Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce 2026 Executive Team Kelly Gavin
Executive Director elly joined the Chamber this year with a storied background in TV and media production and a deep well of experience in management, event planning, sales, and marketing. All of that made her well suited to step into the Executive Director role. She’s passionate about connecting Kelly Gavin people, lifting them and their businesses up, encouraging people to shop local, and enthusiastically sharing just how great our community really is. She’s loved working collaboratively with neighboring chambers and looks forward each months Leadership Santa Cruz day, where she gets to learn, connect, and show
K
off her local knowledge, something most people in this county love to do. When she’s not at work, you might hear Kelly on the radio, see her at the ocean, or catch her searching for the VW Bus of her dreams, almost certainly with a cup of coffee in hand. Her non-work skills include photography (usually involving water), dominating trivia- especially music-based trivia, locating the best coffee wherever she goes and making her friends laugh, sometimes on purpose. She’s also the proud parent of a pretty great kid and a few cats they love way too much. •••
Victor Alejandro
President ictor is a Product Manager at Cisco and was the 2023 Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year. He is married, with 3 children. He is the President for the
V
Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce and is also an Ambassador. He sits on the Economic Development Committee and attends Silicon Valley C h a m b e r C o a l i t i o n meetings, which include 18 Chambers of Commerce in the Bay Area. He is also President of the Exchange Victor Alejandro Club of Scotts Valley, which has been serving Scotts Valley for over 50 years. Exchange Club events include A.C.E. award scholarships for 2 SVHS seniors, the Alfred Hitchcock festival for the Scotts Valley Community Theater, the Blue & Gold Celebration for the Police and Firefighter of the year, participation in the 4th of July parade handing out flags, Adopt a Family for Christmas, as well as the
Light up the Night! Holiday tree lighting event, hosted in partnership with the City of Scotts Valley, the Scotts Valley Police and Fire departments, and other Service Clubs. Light up the Night! benefits Valley Churches United. He is in the Parent Club of Scotts Valley High School and volunteers annually at the Fallen Officer’s Foundation. He is the Chairman of the Weston Road Firewise Steering Committee and coordinates 2 chipping events annually, in coordination with the Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District. •••
Kim Pursley
Vice President im Pursley will serve as Vice President of the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee, after joining the Board in 2021.
K
“2026 Executive Team” page 14
Fallen Officer Foundation Celebrates 20th Anniversary Ball
F
rom the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce, with deep respect and gratitude, we are honored to shine a light on an extraordinary organization that has stood as a constant source of strength, compassion, and hope for our community for two decades. The Fallen Officer Foundation is not only an amazing group of volunteers and supporters; it is the very embodiment of what it means to stand strong for those who stand for us. Founded in the wake of tragedy, the Fallen Officer Foundation has grown into a beacon of care for Santa Cruz County First Responders and their families. When moments of crisis, injury, or loss arrive without warning, this organization responds
with dignity, action, and unwavering commitment. It is a privilege for our business community to recognize a foundation that gives so selflessly to those who dedicate their lives to protecting ours. As the Fallen Officer Foundation prepares to celebrate a remarkable milestone, we invite the entire community to come together in support of its mission. The 2026 Fallen Officer Foundation 20th Anniversary Ball promises to be a truly meaningful (and fun) evening, honoring both the legacy of the foundation and the courageous men and women it serves. “20 Years” page 14
Happy New Year!
