Back to school daze

These days I’m packing a daily lunchbox of snacks for my schoolboy. He looks so cute in his government-issue student Tshirt. And I grin from ear to ear seeing him leave the apartment carrying his backpack filled with school supplies.

Luiz is back in school. The good news is that he’s having a lot of fun and that he will emerge the other end as a certified Tour Guide in the state of Rio de Janeiro. His classes include a broad range of topics from how to treat senior tourists, to learning about the history of dozens of cities, to how to give bus boarding instructions in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese.

The bad news (sorta, it was his first choice) is that the school runs three sessions a day: morning classes, afternoon classes and evening classes and Luiz is attending the morning classes. Monday through Thursday he leaves the apartment at 6:00 a.m. to get to school by 7:00 a.m. Classes run until 12:20 p.m. after which he is provided with a public school free lunch (we’re talking basic beans, rice and pasta with a slice of fruit for dessert). So he gets home by about 2:00 or 2:30 p.m. I have become a lonely stay at home by myself husband.

Luiz is a natural. He loves people and people love him. He can talk about just about anything. What he doesn’t know for sure he will make up without skipping a beat. It’s all about the charm.

As Rio and Brazil gear up for the increase in tourism driven by the upcoming World Cup and Olympic games, demand for official tour guides trained by the state tourism board is great. Luiz is riding that wave.

Part of his training includes many field trips to local points of interest as well as to a few neighboring cities and towns. Luiz is very excited about this new venture.

But from now until early July I’ll be sitting at home working up lesson plans in an empty apartment. On the bright side, I’ll get to set the dinner menu more often.

Homeless World Cup champions: Brazil

One last post on the Cup to tell you how it all turned out.  The Brazilian men's team came out champions -- and so did the Brazilian women's team!

Here is a repost of the article (and photos) that can be found on the official Homeless World Cup website.

Rio 2010 Homeless World Cup Champions: BRAZIL

Brazil demolished Chile 6-0 to record an historic double victory on home soil, following the women's team's defeat of Mexico earlier today.

Following an emotionally charged Women's final, hundreds of spectators made their way over to Pitch One for the most eagerly anticipated Final in the history of the Homeless World Cup.

Undoubtedly the two best teams of the men's tournament, Brazil versus Chile had fast become the final the people wanted to see.

The emotional playing of the anthems was followed by rapturous applause in a carnival atmosphere, as the Rio 2010 Homeless World Cup got under way.

As the first specks of rain fell to the pitch at the Copacabana Beach the Brazillians set about their task.

Following a nervy opening period, it was Brazil who took the lead.

Chile midfielder Jonathan Viveros lost possesion cheaply allowing Maximiliano to square the ball to a team mate to open the scoring.

As Brazil began to boss the game, they extended their lead when goalkeeper Renildo drove the ball into the centre forward's feet, who smartly laid off for Maximiliano to plunder a second goal.

The game lacked the frenetic energy of their encounter on the opening day and Chile appeared shell-shocked as the hosts further extended their lead before half-time, a placed finish by right-sided forward Jhon Lennon.

HALF TIME: BRAZIL 3-0 CHILE

Chile kept the Brazillians waiting before the second half began as coach Juan Erazo and Nicolas Paraud gave final words of inspiration to the players, before referee "Shoes" Mohono asserted their need to rejoin the field of play for the second half to commence.

Chile rallied and attempted to up their tempo but failed to seriously trouble the Brazillian goalkeeper, Renildo. With their best play coming through Jose Moralez, the Chileans pressed but a regimented Brazil allowed few opportunities and when they did the Chileans found the Brazillian stopper in fine form, one reflex save in particular drawing praise from the home crowd and moans of frustration from the Chilean players.

Brazil out the game beyond Chile with two quick goals. The first a well placed shot to make it four, before Chilean keeper Andy Berrios scythed down an oncoming Brazilian player to concede a penalty.

It was left to Maximiliano to convert, taking a touch before sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, giving Brazil a 5-0 lead.

Brazil settled the game when Paulinho skipped past his marker on the right hand side and rifled a rising shot beyond the Chilean keeper.

Seconds later the final whistle was blown as ecstatic Brazillian pandemonium ensued on the pitch and in the stands.

Dejected Chileans players dropped to the floor, as the Brazillian coaching team and victorious women's side joined their celebrations.

FULL TIME: BRAZIL 6-0 CHILE

Report by Simon Mobey and Callum Macdonald; Photos by Wil Corker

Homeless World Cup in Rio - the Palestinians

This article, written by Matthew Stanger, was posted on the Homeless World Cup website.  Check there for many, many more stories of pride, success and global fellowship.  Photos are by Mauricio Bustamante.

