Scotts Valley Chamber Annual Community Awards Winners
Roaring Camp
Business of the Year
T here is something special about a place that holds both history and heart, and Roaring Camp Railroads is exactly that. Founded in 1958 by F. Norman Clark with just twenty-five dollars and a dream, Roaring Camp was built on a vision to bring California’s past to life and preserve the magic of its towering redwoods.
That dream became a reality on April 6, 1963, when the first steam train departed from the historic Felton Station, a depot originally
built in 1880. Since then, Roaring Camp and the Santa Cruz, Big Trees & Pacific Railway have welcomed millions of visitors from around the world, offering not just train rides, but an experience that connects people to the beauty and history of our area, from the forest to the sea.
But what truly makes Roaring Camp our Business of the Year is not only its legacy, but its unwavering commitment to community. From supporting local fire and first responders during emergencies, to opening its grounds during the CZU Lightning Complex fires, to delivering food to families in need during the COVID era, Roaring Camp consistently shows up with generosity and care. Their support
of local nonprofits, festivals, and fundraising efforts continues to strengthen the fabric of our region.
We are also incredibly grateful for the people behind the scenes who bring that spirit to life every day. Specifically, we love Leatha Brown, whose years of dedication and community involvement embody everything Roaring Camp stands for. She has worked tirelessly for both Roaring Camp and the Scotts Valley Chamber Ambassadors, who put on the awards Gala as well as all Chamber events.
It is with genuine appreciation that we celebrate Roaring Camp as this year’s Business of the Year. We hope you will join us in honoring them, along with all our award recipients, at the annual Scotts Valley Community Awards Gala on Friday, May 8 at Bret Harte Hall, nestled within the redwoods at Roaring Camp.
Tickets: scottsvalleychamber.com
Cheyanne
Donald Diaz is the behind-the-scenes creator of White Rabbit Social Club. She started with the Scotts Valley Chamber as the Art Wine & Beer Festival’s Poster Artist in 2023.
By 2024 she was the festival’s Artist Chair, bringing together a jury compiled of a diverse group of local artists to curate a festival that has something for everyone. It’s a great fit for someone whose passions are taking care of artists, small businesses, and curating spaces that feel happy and alive.
Every year since, there’s been more where Cheyanne has generously dedicated her passion
and talent for the greater good: creating art for chamber events, donating art for fundraising, organizing the food court for the festival (no small feat).
The list goes on and on. Working with a group of people that are amazing and hardworking makes it easier and enjoyable. Whether it’s creating something art wise, or connecting with others, it’s fun and exciting, and she’s up to the challenge.
When it was announced that she had been voted Ambassador of the Year she said: ‘Are you sure this is for me, I don’t really feel like I do that much.’ She does.
Cheyanne Donald Diaz Ambassador of the Year
Cheyanne Donald Diaz
Leatha Brown
Scotts Valley Chamber News
Scotts Valley Chamber Annual Community Awards Winners
In the Scotts Valley Unified School District, eight extraordinary counselors have become the steady, compassionate force behind student success, earning recognition as Educators of the Year. Lauren Hicks, Abbie Stevens, Grace Wahl, Katie Feickert, Sarah Hershey, MacKenzie Keller, Ryan Navaroli, and Allison Baumsteiger represent a unified team whose impact reaches every classroom, every campus, and every student they serve.
In the years following the pandemic, the role of school counselors has evolved in profound ways. As students returned to campus carrying new and often complex challenges, this team stepped forward as a critical support system. They work daily with young people navigating extreme behaviors, emotional struggles, and difficulties with self-regulation, providing stability and care in moments when it is needed most. Their presence allows teachers to remain focused on instruction, knowing students have a trusted place to turn for support.
Scotts Valley Unified School District Counselors
Educators of the Year
The counseling team’s work extends far beyond traditional responsibilities. They provide individual guidance, respond to crises, lead college and career planning, and foster meaningful family engagement. They advocate for student mental health while also ensuring access to academic opportunities, partnering closely with educators, families,
and community organizations. Much of their work happens quietly, behind the scenes, yet its impact is deeply felt across the district.
