Nevada, IA (September 11, 2022): Climbing for a good cause: Verbio North America partnered again with the Nevada Fire Department to host the 4th Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. With this event, held today at the Verbio Biorefinery plant in Nevada, the community honors the first responders who selflessly gave their lives on that tragic September day, 21 years ago in New York. Approximately 75 participants from 20 different rescue organizations across Iowa paid tribute to the fallen heroes by climbing 110 stories, or 2,220 steps, in one of the Verbio plant towers. It symbolizes the effort given by the 343 firefighters killed at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.
Honoring and remembering those who died and still suffer
“We are grateful that we can honor those brave men and women that gave their lives to save so many others,” says Nevada Fire Chief Ray Reynolds. “The 9/11 stair climb tradition is our way to ensure their sacrifices, on one of the most tragic days in American history, are never forgotten. We would like to show our gratitude to all the first responders who risk their lives every day for the safety of others.”
Across the country, people are finding ways to honor the victims and reflect on the day. Numerous cities are paying tribute to the New York Firefighters who died at the World Trade Center by symbolically retracing their steps in Memorial Stair Climbs. Many of them in full firefighter gear. The event is not a timed race, but a way for firefighters and the community to honor and remember those who died and continue to suffer. In Nevada, participants have to climb the Verbio tower – the county`s tallest building – six times. This adds up to the height of one of the Twin Towers. During their climb, radio traffic from 9/11 is being played; and pictures of the killed firefighters hang on the walls.
Verbio presents checks to local fire departments
Since September is the month for supporting firefighters, Verbio also shows its appreciation towards the local fire departments, which helped with past fires at Verbio`s on-site stover storage facilities. At today`s event, the company presented a check in the amount of $5,000 to the Nevada Fire Department. In addition, $2,000 each were donated to the fire departments of Colo, Zearing, McCallsburg, Hubbard, Rolland and the City of Lafayette. “Verbio respects and appreciates the volunteer fire departments and the excellent service they provide to local farmers, residents, and businesses,” said Ron DeJongh, President of Verbio Agriculture. “Verbio operates around many rural communities and understands that the role of the first responders is a critical pillar in local safety and success. With our support we want to underline our ongoing commitment to the region and the local community.”
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MEDIA CONTACT: Sarah Hoodjer (Verbio North America Communications), sarah.hoodjer@verbio.us