Bay Front Chamber of Commerce Rockin’our Community!
Medical & Surgical Dermatology
For Healthy Skin
Offering Treatments for:
Acne, Eczema, and Rashes
Cysts and Lipoma
Hair and Nail Disorder
Keloid and Scar Revisions
Moles
Physician-Strength Skin Care Products
Precancerous Lesions
Psoriasis and Vitiligo
Skin Cancer
Underarm Sweating
Warts, Molluscum
Cosmetic Dermatology
For Beautiful Skin
Offering Cosmetic Treatments for:
Acne scarring
Body Sculpting
Cellulite
Eyebag Reduction
Face, Neck, Body Tightening, Lifting, & Rejuvenation
Frown Lines & Jawline/Jowl Reduction
GlacierRx
Hair Removal
Pigmentation and Melasma
Post-injection Bruising
Scar revision
Sun Damage and Tattoo, Moles, Birthmarks
Technology & Procedures Offered
Aerolase
Agnes RF Microneedling Cellfina
Clear & Brilliant Original & Permea laser
Coolsculpting®
EMSculpt
EMSella
Enlighten PicoGenesis
Excel V Laser
Excimer Laser
Fractional CO2 Laser
GenesisPlus Laser
Glacier Rx
Infini Genius microneedling RF
KTP 532nm laser
Kybella
Liposonix®
Microneedling with or without PRP
MiraDry
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
NBUVB Phototherapy
PicoSure Laser
PRP for Hair Loss and Rejuvenation
Sebacia for acne
Spectra Laser
Subnovii Plasma Pen
Superficial Radiotherapy
Thermage FLX
Threadlift Novathread and Instalift
Ultherapy
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Vaser Shape
Vbeam Prima/Perfecta Lasers
Venezia nonablative CO2 laser lift
VLase for Feminine Rejuvenation
A NEW NON-SURGICAL SOLUTION FOR WRINKLES
($750 Value)
Ellacor with Micro-Coring Technology is the first and only device of its kind that removes skin on the microscale with 90% of patients showing an improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles.
A PLACE WHERE BEAUTY AND HEALTHY SKIN MEET
Visit us at our Center of Excellence with a combined 12,000 square foot, state of the art, newly renovated suite. We are dedicated to Medical, Cosmetic, and Surgical Dermatology and are a place for medical skin consultation, aesthetic rejuvenation, and face and body contouring.
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 hospital
85% fewer outpatient procedures
SPECIAL
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.
Dr. Clinton Cabero D.C.
When comfort and quality matters…
Dr. Vincent P. Lim
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
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
Editorial Calendar
Hello Neighbors
February is a month for love, hope and connection. As we celebrate Valentine’s Day and Black History Month, it’s a time to reflect on what binds us together—our shared humanity, dreams and resilience.
This issue spotlights stories of how love is both constant and changing, and explores how it can be included in all aspects of our lives, even in our work. (See inside). Reminding us that even in challenging times, with the help of those we love, we have the power to shape a brighter future.
A warm welcome to Dr. Rao and Evergreen Pet Clinic who are now full-time sponsors of your Contra Costa Marketplace Magazine! If you've not yet experienced
Susie | Jacqueline
their caring service for your dog or cat, you are in for a refreshing treat. Dr. Rao and his staff are friendly, welcoming and extremely knowledgeable. They take pride in serving their fourlegged clients with the best care possible. Contact info inside.
Have a wonderful month, friends! Get out and enjoy the brisk fresh air!
“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
JUST CURIOUS:
How can a business (big or small) integrate "love and hope" into their business plan? Is it even possible?!
Echoing a theme of “love and hope” this month, we reached out to Tom Loarie and Dan Hesse, rotating hosts of The Mentors Radio, a popular Greater SF Bay Area radio show and worldwide podcast. We wondered how a business (big or small) could integrate “love and hope” into their business plan.
Is it even possible?
According to Loarie and Hesse, the answer is YES, integrating love and hope into a business plan is not only possible, it’s essential.
“Many of my show episodes, including the conversation with Alan Mulally, former president and CEO of Ford Motor Company, talk about love,” explains Host Tom Loarie, “that is, to love your employees and treat them as humans with dignity.”
