Soule Restaurant: The Soule Beat

Soule Restaurant: It is Easy Being Green

2010-04-12T11:47:00.000-07:00

Being environmentally conscious is a multifaceted goal, especially with The United States’ consumption of 25% of the world’s natural resources and holds only 5% of the population; but being green doesn’t have to be difficult. The key is to incorporate an environmental awareness into your everyday lifestyle. Small modifications can have a tremendous impact.

WATER: The U.S. has one of the cleanest drinking water supplies in the world; however, it is vital that we preserve our lakes, rivers and streams so their natural ecosystems remain undisturbed.

CLIMATE: The Earth’s climate changes naturally, from ice ages to periods of warmth. We are currently experiencing a warming trend; however, this cycle is being exacerbated by the actions of man. The burning of fossil fuels and deforestation has caused a concentration of greenhouse gases to increase in our atmosphere, preventing heat from escaping into space. As a result, the polar caps are melting, causing rising sea levels and unusual rainfall patterns.

Alternative sources of energy, including solar, wind, and hydro energy can be found on www.epa.gov.

WASTE: Although it is important to dispose of waste currently polluting the environment, prevention is key. Recycling and using products with biodegradable containers helps reduce waste.

AIR: Our air quality has improved in the past 20 years largely due to government intervention. We can continue this trend by ensuring that our vehicle emissions are within an acceptable range, keeping tires inflated to maximize fuel efficiency, and planting trees.

Trees help to reduce air pollution by absorbing gaseous pollutants.

The Fulton Area Business Alliance (FAB Alliance) is doing their part to help New Yorkers go Green!

Come to the Putnam Triangle in Clinton Hill (at Grand) on Saturday and Sunday, April 17-18th from 10am-3pm and leave with a FREE TREE to plant! Local businesses will also offer coupons and discounts for those who join us in making our planet healthier.

Soule Restaurant: April's Highlights

2010-04-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

* Ask about Soulé’s catering specials for graduates! Planning your graduation party doesn’t have to be an ordeal.

* Victor Torres is hosting his new monthly From the Mind of ILL at Soule, Monday, April 26th from 8pm!

Soule Restaurant's Spotlight on Tortola

2010-04-11T19:59:00.000-07:00

Tortola is the largest and most populated island amongst the British Virgin Isles.

The people are of African, Caribbean and British influence, reflected in the island’s cuisine; from curry chicken roti to Johnny cakes.

Tortola natives are known to be very warm and friendly, and the relaxed atmosphere serves to provide a paradisiacal feel that is missing on some islands due to urbanization.

Mountains fraught with frangipani and ginger line Tortola’s southern coast, while the northern coast boasts beautiful white sand beaches with mango and banana groves amidst palm trees.

Sailing is a very popular pastime in Tortola, and Sage Mountain National Park is a must-see while visiting.

Picnic while overlooking its neighboring cays; explore traces of its primeval rainforest.

The classic Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson is said to have been set in Norman Isle, which lies directly across from Tortola. Once a haven for pirates, the island is now deserted, but you can row to the southernmost cave of the island where Stevenson’s Mr. Fleming stowed his precious treasure and explore.

Tortola is also home to beautiful coral reefs with spectacular tropical fish and other creatures.

Soule Restaurant: Earth Day!

2010-04-11T19:57:00.000-07:00

Come to the Putnam Triangle in Clinton Hill (at Grand) on

Saturday and Sunday, April 17-18th from 10am-3pm

and leave with a FREE TREE to plant!

Courtesy of the FAB Alliance!

Soule Restaurant's Latest Menu Offering

2010-04-11T19:55:00.001-07:00

Stewed Oxtail

This dish is a favorite throughout the Caribbean!!

Try with a side of peas and rice and fried plantain or mashed potatoes and broccoli for a lil’ bit of Soulé’s Caribbean- fusion!

Soule Restaurant: Bees... They're Our Friends

2010-04-11T19:50:00.000-07:00

Early last month, New York City lifted its ban on urban beekeeping.

Huh?

Well… the city’s health code had previously placed bees in the same category as about 100 other creatures found to be too dangerous to be kept in the city.

The honeybee cause has been on the forefront lately, with the decimation of much of their numbers in recent years endangering agriculture in the United States.

In order to grow fruits, vegetables or nuts, you need soil, sun, seeds, water, and honeybees. Honeybees are vital for our agricultural well-being; one out of every three bites of food we eat depend on bees.

Beekeepers throughout the United States routinely load their beehives onto flatbed trucks and travel all over the country, renting their bees to farmers who require the pollination of their crops.

In November 2006, David Hackenberg, who has been in the beekeeping business for over 50 years, went to a bee yard in Florida where he had left 400 hives, and all 400 hives, usually containing roughly 35-40,000 bees each, stood empty. He searched the fields, getting down on his hands and knees to find the deceased bees to no avail.

It has since been found that a particularly large portion of honeybees have been losing their sense of navigation and not returning home to their colonies. Three months after Hackenberg’s discovery, a third of the bees in the country were reported to have mysteriously disappeared as well.

The peculiar thing is, bees have an inherent navigation system that guides them home, even after flying up to two miles in search of food. Upon their return to the hive, they instinctively safeguard the well-being of their colony; performing an intricate dance that informs the others of the location of the food source, and they never abandon their young. Yet, when they disappear, they routinely leave behind a hive filled with larvae and eggs, as well as their queen. Also peculiar is the fact that no other bees will invade the abandoned hives to forage for the honey; it is as if they realize that the hives are somehow contaminated and its honey unsuitable for consumption.

Bee losses are estimated at 60 percent on the west coast and Texas, and 70 percent on the east coast, when the normal winter reduction averages at 20 percent.

“If the bee disappeared off the surface of the globe then man would only have four years of life left. No more bees, no more pollination, no more plants, no more animals, no more man.”

…Albert Einstein

This revelation is alarming; especially in light of the fact that this is quickly becoming a world-wide pandemic, currently affecting 24 states within the United States, as well as areas in Germany, Poland, Switzerland, and Spain.

Autopsies of bees that remain in the abandoned hives show that these bees are typically afflicted with several viruses and ailments.

It appears that something is weakening the immune systems of honeybees, making them more susceptible to parasites, fungi, and viruses, while simultaneously causing memory loss and nervous system disorders. Scientists are referring to this phenomenon as Colony Collapse Disorder (CDD), the cause of which is still undetermined.

The importance of bees to our very existence is not universally recognized. Many have accepted their disappearance as positive.

It’s not.

Our first lady recently had a beehive installed on the south lawn of the White House.

Now that the beekeeping ban has been lifted in New York City, maybe some of our bravest residents will follow in her footsteps and assume a new hobby.

Soule Restaurant's Food Facts: Honey

2010-04-11T19:47:00.000-07:00

Bacteria doesn’t survive in honey, so it never spoils. In fact, honey was found in ancient Egyptian tombs, approximately 2000 years old, and still edible!

As it ages, the crystallization process of honey puts it in a solid form that can be warmed and liquefied, retaining all of its properties.

Ancient Egyptian doctors used honey to treat open wounds, speeding up the healing process and saving countless lives that might have been lost due to infections from injuries during the construction of the pyramids.

Scientists today have found that honey contains hydrogen peroxide which

kills germs, but also has the remarkable ability to kill the most resilient bacterium such as Staphylococcus Aureus.

Another interesting property is that when honey is applied to burns or wounds, they often heal without leaving scars. Scientists are unsure why, but they suspect that the glucose in the honey combines chemically with collagen that makes up scar tissue in a way that prevents it from forming.

Honey is a natural sugar that is sweeter than granulated sugar. Both contain glucose and fructose; however, in sugar, the fructose and glucose bind together while in honey, they remain separate. Fructose does not convert to energy as efficiently as glucose and is often converted to fat stores. It’s bound to glucose in sugar, which inhibits absorption, making honey a better nutritional option. Honey also contains antioxidants that must be obtained through diet, as well as vitamins and minerals, although the type and amount varies based on the pollen collected.

Because of its pollen base, a tablespoon of honey a day is purported to build antibodies to allergens naturally.

Any reason to doubt why it was considered the Nectar of the Gods?

Soule Restaurant: April's Fools

2010-04-11T19:45:00.000-07:00

This month, Google announced that they were changing their name to Topeka in response to Topeka’s Mayor Bill Bunten’s announcement that he was informally changing the name of his town to “Google” for one month. I don’t know… I wasn’t fooled. I’ll give Google a 4 on a scale of 1 to 10.

Meanwhile, YouTube announced that, in an effort to cut costs, they were converting videos to text-only mode. Okay… that one was pretty funny…

On the gourmet coffee front, Starbucks offered giant (128 fl oz) and micro (2 fl oz) sized coffee cups, aptly named Plenta™ and Micra™.

I’m going to need a Plenta Café Mocha, please. And new running shoes to run off that caffeine…

Soule Restaurant: From the Mind of ILL

2010-04-11T19:39:00.000-07:00

You can love me or hate me, but the feeling is mutual.

How's everyone doin' this go 'round?

April.

The month where Klowns such as myself have an entire 24-hour period dedicated to our insane ways.

Y'know... April 1st? April Fool's Day?

And what fool is better than the fool that is I?

No one! That is who! For example: The song Papa Was A Rolling Stone. At the end of the chorus, the phrase "When he died all he left us was alone" is sung... Sang... Songded...

Well, ask someone if the song means all he left us was "alone" or "a loan" as in "an unpaid debt." Either way, that's messed up! Damn you, Pops!

I wanna talk about Twitter. Why? Because I can. It’s my article...

I will admit, I follow a motley crew of characters.

From some rappers who are intelligent and sarcastic (@Jeangreasy, a great emcee by any standards) to um... adult entertainers... to comics I truly admire (@affioncrockett, @kevinhart4real, the Wayans family [waaaay too many to list] to some of my musical idols --@djscratch, who I had the privilege of meeting @ SOB's and laughing about Roscoe P. Coltrane from The Dukes Of Hazzard, @GeneralSteele 1/2 of the legendary duo Smif-Wessun—the other half? @teksmokeelah, to Brand Nubian's finest @Lordjamar and @Sadat X.).

Twitter has been a fun way to talk to people and keep in contact with some people you admire, and just so you know ahead of time, people with 2 million followers …ain't gonna answer you back.

No Diddy Tweets... No Ashton replies.

Nada.

And if you follow people you actually know? It’s actually easier to pick up the phone and call. And text. Oh—follow @soulerestaurant (thanks for allowing me to spew my unorthodox opinions) and follow @ILLWayneGacey.

That's me.

But beware. You get a much tamer version of me in this newsletter. On Twitter, there are NO HOLDS BARRED! I even have my own trending topic: #DaKlownIsAJerk. Put THAT in your pipe and smoke it!

On Tuesday, March 30, Soule Restaurant had its inaugural "From The Mind Of ILL" Open Mic. Comics such as Pedro Lee, Luke Thayer and Talia performed and it was a variety of comic styles but nonetheless, a success.

Hosted by Yours Truly (bows, curtsey and two steps) for a first time, it was a success.

So thankfully (or regretfully depending on how you felt about the comedy) there will be another From The Mind Of ILL Open Mic Comedy Night on Monday, April 26th!

Well, I guess I should say Happy Easter, but I will leave you with this thought: Rabbits don't lay eggs.

They give birth like all other mammals. If a bunny walks up to you offering a chocolate egg, that ain't chocolate. And if you eat it? You nasty!

Till next time.

…Victor Torres

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz...

2010-04-11T19:35:00.000-07:00

Zombies! Author Roger Ma and graphic artist Y.N. Heller (The Zombie Combat Manual: A Guide to Fighting the Living Dead) give a lecture on how to kick zombie ass, complete with a zombie dummy beat-down demonstration and zombie make up for those who want to join the undead, Friday, April 9th at 7:30pm at the Barnes and Noble in Park Slope… Cool… After a long winter, the Brooklyn Flea returns to Fort Greene’s Bishop Loughlin High School yard on Saturdays, remains at One Hanson Sundays for the remainder of the year… Brooklyn crime’s spiked this year, and Bloomberg blames the cuts to the police force. Only thing is, there is no clear correlation when other cities and number of law enforcement officials are studied. Could it be the economy pushing people to unscrupulous (and criminal) acts? Who knows...

Soule Restaurant: Oprah Winfrey - SUPERWOMAN

2010-03-01T13:58:00.000-08:00

Oprah Winfrey announced last year that she’s ending her 25-season run of The Oprah Winfrey Show on September 9, 2011.

This date will mark the end of an era.

An era where an African American woman received 48 daytime Emmy Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award in 1998.

Of course her Lifetime Achievement wasn’t primarily for her talk show; Oprah has a reputation for using her money and influence to affect change.

She freely shares the story of her childhood; her abuse and molestation that caused her to run away from home.

She initiated a campaign to establish a national database of convicted child abusers, which was signed into law by President Clinton in 1993 and entitled the "Oprah Bill," establishing the national database she sought.

She opened an all-girls school in South Africa to nurture, educate and turn gifted girls from impoverished backgrounds into leaders.

She played Sofia in The Color Purple and captured the hearts of moviegoers everywhere, which motivated her to form a production company: HARPO Productions, Inc.

She subsequently acquired all rights to The Oprah Winfrey Show before expanding to produce The Women of Brewster Place miniseries and movies There are no Children Here, and Before Women had Wings.

When Oprah began the Oprah Book Club, her selections became immediate best sellers.
Oprah was named one of the 100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century by Time magazine, for obvious reasons.

She is a partner in Oxygen Media, and according to Forbes Magazine, is the first African American woman to become a billionaire.

In honor of Women’s History Month, we salute Oprah; not only for her financial accomplishments.

We salute her lifetime contributions to the world.

Soule Restaurant: Spotlight on VENEZUELA

2010-03-01T13:57:00.000-08:00

Venezuela, located in northern South America, contains miniature pieces of the entire continent; it encompasses Amazonian rain forests, fertile plains, Andes mountains, a Caribbean shoreline, and even a desert.

The people are diverse, and includes Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Arab, German, African and indigenous people.

Venezuela’s oil reserves are as vast as many Arab nations; in fact, engineers have reported drilling for oil in the wrong place accidentally and still finding oil.

Caracas is the capitol, and boasts gleaming skyscrapers amidst historical gems. Caracas is known for its nightlife, with ample nightclubs.

An attraction that is a must-see while in Venezuela is Angel Falls; the world’s highest waterfall.

Soule Restaurant: March's Highlights

2010-03-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

• Soulé’s Spoken Word Open Mic one-year anniversary of our is this month! We’re celebrating with an open mic that celebrates Women’s History Month featuring artwork by Reina Miranda and Tasha Edwards!

• Soulé is introducing new menu items with a Menu Tasting event! Details to follow…

• Soulé is hosting its first Comedy Night hosted by ILL Wayne Gacey! Stay tuned for details…

Soule Restaurant

2010-03-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

Try Soulé’s latest menu offering:

Rasta Pasta

This dish is native to Italy, but renamed and made popular in Jamaica when Bob Marley claimed it as his favorite.

