The Sinatra Show comes to Chaminade Resort and Spa
Saturday, February 8 • Chaminade Resort & Spa: 1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz
Here is your chance to dress up and step out!
Experience a delicious Italian buffet prepared by world-class Executive Chef Avrum. Immerse yourself in the warm ambiance of the elegant Santa Cruz Ballroom, where you will be transported to another time and place.
Get ready for a high-octane performance as David Hamilton, a sensational vocalist and entertainer, takes the stage with the dynamic band Essence. David’s three-octave range and the charisma of a bygone era will inspire everyone to dance to Sinatra’s signature songs.
Seating is limited, so don’t miss this unforgettable evening! This marks the third year of Chaminade presenting the Sinatra Dinner. Dance. Show.
• RSVP (831) 465-3421
• No-Host Cocktail Reception: 6:30 p.m.
• Dinner: 7 p.m.
• Show Begins: 8 p.m.
• $150 Per Person
For more info visit: Chaminade.com and/or GoldenSightProductions.com. You can also contact Kallen Hamrah of
Golden Sight Productions at 831-4611682 or email at kallenhamrah@sbcglobal. net, as well as contact Connie Hagston in sales at the Chaminade 831-475-3405.
Last Chance for Nominations for the 2024 Scotts Valley Community Awards
The Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce seeks your assistance in recognizing the people and businesses that make our community such a special place. Please send us your 2024 nominations for outstanding businesses and individuals for the following categories:
• YOUTH OF THE YEAR
• EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR
• BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
• Alvin Scarborough Memorial MAN OF THE YEAR
• Annette Marcum Memorial WOMAN 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.
• It may be in the previous year or over a period of time which you specify.
••• Nominating is quick and easy! Go to ScottsValleyChamber.com and help us honor the leaders of our community. Calendar
• A business of the year nominee must be a current Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce 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
Thursday January 16
5:30-7:00
David Hamilton
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce: 2025 Executive Team
Danny Reber
Executive Director
Danny Reber has served as the Executive Director for the Scotts Valley Chamber for the last ten years, and before that he served on its Board of Directors for seven years.
Danny is a lifelong Scotts Valley resident and feels privileged and honored to serve his community.
In addition to the Chamber, Danny also serves as Board President for Valley Churches United Missions, where he has served on the Board since 2016.
He is also a Past President of Scotts Valley Rotary and was named Scotts Valley “Man of the Year” in 2006. Danny also holds public office on the Scotts Valley Water Board where he has served since 2012 and is the current Board President.
“Reber” page 13
Nick Kurns Treasurer
Nick Kurns is currently the Finance and Customer Service Manager for Scotts Valley Water District (SVWD) which he joined in 2018. Kurns is responsible for the finance, accounting, utility billing, and customer service functions at SVWD.
During his tenure with SVWD, Kurns has led efforts to improve the District’s financial resiliency, such as the implementation of a funding strategy to reduce the District’s long-term pension liability and transitioning to monthly billing.
Kurns also serves as Treasurer for the Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency, the Groundwater Sustainability Agency for the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin which includes the City of Scotts Valley.
“Kurns” page 14
Joanne Guzman
2025 Board President Joanne “Jo” Guzman is co-owner of Bruno’s Bar and Grill, where she takes pride in giving back to the community. Her passion for helping others stems from decades of volunteering for The American Cancer Society and her former work as Marketing Manager of Hospice of Santa Cruz County.
In 2020, her dedication to helping businesses pivot to stay open during the pandemic led her to create the Stayin’ Alive Small Business Santa Cruz Group to share information with 270+ other small business owners and to assist with COVID challenges, loans, and assistance.
To further her desire to make a positive impact and keep small businesses open, she joined the Scotts Valley Chamber and the Scotts Valley Economic Task Force.
“Guzman” page 13
Phil Neuman
Past
President
Phil 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.
Phil earned his Computer Science degree from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and began his IT career at The Santa Cruz Operation.
“Neuman” page 14
Keira Mulder
2025 Board Secretary
Keira Mulder has been active with the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce as a Chamber Ambassador since 2019, and as a Board Member since 2023.
