RENO, Nev. (KOLO) -The signs have been up for more than a week in the small town of Verdi.
An old-fashioned celebration at the Verdi School. The 4th of July barbeque is an annual event, the announcement probably is unnecessary as most people know when and where to show up.
“We moved here 11 years ago,” says Bruce Harter a Verdi resident. “And opened up a coffee shop and we just come to support the community.”
This 4th of July BBQ is the newer version of what used to go on in this area next to Old Verdi School.
Initially the feast took place in August to help raise money for the fire department. The meat was cooked on a big outdoor grill which is still on the premises.
But for the past several years the event is thanks to the Verdi History Preservation Society. They too are trying to raise money.
The group has been successful in preserving the school and even helped maintain a 1926 fire engine.
“Our sole purpose is to preserve the history of Verdi,” says Christine Collier with the Verdi History Preservation Society. “It is such a rich history and to foster community.”
She shows us the rooms of the school which goes back to 1926. The downstairs has been renovated for community events.
Here in an adjacent building Collier shows us the yet-to-be opened historic museum which displays the town’s rich history. Money raised today will help the society continue with its efforts.
Efforts which have left an impression on many who came to the 4th of July Barbeque.
“The historical society has been great from the time we started here,” says Gary Perona who has lived in Verdi only a couple of years. “And we are here always here to support them. They’ve got more events this summer. But it’s a family like all small towns are.”
The group hopes to raise more money this year than last through hot dogs and chili. Beer sales will help, and cornhole should keep residents around a little longer to catch up with friends and neighbors; who might perhaps play another round of cornhole complete with red, white and blue bean bags.
For more information on the Verdi History Preservation Society:
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