The 5 Candidates for Ms. Grand County

Community contributions often happen behind the scenes, through a coordinated volunteer effort, a clear conversation with a customer or a program that helps a family meet basic needs. Across Grand County, that work supports animal welfare, local businesses, hospitality and essential services. The women recognized in the Miss Grand County category of the Best of Grand contest reflect those varied responsibilities. Their efforts connect residents, businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout the mountain community.

Maria Chavez || Winter Park & Fraser Chamber

Maria Chavez supports operational and community outreach initiatives within the Winter Park & Fraser Chamber network. Her work contributes to membership services, visitor engagement and programming that supports the local economy. By helping facilitate communication among small-business owners, tourism partners and town officials, Chavez contributes to the coordination behind the Fraser Valley’s business and visitor services.

Mary Ann Kerstiens || Grand County Pet Pals

Animal welfare is central to Mary Ann Kerstiens’ work as a longtime advocate, board member and leader with Grand County Pet Pals. She organizes fundraisers, coordinates assistance programs and volunteers, and works with veterinary clinics to help residents access care for their pets. Those efforts support the nonprofit’s low-cost spay and neuter programs, emergency veterinary assistance, shelter support and adoption initiatives.

Rebecca Rudell || Fraser Valley Distilling

Rebecca Rudell contributes to business management, service planning and event organization at Fraser Valley Distilling in Fraser. Her administrative and operational work supports a business that combines small-batch spirit production with a full-service tasting room and restaurant. Rudell also helps guide brand strategy and hospitality practices across offerings that include whiskey, gin, vodka, agave spirits and craft cocktails.

Stacy Starr || Mountain Family Center

Stacy Starr leads Mountain Family Center as executive director and president, following earlier service as assistant director. Her responsibilities include organizational strategy, grant funding, staff management and program expansion in collaboration with donors and local partners. The nonprofit provides food pantries, mobile food distributions, housing support, utility assistance and educational resources, connecting Starr’s leadership with the practical needs of Grand County residents.

Kasy Allen || Wheatley Creek Services

A background in digital marketing and operational leadership informs Kasy Allen’s work at Wheatley Creek Services in Granby. Allen manages administrative, marketing and client engagement responsibilities, supporting project coordination and communication with homeowners. The firm’s services include interior and exterior painting, kitchen and bathroom renovations, deck staining and property management, with Allen helping clients stay informed as work progresses.

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