issue

Save the dateSave the dateUpcoming AmSoc events:

Aug 18th - Pancake breakfastSep 21st - Vida Jovem Gala

Visa Waiver Program

A Superstar Dinner Dance Party Awaits You!

Pancake Breakfast and Little League Signup

The Vida Jovem Silver Jubilee Party on Friday, September 21st promises to be one of the highlights of this year´s social calendar. This traditional 2nd semester party organized by Vida Jovem and supported by the American Society, now in its 9th consecutive year, attracts over 1.000 people for an enjoyable evening of great food and drink, Brazilian culture, dancing and pure fun.

The Jubilee will be held at the elegant Jockey Club of São Paulo and will feature a cocktail and mega silent auction; dinner catered by Charlô, one of

Brazil´s most renowned chefs; standup comedy presenting actress, singer and comedienne Yvette Mattos; outstanding vocalist Juliana França Araujo, an alumna of Vida Joven´s homes; and, the most sought after DJ in São Paulo, Milton Chuquer. Pernod Ricard will set up three all-night open bars and serve Chivas Regal, MUMM sparkling wine, Absolut-based mixed drinks, including their delicious fruit capiroskas!

With a line-up such as this you are guaranteed to have the time of your life. In addition, this year´s live auction will

(continued on page 8)

The Little League season will start-up again in August at Graded School with only sign-ups but accompanied with our staff offering a gourmet pancake breakfast for all attendees.

Make sure you and your family come to Graded School on August 18th to sign-up your kids for what will be a great Little League season of fun and games!

And how could you miss those awesome pancakes, with strawberries, cream, and real American maple syrup!

Further Little League InfosWe plan to continue with the same

sports for this coming season, which was soccer from 9am to 10:30am, followed by baseball or tennis from 10:30am to 12 noon. The actual dates are being worked on with the usual American Schools, Graded and Chapel, but we are confident that we will have at least two Saturdays per

month at either school reserved for Little League. And due to the tremendously successful trip to SPAC (Sao Paulo Athletic Club) last April where our soccer teams (of ages 6-8, 9-10, 11-12) played well organized and uniformed SPAC teams, we are planning to have several more “friendly” soccer and baseball games against other school or club teams. SPAC has already committed to it but the exact date is still being worked on. And these “friendlies” will most likely take place on the opposing team´s field which could mean a third Saturday per month of Little League!

Then on December 8th we will have our annual season-ending BBQ and awards ceremony following a morning of sports.

On our website we will shortly post our Little League calendar.

Go Permanent

Page 16: The process to get your permanent visa can be quite a lengthy one as our columnist found out.

I would like to welcome two new Board members - Judy Zanchi and Julie Gattaz. Judy is a newcomer to São Paulo coming from New Orleans and Julie is an “old timer”

here in São Paulo. Both ladies helped

in organizing our Gala Event last May and we count on them to continue to be active participants on our Board, welcome Judy and Julie!

As I look back over our activities the first part of this year I must congratulate our Board and volunteers for a fantastic job. We had our AGM at the new consul general residence; a formal dinner/dancing Gala Event with 400 guests; a volunteer day at the consulate facility for one the organizations we support; and a 4th of July celebration complete with fireworks. Plus all the sporting events and the one and only Abacaxi bowl!

So, off to the second half of 2012. The fun starts with a pancake breakfast and Little League signups on August 18. For those parents with Little League age children we need help with coaching - get in touch with me or John Kennedy.

On September 13 we will be having a thank you cocktail for our sponsors.

The American Society continues its partnership with the Vida Jovem event which will be on September 21. This year it will be at the Jockey Club in a different format where you will have the option of participating in the entire event with dinner or just for the cocktail and silent auction portion. So check the program for details, I am sure it will be a worthwhile evening.

In October we will have the popular Halloween for kids night and on the evening of November 20 or 21 a Thanksgiving celebration.

In early December we will have our traditional Christmas party. We don’t have dates for all yet but we will be having adult sporting events including the golf Challenge Cup which will be organized by the St. Andrews Society this year.

So watch the Forum or check out our website on details of the events. Enjoy the well organized, quality activities the Board will be working on. We welcome volunteers if you would like to participate and help out. Call the office and we will set you up on one of our committees.

I am looking forward to seeing you at American Society events.

Abraços,Joe

President’s Corner

By Joe Sherman, AmSoc president

Forum August2

Lynn Cordeiro, editor and layoutErnest White II, staff writer

Forum is printed by EGB.(http://www.egb.com.br)

Views expressed in Forum do not necessarily reflect those of the American Society board of governors, members, or staff.

Forum reserves the right to edit content for brevity and/or clarity.

The American Society of São Paulo

Rua da Paz, 1431 04713-001 São Paulo, SPTel: (11) 5182-2074 Fax: (11) 5182-9155email the editor: mail@falaphoto.com

Forum is published monthly, with the exception of January and July, by

Abo

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Become a Member Now!

Spring is almost here, and what better way to spring into action for the second half of 2012 than with a new or renewed membership in the American Society of São Paulo?

As a member, aside from the support and networking opportunities from the English-speaking community you’ll receive, you’ll also get ten editions of the informative Forum newsletter, a copy of the annual yearbook, and free admission to three AMSOC events during the year.

The modest annual fee of R$200 for the “Supporter” membership level doesn’t even cover 30% of what you get in return. Your whole family can even join for only R$250!

Memberships on the “Patron” (R$250 individual/R$350 family) and “Helping Hands” (R$700 individual/family) levels include even more perks, such as exclusive VIP receptions.

So what are you waiting for? Call 5182-2074 and secure your membership today!

The American Societyof São Paulo

Forum 32012

Welcome to Our New MembersWelcome the following New Members who joined us recently. We are very grateful for your support!

