Niteroi

We started right off on visiting Rotary projects. On Monday morning, we went to the University Hospital (HUAP). There we we saw Rotary at work. The project helps women and babies who can not produce breast milk, or can not produce enough. They treat premature babies and have women's education classes.

From there we went to a lunch time meeting with The Rotary Club Niteroi Arariboia, where we were treated in the best Rotary spirit.

Later that evening we had the pleasure of dining with yet another Rotary Club in Sao Goncalo. The clubs meetings are held at an old age home where they are trying to raise funds through the matching grants program for a therapy swimming pool for it's residents.

Arrival!!

ARRIVAL!! Alexandra, the GSE team leader for the Brazil Exchange Group, and Fany Zissu, the Brazil GSE program coordinator, met us at the airport with all kinds of treats. They had Acai (a national favorite type of juice), pao de quiejo (bread with cheese inside) and of course Brazilian cafe!! Cafe, or coffee, here is drank in tiny espresso like cups and is extremely strong! Exactly what we needed after a long flight!!

Once the caffeine kicked in we were off to the Red Bull Air Race!! However, there was nothing but rain, rain, and more rain. Due to the weather conditions the race was cancelled. However, we still had a great time walking through the city and getting our first glimpse of Rio.

...ANNNNNND WERE OFF!!

The bags have been packed, the final goodbyes said and now in just a few short hours, just 10 : ) , we'll be in the beautiful city of Rio!!! First up on the agenda the Red Bull Air Race. Want to know more? Go to redbullairrace.com to find out what we have in store.

After the air races we'll be off to Niteroi to stay with our first host family. Stay tuned for more!!

A big thanks going out to Joni and her husband for giving us such a great send off!

Broomball

On March 31, 2010, we got together with the Brazilian team for a friendly game of Broomball. After a couple of quick scores by the Brazilians, we found ourselves in a 2-0 hole. After they got tired of falling on the ice and we got our ice legs, we took control and responded with 5 unanswered goals to go up 5-2. When taking a break, it was decided the game was done. Not sure if it was the score or the sore butts. Maybe Erik & Meg can answer that one. We then decided to hit the ice using ice skates. For some, it was their first time and much easier to stay on the feet. Afterwards we got the chance to relax and chat with our Brazilian friends. Thanks to Extreme Ice for hosting us and providing some great snacks and drinks.

GSE Team 7680

Here we are as a group. This picture was taken at our orientation. From the left is Erik, Paul our fearless leader, Meg, Scott, Nicole, Tracy and Kamilah. (Not pictured: Debbie & Jeff).

Brushin' Up...

on our common Portuguese phrases.

Meet the Brazil GSE Team

On March 28th we will be welcoming GSE Team 4750 from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  Team members will stay with local Rotarians in the Charlotte area and visit places such as The Reed Gold Mine, NASCAR facilities and Concord Mills.  We look forward to their arrival!

Check out their Team Blog to find out more about them!

Team Leader:  Alexandra Estevao

Alexandra is a Geriatric Physician and would like to visit adult long term care facilities and medical universities.  She speaks  Portuguese, Spanish and English and is married with three kids.  

Team Member:  Walace Souza

Walace is an Administrator at Roiser Textile Industry and has an MBA in Marketing.  While here he would like to learn more about American culture and Business Administration.  He is single and likes to play volleyball and soccer, run, read and go to the movies.

Team Member:  Maria fernanda Torga

Maria is a Dentist and looks forward to observing Dental clinics here in the Charlotte area. She is single and loves dancing, traveling and reading.

Team Member:  Marcella Silva

Marcella is a Lawyer and is looking forward to visiting North Carolinas courts.  She is single and loves going to the gym, movies, and concerts.  

Team Member:  Danielle Moreira

Danielle is a Chemical Engineer in the Water Treatment Industry.  She hopes to visit laboratories, water treatment plants, universities, and industries.  She is married and loves to scuba dive, play basketball, travel and go to the movies.

Team Member:  Lucas Lima

Lucas is a Project Analyst in the Naval/Government Industry.  He would like to visit projects here in North Carolina that have a focus on energy and the environment.  He is single and likes to play soccer, go to concerts and is a big basketball fan.