From the earliest grades through high school graduation, these counselors walk alongside students at every stage. They help young children build friendships and confidence, guide middle schoolers
through the complexities of adolescence, and prepare high school students for life beyond graduation. Their offices are safe spaces where students feel heard, valued, and understood. What sets this team apart is not only their professionalism, but their unwavering dedication to the well-being of others. On any given day, they manage multiple student needs with urgency and care, adapting quickly and thoughtfully to each situation. They have become the connective tissue of the district, supporting students, families, educators, and administrators alike. Their work strengthens school communities and ensures that no student falls through the cracks.
The counselors of Scotts Valley Unified are more than educators. They are advocates, problem solvers, and trusted allies. They are, in every sense, the foundation that holds the district together, uniting schools through compassion, collaboration, and an unrelenting commitment to student success.
Dylan Turzak is a kaleidoscope of organized chaos, packing ten pounds of life into a one-pound bag, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Dylan is a current senior at Scotts Valley High School and founder of Planet Protectors, a non-profit teaching K-2 elementary students how their small changes in everyday habits make a big difference. She is also the award-winning co-author of Just a Jam Jar, a children’s book about upcycling. She has more books scheduled to be released in the following year.
Dylan is a four-year Student Government officer, having served as the Freshman Class President, Clubs Chair, Activities Chair, and currently the Community Service Chair. She is the student lead for the Scotts Valley Wellness Walk, raising funds with the hope of saving the Scotts Valley Wellness Center. She is the President of the Scotts Valley Interact Club, working to promote the motto service above self. Outside of school, she is a member and Captain of the
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Scotts Valley Cross Country team and Track and Field team (Go Falcons!) She is one of the first 150 female Eagle Scouts in California, paving the way for other girls to learn leadership and outdoor skills. She was also a member of the Santa Cruz County Youth Advisory Task Force working towards building the firstever youth commission to get more young voices heard. Dylan spends her summers in Zambia working for Game Rangers International, providing
first-aid training/supplies and assisting in conservation efforts.
Aside from this, she hiked to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro while learning Swahili, skied in an inflatable flamingo costume on her birthday, cleaned the ocean floors for her PADI Dive Against Debris certification, stepped outside her comfort zone performing in SVHS’s winter play, and delightfully terrified people as Tinkerbelle as a Thriller dancer.
In the fall, she plans to bring her kaleidoscope of chaos to South Bend, Indiana to study Sociology at the University of Notre Dame.
/ Scotts Valley
Dylan Turzak Youth of the Year
FROM LEFT: Lauren Hicks, Abbie Stevens, Grace Wahl, Katie Feickert, Sarah Hershey, MacKenzie Keller, and Ryan Navaroli.
Dylan Turzak
Allison Baumsteiger
Scotts Valley Chamber Annual Community Awards Winners
Adam Cosner Man of the Year
Adam Cosner is a steady and deeply committed presence in the community, known for his leadership, service, and compassion. A retired firefighter and medical responder, Adam has dedicated his life to protecting others and continues to serve with the same integrity and purpose in his volunteer work.
He is a founding member and current treasurer of Team G Childhood Cancer Foundation, an organization created following his daughter’s cancer diagnosis. Through his leadership, the foundation has raised critical funds for research while providing meaningful support, resources, and guidance to families facing childhood cancer.
Adam serves on the Scotts Valley Fire Board, offering thoughtful oversight and guidance, and teaches Fire Technology through the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, helping prepare the next generation for careers in the fire service. He previously taught sixth grade math at Scotts Valley Middle School and continues to mentor youth through coaching cross country and track.
annual tradition to life. He is a former president of the SV SLV Soccer Club and now serves as a member at large, supporting youth athletics through strong leadership, organization, and a focus on student athletes.
Beyond Scotts Valley, Adam has been a tireless advocate for firefighters and public servants. As a former union president for the Santa Clara County Fire Department, he worked with elected officials on issues affecting first responders and supported broader labor efforts advocating for fair pay and benefits. He is also collaborating with physicians and researchers on a grant studying cancer rates among firefighters.
