What a roller coaster of a weekend that was for 2024's Cruisin' Clearwater!
There was a bit of a damp Friday night barbecue and a yard full of beautiful cars and good people, along with a storm that obliterated the yard and knocked out the power for the evening of Aug. 23. However, there was registration and good food, and everyone rallied despite the weather.
The next day, Saturday, was the annual poker run into Wells Gray Park, with even more rain, and debris on the road to avoid. In spite of Mother Nature's stormy tests, drivers were all in good spirits, sharing many laughs under the tents.
On Sunday, Aug. 25 the weather could not have been better for the Show ’n’ Shine at Clearwater Secondary’s parking lot, and to say the least it worked in our favour. There were over 120 cars in the parking lot, along with an amazing row of vendors, and a live band cranking out some rock and roll for those in attendance strolling through to view the rides.
Cruisin’ Clearwater was always, for me, a five-year plan. Five years or $50,000 dollars raised for the food bank, a goal I set in 2020. I want to say thanks to everyone who came out this weekend, and all the years prior, because not only have we accomplished that goal, we have exceeded it!
The total money raised during the weekend was $4,250! That’s $52,750 altogether for our local food bank since 2020, and we couldn’t be more proud and thankful for sponsors, volunteers and people showing up in support for all of our events.
As I've grown into an "adult" I've come to realize that the many events I enjoyed as a kid in our beautiful valley are still thanks today to the same volunteers year after year. Think of all the years and hours they have put in. Without volunteers, there is no order, and there would be no community events like this. I hope others will consider our volunteers and get out there and help make a difference. These people do get tired, and we need new recruits to step up to offer some relief. We all must work together to continue to make a difference. We are stronger together and can accomplish great things as a community.
Thank you to all the Cruisin’ Clearwater volunteers, the Clearwater and District Food Bank members helping at the registry and dog station, the poker run stations, games, park maintenance, and the folks running around in the background to get things done who I may or may not have forgotten. You all made the events over the weekend run so successfully.
Thank you to all our sponsors: Southgate Automotive and Radiator Service, Birch Island Diesel, and Fresh Street Market. Insurance, advertising, food, and numerous expenses covered by your businesses to get this event rolling and such a memorable time for everyone.
Our sincere thanks go to numerous businesses and organizations from all over the North Thompson Valley for providing door prizes that draw attendance to this annual fundraiser. We will be acknowledging every one of you soon.
One thing is certain: if we get everyone working as one, we will keep this momentum going every year to provide for those in need in our community. This weekend’s events felt more like the community I remember growing up in. Are we shaking off the rust of these last few years? It’s been so uplifting and inspiring to be part of this team effort.
We need your opinion and input for future events. Where do we go from here? Every year has been tweaked and changed to be bigger and better from the year prior. We’d love to have your input moving forward. Would you like to be on board for the ride next year?
Your opinion matters! Please contact us at Rmackenzie567@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1108308229532142.
