Chamber Chats: Connecting Scotts Valley Businesses, One Conversation at a Time
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he Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce is introducing Chamber Chats, a new series designed to connect, educate, and inspire local Chamber businesses. Each session will bring Chamber members together for lively, informative discussions on topics that matter most to our business community. From exploring new marketing strategies and emerging tools to sharing success stories over coffee. Chamber Chats will be a place where ideas spark and meaningful connections grow. “Our goal is to create a space for genuine conversation, learning, and collaboration,” said Chamber Director Kelly Gavin. “The possibilities are endless, from educational talks and industry spotlights to creative networking sessions. We want this program to evolve with our members’ needs and, of course, have some fun along the way.” The inaugural Chamber Chat will feature
S co t t s V a lle y Chamber of Commerce
Paul Regen of Amazing AI, who will lead an interactive tutorial on how artificial intelligence can support small businesses and streamline daily operations. Regen will show how AI can be used as a practical advantage rather than something to fear, a timely topic in today’s fast-changing business landscape.
The Chamber extends its gratitude to the Scotts Valley Hilton for hosting the first session. Attendees will enjoy a tour of the property, showcasing its versatile meeting and event spaces, from intimate breakfast rooms to large conference venues, perfect for local gatherings. Chamber Chats are open to all current Chamber members and offer a relaxed, welcoming environment to learn and connect. The Chamber invites members to help shape future sessions by suggesting topics, speakers, or formats. December’s Chamber Chat will feature Fifth District Supervisor Monica Martinez in what promises to be another engaging discussion. ••• For more info or to get involved, email info@ scottsvalleychamber.com.
New Member Spotlight
House of Bagels: A Family Recipe for Community and Kindness
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lthough the morning line is speedy at House of Bagels in Scotts Valley, you already know it’s worth any wait based on the smell alone. Freshly baked fluffy, flavorful bagels & coffee is not something easily passed up, and it’s understandable why locals in the know just can’t get enough. Owners Omar and Eli Ojeda are the heart behind this beloved bagel shop, which has been serving Scotts Valley for more than 20 years. Eli worked under the previous owners for years, while Omar was a loyal customer, stopping by to say hello to his wife and grabbing a bagel and his daily cup of coffee. When the opportunity to take
over came, right before COVID, the couple combined their experience and passion to continue a tradition of great food and warm hospitality. That first year
For Omar and Eli, House of Bagels isn’t just about breakfast or lunch; it’s a community hub. Regulars fill the cozy shop and sunny outdoor patio each morning, enjoying their coffee and conversation. When school’s out, teens flock in for the shop’s surprisingly popular boba drinks. The vibe is pure family, from Omar and Eli’s teamwork to their three kids, some already learning the ropes for the future. If you’re not sure what to order, local favorites include the Turkey Avocado with Bacon, the spicy was a struggle, given the state of Jalapeño Bagel (a nod to Omar’s the world, but they felt the love Oaxacan roots), and the Smoked from our community. And they Salmon on an Everything Bagel. managed to stay afloat with all “House of Bagels” page 13 the support.
Happy Halloween!
Calendar of Upcoming Community Events Wednesday Nov 19
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. — Kissed by an Angel SV/ SLV Chamber Mixer Kissed by an Angel Wines 75 Mount Hermon Road, Suite E, Scotts Valley
Saturday December 6
5 – 8 p.m. – Scotts Valley Tree Lighting
The Exchange Club of Scotts Valley presents Light up the Night! 360 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley
2026 Thursday March 19
Time TBA – Mission Springs Centennial Celebration & Ribbon Cutting Mission Springs 1050 Lockhart Gulch Rd, Scotts Valley
Friday May 8
5-10 p.m. – Scotts Valley Community Awards Gala
Roaring Camp Railroads – Bret Harte Hall 5401 Graham Hill Rd., Felton
Saturday August 15 Sunday August 16
Scotts Valley Art Wine & Beer Festival Skypark Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. –5 p.m. 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley
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Call the Chamber Visit e c r e m m o CToday f o r e bor mah C www.scottsvalleychamber.com
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / November 2025 / 11
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Valley Churches United Opens Annual Holiday Gift Shop
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he beloved Annual Holiday Gift Shop at Valley Churches United in Ben Lomond officially opens its doors on November 1st, marking the beginning of a festive shopping tradition cherished by locals throughout the San Lorenzo Valley. The shop will be open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., giving visitors plenty of time to explore the beautifully curated seasonal displays. An incredible team of talented and dedicated volunteers has once again transformed the space into an enchanting holiday boutique. This year’s gift shop features an exquisite selection of décor and gifts for both Thanksgiving and Christmas,
thoughtfully arranged to inspire your holiday spirit the moment you walk in. Shoppers will discover unique, handcrafted items, festive home accents, ornaments, seasonal table décor, and delightful treasures perfect for gift-giving — all offered at very reasonable prices. Every purchase made supports a meaningful cause. One hundred percent of the proceeds directly benefit Valley Churches United’s nonprofit, year-round food pantry, which provides essential support to local families and individuals in need throughout the community. Conveniently located in the heart of Ben Lomond at 9400 Highway 9, the Gift Shop is easy to find and well worth the visit. Make it part of your holiday tradition this year — shop with purpose, support a great cause, and bring home something beautiful. For more information, call 831-336-8258.