Palestine debut at the Rio 2010 Homeless World Cup

Of the many success stories at the Rio 2010 Homeless World Cup, none are more important than the journey of Palestine.

The debutants have rapidly become one of the most popular teams, playing with a verve and energy that have excited the crowd. Their unity and fighting spirit is admired by fellow competitors, and the players have immersed themselves in the vast array of different cultures.

Palestine may not win this year’s tournament, but one of the biggest victories of Rio 2010 is to have them taking part.

The idea of home for the Palestine players is different to many of the other nations appearing at the Homeless World Cup. It is not about having a roof over their head at night, or somewhere to wash and eat; it is about returning to a place they have called home all their lives. A home where they want to raise families and live out of poverty.

All of the Palestinian players have come from refugee camps based in Lebanon. The conflict in the region has seen their communities displaced and forced to build a new life on foreign soil.

The Palestine General Manager, Sameh Zaidani, is recognised around the Rio 2010 venue by his beaming smile and pleasant demeanour, but he cuts a stern figure when asked about the living conditions of the team. Mr Zaidani explained:

“It is a very bad situation, their lives are extremely difficult. Their families are very poor and they have to live in tents in large refugee camps. In the summer it is like being in a microwave, at winter they are in a freezer. People should not have to live like this.”

Football is seen as a form of escape. There is a Palestine league where teams from the different refugee camps compete against each other. One thing that has been noted about the Palestine team in Rio is that the players are excellent footballers. Physically they are strong, quick and agile, and they also exhibit guile and craft in their play. Mr Zaidani described the opportunity to play in an international competition:

“The players are enjoying the matches, they can express themselves and show what they can do. They are flying the flag of their country and showing the world that Palestine footballers can be professionals too.”

“But they are happy if they win or lose,” he adds.

There is no one who can argue with that. The players are friendly and lively, and have displayed no signs of nerves at their first Homeless World Cup. They can often be seen in the stands, chatting to members of the crowd, and have made many new friends at the hostel where teams are based.

“I can see the players enjoying themselves when they meet all these people from different cultures around the world,” Mr Zaidani continues,

“At night, they sit with the South African team and sing songs. One in the African language, and then another in Arabic. When I see this, I know this experience does something great for them.”

This sentiment is shared by the team’s young striker, Adham Hammad.

“It’s been great to meet new people and enjoy this experience with others. I hope more Palestine teams can come here in the future, and not just for the football,” Adham said.

Adham lives in Borj El-Brajneh, one of the largest Palestinian refugee camps. As a young man who enjoys playing football, he hopes to be like his hero Fernando Torres. But as an adult living in a complex and challenging environment, his priorities are different:

“It’s not dangerous living in the refugee camp, but there is a lot of poverty. I don’t want to be in this situation, I wish to get back to my country, Palestine. But at the moment I cannot go home.”

A key aim of the Homeless World Cup is to establish sustainable partnerships with the nations involved and despite the ongoing insecurity facing Palestine and its people, they hope to bring another team not just next year, but for the foreseeable future. Mr Zaidani declared:

“Today, these players may be homeless. In ten years’ time they may still be homeless. Their sons may be homeless. But when I see them playing here, enjoying themselves and meeting new cultures, I know there can be good in their lives.”

[Luiz with his new scarf. This photo is by me.]

One of the brilliant and unique sights in Rio is the number of fans whose shoulders are adorned with Palestine scarves. There are also caps displaying the face of Yasser Arafat – gifts that the team have brought to share with others, and which have been warmly received.

This year Palestine came to the Homeless World Cup wanting the world to know that they exist – they leave knowing they will not be forgotten.

Homeless World Cup in Rio update

This interview was originally posted on the Homeless World Cup website.  I'm reposting it here because it ROCKS!  Visit the website for more news and information about the event and to see the schedule of matches posted each day.

Team Canada embraces Homeless World Cup spirit

We caught up with Peter Chow of Team Canada to see how he and his team mates are enjoying the 2010 Homeless World Cup.

For most teams a heavy defeat in their opening tournament fixture would have a demoralising effect.

But for Team Canada, who lost their opening game against an experienced Ireland team 14-0, this has acted only to galvanise their moral and team spirit.

Canadian striker Peter Chow would only draw positives from the game and was grateful for what he feels was an important experience for the team.

'It was certainly a baptism of fire!' he said.

'We were a little intimidated and very nervous before kick-off. But the Ireland team were great, they offered us advise and support. They were very noble in victory and that leaves us in good stead for the next game'.

'The way we see it is that we came here with an empty glass, regardless of results and scorelines, this tournament has given us the chance to fill it'.