Name Spouse Membership Company Nationality

Glen Joseph DERR Patrícia PEIXOTO Family Patron Membership American Consulate American

Trent COEN Single Patron Membership Aeross Manutenção Aeronautica American

Mariza Monteiro TAILLEFER Single Patron Membership American/ Brazilian

Roland GEDEON Valeska GEDEON Family Membership PricewaterhouseCoopers American

Georgia SIAMPALIOTI Thierry TROTTEREAU Family Membership American and French

Amedeo PRINCIPE Adauri Bueno de CAMARGO Family Membership American

Philip HEYWORTH Alison HEYWORTH Family Membership American Fuji Seal Inc. British

Daniel CASTRO Erika SPALDING Family Membership Brazilian

Daniel Mark HENRICH Andrea CAMPANELLA Family Membership Ernst & Young American

Millard Wesley Long SCHILER Magali PINHATTI Family Membership Terra Verde American/ Brazilian

Andre VALVERDE Francisca LEÃO Helping Hands Membership Arion Capital American/ Brazilian

Jennifer RALSTON Lyle RALSTON Helping Hands Membership Monsanto American

Raquel SBRAMA Junior Membership Brazilian

Matthew JOSEPH Junior Membership Graham Packaging American

Shon MOSS Ana Paula MOSS Family Patron Membership American

John FLEMING Jeanette Lepore Family Patron Membership American

Forum August4

Corporate Sponsorship

The American Society would like to thank the following additional donors for their generous support of the

Annual Gala:

Restaurante Al Mare

Restaurante Momotaro

Each year, AMSOC provides a wide range of support and services to the American and English-speaking expat community in São Paulo. This is all made possible in part by support from the local business community in the form of corporate sponsorships. Not only do these sponsorships help cover the cost of AMSOC’s day-to-day operations, but they help us to program wonderful events and activities for our members, such as the Fourth of July and Halloween parties and the annual Gala event held each

May. Most importantly, however, a large part of these sponsorships is donated to local charities, underlining AMSOC’s commitment to improving the community for everyone.

From August through the end of the year, our board members will be working closely with current and potential sponsors for the 2013 fiscal year. Some of our largest sponsors include Chevrolet, which supports the annual Gala, with proceeds going to the Maria Helen Drexel orphanage in Zona Sul, and Nextel, which sponsored

the fireworks for our Fourth of July bash last month. In 2013, another charity will be selected to by our Charity Action Committee to be the beneficiary of funds received via corporate sponsorship. With AMSOC assisting São Paulo’s expatriate and local communities, your support is always going to a worthwhile cause.

If your company is interested in sponsoring the American Society’s projects, please contact Ricky Rubeiz at 3849-2314, or by email at rrubeizjr@terra.com.br.

GM was the major

sponsor of the Gala

Event held on May 11th.

Two of their popular

models were on display

for the 400 guests

attending the event.

The American Societyof São Paulo

2012 Forum 5

Consulate Corner: Register Now to Vote!

As the United States celebrates 236 years of independence, the American Citizen Services Unit at the U.S. Consulate General in São Paulo would like to encourage you to exercise your right to vote in 2012.

The November 4th general election is right around the corner and primaries in several States have already passed. We strongly encourage all American Citizens residing in Brazil to register as soon as possible. You can register and request a ballot by completing the Federal Post Card Application on the Federal Voting Assistance Program’s website (www.fvap.gov).

The application is accepted by all local election officials in all U.S. States and territories. Simply enter the FVAP website, click your state on the map, and let the online wizard walk you through registering step-by-step.

Your “legal state of residence” for voting purposes is generally the state or territory you last resided in

immediately prior to your departure from the United States.

Recently enacted laws have made the voting process easier by allowing for online registration, delivery, and return of ballots in many states. To take advantage of electronic ballot delivery, be sure to include your email address when you register. Register as soon as possible to allow enough time for election officials to contact you and resolve any problems.

U.S. Citizens should bear in mind that the new absentee voting laws in effect for the 2012 elections require you to complete a new Federal Post Card Application online every year. You will no longer automatically receive ballots based on a previous absentee request.

Your vote counts! Many U.S. elections within the past ten years have been decided by a margin of victory of less than 0.1%. All states are required to count every absentee ballot as long as it’s valid and reaches local election

officials by the absentee ballot receipt deadline.

In the event that you decide to mail in your ballot, please keep in mind the time it takes for international mail to arrive to your hometown.

You can also drop off your ballot at any U.S. Consulate or Embassy and we will mail your ballot for you in the postage-paid envelope provided to you online, or with pre-affixed U.S. postage. It can take a month or more for mail from the U.S. Consulate General in São Paulo to arrive in the United States.

The U.S. Consulate General in São Paulo is here to assist you. If you have any questions about overseas voting please contact U.S Consulate General São Paulo’s voting Assistance Officer at voteSãopaulo@state.gov. For any other questions regarding American Citizen Services, please contact ACSInfoSãoPaulo@state.gov or visit our website at http://brazil.usembassy.gov/service.html .

By Aysa M. Miller

Fellowship Community ChurchThe Welcome Place since 1921

Phone (11) 3253-7609 www.fellowship.com.br

Sunday’s

Conveniently located on Rua Carlos Sampaio, 107 – Bela VistaJust a block and a half from the Brigadeiro Metro station on the Avenida Paulista

09:00 am - Walking in Faith Classes (English and Portuguese)

10:30 am – Worship Service (English only)

06:00 pm – Culto em português

Forum August6

The 73rd Annual Exhibition of flowers by the São Paulo Garden Club takes place on August 11th and 12th.

