Making Technology Work for You A Conversation with Modern Wiring I
f you’ve lived in Scotts Valley for a while, chances are you’ve driven past a Modern Wiring van and wondered what “Technology Installation Professionals” really means. That’s by design, says owner Dave Hurley; the goal is to make technology disappear into the background of a customer’s life, not to be noticed. Hurley started Modern Wiring after encountering the same frustration: Wi-Fi that didn’t reach the back bedroom, a crooked TV mount with a tangle of cables behind it, a security app that never quite made sense. “None of that is really about the technology,” he says. “It’s about technology that wasn’t set up with the actual person in mind.” That philosophy still drives the business; technology should serve the customer, not the other way around. Most of Modern Wiring’s work falls into three areas: television and home theater, Wi-Fi and networking, and security cameras.
Along the way, he’s picked up a few tips worth sharing. Five quick tips from Dave: 1) Your next TV should be a painting. Samsung, LG, and TCL all now make “frame” style televisions, thin, low-glare screens that display museum artwork of your choosing whenever you’re not watching something. “Unless you like staring at a big black rectangle on your wall most of the time,” Dave says, “there’s really no reason not to have something beautiful there instead.” 2) A security camera is a window into your world; you shouldn’t have to pay rent for it. According to Dave, excellent camera systems exist that don’t require a monthly subscription to view your own footage. He recommends knowing your options before committing to a fee. 3) Everyone’s stepping on the same Wi-Fi frequencies. Neighbors’ networks, microwaves, baby monitors, it’s all sharing the same limited airspace, Dave notes. An adjustable system, paired with someone who knows how to tune it, reduces dead spots around a home or business and makes Wi-Fi calling work when it’s needed most. 4) If you can’t get cable or fiber, you still have options. Starlink, ViaSat, and cellularbased home internet from Verizon and AT&T
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have all become legitimate choices for properties in more remote parts of Santa Cruz County and the Summit area, Dave says. The right one depends on the specific location and needs, worth a real conversation, not a guess. 5) Future-proof the wiring, not just the gadgets. Devices become outdated every few years; TVs, routers, and cameras eventually get replaced. But the cable inside the walls should last decades. “It costs almost nothing to run an extra line or two while a wall is already open,”
Dave says, “and considerably more to open it back up later.” At the end of the day, Dave’s goal is simple: a customer’s Wi-Fi, TV, and cameras should work quietly in the background, almost like magic. ••• We’re delighted to have Modern Wiring as part of the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce. Modern Wiring is a locally owned, fully licensed low-voltage technology installation company based in Scotts Valley. Learn more at modernwiring.com or call 831-345-0321.
Meet Our New Member: Mt. Hermon Dental Care
familiar Scotts Valley dental practice has a new owner, a new chapter and a dentist who is excited to become part of the community he now calls home. Mt. Hermon Dental Care, which has been serving Scotts Valley families for more than 17 years, recently welcomed Dr. Devon Le as its new owner. Dr. Le purchased the practice in April 2026, bringing with him a strong clinical background, a passion for modern dental technology, and, perhaps most importantly, a
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very personal understanding of what a healthy smile can mean to a person’s confidence. Born and raised in San Jose, Dr. Le earned both his undergraduate degree and DDS through the accelerated 3+3 program at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. He went on to complete a General Practice Residency at the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Houston, where he gained experience treating complex cases, performing surgical procedures and managing dental emergencies.
