RACE: Are We So Different?

Just one of the many questions asked at the RACE exhibit at the Lawrence Hall of Science.

My journey up to the Lawrence Hall of Science, which sits in the Berkeley Hills just above the Botanical Gardens and our famous Cal Stadium, took me past countless roll-call lines of squealing elementary school kids into a surprisingly intellectual science exhibit. My forays into anything labeled scientific are few and far between but the RACE: Are We So Different? Exhibit makes science personal.

Developed by the American Anthropological Association, RACE presents a view of cultural and ethnic history that allows the viewer to draw their own conclusions about race, how it is defined and how it manifests itself in our everyday lives. From an interactive station prompting the viewer to listen to random voices and assign them to a race (almost all of which I got wrong) to world maps with all types of buttons and lights indicating human migration, the exhibit makes the viewer the subject. Like the recent UCB and UC-wide protests regarding race and misconception, the exhibit certainly emphasizes the importance of thinking about race critically and personally. Here are a few photos of the exhibit:

Decisions, decisions: the exhibit was very interactive. The viewer often became part of the exhibit.

A wall was lined with several photos like the one above.

This is another question posed at the exhibit.

High-blood pressure and racism explored. Photography by the author.

Entry to the museum is free with your handy Cal 1 Card and the exhibit will remain until May 2, 2010. Lawrence Hall of Science is open everyday from 10am to 5pm and even has nightlife activities to satisfy the science nerd in all of you.

Marissa Rosemblat
BARE Reporter

Thrift Store Review :: The Cellar Thrift Shop

The Cellar Thrift Shop is located on the corner of Channing and Dana.

Although the store is small and only open two days a week, it is indeed a real thrift shop with super cheap prices and some really great finds. Located just one block away from Unit 3 and connected to the First Congregational Church, the Cellar Thrift Shop can be easily passed by. Walk down the steps and you will enter a quaint shop filled with knick-knacks, furniture, accessories, clothes, books, and records. Run by volunteers, the shop sells donated items to benefit the outreach work of the church, supporting organizations such as the East Bay Sanctuary Covenant and the UCC Coalition for LGBT concerns for 25 years.

One rack of clothes where you're sure to encounter some interesting finds.

We asked the volunteers if many students shop at Cellar Thrift Shop and they said some, but not too many. This is a surprise considering all the cheap deals: you can find so many items for less than $1. There is a whole selection of belts for 50 cents, records for 50 cents, 10 cent vintage sewing patterns, $1 ties, and books and movies for around 50 or 75 cents. There is even a “special today” 25 cent item table that is very popular. While there are not too many clothes in the shop – only three racks – there is a nice selection of cheap items. Only long dresses and more conservative clothing are available. Outside are piles of free clothes and books, which are added to regularly. So you can go shopping without spending a cent!

Just one of the ways you can save a bundle at this thrift store.

While the store only accepts cash, they offer a great system where customers can put items on hold for a week. So if you find something you love but do not have any cash, just put it on hold and pick it up a week later. They are always looking for more donations, so if you have some old items you do not need anymore and are in the mood of giving, drop them off at the shop. They put out new items on Tuesday and there is always a line of customers on Wednesday mornings before 10am, eager to check out the latest items. If you are a thrifting pro and aren’t afraid to battle a crowd, Wednesday mornings are the time for you to shop. But even if you go on a Saturday afternoon, there will still be many deals awaiting you.

Books range from only 50 to 75 cents. If only textbooks cost the same.

Belts go for only 50 cents; quite a deal. Photography by the authors.

What Miraya liked/disliked most:
- 50 cent belts (I bought two!)
- Awesome purses (I found a sweet $3 vintage handbag)
- The vintage patterns were really cool, if only I could sew…

What Xiaoqian liked/disliked most:
- Cheap accessories
- All proceeds donated to help support various organizations
- Small show selection, but had some good quality vintage heels

The Cellar Thrift Shop is located at 2345 Channing Way, between Dana and Ellsworth. They're open Wednesday 10am – 4pm and Saturday 10am – 2pm.