Chow, who has overcome substance abuse and mental health problems caused by alienation and disassociation issues, spoke of the importance of being welcomed into a group and the togetherness and support between the Canada teams.

'It's an amazing bond. A brotherhood. We are together in this, today we have celebrated a birthday in the team' he said.

'Perhaps in the past some of us have looked for love in the wrong places, but this feels like a surrogate family, we have gathered an amazing momentum here'.

As the team prepared to face Romania in their second game of the tournament Chow explained how easy it is to look past results.

'When you step onto the pitch and the crowd are chanting that is all you need. They are there for you. To see your skill and your play, they are embracing who you are'.

The striker failed to score in the opening game but was selfless in setting up a consolation goal for a team mate, but this doesn't worry him'.

'I've already scored the greatest goal of my life. Playing at the Homeless World Cup.'

-------
[Shout out to Sarah!]

Spending the day at the Homeless World Cup

Luiz and I spent the day volunteering at the Homeless World Cup competition/celebration in Copacabana. Talk about spirit! The mostly young people involved in the competition were inspiring and bursting with enthusiasm and excitement.

Imagine having next to nothing in your home country (Haiti, South Africa, United States, Slovenia, England, Argentina, Ghana, Costa Rica – and on and on – there are about 60 countries represented) and now being in Rio de Janeiro putting on brand new soccer shoes donated by Nike, getting pumped to show your stuff. There are men’s teams and women’s teams. All the teams were smiling.

Luiz and I worked security at the entrance to the “Players Only” hospitality area. We struck up a few friendships and got to see all of the athletes. Luiz showed so much enthusiasm for the Palestinian team that one of the players gave him a beautiful shall made of kafia scarf cloth. Score!

These photos are from the Parade of Nations and the games. The Homeless World Cup continues through the week and we plan to return as often as possible to volunteer. If you have the itch, c’mon down. The games area is on the far east end of Copacabana Beach at the border with Leme. More volunteers would be helpful (and with a volunteer credential you get free reign of the place – with plenty of time to watch some matches.)

The official web site is being kept up to date. Check there for the schedule of who is playing whom and other information.

Homeless World Cup Opening Ceremonies - Volunteers Needed

Have you been to an Olympic Games opening ceremony?  I've never been to the "official" games but I've attened two of the Gay Games ceremonies and it brought tears of pride and hope to my eyes.  Very powerful stuff.

Sunday morning at 8:30 a.m. at Forte Leme will be the Parade of Nations followed by the Homeless World Cup Opening Ceremonies.  Then the games begin!  The format is a quick 14 minute game [8 players on the field], so stopping to watch for a while is pretty easy.

Better yet - VOLUNTEER to help make it the best event possible.  Word is they still could use some help.  Contact: Catriona Kay 8034-2279 or email her at catriona@homelessworldcup.org   Serious calls and emails only, her plate is really full right now.  For more information about the event visit their website: Homeless World Cup. Or just show up with a good additude and I'm sure you will be put to work.  Volunteers are needed all week.

The current President and Co-founder of the Homeless World Cup is keeping a personal blog of his experiences at the games.  Check it out here.

Rio 2010 Homeless World Cup

This is a cross-post of sorts from Eloisa's terrific blog about Brazil: The Good Blood. If you are not already following her work, I highly reccomend it.

It seems fitting in this country of all-things-futebol that Rio will be the host of the 8th Homeless World Cup.  Between September 19 - 26 there will be teams from 64 nations competing on Copacabana Beach in a world-class, international futebol tournament.

According to the Homeless World Cup website, 30,000 homeless people from all over the world have been in training to find a spot on the team that will represent their country.  All that work comes to a head in just over a week.  I'm looking forward to checking it out.

A ball can change the world.  Are you in?

Spain over the Netherlands

Even though the World Cup ended a week ago for many of us I feel I have to post one last time to tell the end of the story.

[ouch]

The final match was a boring game to casual fans like me. But the last few minutes definitely got the blood pumping.

[ouch]

Congratulations Spain; 1 - 0 over the Netherlands in the final minutes of overtime.

[ouch!]

[imagine paying for tickets and sitting behind this joker]

For literally hundreds of photos go here and here.  Photo credits for images posted here can be found there.

2014 World Cup logo unveiled

Brazil officially unveiled the World Cup 2014 logo yesterday at the ceremony where South Africa handed over the games to Brazil (but the Cup is not over yet!). The ceremony itself was pretty good, except there were an awful lot of white people on stage. What happened to Brazil in all it’s diversity?

Here’s the video hard sell for the new logo.



Personally I like this alternate logo, but it did not make the cut.