With free admission, the show is an excellent excursion for the whole family. Besides the exhibition and competition, the public can purchase plants, flowers and tools for gardening and flower arrangement.

All the beauty of spring will invade the Brazilian British Centre on August 11th and 12th. Spring, the season of flowers, will be honored with the traditional Flower Show - the 73rd edition of this annual exhibition of flowers by the São Paulo Garden Club, which displays about 100 flower arrangements, ikebanas, decorated tables and ornamental plants. Under the theme “Dancing with the flowers,” the contestants will show work inspired by themes such as Swan Lake, oriental dance, forro, minuet, The Nutcracker suite of dances throughout the world, among others.

Besides an excellent program for the whole family, the Flower Show - which has the patronage of English Culture - is a rare opportunity for the Brazilian public to experience the tradition of gardening clubs in European and American style.

The exhibition is competitive. Plants and arrangements are judged by Brazilian and foreign judges, accredited by the National Garden Clubs, Inc., USA. In the Division of Horticulture, the plants are judged individually by their degree of perfection and each section can have several first places. In the Division of Floral Art, each class has a theme that will be created by four competing participants.

The show also features a bazaar of products related to gardening and floral design, sale of plants and specimens donated by the members and the annual calendar of the São Paulo Garden Club.

Another attraction that is popular with visitors is a traditional English tea,

served by The Bridge restaurant, with muffins, scones, teas, homemade jams and the famous cucumber sandwiches and butter.

São Paulo Garden Club History

Founded in 1939 by a group of nine English ladies, the São PAULO GARDEN CLUB (www.Sãopaulogardenclub.com.br) is a nonprofit association whose purpose is to share and stimulate interest in horticulture, floral arrangements, environment and trade plants and seedlings. The club has no headquarters. The meetings take place in the homes of their own members and the Anglican Cathedral of St. Paul, in Santo Amaro.

During the 73 years of its existence, the club has grown and expanded its activities. Currently it has 100 members, comprising four groups that meet monthly, committed to pass their information to the community through exhibitions and publications. The Flower Show is the most visible activity of the São Paulo Garden Club. During the event the “Garden Calendar”, an annual guide to home gardening tips and useful for amateurs interested in the subject, is launched.

Details

“DANCING WITH FLOWERS” - Annual Exhibition of Plants and Floral Art (Flower Show)

Date: Saturday, August 11, from 10am to 18:30, Sunday, Aug. 12, from 10am to 17 hours

Location: Brazilian British CentreAddress: Rua Ferreira de Araujo, 741 - Pinheiros - São Paulo - SP

Presentation of Coral Four Seasons, Regent Regina Farm, Saturday at 16 hours, in the Atrium

Parking on site

Free Entry

Flower Show Anticipates the Arrival of Spring

The American Societyof São Paulo

2010 Forum 72012

On Saturday, June 30th we celebrated the 236th Independence Day of the United States with an event co-hosted by the American Consulate of São Paulo. Over 250 guests and children enjoyed a beautiful, warm sunny day in the consulate recreational area.

Our opening ceremony began with the Marine Color Guard, followed by a warm welcoming from our President Joe Sherman, an invocation from Pastor Jane Hawkins, words of welcome and thanks from Bill Popp our Acting Consul General, and proudly closed with the presentation of a check for R$34,000 to the Helen Drexel organization. What a fantastic day!

The grounds were decorated in red, white and blue to festively celebrate this occasion. The food was served fresh off the grill, hot and ready for all the fixings. The salad table was huge and people just kept bringing more delicious salads to share. Later in the afternoon, desserts were served and gobbled up by everyone. There were lots of free sodas, aqua de coco and chips available, thanks to PepsiCo.

The day wouldn’t have been complete without roasted marshmallows over hot coals, with the gooey goodies bringing smiles to the children’s faces.

The kids had some great rides,

games and fun that included a magician to keep them smiling all afternoon. The sparklers at sunset were a fantastic hit and burned out way too fast.

We want to thank everyone who helped make this a success: Our Decorations sponsored by Amyis Brasil; the Kitchen sponsored in part by Shu Hung and 3M; and last but not least the setup and operational teams were fantastic, as well as the Consulate staff who made everything possible. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Music was provided again this year by the rock-and-roll band, Hideaway Cats that was sponsored by Sealed Air. They had everyone singing along and swing dancing to their memorable tunes.

The day ended with some fantastic Fireworks, our first in over a decade. They were made possible by Nextel and the hard work of the Consulate staff to approve the site from a safety perspective. The Firemen were on site to make sure everything went well. Of course, the kids loved climbing on the Fire truck and setting off the siren.

We’ve uploaded some pictures onto the AMSOC website for your viewing delight. You can receive a complimentary copy of your pictures by contacting Lynn@falaphoto.com

July 4th Celebrated with Excitement and Fireworks!

include 12 truly unique, unprecedented and priceless items including special invitations to the Emmy and Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, travel packages to exotic locations and autographed sports memorabilia.

This year´s party also celebrates Vida Jovem´s 25-year history of serving children and youth-in-need through family-like homes, tutoring and professional/ technical courses that help instill values, citizenship and provide the skills necessary to prepare its program participants for a life with dignity. Vida Jovem is one of the 10 programs supported by the American Society and is the Brazilian affiliate of US-based Boys Hope Girls Hope that boasts similar affiliated programs in 15 US cities, Guatemala, Peru and Mexico.

This year the party offers two ways to participate. The complete package including the cocktail, auctions, dinner,

standup comedy performance, dance party, valet parking and a chance to win an amazing international travel package in the evening´s drawing costs R$ 350,00 per person. Alternatively, one may purchase a ticket for R$ 150,00 that includes the cocktail, auctions, valet parking and dance party for R$ 150,00 per person (don´t worry about going hungry, there will be finger food through-out the evening for those not dining!).