Miraya Berke & Xiaoqian Lim
BARE Reporters

Film Review :: Everlasting Moments

Image source.

The screening of Jan Troell's Everlasting Moments brought a packed house this past Friday at the Pacific Film Archive. Jan Troell uses his own creative cinematography in order to achieve the setting of the simplicity of Sweden in 1907. With the use of normal sunlight, grainy film, and beautiful nature shots, rural life—though difficult—encompasses the simple things in life: family, love, and creativity. The film is an engaging portal into the life of the main character, Maria, who fights to keep her family together despite an abusive and unfaithful husband and finds relief in the magic of photography.

Image source.

Set in Sweden in 1907, Jan Troell exposes the brutal realities of the time period through his characters in Everlasting Moments. The film is centered around Maria, the mother of seven children and the wife of an incessantly drunk husband, Sigge, who refuses to end his abusive and disheartening habits. Through the daily work of attempting to keep the children fed with the little money Sigge makes working in a coal laboring company, Maria ties her family together even while being beaten by her husband. Because of Sigge's drunken habits, the family is ridiculed by the town and looked down upon by everyone, even children. When Maria is beaten tortuously, she turns to her dying father who advises her to stay since the union of marriage remains intact until the day of death. Because of this she endures being beaten almost to death, raped by her own husband, and cheated on continuously.

Amidst the daily struggles Maria endures, she finds relief in taking photography with a camera she won in the lottery but never used. She attempts to sell it at the local camera shop, but the owner, Mr. Peterson urges her to keep her camera and has a moment of romantic connection in admiring a butterfly in the window. At that point on, Maria is consumed with taking photographs of people in her town, from taking pictures for Christmas, to taking a picture of a little girl on her death bed, to taking pictures of her family. She repeatedly returns to Mr. Peterson's shop and shares innocent moments of love and admiration, exposing the true nature of what love can be, without engaging in adultery herself. In the end, Mr. Peterson moves away in a tear-jerking moment as they say their final goodbyes. Sigge and Maria stay together despite their conflicts and abuse in order to keep their family together and be true to the promise of marriage. As her daughter says in the last line of the film, “Perhaps it was love.” I suppose you’ll have to see the movie in order to find out what Jan Troell really believes is love.

Amaris Montes
BARE Reporter

Movie Street Style :: Alice in Wonderland

I spotted these ladies on my way to the concession stand at the 3D premiere of Alice in Wonderland, which was playing at United Artists theatre on Shattuck.

I love the dedication of these ladies, as they depicted Alice and her classic blue dress.

Parris McKenley
BARE Reporter

The Broach :: The Forgotten Accessory

Add a broach to a cardigan, blazer, or shirt for some extra flair. Images courtesy of Forever 21.

Chunky necklaces and bracelets have always been my never-failing approach to adding some pizazz to any outfit. You can never underestimate the power of five bucks and a trip to Forever 21 for some praise-worthy flair that pops. However, I would like to also shed some light on an age-old trend that has been resurfacing: the broach. Although this trend was thought to be a sure goner after the 1980's, the broach has definitely resisted complete extinction from the fashion-forward. Yet, they are no longer for the top of your button-up’s collar. Broaches can be worn to adorn cardigans, skirts, jackets, and even purses. And for the crafty, you can add a bobby pin to the back or attach it to a headband for some hair flair. You can even stick it to a large bow if you are in real need of some dynamic snazziness. This vibrant little trend often comes to us incognito. I bet that most people already own broaches that are attached to many pieces they have bought and haven’t realized the little bauble’s potential in other facets of their wardrobe. Either that or they simply need to make a little trip to their mother’s or grandmother’s jewelry box. So, go broach it up!

Danielle Ciappara
BARE Reporter

Blogosphere's Week in Review

Images courtesy of Cheap Thrills, I've got a lust for life, fazed-girl, and Juan Cocco.

This week's BWR features gilt brows, James Franco's recent ad campaign, and a new take on the iconic Lennon/Ono Rolling Stone cover.