I really love this spoof of the logo which I first saw over at THE GOOD BLOOD blog. That’s the famous Brazilian medium Chico Xavier channeling a spirit and writing down its thoughts.

The World Cup trophy wearing a toupee.

Follow this link to a discussion among design professionals about the logo.

There is a balm

Still nursing our wounds.  There was a small consolation today when Germany trounced Argentina (who celebrated in the streets of Buenos Aires when Brazil lost yesterday).

Let Maria Rita make things all better.

Sale on green and yellow overstock items

We were having so much fun. Grandmas, babies and poodles wearing green and yellow, another day off work, watching the game with 20,000 other fans on Copacabana Beach. Then there was silence.

The roar of a sea of Brazilian futebol fans I’ve come to know. But the eerie silence of thousands of disappointed Brazilians in silly green and yellow hats on Friday was a first. The loss of the World Cup game against the Netherlands was devastating, and so unexpected. People here just plain BELIEVED in victory to the end.

So we did what you might imagine we’d do to lick our wounds: we went out for greasy Chinese food.

[Goal tender Julio Cesar made some really classy remarks after the game.]

Once back at the apartment Luiz took down the flags he has been flying every day for the past couple of weeks. Every hour or so Luiz would look up and ask: “Jim – Brazil is out, right?” So sad. So depressing.

Freestylers take center stage

All this World Cup attention on football/soccer is bringing the Freestyle folks out of the urban alleyways and rural playgrounds to show off their stuff.

Freestyle is an individually played but competitively appreciated sport somewhere between futebol fancy footwork and break dancing. Sorta like individual hacky sack with a soccer ball. It is mind blowing when played well. And its popularity is exploding around the world.

Check out this video of Ronaldinho showing off his moves. The musical remix by the Black Eyed Peas of Segio Mendes’ classic “Mas Que Nada” is worth the time by itself.

The waters part for the national team

Work? Why work? Go to school? Why? Brazil continues to win World Cup games. Everything else can wait.

I attend Portuguese language classes at the State University in Rio every Friday. Let me correct that. We have classes on the Fridays that do not conflict with Brazil’s team playing in the World Cup.

We were warned at the beginning of the semester (back in March) that there may be “interruptions” should Brazil’s team realize success and have World Cup games scheduled during class times.

Two weeks ago our class was cancelled and now, given the victory today, this Friday’s class will be cancelled (postponed) as well.

Forgive me if I point out the obvious – but aren’t language classes more successful when they happen regularly and without long intervals between classes? (But this is the World Cup - not to mention other holidays along the way.) This is when I remind myself that I’m paying only R$150 for the entire semester.

Two of my classmates (one from China and another from New York) have had to drop out because they (foolishly) thought the class schedule was set, but have since discovered they will have to miss two classes due to unforeseen extensions to the class schedule.

Honestly – I love Brazil. Where else will your boss tell you that you MIGHT have next Friday off – IF the futebol team continues to win in the World Cup?

(You can file that in your “Never in America” file.)

You know you are a gringo when

You know you are the gringo still pitching for inclusion and kudos when you agree to make fresh garlic bread for the World Cup game viewing party. Bread – so what – that’s the easy part. It’s having it fresh out of the oven by 10:00 a.m. so you can bring it with you to the 11:00 game party that is the trick.

Our friends Lilian and Marco Arrelio were hosting. Claudio was making the lasagna. My now famous pull-apart garlic bread was in demand. “Jim, can you make it for the party?” they asked innocently enough. “Sure,” I said – not putting it together that I would have to get up at 6:00 a.m. to start the process.

Oh well, it would give me a chance to try out my slight modification of sprinkling grated parmesan cheese on top before baking (and adding a little vital wheat gluten to the pastry-style flour).

I’ve taken to baking bread lately. It is hell on my ever-expanding waistline, but it fits in well with the bumper crop of free time I have on my hands being a part-time English teacher. (And who wouldn’t want to come back for a second language lesson after checking me out the first class and being served fresh bread? – Realtors, you know what I’m talking about.)

So here’s how it played out. I use a recipe from an old Kitchen Aid mixer recipe book, although I use fresh minced garlic and salt rather than the stated garlic salt.

[mix/knead the wet and dry ingredients for about 7 minutes, place in a greased bowl and let double in size.]

[Roll out to about 12" x 8" and slice into four pieces.]

[Brush a garlic butter mixture on top of each slice and place slices atop each other.]

[Now slice this stack of slices into 3" pieces and place them vertically in a baking pan.]

[Brush everything with the butter garlic mixture and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.]

[Let rise for about an hour to again double in size.  Bake for 35 minutes.]

[This concoction pulls apart at every seam.  People love the finger food aspect of it.]