“This does not mean tolerating bad behavior or poor judgment,” Loarie quickly adds. Loarie’s career as an entrepreneurial start-up and turnaround CEO in the often life-saving Life Sciences field adds real-world depth to his response, and to his appreciation for Mulally’s insights.
Referencing a book entitled The Leadership Challenge, by Jim Kouzes, Loarie quotes Kouzes: ”We will work harder for people we like. And we will like them in direct proportion to how they make us feel.”
Clarity, Vision and Meaning
Loarie continues, “With regard to hope, it has everything to do with the vision and the realities one must face. The organization—whether large or small—must have a clear
vision that provides meaning in the work for all involved.“
Host Dan Hesse, chairman of Akamai Technologies and best known for leading the historic turn-around of Sprint and for his relentless focus on putting people first, agrees.
“The reason companies are increasingly adopting purpose-driven cultures, which embrace themes such as hope and love,” says Hesse, “is because people want to be part of something good that is bigger than themselves, and employee engagement drives better business results.”
Two of Hesse’s favorite quotes in this regard are:
“Hope is what turns purpose into reality,” by Howard Schultz.
“Take care of your employees, and they’ll take care of your business. Love starts with putting people first,” by Richard Branson
Take Action
So, whether your business or work involves leading a division of a large corporation, owning a restaurant, a tax, real estate or construction firm, housecleaning, landscaping, tattooing, eliminating gophers and bugs or fixing cars, YES INDEED, “hope and love” can and should be included in the business plan!
Writer Karen Walker is the executive producer of The Mentors Radio. Learn more at TheMentorsRadio. com (don’t forget “The”).
Tom Loarie
Dan Hesse
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Continuing a family tradition of providing quality dental care, I have served El Cerrito, Richmond and the Greater Pinole area-the very community I grew up in-since 2005. Now having established my own dental practice in the city of Hercules, I am grateful for the opportunity to remain close to my "roots" and to offer my dental services to you.
By Valerie Nelson
(For 10” springform pan)
1 ¾ cup Graham Cracker crumbs
½ cup melted butter
¼ cup granulated sugar
(1st layer)
22 oz cream cheese
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla (2nd layer)
24 oz sour cream
¾ cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Directions:
Make crust in 10” springform pan. Mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into (bottom only) of springform pan. Bake at 300 degrees for 10 minutes.
Combine 1st layer (Cheesecake) ingredients with blender (Cream cheese, eggs, sugar and vanilla) until creamy. Pour into graham shell crust (while the crust is still warm, but not hot). Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.
Cool for 20 minutes before 2nd layer.
Combine 2nd layer (Topping) ingredients with whisk (sour cream, sugar, vanilla) until creamy. Spread topping evenly over cake. Bake at 450 degrees for 7-8 minutes.
CHILL OVERNIGHT (always!)
Add strawberries or your favorite topping… or nothing at all!
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REAL ESTATE Ask Ponytail
Top 1% Agent in the East Bay - Kaori M (Our Recent Happy Seller)
I was very lucky to have her as my agent twice in 2020 and 2024. She is a hard-working and very experienced realtor. I highly recommend her!
surgical gum disease therapy.
ARMEN SEREBRAKIAN, M.D.
DiplomateofAmericanBoardofOtolaryngology
HeadandNeckReconstructiveSurgery
AESTHETIC NURSE
Edna Hernandez, RN, MSN & Susannah Woerner, RN
Love…and Hope… can thrive in the most unusual ways
by Karen F. Walker
Imagine finding love in your 80s!
Imagine neither of you speak the same language.
ALL.
Photos: Menbere Aklilu
Imagine you are young, in a relentlessly abusive marriage, in a foreign country… and pregnant. Imagine that at your worst moment, in the middle of your worst nightmare and not far from your due date, you can no longer deny that the person you had trusted was not true to his word. Yet that person had offered you a way out of your native country and its struggles, promising a prosperous acting career…with the only “catch” being that you must move from your home country and everything you know, to Italy. Would you have taken the chance?
Now imagine that these two stories intertwine in the most unimaginable way possible!
In the words of poet Andrea Gibson, “Sometimes the break in your heart is like the hole in the flute. Sometimes it’s the place where music comes through.”