Tickets are available through the AMSOC office (5182-2074) and are sold either individually or by the table. Tickets are selling quickly so call the AMSOC office for additional information and to reserve your place today!

This is one party you won´t want to miss. Come, have fun and help support one of AmSoc´s charities that will impact more than 300 youth and their families this year alone.

Silver Jubilee Party Summary

Where: Jockey Club

When: Friday, September 21st, from 7:30pm

Featuring: Cocktail; Dinner; Silent and Live Auctions; Open Bars; Entertainment featuring Standup Comedy with Yvette Mattos and Dance Party with DJ Milton Chuquer

Tickets: - Cocktail and Dance Party R$ 150,00 per person- Complete package including dinner and drawing R$ 350,00 per person

Contacts: - AmSoc office - 5182-2074 or by email: amsoc@americansociety.com.br- Vida Jovem office - 2063-1230 or by email: gerencia@vidajovem.com- Vida Jovem - AmSoc Liaison - Mark Abrams (9322-7544 or marksabrams@gmail.com)

Forum August8

A Superstar Dinner Dance Party Awaits You!(continued from front page)

Thank you!

Over 15 families in Campo Limpo received warm jackets and other winter clothes thanks to the items donated by members of our community. For people who struggle to make ends meet, buying a new sweatshirt or pair of warm pants is out of the question. These families in Campo Limpo are now prepared to face cold days this winter. Used clothes can always find a home so if you’re cleaning your cupboards any time in the future, don’t hesitate to contact Sue Banman Sileci at sue@sileci.com.

Another success was the cleaning supplies campaign. We met our goal of 2000 liters or kilos of cleaning supplies and these were distributed among several of the American Society’s orphanages and day care centers. Rosangela Estrella at Vida Jovem said,

“Cleaning products are a significant part of our budget and something almost no one remembers when they make a donation. Thanks for remembering!”

The Angel Party

With three months left till the American Society Angel Party, there’s still a lot of work to do. We need you!

The Angel Party is a Christmas party held each year, this year on November 10, for over 220 children in day care centers, orphanages and educational programs, all funded in part by the American Society and people like you.

The party is held at Chapel School and the kids have a great day of food, games and fun. At the end of the party, Santa Claus comes and gives each child a special gift bags with presents for just that child.

Right now we’re in need of people to help Santa by shopping for all the items in one child’s bag. You would need to buy tennis shoes, a backpack, a toy, pants and a shirt, socks, underwear, a coat or sweatshirt and some candy. You can also donate R$350 and we’ll do the shopping for you.

We also need plenty of help with organizing the party, from rounding up sponsors, donors, prizes and cash to helping on the day of the party. There’s a lot of work to be done.

Come help make the thirteenth Angel Party the best party yet.

Contacts

Eileen Tasso: eileentasso@gmail.comSue Banman Sileci: sue@sileci.com

CAC News

The American Societyof São Paulo

2012 Forum 9

Sports Calendar 2012

AUGUST

18 – Little League Sign-up at Graded & Welcome Back Pancake Breakfast25 – Little League season begins

SEPTEMBER

08 – 29 Softball Games (pick-up)22 or 29 – Tennis Tournament (planned). A “Friendly” against SPAC.

OCTOBER

06 & 07 – AmSoc Softball Round Robin Tournament (CT Yakult Park in Ibuina)12 or 19 – AmSoc Golf Match (Planned)

NOVEMBER

11 – AmSoc Softball Championship (Sunday)17 – 01 Flag Football (afternoon pick-up games)30 – Challenge Golf Match – “Munro Cup” (Friday)

DECEMBER

08 – Little League (Final Day BBQ & Ceremonies)08 – Flag Football (last day for pick up games)

Forum August10

Brazil Considered for Visa Waiver ProgramBy Ernest White II, Staff Writer

D e s p i t e B r a z i l ’ s ever-hyped e c o n o m i c boom and m u c h -proclaimed

purchasing power, a lot of which filters into the U.S. economy via shopping trips and real estate purchases, Brazilians are still required to apply for a visa to visit the United States. Many times, the process involves lengthy and expensive domestic flights, hotel stays, restaurant meals, and the $140 per head visa fee, with wait times of up to 140 days becoming more and more common.

In a country larger in size than the continental United States, just four consulates—in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, and Recife—handle the more than 86,000 visa applications in January alone, up 60% percent from 2011, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

Meanwhile, Brazilian tourists are spending on average $5,400 per person each time they visit the U.S., according to figures released last year by the U.S. Department of Commerce. In fact, the Brazilian economic “invasion” is becoming more palpable to Americans than ever, as Portuguese is heard ever more frequently in South Florida outlet malls and the New York City subway. The increasing visibility—and expenditure—of Brazilian tourists to the U.S. is increasingly resonant at the White House and on Capitol Hill.

In March of 2011 and April of this year, U.S. President Barack Obama met with Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff in Brasília and Washington respectively to talk about several bi-national and hemispheric initiatives.

To many Brazilians, however, the most important topic discussed between the two heads of state was Brazil’s enlistment in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which was started by the federal government in 1988 and allows citizens of participating countries

freedom to travel to the United States for tourism or business for a period of up to 90 days without first obtaining a visa. Countries included in the VWP are typically those with similar standards of living to the U.S., relatively stable economies and governments, and a population not inclined to overstay a visa or enter into the U.S. illegally.

Currently, the program includes 36 countries—30 from Europe, four from Asia, and two from Oceania, with citizens of Canada and certain Caribbean countries also exempt from obtaining a visa, but not officially part of the VWP—all of which grant reciprocal entry rights to American citizens.