Soule Restaurant's Food Facts: Brocolli

2010-03-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

Years ago, broccoli was generally THE vegetable. The one that had to be eaten with a screw-face and pinched nose.

Why the bad rap?

Broccoli is delicious. And who was the genius who thought to pair it with cheddar cheese and top baked potatoes? I lie prostrate at your feet, great sir/ma’am.

Broccoli appears to have gained popularity among all age groups. It is now one of the best-selling vegetables in the United States.

Rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, iron, calcium and folic acid, broccoli also contains as much vitamin C as an orange!

Because broccoli is nutrient- dense with low caloric cost, body builders tend to make it a necessary addition to their diets. Eaten with red meat for protein, the vitamin C from the broccoli helps to maximize the body’s absorption of iron.

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University recently discovered a compound in broccoli that prevents the development of tumors by 60% and reduces the size of developed tumors by 75%. Broccoli boosts the immune system, lowers the incidence of cataracts, supports cardiovascular health, builds bones and fights birth defects.

Whether you try it stir fried in teriyaki, or in garlic sauce, with baked potatoes and cheddar cheese, or even just raw in a salad. You won’t be disappointed and your body will thank you!

Soule Restaurant: Winter Blues

2010-03-01T13:46:00.000-08:00

Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) or Winter Blues is a depression that correlates with the winter season. It is caused by chemical changes in the brain due to lack of sunlight, or a “phase shift” of the circadian rhythm.

Signs of S.A.D. can include excessive sleep, weight gain, irritability, an increase in conflicts with others, loss of energy, poor concentration and indecisiveness, and even thoughts of death or suicide.

Although medical treatment is available for S.A.D., there are ways to self-treat that are safe and easily implemented.

 Try to spend at least 30 minutes outside every day; particularly during the brightest part of the day

 Increase indoor lighting

 Plan activities during the winter months that you enjoy

 Take a short vacation to a sunny state

 Bright-Light therapy

Bright-light therapy, using UV-ray screened light from a special light box, has proven to be quite effective; more so when the problem stems from melatonin. The brain’s pineal gland produces melatonin in response to darkness, making us sleepy. Animals create more melatonin during the winter months, and it was recently discovered by the National Institute of Mental Health, that many who suffer from S.A.D. have an increase in melatonin production during the winter months as well.

Another activity that has proven to be very effective in reversing the signs of S.A.D. is regular attendance of Soule’s weekly Spoken Word Open Mic events. Patrons are welcomed with complimentary warm corn muffins with an irresistible pineapple-apricot sauce and sweet peppermint tea. A delicious Caribbean-Soul food dinner while listening to the creative vibe of local poets and singers has a tremendous impact on the body’s release of endorphins, effectively combating S.A.D.

Okay, the Soule-Open-Mic-Endorphin-Effect hasn’t actually been proven, but try it! It’s a warm, comforting environment that’s immune to the ravages of winter.
See you soon!

Soule Restaurant: National Poetry Recognition Month - Derek Walcott

2010-03-01T13:44:00.000-08:00

Derek Walcott, native of St. Lucia, studied at St. Mary’s College and the University of West Indies in Jamaica before moving to Trinidad in 1953, where he worked as a theatre and art critic.

His first poem, 1944,was published when he was only 14 years old, and by age 19, he had published Epitaph for the Young: XII Cantos and 25 Poems as well.

Walcott’s talent is not limited to poetry; he has also published essays, novels and plays, and several of his plays have been produced throughout the United States.
In 1992, Walcott was the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature for Omeros, an epic poem that takes its name from the Greek poet Homer.

The poem draws parallels with both Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, with the heroes Achille and Hector in love with the same woman: Helen.

Rather than retelling Homer’s tale, Walcott tells the story of slavery and its effects on the culture of the Caribbean.

One verse that is particularly poignant described a conversation between Philoctetes’ and Ma Kilman where he voices his frustration about his leg-wound from being struck by an anchor. The wound will not heal and to he speaks of the burden it represents.

Philoctete, his trouser-legs rolled, stares out to sea
from the worn rumshop window. The itch in the sore
tingles like the tendrils of the anemone,

and the ouffed blister of Portuguese man-o’-war.
He believed the swelling came from the chained ankles
of his grandfathers. Or else why was there no cure?

That the cross he carried was not only the anchor’s
but that of his race, for a village black and poor
as the pigs that rooted in its burning garbage,

then were hooked on the anchors of the abattoir.

Derek Walcott’s Nobel Prize for Literature was well-deserved, and in honor of National Poetry Recognition Month, Soulé salutes him.

Soule Restaurant: Announcements

2010-03-01T13:42:00.000-08:00

Soulé is proud to participate in

Dine-In Brooklyn 2010

An initiative of
Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President

2 for $20.10 for lunch and 2 for $25 for dinner
or
One 3-course dinner for $25 and one 3-course lunch for $20.10

Soule Restaurant: From the Mind of ILL

2010-03-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

Hey yo...

What's the good word?

I am sitting here being harassed by someone from Soulé, bothering me about an article.

I swear… she’s like Citibank. I only hear from her is when the bill is due.
And so, I will spew random nonsense, as opposed to the regular nonsense I usually spew.

Facts:

1. 10 out of 10 people die.

2. At the end of the day, it’s night.

3. Olive Oyl (who loved Popeye, not the stuff you put on salads) had measurements of 18-18-18.

4. 1,111,111 x 1,111,111 = 1234567654321

5. Barbie's name is Barbara Millicent Roberts.

6. Penguins are the only birds that can swim but not fly.

7. Scooby Doo's real name is Scoobert.

Just randomness…

It happens.

Especially when I don't take my meds.

Or see my doctor.

I received an email in Facebook (aka Let'sSeeHowMuchTheCoolKidsFromHighSchoolFellOff.com) inviting me somewhere on June 5th, 2010...

One day after my birthday.

(Gifts can be dropped off @ Soule addressed to ILL!)

I am invited to my *gasp* 20th High School Reunion!

I think I am more disturbed that I *gasped* rather than at the 20-year part.
Maaaaan... 20 years... 1990... The simpler days... Good music... De La Soul... EPMD...

I think I still have the shirt that I wore to my high school graduation. I think I'll wear it June 5th. Can't be that much tighter. I weigh the same I did in high school (if you add up all four years).

Word on the street is that Soulé is having a comedy night.

This month.

Hosted by a handsome fellow… I’m just sayin’…

Follow me on twitter @ILLWayneGacey

Victor Torres

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz

2010-03-01T13:34:00.000-08:00

After years of canceled projects and false starts, the cultural district planned for the neighborhood around the Brooklyn Academy of Music is finally gaining momentum. Over the next year, construction on six cultural and public projects worth a total of well over $100 million is slated to begin in the area between Fulton and Lafayette… Jason Williams shot his limo driver and got 18 months. Plaxico Burress shot himself. And got 2 years. Classic… Men pretending to be cops “arrested” a man and picked his pocket… Two moviegoers were robbed at the UA Court Street cinemas… The women from the sex toy shop Babeland have written a “How to” book… The Fort Greene Festival is proud to present their third year in the making, June 26, 2010… Fighting in three different weight classes at the Brooklyn Masonic Temple in Clinton Hill, Daniel Torres, Vincenzo D'Angelo and Raul Nuncio all went home to Long Island with victories, while Torres also took the P.C. Richard Boxer of the Night Award… Fort Greene/Clinton Hill is simply one of New York's perfect neighborhoods - - the population is diverse, it's geographically close to Manhattan, it's got a stellar park, tons of restaurants, a farmer's market, a flea market, beautiful tree-and-brownstone-lined streets, historic buildings, subway access, a world-class performing arts complex - - the list goes on… Green in BKLYN offers a one-stop shop where people who’d like to live an eco-friendly lifestyle - and those who already do - can find information and the products they need to easily and innovatively green their home and daily lives…

Soule Restaurant: Let it Snow!

2010-02-01T13:50:00.000-08:00

It snowed in every state in the U.S. last month, except for Hawaii.

The storms were particularly brutal in the Washington, DC area, where they experienced a record snowfall that paralyzed the city for days.

New Yorkers experienced a good deal of winter-weather as well, with two rare snow-days for public school students. Yet, business continued as usual, with oblivious New Yorkers bustling around the city as usual. How does snow affect us so little?
Based on National Climatic Data Center records, New York State is home to the snowiest cities in the United States. Syracuse averages 115 inches of snow per year, and Rochester, 93.

Buffalo once experienced a 39-inch snowfall in a 24-hour period.

These are records for New York State, however, not the City. The more likely reason for our apathy is the convenience of an almost weather-proof underground system of transportation that eliminates the necessity to drive under treacherous weather conditions.

So, no, we’re not super-people. We’ve been described as rude and abrasive, jaded and impervious.

Flasher on the subway? Most of us wouldn’t flinch. Naked Cowboy running for mayor? Uh… okay. This is NEW YORK.

So what’s a little bit of snow?

Soule Restaurant: Island Taste

2010-02-01T13:27:00.000-08:00

Many people who aren’t of Caribbean descent generalize island cuisine, unaware that different islands have different specialties. In fact, many islands have the same dishes, cooked with completely different styles.

Jerk is a style found throughout the Caribbean, but it originated in Jamaica. A spicy medley of allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg are mixed together with other herbs to form a marinade that is rubbed on meat and grilled over a smoky fire. Delicious, but its spices are not for the faint of heart.

Curry is also found throughout the Caribbean, with styles varying depending on island.

Guyanese tend to use nutmeg in their curry, while Trinidadians use coconut cream.

Barbados is home to the flying fish, and is delicious when eaten with coo coo, a cornmeal and okra mixture unlike any other dish.

Trinidad’s diversity rivals that of New York City and its cuisine reflects this with dishes ranging from Chinese and Indian to British, all modified with an island influence.

Enjoying fried bake with shark while liming on Maracas Beach in Trinidad is a custom comparable to visiting Times Square in New York.

Bake is a soft, fried bread, served with fried shark and toppings that include lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, cole slaw, tamarind chutney, pepper sauce, and chadon benny chutney (also known as cilantro).

Coconut curry crab with dumplings are popular in Tobago. Its taste is incomparable; creamy and spicy and flavorful. While visiting this Tobago, try this with mango chow on the beach.

Corn soup is also popular in Trinidad. Its hearty broth is thickened with split peas, and its peppery flavor the perfect end to a night of fetes.

In honor of Trinidad Carnival, Soulé has added Fried Bake & Shark, Coconut Curry Crab with Dumplings, and Corn Soup to its menu for the month of February.

These items are available for a limited time, so don’t miss it!

Soule Restaurant: February Highlights

2010-02-01T13:26:00.000-08:00

• For Valentine’s Day weekend, Soulé is offering a special 3-course meal for $25. Pamper your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank!

• Soulé is hosting its first themed Spoken Word Open Mic on February 16th with Love Letters at Soulé! Come share your work, and bring your sweetheart!

Soule Restaurant: Spotlight on BRAZIL

2010-02-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

It’s been said that Trinidad Carnival is second only to Brazil, which sets the standard for Carnival celebrations worldwide!

Unlike Trinidad’s Soca-focused festivities, Brazil is famous for its themed Samba and Rumba performances, performed in colorful, elaborate costumes.

The Rio de Janiero Carnival can be viewed from the streets or in the Sambodrome, a huge arena that seats about 100,000 people. In the streets, you can join in on the dancing to the beat of huge drums, said to have originated in Africa, bought to Brazil with the slave trade.

Brazil’s population includes a racial mix of 54% white, 38% mixed, and 6.2% black.

The country is slightly smaller than the U.S., and shares the boundaries of every South American country except Ecuador and Chile.

Nudity is not allowed in the Carnival floats; however, paint is considered an appropriate cover.

With exploding rhythms, colors, magnificent floats, and samba beats, Brazil’s Carnival is second to none!

Soule Restaurant: Black History Month

2010-02-01T13:23:00.000-08:00

Soule Restaurant's Food Facts: Mangos

2010-02-01T13:21:00.000-08:00

Mangos are sweet, juicy tropical fruit native to Asia, Africa and the Caribbean with a distinct flavor unlike any other.

The health benefits of mango differ based on level of ripeness.

Green mango is hard and starchy with a bitter aftertaste. In the Caribbean, it’s commonly made into Chow; soaked in a brine that makes it more palatable… actually, mango chow isn’t just palatable. It’s delicious!

As mangos ripen, they change to glucose, sucrose and maltose. The ripe mango is rich in vitamins C, B6, A, potassium, and copper. Mangos also contain beta-carotene, which is known to slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer, and improve lung function.

Although fat-free, mangos have a particularly high sugar content and are optimal in shakes for weight gain.

In some countries mangos are used to treat a variety of diseases and conditions. Green mango is combined with salt and honey to treat diarrhea, dysentery, morning sickness, chronic dyspepsia, indigestion and constipation. Treatments for heat stroke, bilious disorders and scurvy have also been recorded.

The presence of gallic acid in mangos make them an excellent blood cleanser by binding to the bowels. It is also purported to reduce excessive heat and prevents body odors.

Soule Restaurant: Carnival Menu!

2010-02-01T13:15:00.000-08:00

In honor of Trinidad’s Carnival, Soulé’s Carnival menu returns! Try our signature Carnival dishes:

Fried Bake & Shark

Creamy Coconut Curry Crab & Dumplings

Spicy Corn Soup

These items are available for a limited time. Don’t miss it!

Soule Restaurant: Announcements

2010-02-01T13:14:00.000-08:00

Soule is looking for artists to feature in a new monthly

Talent Spotlight

Please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net if interested in performing.

Soule Restaurant: Love Letters

2010-02-01T01:09:00.000-08:00

Sex and the City's Mr. Big had the right idea when he sought to recapture Carrie's heart.

Love letters.
Admittedly, he wasn't a writer, so he copied the love letters from Love Letters of Great Men and Women: From the Eighteenth Century to the Present Day, and sent them to her regularly.

(Sigh)

I want a love letter. But with today's broad range of communication options, snail mail has lost its general appeal, eliciting imagery only of credit card statements and household bills.

I’d like to surprise someone this Valentine’s Day with a love note.

Dear Crush,

Has anyone ever told you that your eyes are like windows to your soul? When I look into them, I get lost, because I SEE you.

I see your strength and concern, your honesty and sincerity, your desire... And I'm adrift... unable to focus.

I imagine the comfort of being in your arms; the security and the danger. I’m perilously close to falling from the edge of a cliff but I can’t tear myself away.

I imagine standing close to you and whispering in your ear while your heat permeates my skin, so vividly that it's almost tangible.

I imagine your touch, so sweet that it burns, leaving trails of fire on my skin.

I open my eyes and you're gone.

I’m desolate, but only for a moment, because, my crush, my love, the feelings I have for you are so painfully sweet, I fear consummation would be death.

And so... I'll admire you from afar and love you in my dreams.