The music came through for the Richmond residents mentioned above, and in a most unexpected way.
How do such disparate stories and lives unfold .. and blend?
Many locals know Menbere “Menbe” Aklilu, long-time owner of the popular but now closed Salute e Vita Ristorante on the edge of the Bay in Point Richmond. They know her mouth-watering, amazing culinary expertise, her kindness and generosity—especially for victims of domestic violence and those struggling in her beloved native country of Ethiopia.
Some also know that in leaving Ethiopia for promise of a better life and opportunity, Aklilu instead found herself destitute, homeless and living on the streets of Rome. Mother Teresa’s Shelter for Women in Rome soon took her in, where she gave birth to a healthy and happy baby boy. But she couldn’t stay there. In order to gain stability for herself and her son Aklilu accepted work and living quarters in the home of a lovely lady associated with the nuns, Gina Ceccarelli. Eventually Aklilu made her way to the U.S., ultimately settling in Richmond.
Many Years Later
Fast-forward nearly 40 years. Aklilu yearned to reconnect with Ceccarelli. She eventually found her in a small Italian village and visited.
“It was a wonderful reunion,” Aklilu smiles. During the visit, she learned that Ceccarelli’s husband had passed away. Gina missed him, but at 80, she was at peace with life, ready to die and meet with her husband again.
Aklilu balked at that plan and invited Ceccarelli to visit her in America. Gina had never been on a plane before and had such a fear of flying, she held my hand the entire journey!" Aklilu adds.
The Meeting that Changed Everything
On one of these visits, Ceccarrelli met Aklilu’s neighbor, Dwight Moberg, a widower himself. The two enjoyed an easy connection, even though Dwight speaks NO Italian. And Gina Ceccarrelli speaks NO English. Google Translate filled (and still fills) the gap.
Immediately after Ceccarrelli left to return home, Moberg told Aklilu that Gina needs to return. So, the 80-year-old Italian widow flew back to California.
Back in Richmond
Moberg was 88 and Ceccarrelli, 81— Moberg got down on one knee, an action that needed no Google interpretation. He didn’t know what the outcome would be, but he had to ask.
of Mercy parish in Point Rich mond, the threads of seemingly disparate stories now are seam lessly woven together, bound by threads of love and hope… and they each couldn’t be happier.
“We met, and we fell in love… there’s a chance for everyone.”
“I feel like I found love and life again. I'm happy here because I have someone by my side,” Ceccarelli told KTVU reporter Claudine Wong. Moberg adds with a smile, “In our hearts, we both speak the same language.”
“…I’m happy to share what I have with her, including love. She gets love from me. And then she gets love from the love of her life, you know? I’m proud. I’m happy,” Aklilu told Wong.
“We met, and we fell in love… there’s a chance for everyone,” two-people-80s-find-love-storytranscends-continents-language.)
A & A GARDENING SERVICE
DON’S REAL ESTATE UPDATE
The year ahead is poised to bring more opportunities for homebuyers as the housing market continues to stabilize. The Federal Reserve is expected to maintain a gradual approach to easing monetary policy in 2025. However, mortgage rates are unlikely to return to the ultra-low levels seen during the pandemic or the pre-pandemic levels.
The National Association of REALTORS® forecasts mortgage rates to stabilize near 6% in 2025, likely establishing a new normal. At this rate, more buyers are expected to come back to the market, boosting activity. If rates stabilize around 6%, about 6.2 million households can once again be able to afford median-priced homes.
“Don Adamson was my agent when I bought my home, and he was my agent when I sold my home nearly 12 years later. He checked in with me every step of the way and was always immediately accessible if I had any questions. He’s got a big heart, and I can tell how much it means to him to do what’s best for his clients. I was always happy to hear from him throughout the years during our annual check ins. He’s a master at coordinating all the things that need doing to prepare a home for sale. I won’t hesitate to refer him to anyone I know who needs an agent.”
– JOANNA R.
