Family Passport Day National Shop Small Saturday

It came together in less than two weeks by a small group of business owners and brought a lot of joy to all those who attended and to the participating business.

It was originally the brainchild of Kalani Day Spa’s owner, Kim Pursley. Then after the popular Halloween Haunt conceived by Togo’s franchise owner, Greg Wimp, our own Angela Marshall brought it up to the Scotts Valley Economic Recovery Task Force and everyone agreed it was a great idea and to do it in conjunction with the Small Business Saturday events (sponsored by American Express) happening all over the country.

The committee that came together to organize the event included Angela, Kim, Susan O’Connor Fraser of Tam Communications, Joanne Guzman of Bruno’s Bar and Grill, and, of course, Danny Reber from the Chamber. Joanne created all the marketing materials.

Thirty-five businesses made time in their day to welcome those who came, filling stockings with goodies ranging from candy canes to jump ropes to succulent plants and jewelry. Businesses also contributed to two one or both of two baskets.

The first, the grand prize selected from an Enter to Win contest, included over $1100 worth of goodies. It was won by ten-year old Liliana Eymann and her dog Scout is sure to enjoy the bags of dog food donated by Earthwise Pet. The second basket went to the winner of the Ugly Sweater Contest, Mercedes Erdey.

The event was so well-received that future similar events are in the works, And, with more time to plan, we hope to have the participation to be even bigger.

The goal of these events is to remind people how important it is to shop local. We want our Scotts Valley businesses to survive and thrive. •••

Susan and her partner, Tam, documented the event. Look for the video recap on the Chamber’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Grand Prize Winner Liliana Eymann with her dog Scout and Chamber executive director Danny Reber.

Ugly Sweater Contest Winner Mercedes Erdey with her kids.