Gunnison resident pitches community Fourth-of-July history book; council discusses administrative support
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Summary
Resident Denise Croft proposed compiling a 200‑page history of Gunnison Valley Fourth‑of‑July celebrations, outlining printing and presale plans and asking for limited city support; councilors discussed using an existing Independence Day 501(c)(3) account and agreed to explore administrative options.
Denise Croft told the Wild Tribe City Council on Aug. 6 she wants to compile a community history book about Gunnison Valley Fourth‑of‑July celebrations and memories ahead of upcoming anniversaries.
Croft described a proposed book of roughly 200 pages that would collect photographs, journal entries and oral histories, beginning with images and recollections the community and local archives already hold. She said one sample photo in existing collections shows the Gribble store parade from July 4, 1891, and suggested a decade‑by‑decade layout with interviews and submitted family materials.
Croft outlined preliminary cost estimates and a sales plan. She said a newspaper mailer could cost about $1.35 per 1,000 pieces (an example transcript figure of $135 for distribution), and cited a printer estimate of roughly $30–$35 per copy for a smaller 125‑page sample; she said she envisions pricing a finished 200‑page book around $49.95 and using presales to cover upfront printing. Croft said she has begun collecting volunteers and proposed partnering with local archives and the regional newspaper to research historical material.
Council discussion addressed how funds might be administered. Council members and staff noted the Independence Day 501(c)(3) could administer book funds with a separate account; the transcript shows a councilor stating, "We we can find a way to run under that 501 c 3." The idea of invoicing the city for an initial $150 to cover startup costs was raised as an administrative possibility.
Croft also asked whether historical material could be digitized; councilors and residents encouraged digitization and suggested forming a small committee and returning with a formal plan and a complete budget. Croft provided a contact email in the transcript (gunnison4history@gmail.com) for those who volunteered to help.
Next steps: councilors said staff would explore administrative options for handling funds under the nonprofit umbrella and Croft expects to recruit volunteers and develop a presale plan to bring back to the council.