Genoa's sweet finacial solution

For 86 years, Genoa’s annual Candy Dance & Crafts Faire has supplied a sweet financial solution for the upkeep of Nevada’s oldest settlement.

Genoa Town Manager Tom Peters said 65 percent of the town’s operating expenses are generated from the weekend event that attracts 350 venders and more than 35,000 shoppers. That’s quite a change for a town that’s so small deer are often seen roaming the streets.

“The rest of the year, the only ones who come to visit us are the deer,” said resident Debbie Byroads.

White tents shade booths hawking glazed pottery, home-made “magic” wands and potpourri “apple pies.” Venders at the event have to make 70 percent of their craft, Town Manager’s Assistant Karen Curran said. A jury of 10 whittles down approximately 600 applicants to 350 crafters that will attend the event. Genoa resident Darlene Tiffany said the jury strives to ensure the goods are unusual, quality products without “Made in China” stickers on them.

Since the event’s name is the “Candy Dance,” some may expect numerous booths of candy, but Peters confessed Genoa’s candy stand has a monopoly on sweet treats. But those with a sweet tooth will not be disappointed.

Since the middle of August, approximately 70 volunteers from all over Northern Nevada helped to create and package 4,500 pounds of candy. Last year, candy sales and rental fees paid by vendors raised $120,000 for the town’s coffers, Tiffany said. The money pays for community projects such as roads, buildings and park maintenance. Almond joyfuls (cq), cappuccino cups and Genoa twists are some of the delectables that generated the sweet sum of $50,000 for total candy sales last year, Tiffany said.