Her most recent appointment has been Ambassador President, acting as an integral member of the team while balancing a full-time work schedule and chasing a very active 5-year-old. Even while juggling these critical responsibilities and now holding dual roles, her enthusiasm has never wavered.
Throughout her almost 6-years of service, Keira has volunteered her time and co-chaired events for the Chamber such as The Scotts Valley Community Awards & Gala (2020-2024), Cops ‘N Rodders Car Show (2021-2024), and Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival (2021-2024).
“Mulder” page 14
Victor Alejandro
2025 Board Vice President
Victor is a Product Manager at Cisco and is the 2023 Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year. He is married, with 3 children.
He is the Vice President for the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce and is also an Ambassador. He sits on the Economic Development Committee and attends Silicon Valley Chamber Coalition meetings, which include 18 Chambers of Commerce in the Bay Area.
He is also President of the Exchange 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.
“Alejandro” page 13
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Join Us for the 2025 Fallen Officer Ball
5:30 – 11 p.m., February 22 • Cocoanut Grove • 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz
Local First Responders have been blessed with strong community support, which is greatly appreciated. The past several years have seen massive wildfires throughout the State of California and neighboring states.
Law Enforcement has been under attack while they and firefighters work to heal from the losses suffered. There is both a physical and emotional toll for first responders as they face traumatic loss.
First Responders have seen a dramatic increase of injuries, many suffering posttraumatic stress. Fallen Officer Foundation continues to be there to render aid for local first responders and their families. It’s a privilege to assist the men and women who serve our communities. It’s only with your support that we’re able to be there during their times of crisis.
Fallen Officer Foundation is a non-profit,
volunteer board 501c (3). You can help us continue this worthwhile cause supporting those who are always there when we need them:
• Purchase tickets and attend — Individual Tickets
$150 each
• Be a Sponsor — Platinum is $7,000 with 20 tickets; Gold is $3,000 with 10 tickets; Silver is $1,500 with 5 tickets; Bronze is $700 with 2 tickets.
activities and events at Facebook.com/ FallenOfficerFoundation/
D• Donate an auction item
If you’re unable to attend but wish to donate, you can contact us or go to our website, SCFOF.org to donate. You can find us on Facebook to keep track of
Join us for an evening of great food, wine, live music and dancing to the Alex Lucero Band. Most importantly, please join local first responders to celebrate their work. Show your support and give a little back to the men and women in uniform who serve us so valiantly.
Fintastic Fish Ribbon Cutting
Thursday, January 16 • 5:30 to 7 pm • 224 C Mt. Hermon Rd.
ive into the world of aquatic wonder as Fintastic Fish, the newest aquarium and tropical fish store pet store in Scotts Valley, celebrates with a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.
This event is free and open to the entire community!
Fintastic Fish specializes in freshwater fish and aquatic plants, offering all the essentials to help you create your perfect aquatic habitat. With over 5 years of fishkeeping experience, Fintastic Fish is here to serve the community.
Whether you’re setting up your first aquarium or maintaining a well-established tank, Fintastic Fish has everything you need to keep your aquatic friends happy and healthy.
Fintastic Fish is locally owned and operated by Devin Runneals, a lifelong Boulder Creek resident and former San Lorenzo Valley High School math teacher.
With a passion for nature and education, Runneals started the business hoping to amend the lack of good local fish stores in the area. Offering a wide selection of freshwater fish, live and frozen fish food, aquatic
plants, aquariums and supplies, Fintastic Fish aims to revamp the aquarium hobby in the community.
Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a beginner, Fintastic Fish is here to make your aquatic dreams come true.
Don’t miss this Fintastic celebration!
“Alejandro” from page 12
More events include 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.
“Guzman” from page 12
Reflecting her strong belief to give back to those in need, during the pandemic and CZU fire she donated and supported families who lost their homes and jobs, providing free meals twice a month to families. In recognition for her efforts, she was named Scotts Valley’s Woman of The Year.
Joanne and her husband continue to donate monthly to local non-profits, schools and the community. She currently serves on the Scotts Valley Economic Development Committee to contribute to local economic growth.
