Life

Area communities offer various Christmas displays

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The Christmas lights in downtown Lampasas and W.M. Brook Park have been highlighted in recent celebrations. But for those looking to explore the holiday displays in other areas, several nearby cities will feature a variety of Christmas displays and activities. The following sites are worthy of day trips this month.

Myrick Taxidermy opens second location

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Myrick Taxidermy opened a new location in Lampasas this fall, after serving Lampasas County from its location in Lometa for 20 years. Owner and head taxidermist Mike Myrick studied taxidermy under retired taxidermist Wilma Loughmiller in 1996, and he began providing taxidermy services out of his home in San Marcos soon after.

Businesses contribute to LFD toy drive

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First Texas Bank made its annual contribution to the Lampasas Fire Department toy drive. LFD Chief Jeff Smith is shown receiving the check from bank President and CEO Kelvin Barkowsky. Pictured, left to right, are Tawnya Pruit, Pam Hunter, Smith, Barkowsky, Ladonna Bishop, Jenna Ball and Annie Trotter. MADELEINE MILLER

COLLEGE HONORS

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CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE Central Texas College held a virtual graduation ceremony Dec. 10 for spring, summer and fall 2020 graduates.

Martins Rod and Custom hosts toy drive

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Santa Claus (Rick Messinger) stands at the tailgate of a truck bed loaded with donated toys during the Disciples CC Toy Drive on Saturday at Martins Rod and Custom. Disciples CC has been established for two years, and it has about 15 members from Lampasas, Cedar Park, Austin, Mississippi and New Mexico.

More than 200 coats collected

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Sneed Funeral Chapel owner Zach Carnley, left, recently coordinated a coat drive to help those in need. He is shown with Marilyn James and Billy James after they helped unload the donation at the Lampasas Mission on Tuesday.

Pageant names Snow Queen, Snow Princess winners

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The kindergarten through second-grade Snow Queen was Jaxi Sanchez, left, and the Snow Princess was Vera Johnson. The seventh annual pageant was held Saturday as part of the Carol of Lights festival. CHRIS YBARRA