Dr. Lim embraces a philosophy of care that is anchored in ethics and committed to excellence. He is active in continuing educational programs to provide you with the most recent technology and procedures in dentistry. Dr. Lim attended UCLA undergraduate and earned his doctorate degree from USC School of Dentistry.
Member of: American Dental Association • California Dental Association • Contra Costa Dental Society
NEED AN IMPLANT?
3D XRAY WITH IMPLANT PLACEMENT
Come see us. With our new 3-D x-ray machine, implants can now be placed easily, safely and more affordably. For a limited time, we will place an implant for only $1,500.00* or implant, abutment, and a crown for $3,500.00. Must present this postcard to receive this offer. * This is only for implant placement for cash patients. The price does not include abutment or crown. Not all patients are candidates for implants. Expires at the end of the month.
I let my patients do the talking, I listen.
Best dental experience I’ve ever had. It is perfect for nervous patients. I’m happy to recommend this office to anyone. Magdalenag
I have had some less than stellar experiences with dentists in the past, so I was pretty apprehensive beginning my treatment with Dr. Lim. He was very friendly and informative, and during the treatment I didn’t feel a thing! No pain, no discomfort. What a relief! My fear of dentists is beginning to subside a little bit. Cristin G.
Very grateful to have such a great dentist. Dr Lim takes the time to answer your questions and personally follows up after you leave his office. When I had a dental emergency at night, he personally answered my call and made time for me the following morning. He also has a wonderful group of people working for him. Thank you Elena
Everyone, and I do mean everyone in the office is alert and professional. Dentists and Administrators and all assistants answer all your questions without hesitation. Dr. Lim has assembled a wonderful staff! I have referred another family already! Lynnel
Doctor Lim is an excellent dentist who is an expert in his craft. He is a very gentle dentist which pleases me the most. Doctor Lim is also surrounded by a great staff. Love the humor and smiles of all the assistants which kept me calm….Thanks to you all… Alicia
For hundreds of additional testimonials please visit my web site vincentlimdds.com
Headaches are NOT normal. Back pain is NOT normal. Numbness & tingling is NOT normal.
The human body can live five days without food and water, minutes without air, but without a nerve supply, life cannot exist. Nothing happens in your body without the involvement of the whole nervous system.
As a chiropractor I don’t treat the symptoms, rather I locate and correct the nerve interference which allows the body to do what it does best…heal itself. Chiropractic adjustments assist in the healing process by reestablishing the nerve flow to its optimal level. This allows the proper communication between the brain and the body.
Did you know a seven-year study showed that patients who saw a Chiropractor regularly experienced;
85% less pharmaceutical costs.
62% fewer surgeries
60% fewer hospital admissions
69% fewer days in a
85% fewer outpatient procedures
Detailed new patient history intake
• Spinal & central nervous system new patient exam
• Specialized diagnostic testing
• Digital x-rays if indicated
• Detailed report of all Doctors findings, analysis & recommendations.
HELLO NEIGHBORS
Approaching the holiday season, it’s easy to get swept up in the flurry of shopping lists, decorations, and the pursuit of the “perfect” gift. But amidst all the hustle, one thing stands out as perhaps the most valuable present we can give or receive: time.
In a world that moves faster than ever, finding moments to simply be present with the people we care about can feel like a rare and precious gift. Whether it’s gathering around the table for a holiday meal, taking a quiet walk together, or just sharing a cup of coffee, these simple moments have a way of becoming the most cherished memories.
This year, let’s remember that it’s not about the price tag or the grand gestures. It’s the laughter shared during a game night, the stories exchanged by the fireplace, or the unspoken connection felt in the comfort of someone’s company. For in the end, it’s not the presents we unwrap that stay with us, but the memories we create together.
This month we’re proud to welcome Donald Murphy‘s Junk Titans, a friendly, service-focused, 5-star rated—and raved about—junk hauling business that handles everything from commercial to residential, including Christmas tree, mattress, appliance and furniture removal, cleanouts, post construction services and more. WOW! We also welcome a new WE’RE HIRING ad from Professional Property Management / First Republic Real Estate in Point Richmond, and announcement of a wonderful musical experience open to all, Handel’s MESSIAH Sing Along at St. David of Wales Church in Richmond on the 29th. Please let them know you saw their ad here! Enjoy!!