“Mt. Hermon Dental Care” page 13
Calendar of Upcoming Community Events Thursday October 15
5:30 – 6:30 pm — Ribbon Cutting Party
Mt. Hermon Dental Care 221 Mt. Hermon Rd STE H, Scotts Valley
Call the Chamber Today or Visit www.scottsvalleychamber.com
www.tpgonlinedaily.com Scotts Valley Times / October 2026 / 11
Scotts Valley Chamber News
A Night of Hope
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Arukah Project’s Fifth Annual Freedom Gala Inspires a Community
here are evenings that leave an impression long after the lights dim, and the last guests head home. The Arukah Project’s Fifth Annual Freedom Gala was one of those unforgettable nights. The gala brought together community members, advocates, volunteers, donors, and local leaders with one shared purpose: to celebrate the lives being transformed through Arukah Project’s work and to reaffirm a collective commitment to survivors of human trafficking. We were given an insider look into an actual rescue of a trafficked victim, harrowing for everyone to hear, unimaginable to put yourself in the victims’ position, bravely calling Arukah Project for help, deciding to trust when your trust is already shattered and to have her call not only taken, but she was then calmly coached to run for safety. It was an eye-opening section of the evening that will stay with all who attended. The message was; every rescue, every advocacy appointment, every safe night, and every step toward healing is possible because of a supportive community. Those words captured the spirit of the evening. The gala was not simply a fundraiser; it was a celebration of resilience, compassion,
From left: SV Mayor, Donna Lind; Arukah Project Founder & Executive Director, Loreal Weitzel; Arukah Project Deputy Director, Natasha; City Council Members; Steve Clark, Greg Wimp & Krista Jett; SV Police Chief, Jayson Rutherford. and the power of a community choosing to stand beside survivors as they rebuild their lives. It was also a time to celebrate those who have helped Arukah and their mission. As a Scotts Valley-based nonprofit, Arukah Project has become a source of hope for countless survivors. At the Chamber Gala in May, we proudly celebrated them as our Organization of the Year. Our community is incredibly fortunate to have an organization of this caliber right here in Scotts Valley, one that meets survivors where they are with advocacy, trauma-informed care, emergency support, and a steadfast commitment
to long-term healing. They help far and wide, but Scotts Valley is home base. They have also helped to highlight that human trafficking happens everywhere, even in our little community. While the evening celebrated remarkable supporters and accomplishments, it also looked toward an even brighter future. One of Arukah Project’s most ambitious and transformative goals is the creation of Hope House; a residential home designed specifically for survivors of human trafficking. Hope House represents far more than a building. It represents stability after chaos,
healing after trauma, and the opportunity for survivors to rediscover independence in a safe, supportive environment. The vision is to provide a place where survivors can receive comprehensive services while rebuilding their lives with dignity, community, and hope. Hope House will fill a critical gap in survivor care, offering the time, resources, and support necessary for lasting restoration. This vision remains one of Arukah Project’s highest priorities as the organization continues to grow. The Freedom Gala served as a powerful reminder that meaningful change happens when a community comes together. Every sponsorship, every auction bid, every donation, and every conversation throughout the evening moved Arukah one step closer to making Hope House a reality and ensuring survivors have the opportunity not only to escape exploitation but to truly thrive. As guests departed, they carried with them more than memories of a beautiful evening. They left with renewed purpose and with the reminder printed so beautifully in the evening’s program: “Freedom is possible, and together, we are making it happen.” For Scotts Valley and the surrounding communities, that message is one worth celebrating. ••• If you’d like to help Arukah Project with their Hope House mission, please visit: arukahproject.org/ our-initiatives/ hope-house/ or use this QR code:
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12 / October 2026 / Scotts Valley Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com
ADJUST IRRIGATION HABITS: PREPARE FOR THE RAINY SEASON Get ready for the rainy months. Adjust your outdoor irrigation habits for the fall. Learn more at www.svwd.org
Scotts Valley Chamber News “Mt. Hermon Dental Care” from page 11 After several years of practicing in the Bay Area, he eventually found his way to the coast. His approach to dentistry is rooted in listening, communication, and making patients feel comfortable. The practice describes its philosophy as honest, conservative dentistry, with treatment recommendations tailored to each patient rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. And there’s a deeply personal reason that philosophy matters to Dr. Le. Growing up in San Jose’s Evergreen neighborhood, he was an outdoorsy kid who loved working with his hands. A dedicated Boy Scout who eventually earned the rank of Eagle Scout, he always knew he wanted a career in healthcare, one where he could combine science, creativity and craftsmanship. “I get to work with my hands every day,” he says. “It’s like a form of arts and crafts.” But long before he ever picked up a dental handpiece, Dr. Le struggled with something many young people experience feeling self-conscious about his smile. “I had such low self-confidence in middle school,” he recalls. “After I got my braces off, everything changed.” That transformation left a lasting impression. “What an experience to gain so much self-confidence from the help of an orthodontist,” he says. “I love helping patients feel better.” That desire to help people feel more confident still drives him every day. His educational journey reflected that commitment. Completing the University of the Pacific’s accelerated six-year dental program wasn’t easy. “It was a rough six years,” he laughs. “It was an excellent program filled with a lot of studying, but it was intense.” After graduation, he sharpened his skills through a hospital-based residency in Houston before returning to practice in the Bay Area. While the experience was valuable, something was missing.