Argentina and Uruguay had been the only Latin American participants in the program, but were removed in 2002 and 2003 respectively, after financial crises gripped both countries. They, along with Chile and Brazil, are part of a group of eleven nations on the “road” to obtaining membership.

In fact, when U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano visited Brazil at the end of last month, a “statement of intent” was signed with Brazilian Foreign Minister Antônio de Aguiar Patriota to estabish a VWP “Working Group” for the accession of Brazil into the program. Movement on accepting more countries into the VWP is also happening in the form of congressional action, with the Visa Waiver Program Enhanced Security and Reform Act being considered in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, and the Jobs Originated through Launching Travel (JOLT) Act recently introduced in the Senate, both with bipartisan support and vigorous endorsement from organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Retail Federation, and the U.S. Travel Association.

In the meantime, the State Department has stepped up its efforts to process visas more quickly, with U.S. Ambassador Thomas A. Shannon, Jr. recently highlighting the two-day

turnaround time for visas at some consulates in the country.

Aside from the fact that the number of approved visa applications for Brazilian citizens is approaching the requisite 97% required for acceptance into the VWP, the sheer amount of money spent in the U.S. by Brazilians is unquestionably a factor that’s being considered.

Overall, foreign visitors to the U.S. Spent more than $150 billion in 2011 on travel and tourism-related services, and Brazilians top the list of big spenders per capita.

Spurred by bargain-basement prices and the abundance of goods States-side, and by prohibitively high import tariffs on foreign goods and strident inflation in Brazil, Brazilians spent an estimated $1.1 billion in 2010 and $1.35 billion in 2011 in South Florida alone, according to the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, surpassing Venezuelans as the region’s most lucrative foreign tourist market two years ago.

Shopkeepers and store employees in Florida’s mega-malls and New York’s luxury emporiums have started learning Portuguese, while tourist magnets from Orlando theme parks to ski resorts in Vermont have hired scores of Portuguese speakers to interact with the influx of tourists, numbering 1.1 million in 2010 and projected by the State Department to increase by 12% every year, even without the visa waiver.

The state of Florida alone did $14.4 billion worth of trade with Brazil in 2010, according a report by the New York Times, and Brazilians are credited with almost single-handedly resuscitating South Florida’s beleaguered luxury housing market as high-end American realtors have taken to opening offices in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro while their Brazilian counterparts open up shop in Miami and Manhattan.

Many of these firms combine real estate services with interior design and even visa assistance to make

The American Societyof São Paulo

2012 Forum 11

life just that much easier for their clients. Besides the prices—routinely two-thirds less than the cost for a comparable penthouse in São Paulo or oceanfront abode in Rio—it’s the urbane energy of New York and the balmy climate of Miami, along with the relative safety of the United States, that keep Brazilians spending their reais so freely. And even with

the astronomical statistics, travelers to the U.S. still only represent 29% of all Brazilians who go abroad, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which says that Western Europe receives a whopping 52% of all Brazilian travelers overseas.

Patricia Rojas of the U.S. Travel Association thinks that bringing Brazil in to the VWP would mean double the number of tourists to the U.S., and a resulting increase in U.S. tourism to Brazil, as visa requirements for Americans would once again be lifted.

Still, that additional wave of visitors from both countries could be hampered until sufficient improvements to Brazil’s overtaxed transportation infrastructure can be made. Restrictions on air traffic to and from São Paulo’s terminally-jammed Guarulhos airport, Brazil’s main international gateway, remain in effect until October 2015, when the U.S.-Brazil “Open Skies” agreement comes fully into effect, allowing any airline of the two countries to operate

flights between the U.S.-Brazilian city pairs of their choosing.

Until then, demand will outstrip supply and airlines ferrying visitors to and fro will fetch even more of a premium for a limited number of seats. U.S. airlines such as Delta and American, meanwhile, are hoping for a return of the customers who once transited through their hubs en

route to other d e s t i n a t i o n s before 9/11, when the T r a n s f e r Without a Visa program was shut down.

W h i l e proponents of adding Brazil to the VWP focus on the e c o n o m i c prowess of current visitors, t r a d i t i o n a l r e s i s t a n c e to Brazil’s inclusion is based solely on

the notion that the still-economically-divided country would export waves of immigrants to U.S. shores in search of the American Dream. In fact, almost half of the Brazil’s 3.1 million emigrants live in the United States, according to figures by the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Relations. This number is even considered extremely conservative because many Brazilians living illegally in the U.S. are hesitant to register with the country’s consulates (which try to keep tabs on Brazilian migratory patterns and better assist citizens in emergencies) despite promises by Brazil’s government not to report them to local authorities.

But the absence of an organized effort against Brazilian inclusion in the VWP signals a clear desire in business and policy circles that visitation and trade between the two largest economies in the Western Hemisphere be increased unfettered.

Clearly, the U.S. is considering how to cash in on some of the $43.3 million Brazilian travelers spend on average every day worldwide.

Father ’s day (Aug 12th)gift vouchers available!

Forum August12

South America: Visa RequirementsBy Melissa Harkin, AmSoc member

South America is a wonderful place to travel, but before you buy your plane ticket, make sure you go through the proper visa steps; otherwise you may be “invited” to leave the country upon arrival!

Passports are required for travel, and those are issued by your country of origin. The actual visa requirements are set by the country you plan to visit. It is your responsibility to check entry requirements with the consular officials of the countries to be visited well in advance of your trip.

If a visa is required, obtain it from the appropriate foreign consular representative before proceeding abroad. Allow sufficient time for processing your visa application especially if you are applying by mail.

Since we know our membership is international, we are giving you the full comprehensive list for all nationalities.

