Kate Madden Yee

Skin in the Game

’s “Skin in the Game” looks closely at skin care, which has been important since ancient times (the Egyptians used sea salt scrubs, and the Mayans avocados). As we age, skin—our largest organ—grows drier and thinner. But all is not lost—there’s a lot we can do to keep our epidermis healthy and vital, from choosing good sun protection and natural products, to laser treatments and even Botox.

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Come Together

Cohousing—a modern twist on a commune (or co-op) open to families, seniors, and singles—is alive and well here, with more than 24 such communities thriving in the Bay Area. We peek into cohousing in the East Bay, explore what makes it work (or not work), and why some people would exchange some private space for hanging out with other folks.

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Best Foot Forward

zeroes in on our feet, which pretty much get us everywhere we need to go, while stabilizing us and absorbing shock. No wonder our tootsies are vulnerable as we age. Bay Area foot experts weigh in on how to deal with pesky problems like bunions and plantar fasciitis, what to look for in a great shoe, and how to choose an effective orthotic.

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Birthday Blasts

Whether the birthday girl or boy wants a blowout celebration or something more mellow, the East Bay offers the perfect venue for the occasion. Our writer canvasses an impressive array of local art studios, rock-climbing gyms, dance arenas, bowling alleys, and sports facilities that cater to groups of kids. “Pick a party that sparks your kid’s creative fire,” advises our writer, the mother of two children who celebrate birthdays on a yearly basis, “and it won’t be just the cake that’s glowing.”

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Faces of the East Bay