No, I’m not confident enough to sign my name… but who knows? Maybe I’ll write again. And maybe I’ll eventually sign my name… and maybe we will eventually meet.
Maybe my crush will keep my letters as mementos. Maybe he won’t be able to discard them as easily as he’d press delete.

You know, Mr. Big sent letters every day, and he got his love.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Soule Restaurant: Be My Valentine?

2010-02-01T01:04:00.000-08:00

When I was in High School, members of the Student Government Organization, hosted an annual event where students were given the opportunity to buy inexpensive gifts for their Valentines which were hand -delivered on Valentine’s Day.

From plastic roses to teddy bears to balloons, delivered anonymously or with special, hand-written love notes, it was a fun way to celebrate.

We all pretended that receiving these gifts meant nothing. But we all secretly coveted them.

We fixed our teddy bears to the zippers of our backpacks; we placed our roses strategically inside so they wouldn’t completely fit, and we acted as if carrying our balloons was the biggest inconvenience. And yet, no one would just let them go.

For adults, Valentine’s Day is sometimes perceived differently.

I’ve heard it described as a bogus holiday created to promote capitalistic agendas.

(See From the Mind of ILL)

I’ve heard complaints about the pressures associated with expressing your love on one day, when it should be expressed all year long. I’ve heard romantics who take it for simply what it is: a day spent with the person you love, being in love.

The truth?

Valentine’s Day originated when the Roman Emperor Claudius II decided that young men could not marry because they were subsequently more reluctant to serve in the army and leave their wives at home.

St. Valentine was a priest who secretly continued to marry these couples.

His actions were discovered and Emperor Claudius II commanded his execution on February 14th, 270 A.D.

So in actuality, Valentine’s Day is nothing about capitalism or the expression of love. It isn’t even about the person you love.

Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate your right to love.

So celebrate!

Soule Restaurant: From the Mind of ILL

2010-02-01T01:02:00.000-08:00

Happy February, people.

Or as I like to call it: CONSPIRACY MONTH…

Yes, I said it. And what would make me think that?

Not that it’s Black History Month and it’s the shortest month of the year… as opposed to Hispanic Heritage Month, which splits September and October. I’ll talk about that some other time (Note: I probably and more than likely won’t.)

No. The big Conspiracy for me?

Valentine’s Day.

Yeah, I said it.

Cupid.

Eh.

Baby New Year? Cool kid in a diaper.

Cupid? Hhmph.

The reason Valentine’s Day is a conspiracy is that it is a holiday made up to support the Hershey family, the Hallmark Corporation and the Florists of America.

Don’t believe me?

Okay. Sunday night, go home to your significant other (You know this is aimed at the fellas) and don’t come home with a gift. No flowers. No candy. No card. No dinner plans. Just you, her and Jack Bauer.

See how long it is before you get the cold shoulder. Or a cutting board to the back of the head.

It happens.

Why can't I give you flowers on March 18th? ‘Cause the day doesn't have a title attached to it? Flowers on April 24th just ‘cause I can? C-O-N-Spiracy!

I'd like to congratulate the New Orleans Saints for winning the Super Bowl.

Shout out to all the groupie chicks who were flying back from Miami afterwards and not able to enjoy the game ‘cause they were in the air.

Shoutout to everyone who played Super Bowl boxes and won.

First time in 18 years, I won. Now I can pay child support.

Saturday, during our earth shattering snowfall (end sarcasm), I went to play paintball in Long Island. If you never have, please go and play once. There's video of me actin' a fool on Twitter.

Follow @ILLWayneGacey and look on my timeline. It’s there. My ankle is the size of a new born's head. It was well worth it.

Sunday was the 10th (yes... 10th) anniversary of the passing of Christopher "Big Pun" Rios. Regardless of his personal issues, he was an incredible emcee.

I first heard him on the song FIREWATER and lost my mind. And people are still amazed at his "Dead in the middle of Little Italy, little did we know that we riddled two middle men who didn't do diddly". Hip-Hop misses you.

Enjoy conspiracy month!

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz

2010-02-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

Fort Greene artist Charlotta Janssen has used the arrest booking photos of such civil rights activists as Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as the basis for a series of mixed-media paintings now on display at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. "Mug shots are usually an unpleasant thing," said Janssen, 42. "But these are a manifestation of history"… The Jammin' Jumpers are in a real jam. The world-famous Bedford-Stuyvesant Double Dutch team is flat broke, scrambling to raise money for its 10th annual Celebrate Jump Rope competition in March… Conrad Murray has been charged with involuntary manslaughter for his part in the death of Michael Jackson… The Inner City Little League is open to boys and girls from Bed-Stuy, Crown Heights, Fort Greene, East New York, Brownsville, Clinton Hill, Bushwick and Downtown Brooklyn areas and serves children ages 4 to 14. Registration is Saturday, Feb. 13. Call Zabrina Adams at (631) 839-5117 for more details… Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes announced the arrests of 12 people in a series of unrelated mortgage and real estate scams in Brooklyn… More than three weeks after the earthquake, donated goods are accumulating at small charities, sitting in shipping limbo because of costs and a complex web of transportation logistics. The heaps of donations are evidence that many people ignored the advice to just give cash…

Soule Restaurant: Weight Loss Myths DEBUNKED

2010-01-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

Lose weight by not eating.

When you don’t eat regularly, your body goes into starvation mode. This means that the metabolism slows, causing feelings of sluggishness and lethargy, and when you do eat, it will hold onto the fat in preparation for another period without food.

“Lose 30 pounds in 30 days.”

Any diet plan that boasts enormous losses in a short period are false and unhealthy. The healthy way to lose weight and maintain the loss is gradually.

Fat is bad for you.

Some fats are unhealthy and some are good, and necessary. Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) is an essential fatty acid commonly recommended by doctors for weight loss.

Carbohydrates are bad for you.

First it was fat, and now carbs. Unhealthy carbohydrates such as white sugar and processed grains should be avoided for optimal weight loss. Complex carbohydrates, such as vegetables and whole grains, provide vital vitamins and fiber to aid digestion.

Don’t eat after 6 pm.

Studies show that the time you eat makes absolutely no difference. The key is to make healthy choices and exercise.

Snacking is bad.

Actually, healthy snacks in between meals will prevent your body from going into starvation mode. Healthy choices and moderation are key.

Certain Foods Make You Burn Calories.

Although there are some foods that increase your metabolism, the amount is insignificant. A better way to lose weight is to lift weights. More muscle increases the number of calories your body burns when at rest.

And don’t worry about bulking up; few can boast to having genes that accidentally make them a bodybuilder.

Soule Restaurant: January Highlights

2010-01-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

• The In Progress Group’s Brain Damage Series has changed to First Saturdays! January’s will be the second Saturday in order to allow recovery from New Year.

• Soulé’s first Karaoke Sangria Night in 2010 will take place on Saturday, January 30th! Come check out our ever-expanding library!

Soule Restaurant's Food Facts: Nutmeg

2010-01-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

I told my daughter that this month’s Food Facts would focus on Nutmeg.
She replied, “It’s poisonous in large amounts.”

Huh?

Nutmeg is the spice that puts the kick in gingerbread cookies and spice cakes. It’s delicious in pies, puddings, soufflés and cheese sauces, and even works well with tomatoes, chicken, and black beans. It’s used in some Italian sausages, Scottish Haggis and Middle Eastern Lamb dishes.

No way is it poisonous; an urban myth… I think.

The nutmeg tree is a large evergreen native to the Moluccas (the Spice Islands) and is now cultivated in the West Indies.

The tree actually produces two spices: mace and nutmeg. Nutmeg is the seed inside the fruit that grows on the tree and mace is the covering on the kernel.

The flavor of nutmeg grows weak quickly once ground.

Whole nuts, however, will remain strong indefinitely.

Rich in potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, nutmeg also has a small amount of iron, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium. It is also rich in Vitamins A, C and choline, with small amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, Vitamin B6 and folate.

Nutmeg can reduce flatulence, aid digestion and improve the appetite, as well as treat diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. It cures stomach aches, helps to detoxify the body, reduces blood pressure, increases blood circulation and is used as a medicine for respiratory problems.

Nutmeg is also a spice that increases sexual energy and enhances fertility.

Its flavor and fragrance come from oil of myristica, which contains myristicin, a poisonous narcotic.

Myristicin can cause hallucinations, vomiting, epileptic symptoms and large dosages can cause death.

Don’t worry… a pinch or two is safe.

Who knew?

Soule Restaurant: Save a Life. Give Blood

2010-01-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

January is National Blood Donor Month!
This year, over 4 million Americans will depend on a transfusion to survive an illness or injury, and the numbers increase by 9% every year. Yet, only 5% of possible donors give blood.
The need for donors is particularly imperative for several reasons. Blood cannot be manufactured or substituted. Donated blood must go through rigorous tests before being used, and highly perishable; after 42 days, it is no longer usable. Consequently, regular donors are vital.
Ideal donors are between 17 and 76 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be able to pass a complete health screening, which includes blood pressure, temperature, pulse and iron level tests. Potential donors are also subject to personal questions to determine whether they have high risk for HIV, hepatitis and other infectious diseases. Those who recently got a tattoo have to wait a year before giving blood, and those with cold symptoms must wait until they’re well.
If you're unsure about being a blood donor candidate, check with your physician.
If you're like most people, you have a gift that you can keep on giving. Since you can spare it, why not share it…regularly. And, encourage your family and friends. After all, you never know when you or someone you love could use it.
Local blood drives taking

Soule Restaurant Cares

2010-01-01T02:40:00.000-08:00

Need a break from the cold?

Warm up at Soulé with some of our delicious specialty teas and desserts.

Our sweet Peppermint Tea goes well with a thick slice of rich Chocolate Cake

Warm your soul at Soulé!

Soule Restaurant: From the Mind of ILL

2010-01-01T02:00:00.000-08:00

I do not want to start this article by saying Happy New Year, but I guess that I am obligated...

The reason why? For the next five weeks, whenever you run into someone you haven't seen in a while, they are going to wish you a Happy New Year.

Even though 10% of the year will be over.

It’s a sad statistic.

Kinda like 10 outta 10 people will die.

I did the research.

My view on resolutions?

Don't make them.

That way, when you don't keep them, you won't be upset.

Or do what I do: I give up smoking every year.

(Note from editor: He does not and never has smoked.)

See how easy that one is?

I guess I was also supposed to do some sort of 2009 wrap up.

You were all there. You know what happened.

Shout out to Zach Galifiniakis (Alan from THE HANGOVER) for making us bearded fat guys cool this year.

We all have traditions.

Some people hang with their families on New Years Eve.

Not Me.

I take off for beautification and start celebrating early.

I'm doin' shots at the barber shop while getting my beard shaped up before I go to the Gentleman's Establishment on New Year's Eve.

Most people kiss their significant others at midnight.

I kissed "Starlight".

So here's to a prosperous 2010.

*Shot*

Wait... I'm drinkin' early?

Eh, its happy hour somewhere in the world.

*Salud*

Victor Torres
Comments? Write me at illwaynegacey@gmail.com
Follow me on twitter @ILLWayneGACEY

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz

2010-01-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

Students at Brooklyn Technical High School had an extra day of vacation briefly dangled in front of them - only to find out an e-mail from an assistant principal saying school would be closed Monday was a hoax… WFAN sports radio host Craig Carton agreed to make good on his bet that the Jets would not make the playoffs this year. So on Friday, he crossed the Brooklyn Bridge from Cadman Plaza to Manhattan dressed in a Kerry Rhodes jersey and a Speedo... Year-end statistics show that 1,650 fewer people were robbed on borough streets in 2009 when compared to 2008…After the New Jersey Nets broke the record for starting an NBA season with the most consecutive losses - 18 - some borough sports fans had a message for owner Bruce Ratner as he tries to bring the team to Brooklyn: Start winning or don't bother…Brooklyn based artist David Macaluso employs a particularly interesting art supply in his paintings: used motor oil. Tillie’s exhibits his unique work until Feb 6th at 248 DeKalb Ave on Friday, Jan 8th… A “glass bottle scammer” has hit the neighborhood. According to Clinton Hill Blog, he bumps into people and then shakes a bag of broken glass, demanding payment for the bottles purportedly broken… An eight-week Cuban salsa class is starting at South Oxford Space soon. The Brooklynian has details... Happy New Year!

Soule Restaurant:

2009-12-01T12:33:00.000-08:00

Number ten: Quit smoking.

But then I’ll have to be like the nonsmokers in the office with no breaks!

Number nine: Get a better job.

Actually… maybe I should just focus on getting A JOB.

Number eight: Go back to school.

Wait… tuition is HOW MUCH?

Number seven: Spend more time with family.

Yes… even the cousin with the gastrointestinal disorder…

Number six: Start going to church every Sunday.

Do they have intermission?

Number five: Get out of debt.

First… get a job.

Number four: Start going out more often, living life.

See number five.

Number three: Start traveling more often.

See number five.

Number two: Find a soul mate.

…I’ll start at Soulé.

Number one: Lose the belly bulge.

My diet starts NOW. Right after I finish this burger with fries…

Soule Restaurant: Spotlight on ARGENTINA

2009-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

Argentina is the 4th largest company in the Americas; its territory encompasses mountains, plains, forests, arid zones, and ice fields.

The country has a heavy European influence, with architecture reminiscent to that of Barcelona, Paris and Rome. The official language is Spanish, however, Italian is also frequently used; the language of its largest immigrant group.

Argentines have an excellent system of education, and generally possess very refined tastes and customs. They take great pride in their dance, art and architecture.

Although the point of origin for many dances, the Argentine Tango dominates others in popularity. Museums, galleries and great architecture can be found in abundance in the capitol city, Buenos Aires.

Buenos Aires’ weather remains temperate all year round, with warm temperatures from September to April and mild winter months from June to August.

The book readers in the outdoor cafés, the dancers in the smoky tango bars, and the passionate citizens discussing government and futbol on the street-corners are all part of the essence of Buenos Aires.

The city has one of the greatest entertainment and nightlife hubs in the world.

Soule Restaurant: December Highlights

2009-12-01T05:00:00.001-08:00

* In partnership with iShop Brooklyn, Soulé is now offering 3-course meals for $23 during the month of December!

* Join Soulé and New York Cares in our effort to keep New York Warm! Soulé is proud to be a part of this vital mission, and we appreciate any and all contributions of gently used outerwear.

Soule Restaurant: Coconut Curry Salmon

2009-12-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

Try Soulé’s latest menu offering:

Coconut Curry Salmon

Curry is a spice native to India and bought to the Caribbean with East Indian immigrants.

Soulé’s Coconut Salmon version is delicious, and unique to Soulé!

Soule Restaurant: Capitalistic Christmas

2009-12-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

"Christmas is an invention of a capitalistic society. It's just a way for retailers to make everyone spend money."

"We shouldn't need society to dictate when we buy gifts for loved ones. This should be done all year long..."

We all have one of those friends, I think. The Grinch around the holidays, condemning goodwill as evil… but if you think about it, they have a point.