Calendar of Upcoming Community Events Thursday January 15
5:30–7 p.m. — Santa Cruz Eyebrows Ribbon Cutting 3107 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley
Saturday February 7
5:30–11 p.m. — Fallen Officer Foundation 20th Anniversary Ball (Tickets Required) The Grove 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz
Thursday March 19
5:30–7 p.m. — 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
S c ot t s V a l l e y Chamber of Commerce
Call the Chamber Today or Visit www.scottsvalleychamber.com
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / January 2026 / 11
Scotts Valley Chamber News
ReGeneration Church Invites the Community to Explore Faith, Connection, and Purpose S cotts Valleys ReGeneration Church has created a welcoming space for people seeking meaningful connection, thoughtful conversation, and spiritual growth; whether they are new to faith, returning after time away, or simply curious. At its core, ReGeneration Church emphasizes community, authenticity, and lifelong growth. The congregation reflects a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and
life experiences, united by a shared desire to build healthy relationships and support one another. Fellowship is central to church life, with an emphasis on mutual respect, open dialogue, and caring for one another through life’s challenges. Focusing on personal and collective transformation, helping individuals discover purpose, meaning, and value through examining the life and teachings of Jesus in a practical, relatable way. The church also values intergenerational relationships, believing that each generation has something vital to offer the others. Sunday worship services are designed to engage both the heart and the mind. Attendees will find a blend of music, prayer, children’s programming, and clear, verse-by-verse teaching that connects biblical wisdom to everyday life. Questions are encouraged, and conversations are welcomed in an environment that values honesty and curiosity. Whether someone is exploring faith for the first time or looking to deepen their understanding, ReGeneration aims to be a safe and thoughtful place to do so. Beyond weekly services, the church is actively involved in serving the broader community. Through missional giving, members contribute their time, talents, and resources to
support more than 20 local and global ministries, reflecting a commitment to making a positive impact both close to home and beyond. ReGeneration Church meets at 1500 Green Hills Road, Suite 103, Scotts Valley. Sunday prayer begins at 9:00 am, followed by a worship service at 10:00 am. For more information, visit theregenerationchurch.com, email info@theregenerationchurch.com, or contact Associate Pastor Eric McCall at 831-477-7777. Visitors are welcome to come as they are and experience the community firsthand.
2025 Scotts Valley Community Awards Nominations are OPEN• Nomination Deadline Feb. • Annette Marcum Memorial WOMAN OF • It may be in the previous year or over a munity, it’s EASY, it’s QUICK! 20 THE YEAR period which you specify. Vote at scottsvalleychamber.com
T
he Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce seeks assistance in recognizing the people and businesses that make our community such a special place. Please send us your 2025 nominations for outstanding businesses and individuals for the following categories: • Alvin Scarborough Memorial MAN OF THE YEAR
• YOUTH OF THE YEAR • EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR • BUSINESS OF THE YEAR • ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR • Claire Hodgin Memorial BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT OF SCOTTS VALLEY
Criteria for nomination
• Each nominee must have made a valuable contribution to Scotts Valley.
• A business of the year nominee must be a current Scotts Valley Chamber member. • An individual may live or work outside the city limits, but their contribution must be within Scotts Valley. • Youth of the year nominee must be of High School age Help us honor the leaders of our com-
Celebrating 44 Years of Managing & Selling Homes throughout Santa Cruz County — 1981 – 2025 3BR/2BA Large Beautifully Updated Home at 220 1/2 El Camino in North Scotts Valley. Wonderful kitchen with ample storage, granite counters, skylight and open layout with dining room. The living room features open beamed ceilings and a gas fireplace for added ambience. Laundry room. 2-car garage. Decks and patio. Great space for entertaining inside and outside! ......................................................................................................................................... AVAIL NOW 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. Pet friendly. ........................................................... AVAIL NOW 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 1BR/1BA Single-level Condo located at 1860 Reinelt Ave. #C2 in Live Oak. Patio in back yard. New flooring and new interior paint throughout. Carport. Extra storage. Coin-op laundry and pool onsite. No pets. .................. AVAIL NOW 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
12 / January 2026 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
WE’RE HIRING! ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATION ANALYST Learn more about this position at svwd.org/careers Open until filled, apply immediately!