February 2025 EVENTS
FEBRUARY 1
Lunar New Year Celebration at Crockett Library
Saturday, 1130am-330pm. It’s the Year of the Snake! Join us while we celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake with crafts inspired by the holiday. Each participant will receive a special Lunar New Year treat (while supplies last). 991 Loring Ave., Crockett. 510-787-2345
FEBRUARY 1
Friends of the El Sobrante Library
Book Sale Saturday, 10am-12 noon for members, 12-2pm for general public. Memberships $5. Available at the door. Located at the back of the El Sobrante Library, 4191 Appian Way.
FEBRUARY 2
Lunar New Year Parade!
Sunday, 1pm. Join us for the first Lunar New Year Parade in the East Bay! Entertainment & Activities at the Hercules Community Center following the parade. Parking Hercules Middle & High School and Hercules Community Center.
FEBRUARY 3, 10, 17, 24
Game Night at Crockett Library! Mondays, 530pm. Come join us for Game Night on the first and second Mondays at Crockett Library! Chess, card games, other classics, and even Settlers of Catan. Additionally, every THIRD Monday we play Dungeons and Dragons. 991 Loring Ave., Crockett. 510-787-2345
Alphabet Storytime at Crockett Library
Wednesdays, 11:15am. Join us for stories, music, and the Mystery Box each week. And we’ve got a ton of fun, and educational, toys for the littles, so feel free to stick around after and play. 991 Loring Ave., Crockett. 510-787-2345
FEBRUARY 11
Pinole Garden Club
Saturday, 1pm. guest speaker will be Tereza Flaxman, who is a member of the San Francisco Begonia Society and a Judge for the American Begonia Society, will give a presentation on How to Grow and Care for Begonias. The public is invited. Pinole Valley Community Church, 2885 Pinole Valley Road, Pinole.
FEBRUARY 19
West Contra Costa Career Fair
Sunday, 10am-1pm. The Bay Front Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County is bringing together top employers from various industries. Network with like-minded individuals and discover exciting job prospects. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to explore new job opportunities or advance their career. Pre-register on Eventbrite. com by 2/18 to be entered into a gift card raffle. Hercules Community Center, 2001 Refugio Valley Rd., Hercules.
FEBRUARY
EVENTS
AT THE HERCULES LIBRARY
109 Civic Dr., Hercules. 510-245-2420
February 7: Getting Your Affairs in Order: An Info Session and Clinic
Friday, 1pm. Get a free, in-depth overview of Advance Healthcare Directives, focusing on their importance and purpose. Attendees will learn how AHCDs allow individuals to express their healthcare wishes and protect their rights. After the presentation, attendees will be given the option to make a free appointment with attorneys for the following week where they can complete the necessary paperwork for Advance Healthcare Directives, or Durable Power of Attorney, or both.
February 11: Titan TUNESdays
Tuesday, 6:30pm. The Community Music Club of Hercules High School will dazzle us with musical stylings - classical, vocal, jazz, contemporary, and more. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. in the library’s great room. Come and end your day at the library, with teen titans, and beautiful music!
February 12: Love in Frames: Valentine’s Day Painting Party
Wednesday, 4pm. Teens are invited to unleash their artistic flair by painting custom wooden picture frames. Whether you want to celebrate friendship, family, or romance, this event is all about capturing those special moments. Registration is required per teen: https://ccclib. bibliocommons.com/events/6724274f8fc0a328000a83d0.
February 12: Max Meditation
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 is right for you! With the guidance of a professional healer, you’ll clear your mind and gain serenity.
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. Park Place & West Richmond Avenue
POINT RICHMOND
May to September
Wednesday - 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Nevin Avenue & 13th Street
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
• Free Consultations
• Same Day Emergency
• Walk-ins Welcome
• Dental Implants
• Braces, Invisalign, (Clear Braces)
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Family and Children’s Dentistry
• Sedation (For Your Comfort)
• Root Canals
• Gum Treatment
• Extractions
• Crowns, Bridges, Dentures
• Latest Laser Technology
• Newest Technologies & Facility
• Highest Infection Control Standards
• Best of the Bay & Best of Hercules Award
• Payment Plans
• Accept Most Insurance Plans
• We Speak English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Punjabi & Hindi
“Dr Lin has done some wonderful work for me that has saved my teeth. He has the latest equipment and is so knowledgeable, thank you so much. The staff is wonderful-they always fit me in conveniently. And Michelle is the best!” - Louise H.