We should show how much we care all year long, and with our actions rather than gifts. But really, we don't.

We get caught up with working and school and paying bills and taking care of the needs of our families and thoughtfulness is placed on the back burner.

So yes, maybe it IS a way to put retailers in the black. And maybe it HAS become a commercial holiday dictated by society to force us to acknowledge our loved ones every year.

And maybe we need one of these in June too.

Soule Restaurant's Food Facts: Chocolate

2009-12-01T03:20:00.000-08:00

Cocoa beans are a rich source of magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, potassium and manganese, A, B1, B2, B3, C, E and pantothenic acid.

They also contain a large amount of polyphenols and are known to reduce high blood pressure as well as reduce the blood’s ability to clot, effectively lowering the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Phenylethylamine, also found in cocoa, is an antidepressant and stimulant similar to dopamine and adrenaline.

Cocoa increases levels of Serotonin in the brain; these levels are often decreased in people with depression and in those experiencing PMS symptoms.

But don’t get too excited…

Cocoa beans contain approximately 50% fat, and the calorie count for chocolate is very high because of the fat and sugar content.

A small square of dark bittersweet chocolate every three days is ideal for cardiovascular health, but the negative affects of eating more outweighs the positive.

Soule Restaurant: Christmas in the City

2009-12-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

The Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular.

It's like Rockefeller Center; synonymous with Christmas in New York. I've always wanted to go, but tickets are pretty expensive.

And so, bubbling with excitement, I rushed to the office to call my brother Alex after being handed a discount card with ticket codes that gave 50% off.

"We can get tickets to Radio City's Christmas Spectacular for just $50!"

"You're on your own, son."

"Huh?"

"The Christmas Spectacular doesn't even have a story line. It's just a lot of holiday crap thrown together. "

I hung up, pretty dejected. It would've been such a nice addition to our family holiday outing.

Maybe I could persuade Alex if I got my other brother Richard on-board. I'll just plan the entire day first so they'll both see how exciting this outing will be.

We'll meet at the ice skating rink at 42nd Street, Bryant Park. The line to ice skate is usually about 2-hours long, but it's fun with all the kids. We'll skate for maybe an hour. If we start at noon, we'll be done by 3pm. The exertion from skating is warming but my hands always remain cold. Hot chocolate warms them nicely, immediately afterwards.

This year, I want to add Toys R Us to our itinerary. They have a life-size dinosaur replica from Jurassic Park that moves and roars and menaces the crowd.

It's so cool.

The ferris wheel is pretty corny, but we have to ride it.

'Cause it's THERE.

My absolute favorite part of the 42nd Street Toys R Us is the CANDY section! It's like being in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory with machines filled with giant Gummy Snakes and Swedish Fish and Sour Power and Chocolate Turtles and Raisinettes and Goobers and Skittles and M&Ms and anything else you can think of! And they have lollipops as big as our heads!

Okay… deep breath.

We’ll go to Toys R Us.

After Toys R Us, we'll head uptown to take pictures by the Rockefeller Center tree and angels. Then we'll watch Saks Fifth Avenue's snowflake light show before crossing Fifth Avenue to check out their storybook windows.

They're always pretty cool.

From Saks, we'll head further uptown, over to 56th and 5th, where we can check out the beautiful Tiffany Snowflake, suspended at the intersection, high above the street.

FAO Schwartz is right around the corner from Tiffany's. They have the coolest toys... Even a working Lamborghini for kids!! Of course we're not in the market for these $40,000 toys, but we'll stop and play a bit.

By my calculations, it should now be around 8:00pm. I'll have to find a restaurant in this vicinity with a private room that's large enough to hold us all. With my brothers and sister and kids, there will be a minimum of 16 people.

We'll be done with dinner by... Well, by then it'll be way too late for the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular.

Yet, I'm not all that disappointed... Anymore.

Happy Holidays!

Soule Restaurant: From the Mind of ILL

2009-12-01T02:00:00.000-08:00

Happy holidays, readers of the Mind of ILL.

I have always hated the Christmas season. I'm a Scrooge. And a Grinch. A Scrinch, if you will.

December first is when kids start behaving, believing that these three weeks will erase everything prior; that you’ll forget all about the 62 they got on that science test.

And they come up with Christmas lists that are longer than the reasons why I should not be allowed to write.

Reason #641: I believe if you make up a word up and someone understands the meaning, it’s a word. (i.e. “Betterer,” which means better than better.)

My daughter emailed me (yes... emailed me) a Christmas list with 26 things on it.

She's gonna get them cause she's been good all year.

But... Who will help me with my list? Ladies & Gentlemen... And Low-Lifes... My Christmas Wish List For 2009:

1) I want all reality shows on TV to go away. Please. I should not know that Jon & Kate have 8 and are getting divorced.

2) I would like President Barrack Hussein Obama to share his Nobel Peace Prize with the Smuckers Corporation. Why? Goober Grape. It’s Peanut Butter. And Jelly. In ONE JAR!!! One Jar!!!

3) Between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, ALL jobs should have 4 day work weeks. Including mass transit. Except liquor stores. And Soulé. (Workin' on that free meal.)

4) I want a PS3. Paypal me and I'll video tape my purchasing said game system.
Happy Holidays!

Follow me on Twitter @ILLWayneGacey.

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz

2009-12-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

After inflating rent, Brooklyn landlords find storefront empty during sour economic times… The windows of more than 20 Clinton Hill small businesses were painted, stained and decorated last week by Brooklyn artists competing to become the Monet of Myrtle Ave… Legions of overjoyed Yankee fans were reporting similar symptoms - and coming up with all kinds of excuses - so they could be at the Bronx Bombers World Series victory parade… Mayor Bloomberg may have squeaked out a third term across the city - but if it was up to Brooklyn voters he would have been tossed out… 120 years ago this month, the last hanging in New York State took place at Raymond Street Jail, the turreted palace of punishment on what is now Ashland Place near Willoughby Street… Brown Memorial Baptist Church is holding a Gala fund raiser for restoration work of its 1860 early-Romanesque revival building, constructed in 1860. Councilwoman Letitia James will be guest speaker… Chanukah festivities and public Menorah lightings in Fort Greene and Clinton hill for more info or for a free menorah or candles email info@greenechabad.com or call 718-974-9472… Join Melanie Levander for a gingerbread house workshop! Limited space is available. E-mail to reserve a spot now. thedecoratorsclub@earthlink.net...

Soule Restaurant: Peace at Last?

2009-11-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

The 2009 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to President Barack Hussein Obama for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.

And the world responds.

“It confirms, finally, America's return to the hearts of the people of the world... you can count on my resolute support and that of France.” …French President Nicolas Sarkozy.

“In a short time he has established a new tone, creating a willingness for dialogue… we all should support him to make peace in this world possible.” …Angela Merkel, German Chancellor

“I am really pleased. I want to congratulate him from my heart. I've seen the world changing since President Obama took office...” …Yukio Hatoyama, Japanese Prime Minister

“…His will and efforts for creating friendly and good relations at global level and global peace make him the appropriate recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.” …Siamak Hirai, Spokesman for Afghan President Hamid Karzai “You have already inspired so many people around the world… this award also expresses the hope that your presidency will usher in a new era of peace and reconciliation…”
…Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister

“I am happy. What Obama did during his presidency is a big signal, he gave hope. In these hard times, people who are capable of taking responsibility, who have a vision, commitment and political will should be supported.”
…Mikhail Gorbachev, Former Soviet Leader And Nobel Prize Winner

“We condemn the award of the Nobel Peace Prize for Obama. We condemn the institute's awarding him the peace prize. We condemn this year's peace prize as unjust.”
…Taliban Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid

“…It is unfortunate that the president’s star power has outshined tireless advocates who have made real achievements working towards peace and human rights...”
…Michael Steele, Republican Party Chairman

Is it me, or is Michael Steele totally in sync with the Taliban?

…maybe it’s just me.

Soule Restaurant Cares!

2009-11-01T07:08:00.000-08:00

Soulé Restaurant, in cooperation with New York Cares, is hosting a Winter Coat Drive from December 1st – 31st! Please drop your gently used coats off at our drop point in Soulé from 11am – 11pm to help us keep New Yorkers in need warm.

Soule Restaurant: Announcements

2009-11-01T06:00:00.001-08:00

Soulé is available for catering on and off premises.

Special Events listed on

www.squidoo.com/soulecalendarofevents
www.twitter.com/soulerestaurant

Look for us on facebook!

Soule Restaurant: Coconut Shrimp

2009-11-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

Try Soulé’s latest menu offering:

Coconut Shrimp

Dipped in coconut batter and fried golden, try with our sweet apricot duck sauce as a preclude to dinner!

Soule Restaurant: Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

The first Thanksgiving was a feast in celebration of the pilgrim’s first harvest.

The Native Americans provided four deer for the feast, and the pilgrims’ contributed wild fowl. Lobster, goose, duck, seal, eel, and cod were also plentiful during that period, so it is likely that their tables possessed a good variety. Yet, turkey has become synonymous with Thanksgiving in America, and historians are unable to give a definitive reason why.

Maybe it was just the delicious scent of roasting turkey with fresh cornbread stuffing and cranberry sauce, accompanied by candied yams and macaroni and cheese, and collard greens. (Callaloo if you’re Caribbean!)

The sweet pumpkin pie with whipped cream that follows dinner so perfectly…
All of the, combined with a day of watching football; the parade; the official start of the holiday season. With family and friends together, giving thanks for home, health and heart.

Yum…works for me!

Soule Restaurant's Food Facts: Corn

2009-11-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

Corn is America's number one field crop, used as much more than a food source; fuel alcohol, which makes gasoline burn cleaner and effectively reducing pollution is made from corn.

Corncobs, finely ground, are very absorbent, making them useful carriers for pesticides, fertilizers, vitamins, hand soaps, cosmetics, and animal litters. They are also useful in the production of paper products, paint and varnish, and as a clear covering for aspirin.

Corn as a food source is a fair source of vitamins B1, B5, C, E, folic acid, magnesium and phosphorus.

It is low in protein, and a good source of complex carbohydrate, fiber, and healthful essential fatty acids.

If interested in weight loss, it’s a good idea to limit your consumption of corn; it is more suitable for those trying to gain weight.

Soule Restaurant: Just Another Day... US ARMY

2009-11-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

0430. They can’t be serious.

Who would’ve thought that eight weeks could drag on like this? The thought doesn’t slow me down. Brooding has to be done while multitasking during Basic Training for the U.S. Army.

I sleep on top of my blanket to save time in the morning, covering with the rough, green blanket that functions as a pillow cover. I fold the blanket lengthwise twice and lay it across the pillow, tucking the ends into the sides beneath the mattress before getting under the bed and pulling the main blanket tighter through the bedsprings.

There. A quarter can bounce on that easily.

I sleep in my PT (Physical Training) uniform so in the morning, I only have to brush my teeth and go.

After returning from the latrine, I close my combination lock and dial the first two numbers; after PT I’ll only have to turn to the last and it’s open. My secret; no one knows how I’m always the first in the shower.

I grab my sneakers and head for the stairs where I pause to put them on. (We buff the floors at night for morning inspection; only socks are allowed on the floor of the barracks.)

0440. Five more minutes to formation. Plenty of time.

My buddy PVT Slaughter waits impatiently at the steps for me.

“You know today’s the unit run, right?”

Goodness... I was resigned to a cardio day, which was only three miles. The unit run meant six.

We ran to formation, and were soon off to the field to rendezvous with the rest of the unit. It was February in South Carolina; not yet dawn, and cold enough to see your breath. We weren’t upset; we’d warm up from our run soon enough.

Our company normally split into four groups before a run with group one comprised of the fastest, and group four the slowest. For a unit run, however, we would run together at a slower pace with a designated Guide On up front holding our Bravo Company flag.

As we arrive at the parade grounds, PVT Navarez begins her normal banter.

“Mayers, I dare you to take the guide-on,” she says.

“I dare you.”

“You first.”

“Last time I went first, you flaked. You first.”

“Alright,” Navarez answers, surprisingly, because she’s not a strong runner and is normally grumpy on cardio days.

Picking up speed, she heads to the front, taking the flag from our Guide On and sprinting towards Alpha Company, who are positioned ahead of us in our running formation. She proceeds to run a circle around them as they run at a normal pace.
When I see her returning, I start to the front to meet her at the Guide On. Handing it over, she says, “I ran around the whole company.”

(Sigh.) There are four platoons in a company, so that meant I’d have to circle all four as they ran.

“Cool,” I responded.

I was the leader of the fast running group and she was in group three. No way I couldn’t do this.

The purpose of this exercise is to antagonize the other unit by demonstrating superior ability, and this display of arrogance isn’t complete without cadence.

I sprinted, passing the first and second platoons easily enough while singing at the top of my lungs:

Down by the river
I took a little walk
Me and Alpha Company
Had a little talk
I pushed’em, I shoved’em
Threw’em in the river
Watched them drown
No more Alphas
Hanging around

By the third platoon, I slowed down, just a little. I had to pick up speed to give them a wide enough berth to cross in front on the return. I reached the front feeling good; the decelerated pace and singing of cadence had helped to regulate my breathing. I took my time running back to my platoon, allowing them to meet me.
Handing the flag back to our Guide On, I took my place in formation besides Navarez, where she and Slaughter could barely contain themselves.

“What?” I asked.

“Did you run around the company?”

“Yes,” I said, ready to argue in case they didn’t believe me.

“I only ran around one platoon,” Navarez laughed, stumbling and almost causing the soldier behind her to run into her.

I shook my head, laughing… I’d been bamboozled.

We continued the run in a pretty good mood, at a pace much slower than I usually had to maintain running in the fast group, so I was breathing easily.

At mile five, I glanced sideways; the First Sargeant now kept pace beside me.

“Mayers. Go help the Guide On,” he challenged.

I smiled.

“No problem, First Sargeant,” I replied.

Please note: This is not to make light the experiences of our troops; rather, we should appreciate their sacrifices for the sake of our country and its citizens. All done with pride.

Soule Restaurant: From the Mind of ILL

2009-11-01T02:00:00.000-08:00

As I write this on the morning of the Parade in New York for the World Champion New York Yankees (27th Championship... next Closest? Oakland Athletics, 9) I feel pride.

I am not a bandwagon fan like others. I remember when the REAL R. Kelly (Jheri Curl Spokesman Roberto Kelly) patrolled Centerfield, before Bernabe Figueroa Williams played.

I remember when Matt Nokes was our best player.

Yeah. “Who?”

So I tip my 2009 World Series Champion Fitted to Alexander Emmanuel Rodriguez, Derek Sanderson Jeter, Andrew Eugene Pettitte, and Justin Louis Heath.

(Look up who that is... may surprise you.)

I bring this up to ask: who will have a parade for me?

I paid my rent.

I want a parade.

I made it to work on time.

Parade ME.

I had a good date.

I wanna get... Um... Might rhyme with parade. (Hint: it also rhymes with Pet Made.)