“Reber” from page 12
In addition, Danny serves on the Boards for Leadership Santa Cruz County and the Silicon Valley Chamber Coalition. He is also a Freemason and member of Paideia Lodge No. 852. Some of Danny’s hobbies include hiking, playing guitar, singing, and he also hosted the Think Local First Radio Show on KSCO. Danny and his wife, Michelle, consider themselves blessed to be able to raise their two daughters, Maya and Arwen, in this Community they love and call home.
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Cabrillo Launching the Spanish Supervisory Academy
Cabrillo College Extension created the Supervisory Academy in 2013 to support first time supervisors, and experienced supervisors who never had proper training, with the supervisory and managerial skills necessary for today’s workforce.
Cabrillo’s Supervisory Academy is a 12-week program that has been a valued by many of Santa Cruz County businesses and organizations such as Bay Federal, the Boardwalk/Seaside Company, Salud Para La Gente and many more.
“Kurns” from page 12
Career Development Committee. Kurns ini
tially began his career in the private sector, as a finance analyst at SAP, supporting complex government deployments.
“Thanks to the instructors and their vast experience in the field of leadership, it helps us achieve our greatest potential in professional and human development,” says Academy student, Manuel Ferreyra.
Registration for the Spanish Academy’s winter session is now open and begins on Feb. 5. Classes will be held at the Watsonville campus Wednesdays, 9am - Noon thru April 23.
Visit https://extension.cabrillo.edu/classes/ supervisoryacademy/ or call 831-479-6331 for info.
In 2023, Cabrillo College Extension introduced a Spanish version of the Supervisory Academy that has seen great results with the first two cohorts of students. A large percentage of students are bilingual, and many students comment that learning the course material through their native Spanish speaking tongue would support their comprehension further.
City Council Approves Purchase of Property for Town Center
The City of Scotts Valley achieved an important milestone in the development of the Town Center in December. The City Council approved the purchase of the final eight acres of vacant former airport land at the Dec. 4 meeting. In addition, the Council approved the updated “preferred vision” for the Town Center core area.
The updated vision emphasizes pedestrianfriendly streets, wide sidewalks, bike paths, and plenty of space for outdoor dining and community events. At least 300 housing units, with a portion designated as affordable, will be part of the development, alongside a variety of retail and public spaces. The design envisions a new grid of streets that will integrate the Town Center
with surrounding areas, offering a walkable environment with shared parking, plazas, and potential for street fairs or farmers markets.
The next steps include updating the Town Center Specific Plan and issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to the development community.
The Town Center promises to be a dynamic destination for Scotts Valley, creating a hub for residents, visitors, and businesses to connect and thrive. With strong ties to nearby communities and easy access via major highways, it will be a key area for social and economic growth in Northern Santa Cruz County.
For more info, including images of the preferred vision, visit ScottsValley.gov/TownCenter.
Prior to joining the District, Kurns served in various roles in the Budget Office for the City of Sunnyvale.
Kurns earned his MBA from Santa Clara University and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Claremont Mckenna College.
Kurns is an active member of the California Society for Municipal Finance Officers where he currently serves as Chair of the
“Mulder” from page 12
In addition to those events, Keira has also been an Ambassador volunteer or organizer for ribbon cuttings and mixers for businesses in the area.
When asked about the future, Keira was quick with an answer. “As an Ambassador, one of the things I have loved is serving our local businesses and promoting our beautiful city. In my dual role as Board Secretary and Ambassador President, I am excited to craft innovative ways to serve our local businesses and community. Our residents and business owners love each other, and the joint effort both sides bring to keep this city vibrant and flourishing energizes me to make Scotts Valley the best city in the world!”
Keira is just as passionate about her position as a Treatment Coordinator at Empowering Hands Massage, a local Scotts Valley business specializing in therapeutic massage.
In her down time, Keira enjoys spending time at home in Ben Lomond with her husband Ryan and daughter Grace.
Kurns lives in Santa Cruz with his wife, who is the Executive Director of the Santa Cruz County Boys and Girls Club, and their two children, Parker and Cameron. When not at work or spending time with his family, Kurns can be found running the trails throughout beautiful Santa Cruz County.
“Neuman” from page 12
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 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.