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season, filled with joy and laughter and all those you hold so dear.
Susie , Owner and Sales Manager
The Crockett Museum is open each Wednesday and Saturday from 10am to 3pm. Visitors are always admitted for free and docents are available for questions. For more information on arranging tours or planning your visit, call (510) 787-2178
900 Loring Avenue
Crockett, CA 94525
crockettmuseum@gmail.com
crockettmuseum.org
Christmas in Cro C kett
Sugartown, The small Historic City of Crockett is perched in the Hills above the San Pablo Bay and Carquinez Strait. Panoramic and expansive waterfront views are the norm here. Known affectionately as Sugartown thanks to the charming C&H sugar Factory, still operating today! This sweet city is experiencing a surge of arts and restaurants. With 2 Galleries in the downtown and several new retail boutiques opening within the last few years the scene downtown is hip and vibrant. Restaurants in town are not to be overlooked. The Dead Fish is a well known restaurant that attracts crowds from all over the Bay for its delectable dishes BUT the options don’t end there. Lucia’s Craft Sandwiches has made a name for itself across the region with sandwiches like squash blossom grilled cheese and ham with ricotta, arugula and apricot jam. They also serve great salads and coffee. They have already opened a second location in Martinez. Crockett Cocina on Pomona offers great pasta’s, seafood and mexican food and has a wonderful outdoor garden. JK Cafe offers sandwiches, breakfast treats, coffee and the best Boba. Crockett has two bars that offer live music and gathering places for the locals, Club Tac, a local hangout offers Smash Burgers, Breakfast on weekends and great mixed cocktails as well as live music on weekends. Toot’s Tavern is one of the oldest dive bars in Contra Costa County, offers great cocktails, beers on tap and live music throughout the week. If you are looking for some great Coffee, stop at Coffee Revival located on Pomona and Rolph across the street from the Swimming Pool and Community Center.
@crockett.museum
There is plenty of boutiques for shopping, unique gifts at The Funky Frog, or Passion Feast for unique books, dinnerware and glassware and more. The Vintage Cat has great Antiques, you are sure to find something you like. Flowers Fresco has the most unique flowers and plants for the plant lovers. Second Avenue Skate Boards has skateboards of all variations and vintage clothes! Cose Belle a women’s boutique is located on Second Avenue sure to become your favorite place to shop. For the Art lovers, Crockett has Epperson Gallery and Milano Arts. Fans of California history will enjoy Crockett Historical Museum with its free admission and displays showcasing Veterans, C&H, Historic Photographs, the Carquinez Bridge, and more.
Celebrate
Temple Beth Hillel Celebrates the Festival of Lights
Annual Hanukkah Fair
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Come and enjoy treats, music, joy and peace amid the warm glow of Christian fellowship.
December 14-15 | 6-8 pm
Trinity Apostolic Faith Church
4585 Hilltop Drive Richmond/El Sobrante
Just off I-80 past Rolling Hills Cemetery. Across the freeway from Hilltop Mall.
Original Arts & Crafts for Sale Children’s Activities Treasures from the Gift Shop
Selections from Parts I and II of Handel’s Messiah accompanied by period instruments, under the direction of Richard Mix
SAINT DAVID OF WALES CATHOLIC CHURCH 5641 Esmond Ave, Richmond CA 94805 (on hillside between Solano & McBryde) www.StDavidOfWales.com
REAL ESTATE Ask Ponytail
Top 1% Agent in the East Bay
REAL ESTATE Ask
Top 1.5% Agent Nationwide in 2023
Top 1% Agent in the East Bay
Top 1% Agent in the East Bay
Top 1.5% Agent Nationwide
Top 1.5% Agent Nationwide
"Attentive, knowledgeable, and truly a real estate dream team!"
