By RHEA-FRANCES TETLEY
Staff Writer
All week long with the wet and snowy weather forecasts, the owners of the newly opened Crestline Jerky Company and Snack Emporium were concerned their chamber of commerce ribbon cutting event and block party may not be able to take place.
But on Saturday Feb. 3, the day after the ground hog predicted an early spring, the sun came out and a crisp sunny day dawned. The wind was slight, and visitors came out in droves all day long.

Travis Pasternostro and partner Cynthis Durousseau, of Crestline Jerky Co. and Snack Emporium, holding their grand opening certificate at last weekend’s block party on Lake Drive in Crestline.
The merchants in the 24000 block of Lake Drive, located across the street from Rim Bowling, set out their merchandise and prepared for the ribbon cutting ceremony that was scheduled at 2 p.m. Crestline Jerky had samples of their many flavors of jerky, both vegetarian and a variety of meats, plus candy samples for tasting, too. The party started around noon and continued until after dark.

Inside Woodcrest Décor, owners Jeff Heitmann and Lidia Pena hold their ribbon cutting certificate presented to them by the Crestline Chamber of Commerce.
Woodcrest Décor had a table out front filled with a variety of their merchandise, much of which is custom made, as well as many wood items that are smartly priced. Inside the store there were more amazing items that fit the mountain vibe. Many customers were discovering the store for the first time, although Woodcrest Decor has been in business since last fall.
Molly’s Art Gallery was welcoming visitors to see the original art work of James Chrysler in the gallery which were for sale for only $125, and the paintings of Molly herself. Also, on display was work by Elizabeth Rydell and Lyndian’s paintings. Molly also teaches art classes and has art parties as well.
Next door Flair for Hair was celebrating 25 years in business with refreshments and had several jewelry displays. She was having a great time welcoming her long-time customers and meeting new ones, while reminiscing about being in town for so many years.
The owner of Crestline Antiques, which had a ribbon cutting two years ago, was welcoming people to see the variety of previously well-loved items she has in the store. She has small items, like glass figurines, and home items and furniture, all with great music bouncing around the walls.
Across the street the new Lake Gregory Trading Company and Antique Mall filled with local vendors also welcomed visitors inside. Previously it operated as a pawn shop; the new store’s design and purpose is quite different with a wide variety of new and previously used items for sale.
Crestline Jerky showcased artist Lyndian with her custom jewelry from Artistry and Alchemy in Running Springs, while the San Marzano Wine & Ale Lounge had food samples such as beer macaroni and cheese taquitos from Tony’s and beer tastings available with grilled hot dogs and burgers cooked by Crestline Jerky owner Travis Pasternostro.
Inside the Crestline Jerky store is an amazing variety of hip and trendy gift items, from signs to home décor and clothing, along with delicious jerky varieties and candy. They also do laser wood cutting for some of their gift items and they have a wide variety of custom items from local artisans as well.
Raffle tickets had been available for items donated by the various shops.
The ribbon cutting attracted a lot of attention on Lake Drive. Where traffic was stopped while the ribbon was cut. Many members of the chamber’s board of directors attended, including President Michelle Hake, Mike Johnstone, Jamboree Days Committee Chairman Dirk Rinker, Tiffany Milburn and others. After a short speech of welcome to all gathered, President Michelle presented chamber membership certificates to Woodcrest Décor and Crestline Jerky.









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