SUPPORT BLOCK M TOURNAMENT THIS WEEKEND The Modoc County Vol. 132, No. 39
RECORD Alturas, California
December 19, 2024
$1.00
Serving Modoc Since 1892 14 Pages
Surprise Valley’s Shop and Stroll Brings Festive Joy Despite Weather Challenges
Surprise Valley’s downtown bustled with holiday cheer last Saturday during the annual Shop and Stroll, an event that transformed Main Street in Cedarville into a real-life Christmas Hallmark movie. Michelle Bartolo, along with her husband and son, led efforts to make the town look festive by cutting down and placing Christmas trees outside every downtown business. “We wanted to adorn our street and take the festivities outside,” Bartolo said. Their efforts, combined with the dedication of 17 community members who helped organize the event, brought smiles to faces despite the wintry weather. Around 10:30 a.m., large snowflakes began to
fall, quickly covering the streets in a picturesque layer of white. “It felt like a scene out of a movie,” Bartolo noted. The snowfall created challenging conditions over the pass leading into Surprise Valley. “The pass was looking rough, and I felt discouraged,” Bartolo said. However, the community spirit prevailed. “We prayed for the safety of those traveling, and people still came out.” Despite the weather, Main Street stayed busy from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. as shoppers and visitors enjoyed the festive atmosphere. The snowcovered trees lining the sidewalks added a special charm to the event. “Everyone was filled with joy, everyone who entered was so happy to be there
despite being snowed on.” The Shop and Stroll featured a variety of attractions, including a craft fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., photos with Santa from noon to 3 p.m. Local businesses such as Corner Store, Country Hearth, Good Things, Humble Home, Studio 540, Squeaky’s, Valley Farm Store, The Vault, Warner Mountain Weavers, Wholesome Goodness Mercantile, and Zeke’s Candy Company welcomed visitors with open doors. Shoppers also participated in a scavenger hunt, with prizes awarded to three winners. The day-long event was a true community effort and a celebration of local businesses. “Everyone remained positive throughout the
whole time,” Bartolo said. “It was a day filled with joy, community, and holiday spirit.” The Surprise Valley Chamber of Commerce expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who braved the snowy pass to attend the event. “Supporting local events like the Shop and Stroll is vital for our community,” a Chamber representative noted. “We are so thankful for the visitors who made the drive despite the weather. It’s this kind of dedication that keeps our small businesses and community thriving.” The event’s success highlights the resilience and dedication of the Surprise Valley community, determined to celebrate the season together, no matter the conditions.