Someone sent me a beat this morning and I listened to it while getting ready to go to the plantation. (aka work)

For those that don't know, I also do music. Your favorite klown, ILL Wayne Gacey.
When I record it, I'll share.

Follow me on Twitter, too, @ILLWayneGacey. I have 90 followers. Five people and 85 spambots.

Yay, me!

On a serious note, condolences to the families of the victims of the unfortunate incident at Fort Hood.

Victor Torres

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz

2009-11-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

In these difficult economic times, many are forced to choose between a winter coat and food. Join Soulé and New York Cares in helping to warm New Yorkers in need by contributing an unused winter coat at our donation center located at Soulé… CONGRATULATIONS YANKEES, ON THE 27TH WORLD SERIES WIN…The unemployment rate 10.2 percent last week. We haven’t hit that high since the Reagan era… According to the Health Department, just one in five kids signed up for a free swine flu vaccine since the city began offering it in elementary schools last month… A crazy man stripped naked in front of PS 56 in Clinton Hill on Election Day and ranted to a group of campaign workers that he was the son of Jesus Christ… Congratulations Councilmember Letitia James! The Honorable Councilmember won the recent election, holding her seat as representative of the 35th District in a landslide 92.3% victory… The Fort Greene and Dumbo-based Brooklyn Flea will make its first foray into Manhattan on Black Friday, launching a month-long "Gifted" holiday market in the East Village… Sixty-five residential buildings in central Brooklyn, (some in Clinton Hill), are financially troubled, on the verge of distress or struggling to sell out remaining units, according to a recent survey conducted by Democratic Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries… New parking rules in Clinton Hill and Fort Greene are in effect. Drivers have had a reprieve while signs were being replaced, and that is now over… The judge who ruled on the repeal of term limits for Bloomberg has passed away at the age of 74… Bobby Brown has an upcoming concert? Is it a competition with Whitney? Sorry, Bobby… No one can deny the mayor has made big changes in the New York City school system but debate still swirls around how effective his policies have been…

Soule Restaurant: Whistling Through Life?

2009-10-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

When a company hires you, it’s no favor. Good employees are valuable, and difficult to find, and the best companies are very aware of this fact.

Many companies can clearly demonstrate this understanding through their treatment of summer interns. They are worked pretty hard; however, managers will routinely mentor them, and after graduation, the company will often offer a full time position to these young adults.

It is never too early to think of summer internships. The best opportunities are generally offered to those who maintain good GPAs, so grades should be a priority from now. It is also important to begin cultivating relationships with professors who can offer letters of recommendation and networking with professionals who can keep you in the loop with regard to internships within their field.

Many companies have Human Resources professionals whose focus is solely on recruitment; you’ll find them at College career fairs. Make your attendance at these fairs habitual, and keep in mind that these fairs are essentially job interviews. Dress, speak and behave in a professional manner and carry updated resumes for distribution. If you lack experience, your resume should focus on education. Remember, you’re selling yourself, so don’t be shy.

Collect business cards from companies that pique your interest and follow up periodically. Networking is key.

There are so many who are employed in fields that are not of their choosing because they whistled through life, taking whatever opportunities they stumbled across with no clear direction. Grabbing opportunities as they arise is an excellent skill; however, helping to shape those opportunities through direction and focus is even better... and not all that difficult. Try it.

Soule Restaurant's Spotlight on the Dominican Republic

2009-10-05T16:14:00.000-07:00

Christopher Columbus arrived in Quisqueya, (the original Taino name for the Dominican Republic) in 1492. He cultivated sugar plantations, and enslaved the native Tainos for labor. This decimated their population, and he subsequently imported Africans to work the island’s plantations.

The country’s history is turbulent, with control frequently changing between the Spanish, Haitian and the U.S. Today, they are an independent democracy that spans two thirds of an island shared with Haiti. Their ethnic composition is 73% mixed, 16% European, and 11% African; Spanish is the national language.

In 1866, U.S. troops stationed in Cuba taught the natives the rules of baseball. Cuban refugees bought the sport to the Dominican Republic where it became a national passion. Today, the MLB boasts many great athletes from the island.

The Dominican Republic is also a great provider of cigars. Although Cuban cigars are more recognized, the Dominican Republic is known globally by connoisseurs as Cigar Country due to the superior quality of their cigars.

Larimar is a stone unique to the Dominican Republic. It is cultivated from volcanic rock, and is frequently paired with amber, the country’s most popular gem that is actually a fossil; tree sap that has hardened after millions of years. These two gems are used to make beautiful jewelry that is distinctive to the island.

Soule International's October Calendar of Events

2009-10-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

Thursday, October 1st & October 15th
7 – 11pm
BYO Karaoke Thursday
Stop by for Soulé’s BYO Karaoke Thursday, with music ranging from the 50’s to now! If you have specific music requests, please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net and we will do our best to accommodate you!

Tuesday, October 6th
7:30pm – 10pm
Brain Damage Open Mic Series
The In-Progress Group presents its monthly Youth Open Mic at Soulé! This Brain Damage Series takes place on the first Tuesday of every month and features amazing teens and young adults from all backgrounds.
All are welcome! Come support our youth!

Saturday, October 10th
4pm – 6pm
Writer’s Workshop
The In Progress Group is hosting a free literary workshop for those interested in honing their writing skills, or just learning the basics.
To register, please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net.

Tuesday, October 13th
7pm – 11pm
Spoken Word Open Mic
Soulé’s Bi-Weekly Spoken Word Open Mic is still going strong! Be there early if you want to sit! Poets, please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net to be included in the lineup!

Tuesday, October 20th
7pm – 11pm
Earth*Mama Tea Party Series
The Earth*Mama Tea Party Series continues to support the Palm Out Poverty initiative of All for Africa as well as a number of retail, artist, and design supporters. To be included in the Spoken Word Open Mic portion, please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net.

Monday, October 26th
7:30 – 11pm
Entrepreneurial Nonprofit Workshop
Terryl Ebony of misunderstoodyouth.org will host a workshop teaching the ins-and-outs of starting your own nonprofit company! Appetizers and drinks are included with entry. Please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net for details!

Soule Restaurant's Latest Menu Offering

2009-10-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

Pepper Steak!

Tender sliced steak smothered with onions and peppers!

Try with white rice to preserve its distinct flavor, and sweet plantains for contrast. Delicious!

Soule Restaurant: Spirits of the Caribbean!

2009-10-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

The name Halloween is a Catholic creation; a corruption of All Hallow’s Eve, which was originally celebrated by the Irish (or Celtics) in Ireland, the U.K. and France.
November 1st was their New Year, and they believed that on its Eve, the boundary between the world of the living and dead became blurred, allowing spirits to return to Earth.

The Celtics would extinguish their hearths to discourage spirits from visiting them and then don ghoulish costumes, parading around the neighborhood to frighten away spirits looking for bodies to possess.

During the potato famine, Irish immigrants bought these customs to the U.S., and their celebration blended together with the Christian All Souls Day, where Christians would walk from village to village begging for Soul Cakes, creating the custom of trick or treat.

The current American adaptation of Halloween is typified by costumed fetes and scary tales of mythical or supernatural beings.

Trinidad’s folklore includes several creatures that fit nicely in the realm of America’s Halloween tales. However, these creatures are believed to truly exist by many in the islands.

One tragic figure of Caribbean lore is called a Douen (DWEN). It is said that Douen are spirits of children who died before being baptized. Their feet are turned backwards and they have no face. They wander near rivers and lure away young children, who see them only as another child, into the forest. Douens are believed to visit villages at night, whimpering for their mothers’ love.

The Soucouyant, (SOO-KIN-YA), is the chilling Caribbean version of the vampire. She has made a pact with the devil, and sheds her skin at night so she can travel in the form of a fireball in order to find someone from whom she can feed.

A Soucouyant’s bite looks like a bruise with two punctures in its center, and if you find a Soucouyant’s skin and pour course salt onto it, she will be unable to put it on again. She can then be killed by tossing her skinless body into boiling pitch or tar.

Another fearful creature is the La Diablesse (LA-JAH-BLESS). She is a beautiful woman with eyes of coal and the face of a corpse, which she hides beneath a wide-brimmed hat and veil. The La Diablesse attends dances dressed in beautiful ruffled blouses and full skirts to hide her one cloven foot.

She is always disliked by the women and loved by the men; she enchants them, luring them away into the woods where they subsequently fall into a ravine or river to their death.

Men found naked in graveyards or in a prickly tree are also said to be victims of the La Diablesse.

Papa Bois (PAPA BOY-AH) is the guardian of animals and trees. He will not tolerate killing for sport nor the destruction of the forest.

Papa Bois is muscular, with cloven hoofs and leaves growing from his beard, and if you should meet him, always be very polite. Greet him with “Bon jour, vieux Papa.”

Stay cool, and do not look at his feet... you’ll be fine.

Happy Halloween!

Soule Restaurant: Skiing for a Cause!

2009-10-05T15:57:00.001-07:00

Local Productions along with eight other promotional companies across the east and west coast will be hosting a Winter Weekend Getaway on February 26th to February 28th, 2010 with scheduled fundraising events to benefit The American Cancer Society.

After a four year hiatus, Brooklyn based Local Production has united with eight other entertainment companies from Boston, Philadelphia, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, Florida and California to host the First Annual Winter Weekend Getaway with a Cause.

Each of the promotional companies will be tasked with creating their own fundraising event to be held that weekend. The group’s goal is to raise a minimum of $5000 for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.

The all inclusive getaway includes accommodations at the Holiday Inn Harrisburg East in Harrisburg PA, live concert by Grammy nominated artists Musiq Soulchild and Trey Songz and Grammy award winning artist Chrisette Michelle, various parties and an open bar. Plans range from $339 per person to $379 per person.

For further information or to make a donation, please contact Bernard Mayers bernardmayers@verizon.net. For more information on how to donate directly to the NOCC, go to www.ovarian.org.

Soule Restaurant: Christopher Columbus' Legacy

2009-10-05T15:57:00.000-07:00

Christopher Columbus is celebrated in the U.S. as its discoverer. Yet, North American and the Caribbean were already settled by hundreds of native tribes before his arrival.

History books portray Columbus and the early American settlers as somewhat pious, surrounded by savages. However, Columbus wrote that the natives were gentle and shared their food stores with them, even after realizing that their graves and stores had already been raided by the newcomers.

The fact is, history is written by the victor, and consequently, the victor is depicted in an honorable light, despite the atrocities he may have committed in pursuit of his goal.

In regard to Columbus, find out the true story. Check out The Lies My Teacher Told, by James W. Loewen... Very enlightening.

Soule Restaurant's Food Fact: Pumpkin

2009-10-05T15:55:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin is part of the gourd or cucurbit family and is an excellent source of vitamins A and C. It also contains potassium, manganese, copper and one of the B vitamins, riboflavin. In its raw state, it helps to maintain good eyesight and a healthy immune system.

Its seeds are a popular snack that is simply bursting with nutritional value.
Pumpkin seeds are a natural source of carbohydrates, amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids. They contain most of the B vitamins, along with C, D, E, and K and possess the minerals calcium, potassium, niacin, and phosphorous.

Pumpkin seeds have been used to treat prostate and bladder problems, but they have also been known to help with depression and learning disabilities.

In many cultures, they are used as a natural remedy for tapeworms and parasites.
They also lower cholesterol due to their high level of phytosterols, which are also known to protect against many cancers.

So, when you prepare your pumpkin pies, soups and breads this holiday season, don’t neglect the seeds!

They’re a veritable treasure!

Soule Restaurant: Happy Halloween! ...and Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2009-10-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

Maaaaaaaan...

It’s Fall!

Summer is over. Good.

I am not a fan of the summer months. My theory is that in the summer, you can be newborn naked and still hot.

AC on. STILL hot.

In the winter, you can be cold. Throw on another sweater. BAM! Warmth.
Or date big women like I do.

The end of this month is my least favorite "holiday": Halloween.

The reason it’s in quotes? As per that great philosopher…

Well… ME…

If your job ain't closed, it ain't a holiday.

I hate beg for crap day. 364 days out of the year, these little kids don't say anything to you. But when the time to knock on your door and ask for candy comes, these kids act like they helped old people across the street and carried old ladies’ groceries across a crowded boulevard while carrying said old lady on their back.

The good thing about Halloween?

Costumes!

Last year, I was Angry Man With A Beard.

This year?

Angrier Man With A Longer Beard.

I'm writing this on the Red Line to Shady Grove in Maryland.

* Shout out to my DMV folk out there!

And before I got on the bus, I saw a couple of women carrying pink balloons, screaming, "Be aware! Breast cancer awareness!"

They had everyone very well aware.

‘Cause they were topless.

Yes.

Sans top.

Sans brassier.

This article finishes itself.

Support Breast Cancer Awareness.

I do.

...Victor Torres

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz

2009-10-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

Soulé International is holding a coat drive for Coats for Kids this winter! Information and the drop box will be available at Soulé shortly... Jerry Seinfeld's new reality show set up a casting tent at the Brooklyn Flea Saturday, hoping to attract couples who want to air their dirty laundry on TV. Perhaps wisely, locals weren't biting, and only about a half dozen couples stopped by the casting tent for "The Marriage Ref" at the Fort Greene market... Congratulations, Councilwoman Letitia James for winning last month’s election... Fort Green Park doesn’t exist, according to the MTA map... Pratt institute has decided to demap portions of Ryerson St, Grand Ave and Steuben St, on what is now the Pratt Institute campus, “in order that the closed street areas may be integrated with abutting property of Pratt Institute for redevelopment for educational purposes.”... Clinton Hill resident Amy Oztan visits movie set in Brooklyn and takes pictures for her blog, 'Filming in Brooklyn,’ where she posts movie locations in Brooklyn. Her latest is a shot of Salma Hayek in a guest spot on NBC's '30 Rock' in Cadman Plaza Park... Jamaican reggae artist Major Mackerel was recently slashed in the head and arms with a sword in East Flatbush. Goodness... What possessed protestors from the Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, KS to come to Brooklyn preaching fire and brimstone? Protestors with anti-Semitic, anti-Obama, and anti-homosexual signs were outnumbered by about 30 to 1 in September as they protested downtown Brooklyn and Park Slope. The Topeka group, which included children encountered counter-protestors at every turn bearing placards that read, “Jesus had 2 dads” and “We say NO! to Racism, Anti-Semitism, Homophobia and Hate.”... You know, sometimes being a Brooklynite just makes me proud…

Soule Restaurant: Biology or Basketball?

2009-09-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

It’s Back to School time!

The “!” might be a bit too enthusiastic for many back-to-schoolers, but there’s a good way to get your kids back into the groove.

Extracurricular activities.

There are many who believe that extracurricular activities distract children from their studies, which is where the “dumb jock” stereotype originated.

Studies show, however, that children who participate in extracurricular activities tend to perform better than nonparticipants, and nurture a more favorable outlook towards school.

Sports and Fine Arts promote citizenship and sportsmanship, as well as instilling a sense of pride in community while teaching the value of teamwork and self-discipline.