Each year, Adam participates in the Firefighter Stair Climb in Seattle, raising funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and recently completed a solo 70 mile trek through the High Sierras dedicated to children battling cancer.
MMonica Aldana Woman of the Year
onica Aldana is a dedicated community leader, volunteer, and advocate whose impact has been felt across Scotts Valley schools, churches, and local organizations for over a decade. After her children started elementary school, she chose to focus her time and energy on serving others; bringing leadership, heart, and real results to every role she takes on.
Me Dance), dedicating three years to building and supporting an event that has become a meaningful experience for so many families in the community for SVEF.
His impact extends across many corners of the community. Adam played a key role in the Scotts Valley Haunted House, serving as construction manager and dedicating long hours to bring the
Through every role he takes on, Adam Cosner leads with humility, strength, and a genuine desire to make a difference. His contributions have left a lasting impact on Scotts Valley, making him a truly deserving recipient of this honor.
Arukah Project Organization of the Year
Monica has served as PTA/PTF President at Vine Hill Elementary, Scotts Valley Middle School, and Baymonte Christian School, and has been actively involved on parent club boards since 2014. Over the past decade, she has been part of efforts that have generated more than $2.5 million for local schools.
She also played an integral role in helping launch the VIP and Me Dance (formerly the Daughter and
Monica is also the driving force behind the My Scotts Valley Secret Santa program, which has supported hundreds of families during the holidays for the past nine years. She consistently steps up to organize, fundraise, and support initiatives that strengthen the community.
Monica moved to Scotts Valley in 2006 and has built deep roots here. She is passionate about the people, the sense of connection, and watching local families and children thrive.
A true positive influence on her daughters, local youth, and the broader community, Monica was recognized as a Top 10 Positive Woman Influencer in 2024.
Arukah Project is a beloved Scotts Valley nonprofit doing incredibly powerful, lifesaving work right here in Santa Cruz County. Defending the Vulnerable. Protecting the Exploited. Believing Survivors. Restoring Freedom.
Sex trafficking is happening far closer to home than many realize, and Arukah Project
is on the front lines daily, helping those who are trapped find safety, healing, and a path forward.
We couldn’t be prouder to recognize them and do our part to help get the word out.
Arukah Project helps provide survivors with a safe, hidden place to heal and the tools they need to restart their lives with dignity and hope.
We are honored to support their dream project, Hope House, which will expand their ability to protect and restore lives.
Please learn more and donate if you’re able at arukahproject.org.
And come to the Awards Gala on Friday, May 8th to celebrate with Arukah Project and all of our wonderful winners.
Adam Cosner
Monica Aldana
FROM LEFT: Mayor Donna Lind, Executive Director Loreal, Deputy Director Natasha, and Chief Rutherford SVPD.
Scotts Valley Chamber News
New Member: The Pizza Series From Dough to Goal: Finding a Home in Scotts Valley
By KELLY GAVIN
There’s something about a good neighborhood pizza place that feels a little like home, and The Pizza Series has quickly become just that.
One of the newest members of the Scotts Valley Chamber, The Pizza Series brings more than great pizza to the table. It carries a story shaped by decades of experience, a few leaps of faith, and a deep connection to community that feels unmistakably local.
For owner Matt Driscoll, the journey started early. Back in 1996, he was a teenager working at Domino’s in Aptos, learning the basics of pizza making. Not long after, an opportunity would quietly shift everything. When a neighbor took over the old Straw Hat space and began transforming it into what would eventually become Brandos Pizzeria, Driscoll jumped in to help clean, remodel, paint, and even rethink the menu.
That experience planted a seed.
It showed him that a restaurant could be something personal, something creative, something entirely your own. From that point on, opening his own place was not just an idea; it was a goal.
Years later, after working across the local pizza scene and spending eight years at the Whole Foods pizza counter in a highly customer-facing role, that goal began to take shape. What started as an Instagram project, documenting pizzas and experimenting with recipes, grew into pop-ups, and eventually into something much bigger.
Looking back, Driscoll admits he did not necessarily imagine it would all lead to a full restaurant in Scotts Valley, but the path feels natural in hindsight.
