The City of Yelm announced Gary and Debbie Edwards as the 2024 Masters of Merriment for the annual Christmas in the Park celebration, held on Friday, Dec. 6 through Saturday, Dec. 7. The Edwards will lead the city’s festivities, including “flipping the switch” to turn on the Christmas lights at Yelm City Park, joining the official tree lighting, spreading cheer at community events and serving as grand marshals in the parade.
Gary Edwards is finishing his second term as a Thurston County commissioner and spent nearly 40 years in law enforcement, including as Thurston County sheriff for two decades. Debbie Edwards has served as a member of the Yelm Community Schools Board of Directors for 40 years.
“Gary and Debbie Edwards have both given a lifetime of service to our community, from Debbie’s selfless service on the Yelm Community Schools Board of Directors to Gary’s service as both a county commissioner and county sheriff,” Yelm Mayor Joe DePinto said in a press release. “I’m very pleased to celebrate both these beloved community members as this year’s Masters of Merriment.”