They provide a channel for reinforcing the lessons learned in the classroom, and allow students the opportunity to apply academic skills in a real-world context with regard to responsibility, competition, diversity, and a sense of culture and community.

Studies that focused on the U.S., as well as individual states including New York, Wyoming, Indiana, New Mexico, Colorado, North Carolina, and Texas all reached similar conclusions: Students who participate in activity programs tend to have higher GPAs, better attendance records, lower dropout rates, fewer disciplinary problems, and frequently continue on to earn degrees in higher education.

Participants are three times more likely to perform in the top quartile on a composite math and reading assessment, compared with nonparticipants, and tend to have higher self-esteem and enhanced status among peers, which many argue is a deterrent to antisocial behavior.

So… Biology or basketball?

One option is definitely not mutually exclusive of the other.

Soule Restaurant's Spotlight on BELIZE

2009-09-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

Although officially a part of Central America, Belizeans enjoy the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean as well as the jungles of Central America.

Most Belizeans are of multiracial descent, with almost 44% of mixed Mayan and European descent, and 30% of African and Afro-European descent. The remaining percentage encompasses Mayan, Afro-Amerindian, European, East Indian, Chinese and North American cultures.

Belize’s terrain is flat and swampy at the coastline with low mountains in the interior. The 200-mile Belize Reef encompasses many small islands called Cayes, popular amongst kayakers and snorkelers.

Inland lies several ruins of the Ancient Mayan Civilizations, with pyramids reminiscent of those in Egypt.

The most popular, Lamanai, means submerged crocodile in the Mayan language. Set atop the western bluff of the new River Lagoon in a pristine rainforest, Lamanai is the 3rd largest archaeological site in Belize.

Belize attracts tourists interested in exploring the ruins which lie in the dense tropical rainforests, bird watchers in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary and snorkelers of Caye Caulker on the Northern Cayes.

Soule Restaurant's Latest Menu Offering: Jerk Snapper

2009-09-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

Try with a side of peas and rice and steamed cabbage or collard greens and candied yams for a Caribbean-Soulé fusion experience!

Soule Restaurant's September Calendar of Events

2009-09-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

Sundays, 11am – 3pm
Sunday Brunch

Soulé's Signature Caribbean & Southern-Style Sunday Brunch is the perfect family tradition. Spend a late morning with family over Southern Fried Chicken with Waffles, delicious Jamaican Ackee & Saltfish, or American Eggs with Bacon and Toast.

There’s something to suit even the most discriminate palate!

Tuesday, September 1st
7:30 – 10:30pm BRAIN DAMAGE Youth Open Mic

The In-Progress Group presents its first monthly Youth Open Mic at Soulé! This Brain Damage Series will take place on the first Tuesday of every month and will feature amazing teens and young adults from all backgrounds.

Tuesday, September 22nd & September 29th
8 - 11pm
Spoken Word Open Mic

Soulé’s Bi-Weekly Spoken Word Open Mic will skip a week and take place on September 15th in consideration of Back-to School and Labor Day, followed by its regurlarly scheduled event on Tuesday, September 22nd.

Please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net to be included in the lineup!

Thursday, September 17th & September 24th
7 – 11pm
BYO Karaoke Thursdays at Soulé

Come Celebrate the ‘90s at the original Soulé BYO Karaoke Thursday! Our collection is getting pretty extensive—please notify us in advance of special requests and we’ll try to accommodate you!

Sunday, September 20th
5 – 8pm
Author Spotlight & Book Signing featuring Justinah McFadden

Four-time author Justinah McFadden epitomizes the American poetic dream which has awakened on the pages of her books.

Her latest release, A Diary of Time is about forgiveness and letting go of the past. Her books are all available at Barnes and Noble. For more information log on to justinahmcfaddenbooks.com.

Wednesday, September 23rd
7:30pm - 11pm
Earth*Mama Tea Party Series

The first of the Earth*Mama Tea Party Series will provide an opportunity to support the Palm Out Poverty initiative of All for Africa as well as a number of retail, artist, and design supporters.

Sunday, September 27th
5 – 8pm
Author Spotlight & Book Signing featuring Onika Pascal

This silent poet and lover of words expresses her thoughts and See Through Soul in her second release, Bardvillian Symphonies!

Don’t miss the talented Onika Pascal on Sunday September 27th from 5 – 8pm, as she shares some of her latest work!

To be included in the Open Mic portion of the reading, please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net. Slots are limited, so please reserve your place early!

Soule Restaurant Food Facts: Mushrooms

2009-09-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

One popular belief that bears no truth is that mushrooms have no nutritional value.
Yet, mushrooms have been used for thousands of years for their medicinal powers.

They remain popular in China, particularly for their health benefits, and in ancient times were prized by the Pharoahs’, Greeks and Romans as delicacies and for energy before battles.

Mushrooms are often misclassified as a vegetable or herb, but in actuality, they are part of the fungi family.

They are relatively high in protein, and are often used by vegetarians as a meat substitute due to this quality and its somewhat meaty texture. They are also an excellent source of potassium, which helps to lower elevated blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. Other nutrients include riboflavin, niacin and selenium.

Even more interesting, Phytochemicals found in some mushrooms are now being studied as possible cancer-fighting substances, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research.

2009-09-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

Summer is at an end… as much as I love the warm weather, I have to admit: I love autumn in New England!

The trees are beautiful, with leaves in vibrant reds and golds, and there’s a slight nip in the air that begins immediately after Labor Day, like clockwork. The anticipation of the impending holidays is pretty exciting as well.

My brothers and I have an annual tradition of taking the kids on a family outing to a farm in Princeton at this time of the year. It’s a bit of a drive, but definitely worth it. We always select a brisk, sunny day, and the first thing we do upon arrival is visit the corn maze, where we pick a few ears of corn, which we then feed to the sheep and goats.

We don’t spend much time listening to the live country band; rather, we take time to check out the chrysanthemums and collect sunflower seeds from the sunflowers.

Afterwards, we tour the barn, which is decorated in different autumn themes every year, like Johnny Appleseed or the History of Corn.

Finally, we pick our pumpkins before stopping at the country farmhouse store for some sweet apple cider, warm apple cider donuts, and fresh pumpkin or apple pies. Then we head to the orchard.

The orchard is about a mile down the road from the farm, and it is the coolest place ever! (Although many argue that I’m not a very good judge of cool.)
The apple trees are about 7 feet tall and the branches are low enough even for my 2-year old niece to pick.

I prefer the Golden Delicious, but we all meander through the orchard, picking indiscriminately, eating crisp, juicy apples along the way.

By the time our bags are full, we’re all contentedly weary, and we say our goodbyes and prepare for the drive home.

This isn’t the end, however. We still have to make Jack O’Lanterns and apple pies, and pumpkin mashed potatoes, pumpkin pies, and of course, roasted pumpkin seeds. It’s so autumn-y and cozy and fun!

So on brisk autumn days when my sister calls me from Trinidad to boast that she’s sitting on the beach in Maracas, eating a bake and shark and drinking a Stag, I don’t feel bad.

Well… not very.

Soule Restaurant: Help to Eradicate the Silent Killer

2009-09-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

Ovarian Cancer occurs in 1 in 57 women, and kills more women than all the other gynecological cancers combined. More than 25,500 women will be diagnosed this year alone, with fatalities occurring in over 14,500.

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and Soulé International Restaurant is proud to join Janice’s Ladies; a team in the Long Island Chapter of the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, in their fight to eradicate this Silent Killer.
The team is named for Janice Darby Havercombe, who succumbed to Ovarian Cancer in April of 1997.

Like many, Janice’s family had no idea that Ovarian Cancer is a leading cause of cancer related death amongst women.

They had no idea that Ovarian Cancer is commonly asymptomatic or mistaken for other "women's illnesses".

They had no idea that by the time most women are diagnosed, they are usually in stage 3 or 4, making a cure difficult.

They had no idea that regular gynecological exams do not screen for Ovarian Cancer.

They had no idea that a fleeting nine months after receiving the diagnosis, their beloved mother, sister, cousin, daughter, would succumb to this horrible disease.

They had no idea how much their life would change due to these four vile words "You have Ovarian Cancer".

The 2009 Walk to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer will take place on September 26th at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, New York.

Details on this year’s walk is available at http://nocc.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp, where you have the option to join Janice’s Ladies and walk or donate at your convenience.

All contributors who donate a minimum of $20 at Soulé will receive 10% off their order. (Lesser donations will receive a 5% discount.)

For further information, please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net

Soule Restaurant: Back to School... Tattoos?

2009-09-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

I'm gettin' old.

It’s gettin' ugly.

Disturbingly ugly.

I found three gray hairs in my beard; in different locations so they definitely stood out.

I got out of bed the other day and my knee cracked.

The extent of my exercise is a sit-up a day: half when I get up out of bed, the other half when I lay down.

I had my 1st prostate exam, but I will definitely spare you all the details.

It’s back to school time!

Back to losing your seat on the bus and train. Back to hearing the latest Jay Z album (eh) or Raekwon's album (bananas!) out of a kid's headphones.

I was on the bus this Tuesday, the first day the refrigerator raiders of the summer were heading back to school, and I couldn’t help but think...

When I was younger, we were always happy with our new school clothes.

In Junior High, I used to try on my clothes a couple of days before school started, and walk around to picture how I’d look trying to get a chick’s phone number.

Thinking I was fly.

(Looking fly beat out phone number by A LOT).

Well, while I was on the bus listening to stories of summer conquests and vacations, I watched kids compare their back to school... TATTOOS.

That is not a typo.

I remember at the tender age of 14, I asked my mom for an earring.

After I awoke from the clothesline ala Big John Studd style, (my father), I waited a few years to get that earring.

Tattoos on a high school kid?

Next, you're gonna tell me that 6-year olds have cell phones and iPods.

Wait... They do?

...Victor Torres

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz...

2009-09-11T09:14:00.000-07:00

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center is scouring the world for amateur footage of the attacks…Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries wants to bail out luxury apartment developers in his district with new loans that would turn the high-end units into “affordable” residences... Spike Lee’s Michael Jackson Birthday bash was a complete success with thousands coming out to celebrate Jackson’s life... Speaking of MJ, The MTA told a Brooklyn councilwoman to beat it after she suggested that the Hoyt-Schermerhorn subway station be renamed in honor of Michael Jackson, who famously filmed his “Bad” video there in 1987... It’s Fashion Week! Check out highlights online with New York Magazine and Fashion Week Daily... The $100 laptop that was marketed as a saving grace for starving children in Africa is on its way to the New York City public schools. The first round of low-cost laptops is going to two city elementary schools, one in the Bronx, P.S. 5, and one in the Clinton Hill section of Brooklyn, P.S. 20... Delia Hunnly has resorted to hiring children (none older than 16) to antagonize and heckle Latitia James’ workers. It appears that her tactics have backfired, however, with Clinton Hill residents supporting Ms. James largely due to Hunnly’s unprofessionalism... The worst part of the West Indian Day Parade this year? The NYPD. When did they become so nasty and rude?

Soule Restaurant: Get That Job!

2009-07-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

With almost 16 million people out of work, job competition is fierce. The consensus is that no one is hiring; however, most companies are not out of business. The number of positions available are limited, but they do exist.

There are many things you can do to give yourself an edge in this market. It is important to remain positive and diligent in your search, but keep these tips in mind:

 Focus. Applying for jobs for which you’re not qualified is a waste of time and effort. However, don’t be unwilling to accept a pay cut or less benefits for something in your field. Getting a foot in the door is much more valuable in this economy.

 Don’t rely solely on the internet for your job search. Job search databases are flooded with resumes; and so, footwork is a requisite.

 Contact the companies in which you’re interested in working. They sometimes have positions available that are not made readily available to the public.

 Research the company and position of interest and tailor your cover letter to suit that position. Your résumé should also highlight the qualities you’re bringing to the company rather than ones that are irrelevant.

If you get an interview, you already have the qualifications needed for the position. The key is to sell yourself; make them see that they need you.

 The interview begins when you arrive. Arrive early and be courteous to everyone, including the receptionist.

 Always dress in a neat and professional manner. Even if told to dress casually, wearing a nice suit will make a great impression.

 Be attentive during the interview; keep eye contact with your interviewer and turn your cell phone off.

 Don’t speak badly of any of your former employers. Focus on what you can bring to the company with whom you’re interviewing.

 Bring questions. When you don’t ask questions at the end, it appears that you’re not interested in the position.

 After the interview, send a thank you note, either by email or a handwritten card in the mail. This is common practice as well as common courtesy.

 Following up with a call after a few days is fine. Calling and emailing constantly or stopping by the office is not.

 Don’t stop your job search while waiting for the company to respond. The worst thing that can happen from interviewing with other companies is that you receive multiple offers.

But really… does that sound like a problem to you?

Soule Restaurant's Spotlight on BARBADOS!

2009-07-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

Barbados is the Caribbean island that lies the furthest east; it is unique in that it was created by the merging of two land masses by volcanic action. The island is primarily flat, gently sloping inward to a central highland region, and is famous for its pristine white sand beaches.

Although Barbados was originally inhabited by Arawaks, and then Caribs, the island was deserted upon the arrival of England in 1627. England imported slaves and began cultivating tobacco and cotton, and later, sugarcane.

Its population now consists of 90% black, 4% white and 6% Asian and mixed descent, and Barbadians or Bajans (colloquial pronunciation), are known for being exceptionally friendly and generous.

August is a festive time for Barbados, with the finale of the country’s five-week summer festival called Crop Over. Historically, Crop Over marked the end of the sugar season, when a festival was held to celebrate the sugarcane harvest. With the decline of the Barbados sugar industry in the ‘40’s, the traditional Crop Over festival came to an end. The tradition was revived in 1974 and infused with other elements of Barbadian culture to produce the current extravaganza that attracts revelers from all over the world.

Soule Restaurant's August Calendar of Events

2009-07-31T09:14:00.000-07:00

Sundays, 11am – 3pm
Sunday Brunch

Soulé's Signature Caribbean & Southern-Style Sunday Brunch is the perfect family tradition. Spend a late morning with family over Southern Fried Chicken with Waffles, delicious Jamaican Ackee & Saltfish, or American Eggs with Bacon and Toast.

There’s something to suit even the most discriminate palate!

Tuesday, August 11th & 25th, 7pm – 11pm
Spoken Word Open Mic

Welcome to Soulé's bi-weekly Spoken Word Spotlight!

Stop in to hear the collective creative vibes of local poets, or share your work!

Please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net to be listed in the lineup.

Thursdays, 6pm – 11pm
BYOB Karaoke at Soulé

Soulé’s new weekly BYOB Karaoke Thursdays begins on August 13th with a Blast from the ‘80’s! Be prepared to croon with Pat Benetar and Cyndi Lauper, Billy Joel and Whitney Houston!

*80’s gear not required, but it would be pretty cool…

Sunday, August 23th, 7pm – 10pm
Poetry Reading & Book Signing

Onika Pascal, talented poet and author of A See Through Soul will share some of her poetry from her new release, Bardvillian Symphonies at a Reading and Book Signing at Soulé International from 7 – 10pm.