Visa requirements for South American countries (July/2012):

Argentina - Some nationalities can get 90 days on entry: Andorra, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Rep, Chile, Cyprus, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Hong Kong (S.A.R.), Honduras, Holy See, Hungary, Ireland, Island, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Russian Federation, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Santa Lucia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, UK, Uruguay and U.S.A. - Granada, Hong Kong (with BN passport), Jamaica, Malaysia and Venezuela are permitted to stay for 30 days. - Even if you don’t need a visa you will have to pay a reciprocity fee to enter the country. The fee

is the same amount that your country charges Argentineans for a visa. US citizens pay US$160, Australians pay US$100 etc. - Everyone else needs to apply for a visa in advance.

Bolivia- Visas are not required by visitors from the following countries: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vatican and Venezuela.

Brazil- Brazil has a reciprocal visa situation. Visas are not required by holders of passports of the following countries: Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Denmark, Ecuador, El Salvador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Morocco, Monaco, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Malta, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, UK, Vatican and Venezuela. - Everyone else will require a visa. - Visas cost the same as what your country charges Brazil plus an extra fee.

Chile- Citizens from Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay can travel to Chile with their national identity card, but citizens from other countries need a valid passport. - A visa is NOT required to enter Chile for a stay of 30-90 days (depending on the country of citizenship), for the following countries: Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina,

Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cote D’Ivoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kiribati, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Macedonia, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Mauritius, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and Grenadines, San Marino, São Tome and Principe, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Tuvalu, Tonga, Uganda, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia and Zimbabwe. - All other nationalities must contact the Chilean consulate for an application to obtain a visa.

Colombia - The Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Colombia as a tourist for up 180 days: Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Bhutan, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Granada, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Latvia, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Korea, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Micronesia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Saint Lucia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Ecuador - All nationalities will receive 90 days entry on arrival. The only exemptions are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Somalia.

The American Societyof São Paulo

2012 Forum 13

Falkland Islands - Cruise ship passengers leaving the same day do not require a visa. - For longer visits visas are not required by visitors from Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea (Republic), Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tawain, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vatican City.

French Guiana - Guiana is a part of France, the entry requirements are the same. - Visas are not required by visitors from the following countries for visit up to 90 days: Albania, Andorra, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Macedonia, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, St Kitts and Nevis, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vatican City and Venezuela.- A Schengen visa is not valid for most French territories. A separate visa is required.

Guyana - Nationalities from Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Dominica, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Luxembourg, Montserrat, New Zealand, North Korea, Norway, Portugal, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, St Christopher and Nevis (St Kitts), St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom, United States of America can enter without a visa. - All other nationalities need to head to an embassy/consulate.

Paraguay - Visitors from Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica,

Croatia, Cyprus, Czech, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, El Salvador, France, Finland, Germany, Greece, Guatamala, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Ireland, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, U.K., Uruguay and Venezuela do not need visas to enter Paraguay. - Visas cost about US$100. But prices differ depending on the consulate/embassy.

Peru - Nationals of the following countries can visit Peru for up to 90 days without a visa: Andorra, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Cook Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Rep., Ecuador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Granada, Greece, Guyana, Haiti, Holy See, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kiribati, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malaysia, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niue, Norway, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Salomon Islands, Samoa, San Marino, Serbia and Montenegro, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, St Christopher & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and Grenadines, Surinam, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Kingdon, Uruguay, USA, Vanuatu and Venezuela. - Nationals of countries not mentioned above require a tourist visa and must obtain it from the Peruvian consulate preferably in person. - Nationals from Bangladesh, Scuba, China, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan and Sri Lanka require authorization from the immigration office in Lima in order to obtain a tourist visa.

Suriname - Nationals of the following countries do not need visas to visit Suriname: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Chile, Dominica, Gambia, Guyana, Grenada, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Netherlands Antilles, Phillippines, Singapore, South Korea, ST. Kitts & Nevis, ST. Vincent and the Grenadines, St.Christopher, St.Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago. - Nationals from Bolivia, Canada, Chile, France, Netherlands, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, USA and Venezuela can purchase a tourist card for US$25 at an embassy or at the airport. - All other nationalities will need to apply in advance

for a visa at the nearest consulate.

Uruguay - Visas are not required for visits of up to 90 days by nationals from Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Netherlands, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad Tobago, Turkey, United States, Venezuela and Vietnam. - Everyone else will need to find an embassy or consulate and get a visa. Visas cost about US$42.

Venezuela - No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days for nationals from Andorra, Antigua and Barbados, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Cyprus, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Ecuador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Letonia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovak Republic, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Marino, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey , United Kingdom, United States and Uruguay

For Visa procedures, you can go to http://www.projectvisa.com and choose the country of destination. This website comprises all visa information of almost all countries in the world.

Have a safe trip!

Melissa Harkin runs a translation company called Melissa Harkin Translations. Visit her site at www.melissaharkin.com or contact her at contato@melissaharkin.com (11-8428-8714)

American-Licensed Psychotherapist

In this busy and ever-changing world, people often feel stressed and overwhelmed with no place to turn. Psychotherapy/ counseling can provide a safe place to receive professional guidance and support. Brief or longer-term therapy offered depending on your needs, goals and expectations. Services: indi-vidual, couples, child/adolescent. Certified to con-duct Adoption Home Study for American Citizens. Contact: Pamela Wax, MSW/LCSW at 9656-2106 or send an e-mail to pamwax@gmail.com. Located in Moema.

