Retired firefighter, longtime volunteer honored at State of the City event
For decades, Folsom resident Charlie Grows has filled just about every volunteer role there is to fill at the Folsom Pro Rodeo, except one. But that all changed Thursday afternoon when Grows, a longtime resident and retired Folsom firefighter known for his community service and philanthropy, was named the 2025 Grand Marshal of the annual event.
The announcement came during the State of the City event hosted by Choose Folsom, a gathering that includes the cherished tradition of naming the Grand Marshal for Folsom’s signature Independence Day celebration.
This year’s Folsom Pro Rodeo, organized by the Folsom Chamber of Commerce, will take place on July 3, 4, and 5 at Dan Russell Arena. Known for drawing crowds from near and far, the event celebrates Folsom’s Western heritage with three nights of action-packed rodeo performances, fireworks, and family fun.
Joe Gagliardi, CEO of Choose Folsom, had the honor of introducing the 2025 Grand Marshal during his opening remarks at Thursday’s event. Gagliardi highlighted Grows’ deep roots in the community and his lifetime of service, referring to him affectionately as “Uncle Charlie”—a nickname that reflects the warmth and generosity he’s brought to the Folsom community for decades.
“He actually moved here in 1956 at the age of four years old,” Gagliardi shared. “He attended Granite School, Theodore Judah, Notre Dame, and graduated from Folsom High School in 1971. When it comes to the love of our country, he served in the Air Force for four years before embarking on a 44-year career as a firefighter.”
Grows has been a cornerstone of the Folsom Pro Rodeo’s volunteer team, taking on everything from distributing ice and beverages to shuttle driving and post-event cleanup. His willingness to tackle any task, no matter how unglamorous, has made him an indispensable part of the event’s success.
Beyond the rodeo, Grows is an active member of the Folsom Rotary Club, where he embodies the motto “Service Above Self.” Gagliardi praised him for his dedication to club service, including managing the Rotary bar—a task that requires remembering everyone’s favorite drink—and for showing up consistently at work parties to improve the community.
This year’s recognition comes at an exciting time for Grows, who is also embarking on a new venture: opening a brewery right around the time of the rodeo with his daughter Taryn known as Uncle Charlie’s Firehouse and Brew in the heart of Historic Folsom.
When asked about being named Grand Marshal, Grows expressed his gratitude and shared a heartfelt moment. “I’m honored to do this. I knew about it last week, so this wasn’t a surprise today, but it was for my daughter Taryn. We didn’t tell her until today,” Grows said. “Seeing her reaction to it was the best part of this.”
Folsom Times photo by Bill Sullivan
The announcement also included an acknowledgment of the Grand Marshals who came before him: Brian Martel (2024), Adam Frick (2023), and Karen West (2022)..
As Folsom prepares for another successful rodeo, Grows’ role as Grand Marshal surely adds another local touch to the 2025 festivities. Known for his selflessness, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his hometown, “Uncle Charlie” is sure to lead the celebration of Folsom’s long tradition. Tickets are now on sale for the 2025 Folsom Pro Rodeo and can be purchased directly through the chamber at www.folsomprorodeo.com.