Offered at $990,000
4 Beds | 3 Baths Loft | 2557 Sq ft
Alexandria at Victoria by the Bay
Sara and her team are the real estate dream team! I never would have thought selling a home could be easy, but it truly was with Sara. She and her team took care of our home and of me at every step and process. Sara has cultivated amazingly strong community ties with local businesses which is a huge asset. I wanted to repaint and replace the carpet in our home before we placed it on the market and Sara and her team handled everything and the work far exceeded my expectations. Sara checked in regularly with me, was always quick to respond when I had a question, and we were able to sell our home so quickly. I truly appreciated her attentive care and her wealth of knowledge. I loved my experience with Sara so much I have already decided to ask if she’ll represent us as a buyer when we are ready to look for our new home.
Home Equity Can Be a Game Changer When You Sell
Happy Seller: Larissa H
3 Beds | 2.5 Baths 2420 Sq ft
Offered at $1,395,000 Waterline at Point Richmond Luxury Condo with a Stunning Bay View
Sara
most knowledgeable and
realtors
Sara is one of the most knowledgeable and well-known realtors in the area. Each time I went to an open house independently, all the realtors knew her and expressed respect for how she represented her clients. She has an extensive team that assists in any aspect of the process. You can't go wrong with Sara Min Zhou, Ponytail...
Sara was an amazing East Bay Realtor for my family. She originally worked with my mother, who unexpectedly passed away early in the sales process. When she died, our family decided to pause the sale. Sara was incredibly patient and understanding throughout that period, so there was no question in our minds once we were ready to restart the process. We wanted Sara, the no. 1 agent in the area, to be our realtor! She was compassionate towards our needs and incredibly competent throughout the sale. It was evident why Sara is a top agent. In addition to facilitating normal activities, she connected us with qualified contractors to ready the home for maximum sell potential. In the end, we received a competitive offer for the home and completed the process smoothly. I would gladly work with Sara and her team again for my future real estate needs. ...We wanted Sara, the No. 1 agent in the area...
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Reverse Mortgage News
Readers and Clients alike recall
By Karen F. Walker
In the words of American essayist, editor and lecturer Hamilton Wright Mabie, “Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.”
Whether you celebrate the Birth of Christ in a manger and the Christmas Octave, or Hanukkah with its eight-day Menorah recalling the miracle of lamp oil and light, or whether you celebrate with family and loved ones in another way, there is indeed “a conspiracy of love” during this time of the year… and it can take shape in unexpected ways. One local friend recently shared that as a Seventh Day Adventist he grew up celebrating December 25th with all the family at the beach. It’s a great memory for him!
“Some of my fondest childhood memories from the Christmas season that we are passing along to our children include: (1) hunting for the perfect Christmas tree at a tree farm and cutting down a fresh tree to bring home and decorate, (2) driving through neighborhoods enjoying beautiful Christmas decorations and light displays on people’s homes, and (3) enjoying the children’s Christmas Eve Mass with the kids acting out the Christmas Gospel, then after Mass decorating cookies to leave out for
Santa,” share Scott and Lisa, El Cerrito.
“I fondly remember lighting the Hanukkah menorah and singing the blessings each night with my children and then quickly turning off the lights. Their little faces shone as they marveled at how much light even one candle gave. So too with love!” shares a longtime resident who asked we withhold her name.
Lisa
“In Jamaica, Christmas is a time of celebration and cherished memories. Throughout December, the pace of life slows down as communities come together to prepare for the festivities.
Traditional favorites such as Jamaican rum fruit cakes—made from fruits that have been soaking all year—take center stage alongside the roast of a whole pig. Family gatherings are filled with beloved dishes such as curried goat, rice and peas, and fresh fruit salads,” shares local resident Patricia M. Brown
“The celebrations often begin with early morning worship services, followed by a delicious Jamaican breakfast that includes ackee and cod fish, plantains, fried dumplings and seasonal fruits accompanied by refreshing drinks,” she adds. “Friends and family visit each other, sharing meals and spreading Christmas blessings, creating a warm and communal spirit that defines the holiday in Jamaica.”