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Santa Cruz Animal Shelter Foundation: A Community Champion for Pets T he Santa Cruz Animal Shelter Foundation is making a meaningful difference for animals and families across Santa Cruz County by supporting the vital work of the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, the region’s only openadmission animal care facility. The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce is honored and proud to highlight and support this remarkable nonprofit and its mission to safeguard and improve the lives of the county’s pets. The Shelter serves as a compassionate,
inclusive resource for the community by welcoming every animal in need, every day of the year. It provides essential services such as animal control, lost and found assistance, pet licensing, rabies vaccinations, safe housing for stray and surrendered animals, and humane care including medical treatment. With two locations; 1001 Rodriguez Street in Santa Cruz and 580 Airport Blvd. in Watsonville, the Shelter cares for thousands of animals annually, offering temporary refuge, socialization, and
veterinary care while working to find loving homes. While municipal funding supports the Shelter’s core operations, many preventive, educational, and community outreach programs depend on private contributions raised by the Foundation. The Foundation’s purpose is to generate a steady stream of charitable support so that programs proven to reduce suffering and prevent homelessness can thrive and expand. These include initiatives such as Planned Pethood, which focuses on increasing spay and neuter services to help curb pet
overpopulation; humane education and community outreach; and supportive services that help keep pets and families together. The Foundation also energizes the community through creative fundraisers like the Awkward Pet Portraits fundraiser, where participants donate to receive delightfully quirky art of their pets, with proceeds benefiting Shelter animals waiting for their forever homes. There are so many ways to donate and get involved. “SCCAS” page 14
Santa Cruz Eyebrows Hosts Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Scotts Valley
S
anta Cruz Eyebrows, Scotts Valley’s destination for expert eyebrow shaping and beauty services, is excited to announce its official ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, January 15, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The community is warmly invited to celebrate this special milestone. Founded with a passion for precision and Anna Ritchie a belief that great brows can transform confidence, Santa Cruz Eyebrows offers a range of services including Microblading, Hybrid, Brow Shaping, Tinting, Lamination, Eyeliner, Lip Blush, Ear Piercings and personalized complimentary brow consultations. In addition, the studio is
committed to providing a welcoming, detailfocused experience where clients can relax and leave feeling their best. Anna Ritchie brings 10 years of experience in the beauty industry and a dedication to helping clients enhance their natural features. “Brows frame the face, and I love helping people look and feel amazing with results that are tailored just for them.” The ribbon cutting event will feature light refreshments, special promotions, and an opportunity to tour the new studio and meet the owner. Residents, business owners, and community members are encouraged to attend and celebrate the addition of this small business to Scotts Valley Chamber, it’s a chance to welcome a thriving local business, strengthen connections, and celebrate entrepreneurship together.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit Santa Cruz Eyebrows at www. santacruzeyebrows.com or contact Anna directly via phone or text at (831) 818-9718
You can also follow on all socials @ SantaCruzEyebrows Location is 3107 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, CA 95066
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / January 2026 / 13
Scotts Valley Chamber News “SCCAS” from page 13 At the helm of the Foundation, backed by her fantastic Board of Directors is Executive Director Nga Trinh-Halperin, whose lifelong love for animals and extensive nonprofit leadership experience guide the organiza-
“20 Years” from page 11 The event will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the historic Grove, formally known as the Cocoanut Grove, just adjacent to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Guests will gather from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. for a memorable dinner dance featuring live and silent auctions, heartfelt tributes to first responders, and an opportunity to celebrate their service side by side with them. Tickets are now on sale, with individual tickets available for 150 dollars each. Proceeds from the evening directly support local first responders during times of crisis or special need. Tickets can be purchased by visiting SCFOF.org. This anniversary ball is much more than a social event. It is a powerful reminder of
“2026 Executive Team” from page 11 A lifelong resident of the San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley communities, Kim’s deep connection to the area has shaped both her career and her commitment to giving back. After more than 20 years in corporate marketing and sales, she found that no place compared to the charm and heart of her hometown. While advancing professionally, Kim pursued state board certifications in skincare and massage, driven Kim Pursley by a long-held vision to create a place of healing and wellness. In 2017, she brought her passions for business and holistic care together by opening Exhale Day Spa, now known as Kalani Day Spa, in Scotts Valley. Kalani, meaning “Heaven” in Hawaiian, reflects Kim’s goal of offering healing, wellness, and beauty for all ages. Clients often describe Kalani as having small town charm with big city services. In addition to her esthetics expertise, Kim is a Certified Holistic Practitioner, providing healing on an energy, emotional, and soul level. Kim is a proud Mom to her grown daughter, a devoted dog Momma, and a loving daughter to Joann and Paul Pursley. When time allows, she enjoys skiing, camping, fly fishing, golf, cooking, and spending time with
tion’s work. Nga first became involved with the Shelter in 2011 and brings more than three decades of experience working with nonprofits and public agencies. Her passion for animal welfare and community engagement helps the Foundation deepen its impact and reach.
Together with volunteers, donors, and partner organizations, the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter Foundation amplifies the Shelter’s ability to care for animals in crisis and strengthens programs that prevent animal suffering before it begins. The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce celebrates
the Foundation’s accomplishments and encourages the community to learn more, get involved, and support this compassionate mission. For more information about the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter Foundation and how to help, visit scanimalshelterfoundation.org.