“I was working at a large corporate-style dental office,” he says. “I was looking for a better fit, a smaller town, nature all around, and a dental office that’s close with its patients.” As an avid fisherman who grew up casting lines with his father during Boy Scout outings, the coast felt like home. “I’m happy it’s salmon season right now,” he says with a smile. “Scotts Valley is just in between everything, the perfect place to be. It would be hard to ever leave this area.”
Continuing a Trusted Tradition
When the opportunity came to purchase Mt. Hermon Dental Care, it felt like more than just a business opportunity; it felt like finding exactly what he had been searching for. “Dr. John Stevens and I just clicked right away,” Dr. Le says. “The first time we met, we went on a hike in Henry Cowell and spent the whole time talking about our careers and how patient-oriented we both were.” That shared philosophy made the transition feel natural. “Dr. Stevens had built a great practice where patients come first, and relationships matter. That’s exactly what I was looking for.” His long-term vision is simple. “My ultimate goal was to have a practice where I could be friends with my patients.” For longtime patients, Dr. Le wanted the transition to feel reassured rather than disruptive. Dr. Stevens remained with the practice for three months after the sale, personally introducing patients to their new dentist and helping ensure continuity of care. “Patients have been incredibly receptive and welcoming,” Dr. Le says. “It’s been a great experience.” In many ways, familiar faces still greet patients when they walk through the doors. “All the staff are the same, so it all feels familiar,” he explains. “Basically, I’m keeping everything the same.” What is changing happens largely behind the scenes.
Dr. Le is gradually introducing new technology designed to make appointments more comfortable and as close to painless as possible. “It’s all about making the patient experience better.”
He’s equally passionate about preventive dentistry. “I value preventive care because it helps reduce dental emergencies.”
Dentistry Built Around Conversations
Outside the office, you’ll often find Dr. Le enjoying everything that drew him to the coast in the first place, fishing, golfing, exploring local restaurants and spending time with his partner Rachel and their dog, Louis. He’s equally excited to become involved in the Scotts Valley business community. Joining the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce was an easy decision. “I want to be part of the community,” he says. “The Chamber is a great way to do that.” Mt. Hermon Dental Care also looks forward to supporting local events, including sponsoring Scotts Valley’s Art, Wine & Beer Festival next year. For anyone who has been putting off a dental visit, Dr. Le has a simple invitation. “At least stop by. I’m always open to having a chat,” he says. “We want to know about your concerns and your fears so we can help create a better experience. The first visit is the easiest visit. Come in, get to know me, get to know the team, and get to know the office.” Community members will have the opportunity to come say hello during the Mt. Hermon Dental Care’s Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, October 15, at 5:30 p.m. The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Dr. Devon Le and Mt. Hermon Dental Care as our newest Chamber member. We look forward to seeing this respected local practice continue serving generations of Scotts Valley families while building new relationships under Dr. Le’s thoughtful and patient-centered leadership. ••• Mt. Hermon Dental Care — 221 Mt. Hermon Road, Suite H, Scotts Valley, CA 95066. mounthermondentalcare.com
One things patients will notice it’s the way Dr. Le approaches care. He believes dentistry should never feel rushed or pressured. “It’s common to have high-pressure sales at larger corporate offices,” he says. “That’s not what’s this office is like.” Instead, new patient appointments are scheduled for a full hour. “The most important thing is for the patient to feel heard,” he explains. “We talk about what they’re nervous about, their fears and their end goals.” Throughout the visit, he takes photographs and carefully explains what he’s seeing, so patients understand their oral health rather than simply being told what treatment they need. “The recommendations aren’t onesided,” he says. “They’re conversations. We discuss options and evaluate what works for each patient.” That philosophy has proven especially valuable for patients who experience dental anxiety. By taking time to listen first and treat second, Dr. Le hopes even the most nervous patients leave feeling comfortable.
Comprehensive Care for the Whole Family
Mt. Hermon Dental Care offers comprehensive dental services for patients of all ages, including preventive care, family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, crowns, bridges, implants, extractions and emergency dental treatment. Among the services Dr. Le finds most rewarding are emergency appointments. “Emergency care helps take patients get out of pain,” he says. “That’s so rewarding.”