“What I loved most is having all the family together—the laughing and talking. Everyone was happy. Happy to be together. It was a special time and everyone was welcome to come,” reflects Elaine (Tonti) Findley, who grew up and still lives in Richmond. “Mom would do the cooking but everyone pitched in to help out,” she continues. “All the kids (cousins) would be at one table. That was fun. Laughing and learning from each other. It was a magical time. You really looked forward to it. And no one received elaborate presents
St. Nick, Scott &
their fondest December memories...
either. We each would receive one thing, maybe a bracelet or a new set of pajamas. It was simple, and we were happy, grateful.”
Dolly Dias, owner of Dolly’s Italian wine bar with her husband Shenal, lives in El Cerrito and shares that “when we were kids, Christmas was always a special time at home. We would watch the live broadcast of midnight Mass, filled with joy and excitement. One of our fondest memories is of our Italian Aunt Elizabetha (we lovingly called her Betta Aunty), who would bring back so many wonderful gifts and school supplies for the coming year. We always looked forward to the school bags, books, pencils and fun pencil cases she’d bring—each one more colorful and creative than the last. And of course, there were the cute, shaped erasers! …Such beautiful memories and so much delicious food! Our meals were a wonderful blend of Italian and Sri Lankan cuisine—truly a feast for the senses.”
“Christmas as a child in San Jose was a fun time,” recalls Virginia Cooke of Pinole. “After church on Christmas Day, we would change clothes and head to my Grandmother’s house in the midst of her fruit orchard. We’d share hugs with family as they arrived, enjoy homemade pizza and snacks rather than a lunch, while our Dad and Uncles took care of the BBQ. No one person was in charge of dinner menu, everyone brought something to the dinner table.”
“Our cousins were 4-6 years older and fun to be around,” she adds. “They helped set the table and were not above joining us little kids in the festivities. One time, we joined them as they built a ship out of the lug boxes in the orchard. We’d throw around the football a bit.
“Our family opened family presents on Christmas Eve and inevitably there would be one or two board games to bring to Grandma’s the next day. The big kids would join us and we’d make jokes as the game progressed. It didn’t matter who won; playing was fun! Teenage cousins brought a record player and records and we watched them dance and talk. We’d get re-acquainted each December. Everyone helped with the dishes after. Then to the living room for gifts and dessert. Uncle Frank dressed up as Santa to hand out gifts. It was a full, fun day.”
OH WAIT… one more.. from Teddy Bear, a local doodle mix dog, who shares -- with enthusiasm always -- that his favorite memories are “eat, walk with owner, eat, more eat, long walk, eat, sleep and dream of eating... and delight in being adored.”
To one and all, dear readers, we wish for you to find yourself embraced “in a conspiracy of love” this month!
Patricia's favorite Jamaican bakery, Trinity Club in St. Catherine's, Jamaica
Christmas family BBQ.
Photo courtesy Virginia Cooke
Teddy Bear
UPCOMING EVENTS December
To submit an event request, email events@ccmarketplacemag.com
DECEMBER 5:
MINDFUL MEDIATION
Thursday, 4:30pm. Join us for mindfulness meditation with local instructor, Wendy Beckerman. Session includes guided meditation, deep breathing, and gentle movement. Chairs provided, feel free to bring a cushion if you prefer. Beginners and experienced meditators welcome. 2935 Pinole Valley Road, Pinole, 510-7582741.
DECEMBER 7:
WINTER GARDENING: BARE ROOT TREES AND PRUNING: A UC MASTER GARDENER WORKSHOP AT HERCULES LIBRARY
Saturday, 2pm. The UC Master Gardeners are returning for another informational presentation on winter gardening. Get your questions answered about planting bare root trees and winter pruning during this free, in-person event. 109 Civic Dr., Hercules. 510-245-2420.
DECEMBER 7:
FRIENDS OF THE EL SOBRANTE LIBRARY BOOK SALE
Saturday, 10-12noon for Members and 12-2pm for general public. Renew your membership for 2025. Do your Christmas shopping with Blue Ribbon Jams and Jellies from Tom Wright and Christmas books. A house full of books - children's, young adults, mysteries, cookbooks, biographies, histories, travel, romance, selfhelp, novels and much more at low prices. 4191 Appian Way, El Sobrante.