what can be accomplished when a community comes together with purpose. It is an invitation to show appreciation, to give back, and to ensure that those who serve so valiantly never face hardship alone. Most importantly, it is a chance to stand shoulder to shoulder with local first responders and thank them for their tireless dedication. The Fallen Officer Foundation continues to render aid with compassion and respect, assisting first responders and their families when they need it most. As a non-profit organization with a volunteer board and 501c3 status, the foundation relies entirely on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and community partners. Their ability to respond during times of crisis exists only because of that support. There are many ways to help sustain this worthwhile cause. Attending the anniversary
ball is one of the most impactful, and fun, but support extends far beyond one evening. Community members and businesses can become event sponsors, donate auction items, or make direct financial contributions. Those who are unable to attend the ball can still give by visiting SCFOF.org or contacting the foundation directly. Every contribution, large or small, makes a meaningful difference. Donations help provide financial assistance to first responders and their families, support mental health and counseling services, assist with medical and educational needs, and raise awareness of the sacrifices made daily by our local heroes. Opportunities to give include one time donations, monthly sustaining gifts, memorial or honor donations, corporate giving, and planned giving that creates a lasting legacy of support.
The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce proudly encourages our members and neighbors to get involved. You can volunteer your time, attend events, donate, follow them on social media and simply share the foundation’s mission with others. Your involvement strengthens the safety net for those who protect our community every day. As the Fallen Officer Foundation marks 20 years of service, compassion, and resilience, we extend our heartfelt thanks. Your work reminds us that true community is built on care, gratitude, and action. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you on February 7, at the Grove, and to continuing our shared commitment to honoring and supporting Santa Cruz County First Responders for many years to come.
family and friends. Her wide range of certifications also includes ASL interpreter, scuba diver instructor, and skydiver instructor. Her love for the community runs deep. Kim has generously contributed her time through the Chamber Board, the Economic Recovery Task Force, and by supporting local schools, first responders, and senior communities. In 2020, she conceived the Holiday Passport program, which provided meaningful support to local businesses during a challenging time by driving new customers into stores during the holiday season. Kim’s philosophy is rooted in the Hawaiian concept of Ohana, meaning family not only by blood, but by connection and care. Her Ohana has been her foundation, and through it, her heart and her work remain centered on community. Because of her Ohana, her heart is full. •••
Phil earned his Computer Science degree from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and began his IT career at The Santa Cruz Operation. He expanded his expertise managing IT departments at Fortune 500 companies and dot-com startups until his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish PDNC, Inc. in 2001, which has Phil Neuman since evolved into our full business name of Cyber Ascend Technologies. Deeply committed to community service, Phil has volunteered as a firefighter and served on the board of Bonny Doon Fire & Rescue. He has also been an active board member and ambassador for the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce since 2017, serving as Board President for two terms in 2023 and 2024. Phil is a proud graduate of Leadership Santa Cruz County, Class 34, where he now serves on the board. Additionally, he contributes his time to Twin Lakes Church as a volunteer on the video production team. Phil and his wife Debbie reside in Scotts Valley. Their son, Zac, is CyAs Tech’s Service Manager and is actively involved in the family business. •••
young age learning the family business from the ground up. She enters her 10th year involved with the Scotts Valley Chamber, previously serving on the Executive Committee, serving many years as chair of the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival/Cops ‘N Rodders cars show. Passionate about supporting local businesses, Jeanette serves on the Scotts Valley Economic Recovery Task Force, was a DJ for KSCO’s Think Local First radio show and earned Scotts Valley’s Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016. Jeanette is a former co-owner of Larkin Precision Machining Inc. in Scotts Valley and worked as a Human Resources Generalist/ Business Partner for all Bay Federal Credit Union branches. She is a graduate of Leadership Santa Cruz County. Jeanette Larkin Jeanette is currently helping to run Santa Cruz Staffing; known for their expertise in quickly matching the highest quality candidates to the specific needs of Santa Cruz County’s top employers. Jeanette received her Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Waldorf University and also serves on the board of Valley Churches United.
Phil Neuman
Treasurer hil Neuman is the President and CEO of CyAs Tech, a locally owned Information Technology firm headquartered in Scotts Valley, California. CyAs Tech embodies Phil’s dedication to service and his passion for supporting the local community working under the motto “Better Tech Together”. The company empowers Santa Cruz County’s business builders by helping them leverage technology to secure data and drive profitable outcomes on their upward path to success.
P
Advertise in the Scotts Valley Chamber Newsletter
14 / January 2026 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
Jeanette Larkin
J
Secretary eanette was raised in Scotts Valley and worked in the hospitality industry from a
CALL FOR SPECIAL RATES 831.688.7549
Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce 360 King’s Village Road Scotts Valley, CA 95066