Celebrating 44 Years of Managing & Selling Homes throughout Santa Cruz County — 1981 – 2025 $4800/mo 4BR/2.5BA 2-story Townhome centrally located at 26 Silver Birch Lane in Scotts Valley. This home has new interior paint. Small yard. 2-car garage w/laundry hookups. No pets. ........................................................ AVAIL NOW $4550/mo 2-story 4BR/3BA Updated Home at 975 Logan Creek in Boulder Creek. Wood burning stove in living room. Individual heater-A/C unit in each bedrm. Eat-in kitchen. Dining rm. Laundry rm incl W/D. Deck. Garage. Pet friendly. Chicken coop. Goat pen. Garden. ................................................................................................................ AVAIL NOW $4000/mo Charming 3BR/2BA Vintage 2-story Home in Brookdale with modern upgrades. Located at 11260 Hwy 9. Large bonus loft on top level. Addt’l bonus office/gym. FP in living room. W/D incl. Fenced yard. Pet negotiable. ... AVAIL NOW $3400/mo 2BR/1BA Updated Upstairs Apartment in a well-appointed Duplex at 315 High Rise in Boulder Creek. Bonus room could be great office space. Large fenced yard. Garden w/green house. Pets ok. MI Special $200 off 2nd months rent ..... AVAIL NOW $2650/mo 2BR/1BA Stand-alone Home at 1024 Rambling Road in Boulder Creek. Home is upstairs. Large unfinished storage below home. W/D. Remodeled kitchen & bathroom. Fireplace. 1 cat ok. .............................................. AVAIL NOW $2500/mo Single-level 2BR/1BA Updated Cabin at 9600 Hwy 9 Unit #H in Ben Lomond. Fenced yard. No laundry. 1 cat considered. No dogs. ......................................................................................................................... AVAIL NOW
12 / November 2025 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
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Scotts Valley Chamber News
Think You’re Smarter Than Your Friends? Scotts Valley Has a Night for That!
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id you know trivia nights are all the rage in Scotts Valley? Some might go as far as to call it a social phenomenon! It’s definitely in a category of its own, not exactly a romantic night out, but it’s not a “do not engage” movie night either. Instead, it’s a full-on, audience-participation event where you can laugh with friends, meet new people, and maybe discover that you’re far smarter than your best friend. Spotted lately at a local trivia night: tables full of people ready to have a great night; the atmosphere is lighthearted but competitive, buzzing with the sound of laughter, cheers, and the occasional groan when someone blurts out the wrong answer. An added benefit is that you can choose
“House of Bagels” from page 11 Don’t sleep on the green onions,
to engage with strangers or friends at neighboring tables or be the ultra-serious crew. Our trivia haunts specialize in adult beverages and also do a wonderful job cooking your dinner; you don’t even have to wash your dishes. Add in the chance to win something cool and still make it home early enough to get a good night’s sleep while you dream of all those missed questions! It’s easy to see why trivia is becoming a go-to night out for Scotts Valley locals;
beyond the fun, these events are helping strengthen community ties. Trivia nights bring people together — coworkers, neighbors, parents, and friends — for a few hours of connection and laughter. It’s the kind of simple joy that reminds us why community matters. And Scotts Valley is really holding its own when it comes to trivia options. Whether you’re a seasoned quiz master or just looking for an easy night off from the kitchen, you’ll find plenty of places to play, laugh, and connect. Here are a couple of local favorites to check out: Bruno’s Bar and Grill Tacos & Trivia, every Tuesday at 7 p.m. Great food, fun prizes, and a crowd that knows how to have a good time.
either. Pro tip: if you’ve got cheese on your egg bagel, leave it wrapped for a few minutes...gooey perfection.
The shop also offers muffins, croissants, and a wide variety of drinks, so much to choose from. The Ojedas credit the Scotts Valley community for helping them stay afloat. “We treat everyone like family,” Omar says. “Hard work, kindness, and a strong mentality make the dream possible.” And they are also very community oriented, from schools who need a bagel morning, to helping feed the Scotts Valley Chamber crew who put on the Art, Wine and Beer festival; they are there with a helping hand and a friendly hello. For a great start to any morning, stop by Kings Village Shopping Center to taste the goodness for yourself, and maybe grab a boba while you’re there.
Steel Bonnet Brewing Company Thursdays at 6:30 p.m., various hosts. Enjoy craft beer and clever questions and a rollicking good time in a lively pub setting.
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www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / November 2025 / 13
Scotts Valley Chamber News New Member Spotlight
Mission Springs
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A Century of Faith, Fellowship, and Redwood Roots
ucked away in the redwoods at the end of Lockhart Gulch Road, Mission Springs has been a beloved local treasure. Since its founding in 1926 by a small group of Swedish immigrants,
this 200-acre retreat and conference center has welcomed generations of campers, families, and groups to experience renewal, connection, and community in the heart of Scotts Valley. Mission Springs impacts thousands each year, guided by its mission to provide “a Christ-honoring place” where visitors can “renew their wonder, revive their faith, and refocus their purpose.” Each summer, Mission Springs transforms into a lively hub of activity through its beloved Frontier Ranch program, where campers can unplug, sing campfire songs, go on outdoor adventures, and form lasting friendships. But the fun doesn’t end with summer — the property also serves as a year-round retreat and conference center, offering comfortable lodging, delicious meals, and meeting spaces perfect for church and community gatherings, leadership development, and non-profit groups. During the school year, Mission Springs’ Outdoor Education program brings science and nature to life for public and private schools, inspiring curiosity and stewardship through hands-on learning in the forest.
Advertise in the Scotts Valley Chamber Newsletter
14 / November 2025 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
And in 2026, there’s even more to celebrate — Mission Springs turns 100! Plans are underway for a Centennial Celebration honoring “100 years of God’s faithfulness.” The event will bring together alumni, families, and community members for stories, music, and a joyful look back at a century of life-changing
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moments, as well as excitement for what the next one hundred years will bring. Mission Springs would like to thank the Scotts Valley community for its years of dedication and support. ••• To learn more or get involved in the upcoming celebration, visit missionsprings.com/centennial.
Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce 360 King’s Village Road Scotts Valley, CA 95066