Psychologist

My name is Mirella Giglio. I am a Graded School Alumni and a psychologist in São Paulo. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples. Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima, 1572, cj. 1110,Jardim Paulistano, São Paulo. Tel.: 11 3032 5737, Cel.: 11 9259 9445. E-mail: mirella.giglio@gmail.com

Marketing Research

ÁBACO Marketing Research, founded 1975, offers growth opportunity for Bilingual Research Assistant in International Department. Friendly environment with interesting work. Convenient Avenida Paulista subway location. Requirements: Grammatically correct English, moderate Portuguese; appropriate degree, some relevant experience, Brazilian work documents. Spanish desirable. Résumé with salary history: “RESEARCHER”, to AG8@AbacoResearch.com

Portuguese for foreigners The objective of the course is to teach Portuguese by means of a dynamic method, that enables for-eign learners to learn not only the language, but the culture of Brazil. The course is divided in stages and, by the end of them, the student is able to speak,read, listen and write in Portuguese. The course is adapted to the student’s needs and pur-poses. Phone: 11-71404474(Thais) or email:thais@nineidiomas.com.br

References furnished upon request. Dr. Wendy M. Smith can be reached at: 3885.7256 [office] or 9236.5267 [mobile].

Math and Science Tutor

“Currently teacher at School St. Francis. 25+ years of experience. Tutors Math, Physics, Chemistry, and Science for all levels, including but not limited to the IB, IGCSE, SAT, ACT, AP and Brazilian vestibular. Elementary and middle school students are also welcome (all subjects). Call Fernando Knijnik at (11) 9134-6700. For-mer Chapel and Graded teacher.

Personal Trainer

I will come to your home, office, or workout fa-cility and create an exercise/fitness program tai-lored to your health concerns, fitness goals, and schedule. For adults and children, individuals or groups. Sessions in English, Spanish, or Por-tuguese. For more information please contact Daniela Franco at (11) 9739-6191 or dsf29@hotmail.com.

Argos Dog Kennel

Traveling? What about your dog? Argos Kennel Hotel could be his second home in the coun-try. Food, water, and shelter with lots of love and personal care. No lonely kennel for him, but our home and the freedom of a spacious garden. Fetch and carry service. English and French spoken. Call Jean or Christiane at (11) 4661-1430 or (11) 7230-3369 or send an e-mail to Jean. chris@uol.com.br. Embu Guaçu, SP.

For Sale - 2008 GM Zafira Expression

2.0 Flex engine automatic (mint condition), ABS, airbag, alarm, on board computer, cruise control, digital air conditioner, power steering, antivandalism insulfilm protection. 7 seats, 78.000 KM, single owner, all maintenance done at dealer, new brakes, tires, oil change with fil-ter, kept in covered garage. Price R$ 41.000,00. Please contact Eileen Tasso 11-5644-5482 (h)

American-Licensed Expat Psychologist

Richard Morhaime, Psy.D., offers skilled psy-chotherapy for children and adults. He also pro-vides complete diagnostic evaluations in Eng-lish for children with academic or behavioral difficulties, featuring individualized recommen-dations for school and home. For more infor-mation, contact Dr. Morhaime at 5538-0099 or 9669-8057 or visit www.expatpsychologist.com.br

classifieds

Forum August14

Housing

Vila Nova ConceiçãoSão Paulo’s best place to live.

Near Ibirapuera Park. Modern building, with all Sports facilities, heated swimming pool, gym, play room, barbecue, multi purpose sports court. Three bedrooms (1 suite), living room with ter-race, complete kitchen,maid’s bedroom and bath, big service area, two parking spaces. Fully furnished,with all appliances. Call Ana Beatriz or Eliane Phone (011) 3849.7085 or (011) 9626-6229-mail to: anabeatriz@caboverde.com.br

TriplexApartment for Rent by Graded

School

Apt. w/650m2, 4 large suites each w/ built-in closets. Fireplace living w/ separate dinning and lunch rms. Ample apt w/ central air, all marble and hardwood floors, xtra large Jacuzzi + private sauna, large party rmgreat for home theatre and entertainment. 4 garage spots and great bldg amenities. Av. G.Gronchi 4822, next to Graded.Rental R$12,000/mo. Call Andrew at 8202-0008or imobiliariaplaza@uol.com.br.

Excellent location – Apartment for rent

Apt 163m2, 3 suites + 1 bedroom, closet, balco-ny, great kitchen, large hydromassage, 3 garage, maid’s suite. Common area w/ heated pool, BBQ, sports court, party lounge, playground, sauna. Near the best American and bilingual schools (800m Graded), hospitals (Einstein and S Luiz), B Marx Park, Shopping Jd Sul. Very quiet street. R$4500/mo. Carol 8420-2723 / Orlando 8420-2732 / carolpellegrino@yahoo.com.br

Interiors Rental Furniture

Quality and refined furniture rental for your home away from home. We offer great variety!A complete line of appliances, kitchen devices and linen & towels. Complements such as rugs, lamps and decor items. www.interiors.com.br or interiors@interiors.com.br

Qualified Learning Specialist

Success in school leads to success in life. Ar-eas of expertise include in-home support for academics, behavior modification, and inten-sive preparation for SSAT, PSAT, SAT, TOEFL, TOIEC, IGCSE, and IB Diploma Programme.

A classified of up to 350 characters costs R$60 for AmSoc members and R$80 for non-members. To place a classified please call (11) 5182-2074 from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., or send an e-mail to AmSoc1@americansociety.com.br.

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Forum does not check all of the advertisers appearing in this newsletter. We urge you to use these services; however, thoroughly check prices and services prior to finalizing any service or purchase agreement.

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The American Societyof São Paulo

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For more than 60 years The American Society of São Paulo has worked to establish a strongnetwork for expats living and working in São Paulo. Join Today!!!