“It’s awesome,” he says. “I’ve worked so many jobs, mostly pizza related, and it’s always been my passion. Now I’m doing exactly what I want to do, but on a bigger scale, and it’s completely ours.”
That sense of ownership runs deep.
For Driscoll, having a permanent space where people gather around something they created is both surreal and deeply fulfilling. It is the culmination of years of work, but also a continuation of the same passion that started back in Aptos.
The moment he realized his pizza was truly resonating with people actually goes back even further. With Brandos shifting from a chain into something local and independent, something else clicked. The dough and sauce became their own creations, and pizza started to feel less like a product and more like an art form. That same philosophy carries through today.
Scotts Valley, it turns out, was exactly where that philosophy could thrive.
With family ties to the area, the connection was already there. What began as a search for a prep kitchen led them to a space in the old Borland building. It came equipped with a ready to go pizza kitchen, and the decision felt almost meant to be.
From there, things moved quickly.
Starting with pizza by the slice and takeout dinners, the response from the
community was immediate. Even in a less visible location, people showed up in force. They sold out often. The momentum was undeniable.
“We felt the love right away,” Driscoll says. “That first year was huge for us. The response was insane, and we knew we were staying in Scotts Valley.”
As they grew, so did the need for a larger, more permanent space. After exploring several options, an unexpected connection helped bring everything together. The Ow family, longtime customers who loved the pizza, reached out with an opportunity at Kings Village. It turned out to be exactly the right fit.
Today, that space has been transformed into something that feels both fresh and familiar.
The menu reflects Driscoll’s years of experience and experimentation; they specialize in both Detroit style square pies and classic New York rounds. The dough is fermented for three days; ingredients are thoughtfully sourced, and everything from mushrooms to pineapple is cut fresh inhouse. Even the flour is organic. Meats are carefully selected and cooked on site. It is a level of care that might not always be visible, but it is unmistakable in the final product.
“It makes a difference,” he says simply.
And then there are the sauces.
What might have been an afterthought somewhere else becomes part of the experience here. Pesto ranch, buffalo ranch, Cholula ranch, each one a little unexpected, each one worth trying. And the Calabrian honey has already developed something of a local following. Don’t get me started on how delicious the maple ranch is!
Beyond the food, there is a clear intention behind the atmosphere. Driscoll and his fiancée and partner, Maddy Quesada, have created a space that feels warm, easy, and welcoming. It is the kind of place where conversations start between neighboring tables and regulars quickly become friends.
Maddy told me, “We want people to have a good, comfortable time,” and Matt chimed in, “Good food, good service. By the time you leave, you’ve probably heard thank you a bunch of times. That matters to us.”
That sense of community has only deepened through personal challenges as well. The couple went through a difficult period during Quesada’s liver transplant, an experience that tested them but ultimately made them stronger. Through it all, the support from the Scotts Valley community,
including the Ow family, reinforced that they were exactly where they were meant to be.
Like any business, the road has not been without its challenges. Building the right team took time and learning how to balance kindness with clear boundaries was part of that process. But today, Driscoll says they have found something special.
“We have the best team,” he says. “When you find the right people, you feel it. We trust them, and that makes everything work.” Many of their employees have been there for years and started as young high school kids.
That trust and stability show up in the day-to-day experience customers now enjoy.
Joining the Chamber is a natural extension of that connection.
For Driscoll, it is about businesses supporting each other, building relationships, and continuing to grow together. It is another way to stay engaged with the community that helped bring The Pizza Series to life.
Looking ahead, there is both confidence and excitement.
“We feel like we’re already part of Scotts Valley’s story,” he says. “We love this place, and people love what we’ve done. This is our mothership. We want to be here for the next 30 or 40 years. We’d also love to add locations; we’re having a great time.”
There are plans in motion, including an upstairs banquet space known as the Cloud Room, which will offer a different atmosphere from the forest inspired to feel downstairs. Matt knows there’s something cool happening here; The Pizza Series remains grounded in something simple. Good food. Genuine connection. A place where people feel at home. And in a town like Scotts Valley, that is exactly the kind of story that sticks.
Matt and Maddy, owners of The Pizza Series.