The mic will also be open to those who want to share their work, so bring your poetry and pens, and join us!

Poets, please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net to be included in the lineup.

Sunday, August 30th, 7pm – 10pm
Resumé Development Workshop & Book Signing

Andrea Mosley, author of The Pink Slip: Human Resources Secrets for the Displaced Worker will host a Résumé Development Workshop and Book Signing at Soulé International from 7 – 10pm.

Andrea has over 15 years experience in the Human Resources arena, and has found that in this depressed economy, competition for jobs is fierce; her book outlines specifics on resumé revision, as well as methods of reentering the job market. Don’t miss this opportunity for a personalized consultation with this knowledgeable young woman!

FOR UPDATES ON OUR CALENDAR OF EVENTS, FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: http://twitter.com/soulerestaurant

Soule Restaurant's Food Facts: GINGER

2009-07-31T09:05:00.000-07:00

Ginger is well-known in the Caribbean for its effect on the digestive tract. It is frequently used to eliminate the nausea from stomach virus’ as well as the morning sickness of pregnancy. However, its healing powers are well-known in Eastern societies as well.

Pythagorus was one of the greatest supporters of ginger in Ancient Greece, and King Henry VIII of England used it to protect against the plague. (Although its effectiveness with the plague remains unclear.)

In India, ginger is consumed on a daily basis in a lemon, honey and ginger tea, made by peeling and cutting a two-inch piece of ginger into thin strips and letting them sit in a cup of hot water with fresh honey and lemon; delicious, despite its healthy qualities.

Ginger prevents motion sickness just as well as Dramamine, and prevents migraines as would aspirin. Like aspirin, it also thins the blood, improving circulation.

It is used for heartburn, stomach cramps, and as an anti-inflammatory, relieving the pain of arthritis

One interesting study found that ginger induces cell death in ovarian cancer cells, and slows the progression of colon cancer.

Ginger does not interact with any other nutrients or drugs in the body. However, it should not be taken up to four days prior to surgery due to its blood thinning effect.

Soule Restaurant: Having a Picnic? Take Us Along!

2009-07-31T09:04:00.000-07:00

Soule is ready to handle all of your catering needs!

Save time and energy without sacrificing quality.

Have Soulé cater your Picnic or Barbecue!

Crispy buffalo wings or sweet barbecue chicken with creamy potato salad and a fresh garden salad... without the hassle.

Call Soulé for details. (718) 399-7200

Try Soule's Latest Menu Offering: Sweet & Sour Shrimp

2009-07-31T09:03:00.000-07:00

Sweet & Sour Sauce was bought to the islands with the migration of Asians in the 1840’s, where it then developed into a tangier version with a pineapple-ginger influence that remains indigenous to the Caribbean

Soule Restaurant: Workout... For the Bedroom?

2009-07-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

“The most erotic dancer I ever saw was a 250 pound Jewish girl wearing braces, who, as she got up to dance, just floated… I was awestruck; dumbfounded by her beauty. This is when I realized that it doesn’t matter what you look like; it’s about how you move your body... when those hips moved, the men were riveted.”
Sheila Kelley, Founder of S Factor Fitness

Working out is effective when done consistently, but sometimes, it’s just not fun. For those who need more motivation, there is a solution.

Pole Dancing!

In preparation for a movie role as a stripper, Sheila Kelley became more fit than ever, as well as more comfortable with her body. Inspired, she created S Factor; a fitness method that incorporates ballet and yoga into pole dancing. Her method encourages more overtly sexual behavior, inspiring women to have more confidence in their curves.

Embraced in Hollywood and backed by many, including Teri Hatcher, Kate Hudson and Oprah Winfrey, classes are now available in New York. An Intro to Pole Dancing class teaches the basics before moving to Climb & Spin class.

One of the first moves you’ll learn is the Walk Around; simple, but very sexy. With shoulders pulled back and butt and chest out, hold the pole in the crook of your arm and strut slowly and with confidence around the pole.

Another is called the Bridge. Hold the pole with one hand and straddle it while slowly bending your knees and arching your back, easing backwards until you can see the person behind you.

The erotic Ripple is done holding the pole with one hand and leaning forward with your shoulders, butt out. Move your stomach forward until it touches the pole, and pull your shoulders back until the pole is between your legs in slow motion.
The Leg Grip is harder than it looks; hold the pole with both hands and jump onto it, gripping it between your thighs, while extending one leg and spinning.

The Reverse Hold is done by grasping the pole with both hands, arms extended above your head. Hook the pole in the bend of your right leg and cross your feet behind you, spinning slowly and seductively.

These moves don’t sound very athletic, but they work.

They’re also a pretty cool way to spice up your personal life… did I mention you can get a portable pole for a really good price?

Soule Restaurant: Featuring Victor Torres!

2009-07-31T08:54:00.000-07:00

As you can probably tell, Soulé’s own
Victor Torres is also a comedian.

Join us at his comedy spotlight:

Another Night with ILL and Friends
On August 15th from 9:30pm to 11pm at
The Duplex
61 Christopher Street in Greenwich Village.

For reservations, go to http://www.theduplex.com/webcalendar/view_entry.php?id=4369&date=20090815

Soule Restaurant: Rolling High, Coasting Fast, Standing Tall

2009-07-31T07:29:00.000-07:00

My son is so overdue for a haircut.

But for the past three weeks, he’s appealed to me to wait, because he only needs one more inch to be 54-inches, and then he can go on all of the roller coasters at Dorney Park.

I’ve allowed this to continue because… well, it’s genius, don’t you think?
I’ve never understood why people are afraid of roller coasters. I mean, they’re safe. Safer even than cars and airplanes. When was the last time you heard of roller coaster trains derailing or crashing into each other? Let me guess: Never.

Busch Gardens revealed recently that they’re taking the Big Bad Wolf out of commission on September 7th. This is simply tragic. The seats on the Big Bad Wolf are attached to the track at the top, so that you’re suspended, giving the illusion that there is no support. The anticipation before the ride begins is insane! Its twists and turns won’t disappoint, and when you arrive at the end safely, the only thing left to do is get back in line, just to see if you can survive again.

The crazy coils of Kings Dominion’s Anaconda is irresistible as well; it was the first looping roller coaster to feature an underwater tunnel. Too cool…

Brooklyn’s Coney Island has its lure as well, with its celebrated Cyclone. It’s not a particularly grand or impressive roller coaster, but it’s wooden, making the entire ride feel somewhat precarious. (Though still safe!)

Sadly enough, we couldn’t ride the Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure last year. My son was so disappointed. The world’s fastest (128 mph) and tallest (45 stories) coaster on Earth, right in front of us, flaunting its intensity in our faces and we couldn’t ride! But alas, at 48-inches, there was just no chance for my son.

He did get to ride Steel Force at Dorney Park, just meeting the height requirement, and with a 205-foot drop, two tunnels, and speeds reaching 75 mph, this coaster is not to be taken lightly.

However, his heart was set on Dorney’s Hydra. Unfortunately, with a 54-inch admittance requirement, it was not even an option last year.

Of course this meant I couldn’t ride either. It’s kind of mean to get on a roller coaster with your kid watching from the sideline morosely.

And so, he still needs a haircut.

Really badly.

Soule Restaurant: God Bless... Cell Phones

2009-07-31T07:26:00.000-07:00

I love getting a new cell phone. It gives me time to clear out my personal life.

Really.

I just got a new phone. I won’t say the cell phone provider’s name, nor will I say the maker of my new phone, ‘cause they didn’t cut me a check.

And I don’t pay the 20 dollars or whatever the charge is to have them transfer over my contacts. I like to go through all the numbers I have:

Mom and Pop.

My daughter.

My supervisor for those days I have to call in sick (or when I score some tickets to a Yankees game).

My boss at my 2nd job.

And then I come across some numbers that I need to self debate with.

Paris: The stripper that I met at Goldfinger’s in Queens. She told me that she liked me a lot and for $500, I could have "relations" with her.

Delete.

Lisa R.: Email address only.

Delete.

Vicky: Young lady that told me she can't speak with me for a year. She needs to find herself. Who the hell was I talking to then?

Delete.

Melissa Q.: The enigma wrapped in a riddle. She loves me. She hates me. She loves me. She hates me. She yells at me. Apologizes to me. Lives in another state.
Save number for comedic purposes.

There's also the DO NOT ANSWERS I have to add. You know, the crazy stalkers, the lunatics…

Who am I kidding? The only lunatic I know is writing this.

I wonder how many people have put me under DO NOT ANSWER. Guess I'll never know.

SHAMELESS PLUG: August 15th, I'm performing at THE DUPLEX in the Village at 9:30PM.
“ANOTHER NIGHT WITH ILL AND FRIENDS” will be just as crazy as the first night.

Last show was a success and by success, I mean, wasn't raided by the police. If anyone is interested, seating is limited and you can go to www.theduplex.com and look for the show under August 15th for reservations. Or you can call 212-255-5438.

Tell 'em ILL sent ya.
Victor Torres

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz

2009-07-31T07:22:00.000-07:00

The city-owned Strand Theatre at 647 Fulton Street will be renovated for expanded use by BRIC – the Brooklyn cultural organization that manages Celebrate Brooklyn… Homeless? The city will buy you a plane ticket to anywhere… Coke is introducing a new product: Carbonated Milk. Is it just me who’s a bit skeeved?... Cops in Brooklyn are investigating "multiple animal tongues nailed to various trees" in Prospect Park. Huh?... The Daily News has a report card on our beaches, and of the 13 rated in the annual "Testing the Water" guide, things aren't looking so good… Former MTA worker and new multimillionaire Aubrey Boyce picked up his $133 million from the Mega Millions folks at Grand Central -- nearly $55 million (post tax) in a lump sum payment. Is he single? (I’m kidding!)… At a time when many families are cutting back on eating out, the City Council is reminding parents that there’s a way their children can eat for free. The Department of Education’s Summer Meals Program provides free breakfast and lunch for children under 18… Word on the street is that British mega-brand Topshop may open its doors in Fort Greene next year. Like H&M but trendier, Topshop has more of a cult following and is a bit more expensive. The opening of the Soho store was so intense that they now employ bouncers to keep order among the masses…

Soule Restaurant: Summertime in the City!

2009-07-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

Summertime in the city.

For some, this elicits images of a concrete jungle with heat emanating from the sidewalks and smoggy air.

New Yorkers have a secret, though. Summer in New York is the best! There’s so much to do, whether you remain in our great borough of Brooklyn, or visit surrounding areas.

Aside from being the home of the greatest Caribbean & Soul restaurant ever, Brooklyn is filled with cultural and nature-related activities.

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one; bring bread to feed the ducks as you lounge at the lake enjoying your Soulé picnic. Adjacent to BBG lies Prospect Park, where you can bike or hike, paddleboat or picnic. The Bandshell features live musicians all summer as well. Cross the street to visit the Grand Army Plaza library and Brooklyn Museum; both are great escapes on rainy summer days. Brooklyn is also home to many street fairs and festivals. Check out www.visitbrooklyn.org or www.celebratebrooklyn.org for more information.

One of the cool things about the city of New York is it’s an island; hence, you don’t have to rule out the beach when making summer plans.

Coney Island’s amusement park is a blast! Walk down a bit to Brighton Beach, or hop on the bus over the Manhattan Beach for a fun day in the sun.

Manhattan is an excellent options as well. Visit the South Street Seaport and take a Circle Line boat around the Statue of Liberty. Some have DJs and bartenders… excellent option for a nice summer night. Of course there’s always the oasis that lies at its heart: Central Park. Bring your bikes or roller blades, a baseball and glove; or bring nothing--exploring is just as fun. Need a break from the outdoors? Try the Museum of Natural History, on 81st Street, across from Central Park.
Dinosaur bones never fail to fascinate my son.

Outside of Brooklyn and Manhattan, there’s the Bronx Zoo, the New York Botanic Gardens or Flushing Meadow Park. Or you can do what most people who come to New York do: shop!

Just outside the city, there’s Woodbury Commons, Jersey Gardens, or the Tangier Outlets of Riverhead, Long Island. Long Island is also home to Splish Splash Waterpark and the beaches and vineyards of Southampton.

Just don’t forget to order your catered lunch from Soulé in advance!

Soule Restaurant's Calendar of Events

2009-07-07T16:09:00.000-07:00

Sunday, July 12th
All Day Michael Jackson Karaoke
In honor of Michael Jackson, Soulé is hosting an All-Day Michael Jackson Karaoke on Sunday, July 12th. Bring your favorite Michael Jackson CD and be prepared to tell your favorite Michael Jackson stories!

Tuesday, July 14th & 28th, 7pm – 11pm
Spoken Word Open Mic
Soule’s next Spoken Word Spotlight is scheduled for Tuesday, July 14th, from 7pm. See you there!

Saturday, July 25th, 8pm - 11pm
Live Jazz at Soule!

Daniela Schachter and Oleg Osenkov Live at Soulé on Saturday, July 25th from 8 – 11pm!!

Enjoy their smooth vibes over dinner with your sweetheart…

Gentlemen—THIS is the date she won’t forget!

Soule's Homestyle Caribbean Soul Food Brunch
Every Sunday

Soule's delicious Caribbean & Southern-Style Sunday Brunch is the perfect family tradition. Southern Fried Chicken with Waffles, delicious Jamaican Ackee & Saltfish, or American Eggs with Bacon and Toast, (or any other variation!)

Family Sunday Brunch, every Sunday!

Come taste the flavor of Soule!

Soule Restaurant: Spotlight on BAHAMAS

2009-07-07T16:04:00.000-07:00

The Baja Mar, named by the Spanish, consists of about 700 islands, 2,400 uninhabited islets and cays extending for about 760 miles, of which about 30 are inhabited. Located off the coast of Florida, the capital is Nassau; other islands include Grand Bahama, The Berry Islands, Bimini, Andros, Inagua, Mayaguana, Crooked Island, Rum Cay/San Salvador, Cat Island, and Eleutera/Harbour Island. With a population of over 300,000, ethnicity is 85% black, 12% white, and 3% Asian and Hispanic; however, the original settlers were Arawaks, decimated by disease shortly after Columbus’ arrival in 1492.

Although the official language of the islands is English, Creole is also frequently used, bought by Haitian immigrants.

The country has a colorful history; with English settlers seeking religious freedom; pirates who used its shallow waters to trap and plunder ships; an escape for Confederates after the Civil War, who migrated with slaves rather than acquiesce to the Union’s victory, and rum running during Prohibition. Its economy now consists predominantly of tourism, financial services, and international shipping, and is one of the richest Caribbean islands.

Soule Restaurant: Michael Jackson, The Legend

2009-07-07T16:00:00.000-07:00

Before Farrah Fawcett’s unfortunate passing, I watched Good Morning America features on her life and felt… uh… very little. I mean, her death bought attention to our need for cancer research; but personally, I felt nothing.

