Day 5: Lakes, Hills, Tacos, and an Incredible Welcome in Creston

by Robyn Diddams, Creston

What a day.

We’re officially at the halfway mark of the ride — Day 5 of 10 — and what a ride it’s been so far. We started the morning in Nelson, where the Prestige Lakeside Resort generously hosted our team. A warm bed, hot showers, and a view of the lake was amazing. Huge thanks to the staff there for making us feel right at home.

From Nelson, we hit the road early and made our way to the Kootenay Lake ferry, where we collected donations and chatted with some really supportive folks waiting to cross. It’s always a great reminder of how many people out there believe in what we’re doing.

After the ferry, we climbed a short but steep hill to visit the students at Crawford Bay School. It’s always so fun to see the kids and to get to be a part of their community learning experience.

For lunch we were again spoiled whenMike and Ivy Jeffrey opened up their stunning lakefront home to host us, alongside the Kootenay Lake Lions, who put together a taco bar feast that hit the spot. The view, the food, and the hospitality were unreal. Thank you for the generosity — it really lifted our spirits for the ride ahead.

The afternoon stretch took us along the edge of Kootenay Lake. The scenery was the kind that reminds you why we live here. It was peaceful, quiet, and breathtaking — the kind of ride that makes the hard moments worth it.

And then we hit Creston where we were welcomed with a parade through town, escorted by our fellow first responders. It was a proud moment for all of us in uniform, being cheered on by the community we serve. At the Creston RCMP Detachment, we were treated to pulled pork courtesy of Kevin Wall and Pealow’s Independent Grocer. After a long ride, it hit the spot.

The real highlight, though, came when the Creston Charitable Foundation presented Cops for Kids with a cheque for $35,000 raised at their summer golf tournament. That’s a massive number — and it’s going to go a long way in helping children and families in need throughout our region. Thank you, Creston. You truly showed up today and I’m proud to call Creston home.

We ended the night with a behind-the-scenes tour (and tasting!) at Kokanee Brewery — a great way to wind down after a big day.

Tomorrow, we’ve got the Jail & Bail event happening at Tamarack Centre — so if you’ve ever wanted to throw your boss, your buddy, or even yourself in the slammer (for a good cause), now’s your chance. The team will then continue the ride toward Cranbrook as we kick off Day 6.

We’re tired. We’re inspired. And we’re reminded every day why we do this. Thanks for following the journey — and if you see us out there on the road, give us a honk or a wave!