• You know you're a style/fashion blogger when...
• Introducing James Franco, the new face of Gucci by Gucci Sport fragrances.
• An enviable blogger outfit from I've Got a Lust for Life.
• Best of the blogosphere: Juan Cocco does John Lennon/Yoko Ono, red times two, and marshmallow cupcakes.
• Weekly What-The-Feege: Balenciaga's Fall 2010 shoe collection and gold glitter brows.

What blog posts did you like this week?

Brittany Curran

Blog Editor

Restaurant Review :: Elmwood Café

Elmwood Café is located at 2900 College Avenue.

Most of us don’t find the need to venture past Dwight, unless it’s for grocery shopping or the occasional Ici indulge. But there’s been a new addition to the Elmwood area that gives us more than enough reason to take the 51 bus ride. On the corner of College and Russell, the Elmwood Café opened its doors this past Sunday to the benefit of students and residents alike.

Signs of preservation of the old parlor can be seen from the sign (previous image) and woodwork (above).

This new hangout spot is, however, nothing new. Prior, 2900 College Avenue had been the home of Ozzie’s Soda Fountain. (Remember, those old shops where guys and dolls came to converse around a soda fountain back in the day?) Owner Rachel Ericsen made sure to maintain the integrity of that historic parlor. Great lengths were taken to preserve the iconic red stools and original woodwork to pay homage to its 1950’s roots.

Customers have the option of sitting at a counter on bar stools (above) or along a wall of chairs and tables (below).

Yes, the décor is nice (I especially love the marble accents), but how is the food? How about a little food porn to ease your decision?

Salad and tea. What a perfect combination!

Like much of the Berkeley food movement, Elmwood Café serves food made mostly from local and organic ingredients. Though it is a little expensive for everyday meals, the creative pastries are definitely worth the splurge.

How could you resist kumquat coffeecake?

Most surprising was Elmwood Café’s dedication to give back, something you rarely see in a business. Half of their profits go to charitable causes. They give customers the choice of where want their money to go. We sure hope it’s a fashionable organization.

Owner Rachel Ericsen gives us a quick pose. Images courtesy of the author.

Elmwood Café is a great and befitting addition to the neighborhood. Among the four other coffee shops in the vicinity, we’re sure none of the others have the charm and great intentions to compare.

Elmwood Café is located on 2900 College Ave on Russell St. They are open from 7 AM – 10 PM; 7 days a week.

John Kim
Editor-in-Chief

Concert Street Style :: Annah and Cory

I spotted these lovely ladies last night at the Tegan and Sara concert at the Fox Theater in Oakland. I fell in love with the oversized flower on Cory's brown bag, as well as the printed tights both the girls were wearing.

Polina Polishchuk
BARE Reporter

Rumspringa

Rumspringa performed in Naia lounge last Friday, February 26. Image courtesy of the author.

I swivel my head to the back of the colorful Naia lounge. Surrounded by about 60 standing, head-bobbing, rained-out concert-goers, the band mates of Rumspringa are well into their hour long set. The bright, painted concrete and low ceilings provide an eclectic backdrop and underground feel for the alternative venue -- the lights are dim, the surroundings are cozy, and the music is a fitting centerpiece for the colorful environmental array. I notice that Naia offers the seemingly strange combination of both sushi and gelato, an appropriately obscure mixture that beautifully parallels the funky versatility of Rumspringa.

Upon my somewhat early arrival, I was one of about ten other people in Naia. However, this changed dramatically. The size and energy of the audience grew by the minute, as Rumspringa’s sound grabbed the attention of outside passersby. Both the drummer and guitarist/singer of the two-man (with an occasional addition of a tambourine player) group performed barefoot. The guys were absolutely at ease with their surroundings and their own sound.

I have had a lot of difficulty putting my finger on the sound of this band. They definitely break the mold of any typical musical categorization. You see, their style is truly variable and range-y. During one song, they may take us down a dirt road in the Midwest, with an acoustic guitar and a high energy beat combined with a few vocal twangs. Suddenly, they might transport us to a dark, tightly packed warehouse, filling it with a persistent techno beat, but then we are swept away into the psychedelic MGMT-esque sound of electric rock.

