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Grass Valley Historical Commission expands walking tours, fundraising and plaque efforts
Summary
Commission members reported high turnout for guided walking tours, collected initial donations for downtown history banners, ordered a bronze star plaque in honor of Howard and Peggy Levine, and discussed fundraising and logistics for future outreach and commemorative plaques.
Commissioners reported growing public interest in Grass Valley history and outlined several outreach initiatives, including guided walking tours, a downtown banner program, a commemorative star for Howard and Peggy Levine, a Heritage Homes booklet distribution and plans for a commemorative plaque for the Eagle Hose Fire Company.
Commission Chair (name not specified) said the first guided walking tour drew about 74–75 people; additional tours are scheduled for June 14, July 12 and other dates through October. Council member Caravelli told commissioners that she and Council member Arbuckle asked that commissioners leading tours be covered under the city’s insurance umbrella to avoid personal liability for volunteer guides.
The commission reported collecting $239 in small donations toward a proposed historic‑figure banner program for downtown light poles. Commissioners asked staff to consult with city finance staff (Taylor) about the best mechanism to accept donations — either a designated city account, direct purchase and donation of banners, or an account the commission can use. Banner production costs cited in the discussion were approximately $65 per double‑sided banner.
On the Howard and Peggy Levine bronze star, commissioners said the plaque order has been placed through Hooper & Weaver and the item will go to city council (tentatively June 10) for final action; commissioners plan a July unveiling timed to Howard Levine’s birthday. Hooper & Weaver will use the same manufacturer as prior bronze stars to keep the appearance consistent.
Commissioners also discussed Heritage Homes booklets (printer to deliver to city staff for distribution), fundraising logistics and a plan to obtain quotes for a bronze plaque to mark the Eagle Hose Fire Company building; commission members asked staff to get size‑based cost estimates before deciding on a temporary placeholder plaque.
Commissioners directed several follow‑up actions: staff will consult with Taylor on donation handling and banner procurement; Diane Albrecht will coordinate Heritage Homes distribution; Bruce Boyd and landmarks proponents were asked to draft plaque language for the trestle nomination; and commissioners agreed to compile a list of 20 people/places for the banner program.
The commission also discussed a project to produce a digital walking tour (QR code and phone‑based content) and assigned Mark to consolidate text and work with staff (Miranda) to build the online prototype.