DECEMBER 7:
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
Saturday, 3-5:30pm. Event Activities at Fernandez Park,
595 Tennent Ave. Activities include holiday crafts, face painting, balloon twisting. 5-5:30pm, Tree Lighting Ceremony at Community Corner San Pablo Ave. and Tennent Ave. If rain is expected, the event will be moved to the Senior Center 2500 Charles Ave.
DECEMBER 7:
WILD ABOUT WRITING AT HERCULES LIBRARY: WINTER HOLIDAYS
Saturday, 3:30pm. Celebrate the holiday season with wild about writing! Elementary school-aged kids are welcome to drop in for this creative writing meetup with local grade schoolteachers, Sarah Creeley & Tina Wong. Students are encouraged, but not required, to share their work at the end of class. No registration required and all materials will be provided. 109 Civic Dr., Hercules. 510-245-2420.
DECEMBER 14:
FRIENDS OF THE HERCULES SENIOR CENTER BREAKFAST WITH SANTA FUNDRAISER Saturday, 9am-11:30am. $15 General Admission. $10 Kids 11 and younger. Please join us for a pancake breakfast, face painting, cookie decorating, and raffle prizes at 2001 Refugio Valley Road in Hercules. Email friendsofhsc2019@gmail.com to purchase tickets. No tickets sold at the door. Ticket Sales end on Dec. 12 at 11:55am.
DECEMBER 14:
HOLIDAY BREAKFAST AT PINOLE SENIOR CENTER Saturday, 9-11am. Tickets $10, purchase online PinoleRec.com. 2500 Charles Ave., Pinole. 510-7249000.
DECEMBER 18:
MAX MEDITATION AT HERCULES LIBRARY
Wednesday, 6pm. Thoughts racing? Feeling a little overwhelmed? Need a mid-week reprieve? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then the Max Meditation program at the Hercules Library is right for you! With the guidance of a professional healer, you'll clear your mind and gain serenity. 109 Civic Dr., Hercules. 510-245-2420.
DECEMBER 21:
STORYTIME WITH ELSA! AT HERCULES LIBRARY Saturday, 10am. Queen Elsa is coming to Hercules Library! Join her for books, music, and fun during our 10am Family Storytime hour. No registration required. All ages welcome. 109 Civic Dr., Hercules. 510-2452420.
DECEMBER 29:
HANDEL'S MESSIAH SING ALONG
Sunday, 7pm. All Welcome. Suggested donation $10/ adult, $5/student. See ad this issue. St. David of Wales church, 5641 Esmond Ave, Richmond, CA 94805.
“I love this place. I love how they treat my child as it’s their own, we feel very welcomed here.” Cindy Z.
“This office is really catered toward children and decreasing their fears. I hate that I didn’t find out about them sooner.” Nichole S.
“Great dental office! Clean, professional, genuinely nice, and modern.” Gabriela
• Board Certified Pediatric Dentists
• Kindergarten/Preschool dental forms
• Flat screen TVs above every chair
• Covid-19 compliant office
• Hospital privileges at Kaiser Oakland and Children’s Hospital Benioff Oakland
• Digital (lower radiation) x-rays
• State of the art sterilization area
• Rated “Exceptional office” by patient safety/ infection control expert Tom Terry
Dr. Teri Kim and Dr. Thea Dosanjh
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BUSINESS
WEST CONTRA COSTA LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS
RICHMOND
Friday - 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. 25th Street & Barret Avenue
RICHMOND
CIVIC CENTER
May to November
Wednesday - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nevin Avenue & 13th Street
POINT RICHMOND
May to September
Wednesday - 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Park Place & West Richmond Avenue
PINOLE
Saturday - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Corner of Fernandez Avenue & Pear Street.
EL CERRITO
Tuesday and Saturday - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the El Cerrito Plaza, corner of San Pablo Avenue & Fairmont Avenue.
EL CERRITO 2
Sunday - 12 noon to 4 p.m. 5166 Sobrante Avenue Corner of Valley View Road & Sobrante Avenue
KENSINGTON
Sunday - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1560 Oak View Avenue Colusa Avenue & Santa Fe Avenue
SAN PABLO June to September
Saturday - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 13831 San Pablo Avenue