Visit our website at www.amsoc.com.br and fill in our on-line formor call the AmSoc office at 5182-2074

2012 Forum 15

calendar

Learn more about this month’s AmSoc events (highlighted) at www.AmSoc.com.br.Important Dates: 12 Father’s Day (Br)August 2012

From 1st to 5th

Everyday CIRQUE PLUME One of the best Circus companies in the world! At Teatro Alfa - Rua Bento Branco de Andrade Filho, 722 - Santo Amaro. To buy your tickets you can go to Teatro Alfa or buy online www.ingressorapido.com.br

From 09th to 19th

Everyday 22ª Bienal Internacional do Livro de São Paulo

A Brazilian event that gathers people, cultures and literature! At Pavilhão de Exposições do Anhembi - Av. Olavo Fontoura, 1.209 - Santana

11th and 12th

Saturday and Sunday

São Paulo Garden Club exposition See article on page 6

From 12th to 25th

Except Monday and Wednesday

“Gotterdammerüng” (O crepusculo dos Deuses)

The famous opera by Richard Wagner. At Theatro Municipal - Praça Ramos de Azevedo, s/nº. To buy your tickets go to Theatro Municipal or buy online www.ingressorapido.com.br/prefeitura

13th Monday Manuel Barrueco Internationally known as one of the most important violinist of our age. At Cultura Artística Itaim. Avenida Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek, 1830 - Vila Nova Conceição. Buy your ticket online: www.ingressorapido.com.br

From 14th to 19th

Everyday Riverdance The famous Irish dance group comes to São Paulo! At Via Funchal - Rua Funchal, 65 - Vila Olímpia. To buy your tickets go to Via Funchal or buy online: www.viafunchal.com.br

15th Wednesday INC Monthly coffee and Bazaar Time: 10am - 4pm. Location: Espaço Escandinavo. Rua Job Lane, 1030 - Alto da Boa Vista. 11 5521-3356

18th Saturday Little League Sign Up & Welcome Back Pancake Breakfast

See front page article

18th Saturday Winter Ceilidh Presented by St. Andrew Society of São Paulo at 8pm. R$ 70 (buffet, supper, cash bar). At Brazilian British Centre - Rua Ferreira de Araújo, 741 – Pinheiros. RSVP to eventos@standrews.com.br

21st Tuesday Maxim Vengerov and Itamar Golan These great musicians play together at Sala São Paulo (Praca Julio Prestes, 16 - Campos Elíseos). To buy your tickets you can go to Sala São Paulo or buy online www.ingressorapido.com.br

If any of you out there are thinking about getting a permanent visa here in Brazil – whether you found a local to settle down with or you have a little one who was born in São Paulo and you want to get residency yourself lest that baby one day grows up and decides to cash in on her dual citizenship – I have a little advice to give you. Listen closely because I’m only going to say it once and even then in a whisper: Do it in your home country.

Before I go any further, I will first caveat that I am not a lawyer (nor do I play one on TV). I have limited knowledge of visa rules and regulations, or anything regarding immigration for that matter. I should also mention that I have no patience for any process that involves government employees (I once put off renewing my driver’s license for so long that I had to take the entire test – and yes, that includes the driving part – all over again. As a grown woman. In New York City. Need I say more?).

Luckily for me that while I pretend anything unpleasant will just take care of itself if I stick my head in the sand long enough, I have a husband who is exactly the opposite. On it. Organized. Informed. These are just a few words that come to mind when I think of him (and I’m pretty sure not the words that come to mind when he thinks of me).

To be honest, when it came time for us to move to São Paulo from New York City nearly two years ago, a permanent visa was the last thing on my to-do list,

if it was even on my list at all. I am sure that I had relegated immigration issues to “something I’ll deal with when I get down there.” Little did I know that my husband, who is Brazilian, was doing all the research for me. And what he found is that the process takes infinitely less time when done at the Brazilian Consulate of your nearest city than when done through the Federal Police here in Brazil.

Now in order for this to be a viable option, you must still have proof of residency in the U.S. (for simplicity’s sake, and also because I don’t feel like doing any research, I am going to assume this process works the same in all other countries). I recall that I had to show some bank statements and maybe a credit card bill with an address that proved I lived within the Consulate’s jurisdiction. You’ll also need a copy of the marriage certificate or birth certificate that proves your relationship to the Brazilian citizen you’re hitching your star to. And you’ll need it in both English and Portuguese, with the English version notarized in the U.S. and the Portuguese in Brazil. Again, shouldn’t be a problem. Just remember to notarize the Portuguese document – and have it translated to English by an official translator – before you go home on your visa quest.

There are other requirements, too, like a copy of your passport and a passport-type photo of yourself (do not, under any circumstance, like me, fall for the misinformation that you cannot be smiling in that photo – unless, of course,

you want a permanent visa where, for all of eternity, you will look like one of America’s Most Wanted). And speaking of America’s Most Wanted, I also needed to get a Certificate of Good Conduct from my local police department showing that I had no criminal record (it was kind of cool, actually – I mean what girl hasn’t dreamed of being brought in for fingerprinting?).

Although this process requires a little leg work upfront, I can tell you that the result is well worth it. I’ve had friends who waited upwards of a year for their permanent visa when applying in Brazil. For me, it was simple. I dropped off my documents at the Brazilian Consulate in New York City in August; flew to Brazil on a tourist visa in September; and then, on a quick trip back to New York that November, dropped off my passport on a Monday and picked it up with my permanent visa on a Wednesday. Easy breezy.

To make sure that all the information I have given you is correct, check the Visa section on the website of your local Brazilian Consulate back home before doing anything. You’ll want to check under Permanent Visa (also known as a Viper – don’t even get me started) for the most up-to-date list of requirements. In the meantime, if you have any questions about my experience, or just want to chat, feel free to drop me a line at maureenalves@gmail.com.

The Quest for the Permanent VisaBy Maureen Kennedy Alves