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Scotts Valley Chamber News
Local 3D Printing Company Helps Scotts Valley Businesses Replace Hard-to-Source Parts
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DSendIt LLC is a Scotts Valley-based 3D printing and additive manufacturing company helping local businesses solve practical problems through custom parts, prototyping, and short-run production. Founded by Travis Tobiassen and Sylvia Mejia Tobiassen, 3DSendIt combines 3D scanning, CAD design, and additive manufacturing to recreate physical components,
develop new products, and produce small quantities without traditional tooling or large minimum orders. A local business may have valuable equipment sitting idle because a small plastic bracket, cover, knob, bezel, tray, or mounting component is no longer available. 3DSendIt can evaluate whether a part can be scanned, redesigned, or reproduced locally, helping solve small but costly problems when traditional replacement options fall short. The company also works with businesses on prototypes, fixtures, custom displays, branded products, and other functional components. It offers retail-ready items that local businesses can display, carry, or resell, with custom and branded options available. “We created 3DSendIt with one mission in mind: help people,” Travis and Sylvia said. “Whether that means supporting sensory needs, helping a child gain mobility, or keeping a small business moving by recreating a part it
can no longer buy, we want our technology to make a meaningful difference.” That mission is already being put into practice through 3DSendIt’s work with MakeGood. Using MakeGood’s design files, 3DSendIt is 3D printing and assembling a Toddler Mobility Trainer for a child awaiting the completed device which is at no cost to the child’s family. 3DSendIt is a Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business and a new member of the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce, serving businesses and organizations throughout Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz County. Businesses with a broken or unavailable part, a product idea, or a small production need can visit 3DSendIt.com to discuss their project and determine whether a practical local solution is possible. The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome 3DSendIt to the Chamber. We’re so interested in what they
can do and how helpful they can be in the community. What an awesome resource to have in Scotts Valley.
Celebrating the Heart of the Festival: Thank You to Our Incredible Volunteers
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very year, thousands of people gather at the Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival to enjoy incredible local curated artists, award-winning wines and craft beers, live entertainment, delicious food, family activities, learning about what Scotts Valley has to offer, all-the-dogs and of course the community spirit that makes this event so special. Every smiling volunteer helping you park, handing out programs, checking IDs, helping artists, assisting in the Kid Zone, setting up booths, or staying late to tear everything down is the real reason this festival is such a success. Simply put, we couldn’t do it without them. The Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival is powered by volunteers. From Thursday and Friday’s setup through Monday’s final cleanup, hundreds of hours are donated by community members who generously give their time,
energy, and enthusiasm to make the weekend unforgettable. Whether welcoming guests with a smile, supporting the Cops N’ Rodders Car Show, assisting with Wellness Day and Dog Day, or jumping in wherever needed, every volunteer plays an essential role in bringing the festival to life. To show our appreciation, volunteers receive a festival T-shirt, food and drinks during their shift, a commemorative tasting glass and drink ticket for volunteers 21 and older, and an invitation to the Volunteer Appreciation Party. While those perks are wonderful, the greatest reward is knowing they’ve helped create one of Scotts Valley’s most beloved community traditions.
The Volunteers Who Keep the Chamber Moving All Year
Many people don’t realize that the spirit of volunteerism doesn’t end when the festival gates close. The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce is fortunate to have an outstanding team of Chamber Ambassadors who volunteer throughout the entire year. These dedicated community leaders serve as the welcoming face of the Chamber, introducing new members, helping local businesses build meaningful connections, attending ribbon cuttings, supporting networking events, and assisting with major community celebrations like helping us run the Art, Wine & Beer
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Festival and the Annual Community Awards Gala. The Ambassador Program is made up of passionate volunteers from a variety of professional backgrounds who believe in strengthening our local business community. Their commitment helps businesses feel connected, supported, and engaged while making Scotts Valley an even better place to live, work, and do business. They truly are the link between the Chamber, its members, and our community.
Want to Get Involved?
Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet new people, give back to the community, make lasting friendships, and experience the excitement behind the scenes. Whether you can spare a few hours during festival weekend or you’re looking for a year-round opportunity to become a Chamber Ambassador, there’s a place for you. If being part of a fun, energetic group that helps shape our community sounds like something you’d enjoy, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce to learn more about becoming a Chamber Ambassador or sign up in the spring to volunteer at next year’s Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival. Many don’t realize that even our Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is made up of volunteers from the business
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community, who work year-round to help us run the Chamber. During Art, Wine & Beer week they’re all hard at work to make each festival better than the last. Together, our volunteers don’t just help run events; they help build community. For that, we are endlessly grateful. Thank you to every Volunteer, Ambassador, and Board Member for helping Scotts Valley shine.
Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce 360 King’s Village Road Scotts Valley, CA 95066