Bud Starker – Grand Marshal
Wheat Ridge Mayor Bud Starker has been named Grand Marshal of this year’s Carnation Festival, honoring his decades of dedicated public service. A lifelong advocate for community development, Mayor Starker’s leadership has helped shape Wheat Ridge into a vibrant, inclusive city. His recognition celebrates a legacy of commitment and care.
Jerry Cassel – Count
Jerry has just retired from the West Metro Fire District Board of Directors, serving as the Wheat Ridge/Edgewater representative. He was the first eighteen year old to serve as a member of the Wheat Ridge Fire Department. He served in the capacity of every officer position, stepping aside from active duty with multiple sessions as Chief. He was asked to run for office with the Wheat Ridge Fire District Board, and was instrumental with merging with the Edgewater Fire Department and later with the West Metro Fire District. He was later asked to fill a vacancy with the West Metro Board, after a former Edgewater Fire Fighter had to step aside because of health reasons. He served multiple sessions on that board, retiring as Board President. In all, Jerry has served the Wheat Ridge residents for fifty years as a volunteer fire fighter, and two district board member. In addition to Jerry’s public service, his father and two brothers all together have provided 95 years of service. In addition to his public service, Jerry has lived in Wheat Ridge his entire life and worked for various Wheat Ridge businesses.
Karen Cassel – Countess
Karen has been a dedicated and influential figure in the Wheat Ridge dance and music community for over 35 years. A proud Wheat Ridge High School alum who continues to call Wheat Ridge home, Karen has poured her passion and talent into generations of local youth. For 25 years, she choreographed the Wheat Ridge High School choirs and musicals, shaping memorable performances and touching the lives of countless students. As the owner of RISE Dance Co. in Applewood, Karen has spent over 3 decades educating and inspiring young dancers and students, fostering not only a love for the arts, but a deep sense of community. Her lifelong commitment to nurturing talent and enriching lives has made her a treasured part of Wheat Ridge’s legacy.