Ed McMahon’s passing elicited a similar apathy. I mean, these are public figures, not personal friends.

And then there was Michael.

No… other than in my imagination, we’d never met. And yet, Michael Jackson was a prominent figure in my life. His music was a tremendous influence to generations of people. He revolutionized music videos, created fashion trends, and raised the bar for musicians.

I remember playing the Jackson 5 Christmas album when I was younger, (you know… the big black CD). I would sit and stare at his image on the album jacket and imagine the person he was.

I imagined that he was somewhat rebellious, but sweet; full of energy and passion for his music, with an infinite love for his family and friends. I wanted to know the person behind that tremendous talent, and I like to imagine that my estimation of his character was very much on point.

I remember watching a Michael Jackson special on our state-of-the-art 11-inch black and white TV. No HD, but yet, when he danced, my heart pounded. I watched as people in the audience passed out and were carried out over the crowds and felt their overwhelming awe of being in his presence. I wanted to be there.

I understood the magnitude of his being. Long before Thriller… long before Never Never Land… long before the scandals that I choose not to believe… I understood that this man was a genius.

Michael Jackson’s talent was so considerable, it was virtually impossible to contain. It forced him to become somewhat of a recluse, or risk being lovingly torn to pieces by his adoring fans.

I remember when my friend Marlon got the Thriller album. She told me that it came with a black, curly hair that was very shiny and smelled really good, stuck in the album jacket. Hair that she’d discarded.

I was devastated.

Didn’t she know? That was Michael Jackson’s hair! I couldn’t believe she could be so callous and insensitive. Things were never the same between us afterwards.

Michael Jackson tried to make us raise our standards as a people. He admonished us to reflect on the Man in the Mirror while considering those who were less fortunate. He wooed us with Baby Be Mine, made our hearts soar with the Butterflies of first love and nursed us through our first heartbreak with Who’s Loving You, while still allowing us to Remember the Time of love. A man who is now tragically, inexplicably Out of Our Lives.

When Princess Diana passed away, I understood that we had lost a great woman; a humanitarian. I understood the period of mourning that spanned nations.

With Michael Jackson’s death, I am greatly saddened. I feel as if I’ve lost a personal friend; a friend who contributed much in his lifetime, and was misunderstood in many ways. A tragic figure who will remain a legend until the end of time.

I’m saddened.

Tremendously saddened.

And I will love him forever.

Soule Restaurant: Sons of Liberty - Patriots or Terrorists?

2009-07-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

It is commonly believed that Britain’s levy of a tax on tea was what started the Revolutionary War. In reality, the Tea Act placed no new tax on tea; it simply gave a tax break to the East India Tea Company.

The company was struggling due to competition from tea smuggled in to the colonists and sold for less. In order to help the East India Tea Company, Britain reduced their tariff on tea, allowing them to lower their price and effectively compete with the smugglers.

Although this would have benefited the colonists economically, many assumed the viewpoint that Britain preferred to help the private tea company rather than see colonial smugglers profit.

This view was already prevalent due to the controversial Stamp Tax imposed by Britain on November 1, 1765. Britain felt that it was their right to tax the colonists to pay for the Seven Year War, for which they believed the colonists had benefited. Without representation in Parliament; however, the colonists believed any taxation to be unjust.

The Sons of Liberty was a secret organization that performed most of the acts that spurred the war, including the act now known as the Boston Tea Party.

Largely through violence, they forced the resignation of many stamp distributers within the colonies.

They raided the ships in Boston and tossed the tea into the ocean, polluting the local fishing area, and attempted to frame the Mohawk Indians by dressing in their native garb.

Patriots or Terrorists?

I guess that depends on whose history you read.

Soule Restaurant: Food Facts: Spinach

2009-07-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense foods in existence; a source of more than 20 different measurable nutrients, and yet one cup has 40 calories and no fat!
Especially rich in Vitamins C & A, spinach helps to prevent the oxidation of cholesterol, which makes it stick to the walls of blood vessels. Just a salad size portion can lower blood pressure in 2 – 4 hours.

One amazing effect of spinach consumption is its ability to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Spinach possesses a carotinoid called neoxanthin that induces cancer cells to self-destruct. In the intestines, it converts to neochromes which puts prostate cancer cells into a state of stasis, stopping them from replicating.

Other benefits of regular spinach consumption includes protection against osteoporosis, heart disease, colon cancer, and conditions with inflammatory symptoms like arthritis and asthma.

Finally, spinach is very rich in iron; a very important fact because iron is usually found in red meat. Eating spinach can provide that iron without the fat and calories!

Soule Restaurant: Happy Birthday America!

2009-07-07T15:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated Birthday, America!

I was in Maryland this festive 4th and had an interesting thought... Well, to me anyway...

America celebrates its independence. Cool. But in this day and age of Twitter, Facebook and Myspace, we leave ourselves open to let people know everything we are doin'. Just imagine if in revolutionary times, there was Twitter.

Paulrevere61: The British are coming! The British are coming! I'll start my ride at around 11 PM so the non-computer users will know. LOLOLOL

…Knowing good and damn well that some British officers probably followed his tweets.

*BANG*

They cut him off at the giddy-up… and we are now eating tea and crumpets.

Or perhaps General Washington post victory tweeted:

WoodToothGeorge: LMFAO aT aLl My HaTeRz!!! DelaWaRe RiVeR ShOuLdA Came HaRdEr ThAn Dat!

I say this to say that we are becoming lazy, but are willing to give all our information. Pick up a bottle of Mountain Dew-- Mountain is now abbreviated... and not even correctly.

It says MNT DEW. Mt. Is the proper abbreviation.

You can now follow Sportscenter on Twitter. You know where else you can follow Sportscenter? On Sportscenter.

Sad, aint it?

Victor Torres

Soule Restaurant: The Buzz

2009-07-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

Soulé is being reviewed by Flavor Isle! Stay tuned… The Green Grape on Fulton Street was recently named New York Wine and Spirit Retailer of the Year! Congratulations, neighbor… A new hotel is being built at 231 Duffield Place, near a Sheraton Hotel now under construction… Join Soule at the July 26th Eco & Art Festival at Prospect Park’s Carousel Entrance! Go green with free workshops and activities for children. All sponsored by Senator Eric Adams… There are plenty of beautiful women across the East River, but Miss Manhattan isn’t one of them. That’s because this year’s reigning Miss Manhattan, Inga Schlingmann, lives and works in Brooklyn… The measles is back—in Brooklyn! City officials said that at least 11 cases of the measles have been reported in the last two months… The Great Recession is pummeling home prices in Brooklyn, indiscriminately gutting real estate values in almost every neighborhood surveyed, a recent study revealed… A new tree-lined landscape is being created on the cleared surface of what was Pier 1, next to Fulton Ferry Landing, the pier closest to Brooklyn Bridge... “Brooklyn in Transition: A Photographic Essay of the Gowanus” is currently on display in the Grand Lobby of the Brooklyn Public Library at Grand Army Plaza…

Soule Restaurant: Soul Food

2009-06-19T10:15:00.000-07:00

The New York Times recently featured a debate over where Soul Food originated; was it a black or white invention?

The term Soul Food emerged in the ‘60’s when soul became a popular adjective for African Americans; however, Soul Food boasts many cultural influences.

During the slavery era, slaves received weekly rations of cornmeal, meat scraps, and black molasses. By using fresh herbs, these rations were converted to flavorful dishes supplemented by gardens of indigenous African crops, including watermelon, sesame and okra.

Green leafy vegetables common in the African diet were substituted with discarded food from the plantation house; the tops of turnips and beets, as well as dandelions, collards, and kale.

Nothing was wasted on plantations. Leftover cornmeal from breading catfish was mixed with milk, egg and onion to make hush puppies.When house slaves entered plantation homes, their cooking options expanded for their masters’ tables. Fried chicken, sweet potatoes (prepared like the African yams), puddings and pies became typical southern fare.

Each state had its own cultural influences; a French accent came from Louisiana where gumbo with shellfish and okra evolved from bouillabaisse, and the Carolina’s Spanish culture introduced jambalaya and sausage. Escaped slaves who took refuge with Native Americans and were subsequently recaptured incorporated the Native American style as well.

Caribbean influences are also evident in southern cooking, adapted during the middle passage.

Today, Soul Food is used to describe a broad expanse of cuisine; ribs, barbecue, fried chicken, candied yams, greens, macaroni and cheese, peas and rice, okra and tomatoes, gumbo, jambalaya, cornbread grits… but they all have one thing in common. They will all make you salivate…

Soule Restaurant: Spotlight on ARUBA!

2009-06-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Aruba is a flat, riverless island known for its beautiful white sand beaches.

Originally colonized by Spain, it was acquired by the Dutch in 1636 and remains a Dutch colony today. Its climate is dry and hot, moderated by constant trade winds, and it’s located in the Caribbean Sea, just north of Venezuela. The ethnicity of the island is white/Amerindian; however, there are more than 40 different cultures among natives. The native language of Aruba is Papiamento, with elements of Dutch, Spanish, English, French, Portuguese, several different African languages, and Arawak Indian.

The majority of the land surrounding Aruba is untouched by humans, and has gained tremendous ecological appeal among tourists. Divi trees, native to Aruba, grow at a forty-five degree angle because of the constant trade winds. Lost tourists are told to follow the Divi trees, as they always point to the hotels.

Soule Restaurant: June... The Month for Weddings!

2009-06-18T15:07:00.000-07:00

June... When the lazy days of summer really begin. Kids are playing, sandals and shades become commodities, and life is just... good. My only gripe? Weddings.

Don't shake your head at me-you know what I mean. It's a recession, people! And statistically, 37% of marriages end in divorce. That's more than a third, and almost half! Is it really worth the hassle and expense?

We're being hornswaggled, people! This wedding thing is a racket; a way to accumulate goods at the expense of your friends and loved ones. Well, I say, let's make a stand! We don't have to encourage this blatant misuse of friendship!

(Grumble)

Clearly, I'm standing by myself. No, I'm not the grumpy, single chick, hating on "love". I'm happily single, thank you-and my status has absolutely nothing to do with my stance on this wedding racket.But fine. I'll humor you all. Another wedding, another $400 down the drain. I'll just make the most of it at the reception bar.

I have to admit, though-it is a nice reception. The hall is elegant, with subdued lighting and muted tones. The bride looks gorgeous and her husband is looking at her as if they've only just met. Can that really be sincere?

Brian McKnight sings about his Crazy Love as the husband and wife are announced. They opted for a DJ during dinner and a band afterwards, and this DJ can vibe.

What a spectacular floral arrangement! The entire wedding was arranged by JunePlumm Events, an amazing wedding planner whom I happen to know personally, so I'm not at all surprised by the elegance.

I love the wait staff. My glass hasn't been allowed to fall below the halfway mark all evening, and dinner was amazing. It began with delicious warm Corn Muffins with Pineapple Apricot Sauce and yummy Coconut Shrimp appetizers, followed by spicy Cajun Blackened Salmon with steamed Spinach and Seasoned Rice. (From Soulé, of course!)

I don't know how the tradition of tapping your glass with a knife became a signal for the bride and groom to kiss, but it's really not as annoying as I'd anticipated. Kind of sweet, actually; a musical chime followed by a pause and kiss. It seems like the bride and groom look forward to these interruptions... how odd.

They're dancing now; gazing into each other's eyes as if they're all alone. It's such a private moment, and yet, I don't feel as if I'm violating their privacy by watching.

Champagne goes to my head so quickly. I'm not even a tad self-conscious as I head to join everyone on the dance floor. The Electric Slide is so corny... and so much fun! We did another variation that was pretty cool as well: the Cha Cha Cha.

The wedding cake is magnificent. It's almost a shame to cut it, but cut it, we must. As the bride places the cake delicately into her husband's mouth, their eyes remain locked, ending only when she kisses away the icing on his lips. I just don't understand... how can they be surrounded by so many people and still keep having these private moments? Are they for real?

Sigh.

I guess it has to be attributed to... you know... don't make me say it... (groan)

LOVE.

Okay, time for the bride to throw the bouquet. I'm not going out there. Yes, I'm single, but I don't want to catch it, so why bother? Okay, okay... just to be a good sport.

(Grin)

You know, maybe it's a racket, and maybe it's not. But I can kind of understand why someone might want to do this.

Soule Restaurant's June Calendar of Events

2009-06-18T15:01:00.000-07:00

Soule's Homestyle Caribbean Soul Food Brunch
Every Sunday

Soule's delicious Caribbean & Southern-Style Sunday Brunch is the perfect family tradition. Southern Fried Chicken with Waffles, delicious Jamaican Ackee & Saltfish, or American Eggs with Bacon and Toast, (or any other variation!)

Family Sunday Brunch, every Sunday!

Come taste the flavor of Soule!

Spoken Word Open Mic Spotlight
Tuesday, June 9th & Tuesday, June 23rd

Soule's new bi-weekly Spoken Word Spotlight will take place on Tuesday, June 9th, and Tuesday, June 23rd. Stop in to hear the collective creative vibes of local poets, or even better, come share your work!

Poets, please contact Nichole at soulerestaurant@comcast.net to be included in the lineup.

Live Jazz!
Saturday, June 27th

Deborah Latz, a jazz vocalist of the highest quality weaves ten standards into an odyssey of love. With a style that ranges from playful and Monk-ish to sexy and sultry, Deborah Latz takes her listeners to places both distant and achingly familiar.

Deborah's jazz vocals will be featured at Soule on Saturday, June 27th from 8 - 11pm!

Enjoy sultry jazz vibes over dinner with your sweetheart.

Gentlemen-THIS is the date she won't forget!

Celebrate Grads & Dads!
Throughout the Month of June

Soule is celebrating Grads & Dads with a 5% discount to all fathers on Father's Day, Sunday, June 21st, and all graduates throughout the month of June!

(Graduates, please show senior schedule or report card to receive the discount.)

Soule Restaurant: An Ode to Dads

2009-06-18T14:53:00.000-07:00

Fathers play a vital role in the lives of children, and in appreciation, let us take a moment to acknowledge their importance in our lives:

Dads Rock!

Dads are providers.

They covertly fill Santa's shoes with no expectation of praise, and they give the best gifts--not just because they want to play too. They take care of home, even when times are most difficult.

Dads are enforcers.

They send you to bed when your mouth gets too big; they monitor your grades and react accordingly. They're always on the lookout for behavioral signs of substance abuse. In fact, 75% of adolescents in chemical abuse centers, 85% of children with behavior disorders, and 71% of High School dropouts are from fatherless homes.

Dads are protectors.

They keep you in protective custody, sheltering you from things you just don't need to see.

Dads are fun.

They're coaches of any sport and builders of clubhouses, (or tree houses if you're lucky enough to have a massive tree at your disposal.) They're teachers of bike riding and the best video game opponents; rulers of grills and master (ahem) repairmen. They won't heal bruised knees with kisses like Moms. They use tickles.

In honor of all that you do, Dad, we love you, today and always.