Rumspringa does not like to linger. It’s like they don’t want to overstay their welcome in any musical genre, although they could comfortably fit into many. Their versatility is a truly unique, admirable trait for a musical group. They keep us guessing, as they continually open new doors to new sounds.

Lindsay Brauner
BARE Reporter

BARE Editorial :: Alice in Wonderland

"Well, this is grand! I never expected to be a Queen so soon, " said Alice. "Oh How Strange it is to be A Queen" plays on the royal undertones of Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. Say hello to the Queens of Wonderland in our take on the classic novel and new movie.

Dresses and crowns created by Stephanie Yeung. Shoes and Accessories provided by Sway and Buffalo Exchange.

Jonathan Deniol Rodriguez

Managing Editor

Do-It-Yourself Bangs

Want to change your look without breaking the bank? Adding bangs to your 'do may be just what you're looking for. Here are a few tips on how you can do this yourself. Before you begin cutting your hair, determine what kind of bangs would look good with your face shape.

Actress Katie Holmes accentuates her simple bob with a classic fringe. Image source.

Classic, blunt bangs are good with heart-shaped and inverted triangular face shapes. They will soften sharp facial features, like pointy chins.

Super-short bangs look good with oval and some round face shapes. Emphasis on "some."

Grammy Winner Taylor Swift balances her diamond face shape with her angled bangs. Image source.

Angled bangs are good with round and diamond face shapes.

Eva Longoria Parker's side-swept bangs. Image source.

Side-swept bangs suit every face shape.

Now that you know your face shape, here is the how-to guide for side-swept and angled bangs.

1. Use a pair of sharp scissors that are specifically made for cutting hair. (Although normal scissors will also work, they may damage your hair a bit. Don't use razors.)
2. Comb down the hair that you'd like to cut, which usually lies about 2-3 inches from your hairline. Don't wet your hair because it will be shorter once it dries.
3. Position your scissors below your eyebrows and slowly cut vertically in small, choppy pieces. Shape your hair in whichever style you'd like.
4. Repeat Step 3 until you're satisfied.

Note: if you're going for blunt bangs, you have to slow cut your hair horizontally, just below your eyebrows. Make sure that you don't just do it in one go or you'll regret it.

Most importantly of all, be creative and use your bangs to express yourself.

Ping Sicoravit
BARE Reporter

Levi's Cords by Opening Ceremony

Image courtesy of Levi's.

If you haven't already seen the Levi's Cords by Opening Ceremony collaboration in San Francisco, than I suggest you get your butt on down to Union Square to check it out. Prepare to be greeted by corduroy, corduroy, and more corduroy, in an array of hues ranging from bright jewel tones of turquoise, emerald green, and ruby, to more muted shades of lavender, mustard, and dusty rose. The collection combines the all-American ruggedness that Levi's is famous for with the quirky, whimsical style of Opening Ceremony. (Unusual collaborations are nothing new to the latter brand, which has previously collaborated with director Spike Jonze on a collection inspired by his movie Where the Wild Things Are).

The collection keeps the simple style of the Levi's classics, but gives them a fresh twist for spring. As the sign at the door reads, the collection was "inspired by summer in the city and weekend escapes to Upstate New York." It includes a classic shrunken trucker jacket, straight-leg pants (both in full-length style and a cut-off shorts version), and a unisex button-up shirt, all re-done in colorful corduroy. The designs were nothing groundbreaking, but I loved the colors, and I would definitely stock up on the comfy button-ups and the cut-off shorts. The pieces in this collection are absolutely perfect for crisp spring days and lazy summertime activities, whether it be playing a game of touch-football at the park, bicycling through the city, taking a hike, or just lounging around outside.

Image courtesy of Opening Ceremony.

