Annual barbecue funds a lifeline for the community

Over 80 people gathered for the 43rd Annual Crescent Valley Emergency Fund Barbecue, a tradition that helps support community members facing unexpected crises. The event, held at the Crescent Valley Town Park, featured a dinner of tri-tip or burgers, salads, and dessert, with a raffle drawing as the main event.

A Lifeline for the Community

The Crescent Valley Emergency Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides financial assistance to residents of Beowawe, Crescent Valley, and surrounding areas. Board member Mike Schoenwald explained that the fund offers support to people dealing with unexpected illness, death, or fire. Individuals can apply for assistance, and the board reviews each case, determining the amount of help based on the specific situation. In 2025, the fund has already helped eight people.

The fund was started 43 years ago by Irene and Art Logan to help a community member, Dirf Krambs, after he had a stroke and was left with significant medical bills. The founders intentionally kept the fund independent of any county government funding, relying instead on the generosity of local donors. As Schoenwald noted, “It’s our generous donors that were able to contribute to help our community and keep this running.”

Community Support and Volunteers

The annual barbecue is the fund’s primary fundraising event, made possible by numerous local businesses and volunteers. This year, donations came from a variety of sources, including a barbecue grill from Home Depot and bicycles from the Schoenwalds. Nevada Gold Mines also made a significant donation. Midway Market supplied the food for the event, while a team of about 13 volunteers helped with everything from cooking and serving to set up and cleanup.

Volunteer Bev Schoenwald, who along with Wanda Redfield, solicits donations from local retailers, shared that this year they had 28 donors. She highlighted that these collaborative efforts are what make the fund’s work possible.

The CV Emergency Fund thanked Nevada Gold Mines, Iron King, Inc., Phoenix Rises Store & Restaurant, Midway Market, Dottie Mae Water Service, LLC, Home Depot, Ridley’s Market/Carlin, The Star Hotel, B.J. Bull, Truckin’ Water, Inc., Machi’s, IFA, Stockmen’s, O’Reily Auto Parts, Komatsu Equipment, Taco Time, Redfields’s RV Park, Mike & Bev Schoenwald, Kathy Kinkade, Linda Watkins, Konni Williams & Sandy Vink, Sharon Riddle, Addison Evertsen, Jean Fitzpatrick, Charles and Charisse Hermann, Lostra Esthetics and Dapper & Devine.