Levi's creatively arranged the bottom floor of their three-story flagship store to take shoppers on a little adventure through what I imagine a world would look like if everyone took to the great outdoors in style. Tables are piled high with colorful corduroy, as well as gorgeous photography-filled books, ecofriendly waterbottles, and candles, all in coordinated colors and sporting a playful smiley face that appears throughout the exhibit. Mannequins in the exhibit are engaged in ourdoorsy activities such as running and swinging on a tire swing, and dressed for everything from hiking to sailing a boat. My favorite part of the exhibit was a display of a campsite, complete with a treehouse, a camp fire, and inexplicably, a giant red ladybug. The campers (decked out in corduroy, of course) include a bearded guy in braided leather sandals, a guy with fringed moccasins and a feather headband, and a little boy sitting atop the treehouse, triumphantly waving a flag bearing the smiley face logo.

A few photos from the transformed flagship store in San Francisco. Images courtesy of Opening Ceremony.

Leaving the exhibit, I spotted a shirt that read, "And if the people stare then the people stare." And stare they will if you sport some of these sweet cords. And then they'll probably beg to know where you buy your clothes.

Elizabeth Maxim
BARE Reporter

Restaurant Review :: Sfoof's Woofle Café

Sfoof's Woofle Café is located at 2554 Bancroft Way between Telegraph and Bowditch.

Waffles have made a gourmet comeback in the form of woofles, Hoda of Sfoof’s Woofle Café's take on the American breakfast staple. They are served with a motley of unique ingredients that beat your ordinary Belgium waffle in taste any day.

Craving something savory? Sink your teeth into the Arabian Nights woofle.

A top seller, the Arabian Nights woofle has been infused with olives, feta cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers and zaatar topping. A savory palate’s dream come true, the flavor-blasted woofle is definitely a mouthful.

Do not fear, fellow sweet tooths: a sweet woofle sensation is near. Here is a customer-made woofle comprised of bananas, walnuts, coconut cream and Fruity Pebbles. Named after its creator, the “Wisenburger” woofle is a sweet treat.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a Wisenburger woofle.

The Wisenburger woofle brings to light the fun, customer-oriented service that is highly valued at Sfoof’s. In an effort to cater to individual consumers, the “Design your Woofle” contest gives customers an opportunity to submit their favorite woofle concoction to be featured on the menu for the week.

Ever wanted to have a dish named after you? Now's your chance. Just enter Sfoof's "Design Your Woofle" contest.

Sfoof’s Woofle Pups also take a stand in this waffle revolution. These pups are made of either corn dogs or mozzarella sticks, wrapped in woofles. A healthy alternative to their fried predecessors, these woofle pups are finding their niche amongst increasingly health-conscious consumers.

The menu extends to include paninis, soups, salads, and a variety of Middle Eastern baked goods. Emphasizing their use of fresh ingredients with their in-house spreads, aiolis, hummus and batter, Sfoof’s is dedicated to serving up homemade goodness. Their goodies are also gluten/wheat free. Here is just a sample of the baked goods they have to offer.

Craving chocolate? These Fudge Puppies are sure to hit the spot.

The Date Maamoul is an example a traditional Middle Eastern cookie.

These Zaatar Pies are another Middle Eastern delight.

An old favorite: the chocolate-dipped Oreo cookie with festive sprinkles.

Couldn't get enough of the Date Maamoul? Try a piece of this Walnut Maamoul, too.

Hoda wields a Middle Eastern background, which is latent in the ingredients she uses in her menu and as showcased in her bakery. A fusion between Lebanese and American foods is at the heart of Hoda’s efforts to bring her personal touch to the table. Fifteen years of private catering and an all-too-timely series of events have brought Hoda to open up shop, a few doors away from the Alphonse Berber Gallery, where her daughter works.

Sfoof's boasts an indoor balcony, perfect for woofle-eating in a more intimate atmosphere. Photography by the author.

The balcony seating is a cozy and peaceful alternative to have a bite with your friends and chat over some Turkish Coffee with Cardamom.

So, what’s in your Woofle?

Shelly Park

BARE Reporter