Lifestyle

The symbols of graduation

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After many years of time spent toiling classrooms and study halls, many students welcome graduation. Graduating high school or college is a major milestone. It is associated with many symbols that have endured for some time. As graduates prepare to receive their diplomas or degrees, they might be curious to know what's behind some notable symbols of graduation ceremonies.
The symbols of graduation

Captain Stastny honored during pinning ceremony

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Kaufman Police Captain Jason Stastny was honored during his official badge pinning ceremony recently at Kaufman City Hall. “This milestone represents not only a new title, but years of dedication, leadership and commitment to serving the Kaufman community with integrity and professionalism,” City of Kaufman said on social media. “Captain Stastny consistently demonstrates the character and work ethic that define our department, and we are proud to see him step into this important leadership role.”
Photos courtesy of City of Kaufman

Tee It Up for Kids

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Sunday, February 1, 2026, members of the Cedar Creek Country Club Women’s Golf Association (WGA) gathered to present the proceeds from the 2025 Tee It Up for Kids golf tournament to the Children’s Advocacy Center’s board President, Randy Squibb, and the Center’s Executive Director, Shannon Gardner. The tournament raised $48,269.27 for the benefit of the Center. Standing to the right of Mr. Squibb is Ms. Rita Files, WGA’s Past President and current Secretary, and to the left of Ms. Gardner is Ms. Mary Ann Anthony, current WGA President. Joining these four are representatives of the WGA, who are 70+ members strong.
Courtesy photos

Kemp ISD recognizes 'Band Dad' Johnny Wilson

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Kemp ISD recognized Johnny Wilson - a dedicated Kemp Band parent and volunteer since the 2009–10 school year. His children — Brittnee, Zac, Connor, Ben and Dylan — were all proud members of the band program. Even after all his children graduated, Mr. Wilson has continued to generously give his time and energy to support the organization and its students.
Photo courtesy of Kemp ISD

Processing game meat at home

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For many years, back in the day when I simply could not afford to drop my game off at a processor, I learned to do the processing at home. As a youngster, I watched my dad butcher hogs every winter and learned the basics skills necessary to transform game into ‘meat’ ready for the freezer. My duty was to haul water for scalding the hogs before scraping and do the ‘grunt’ work. As a young boy I didn’t relish hog killing day but looking back I did learn the skills that would later serve me well.
Processing game meat at home is not rocket science. Making cured, smoked meats such as this wild hog ham is really simple but it does require a bit of preparation. Photo by Luke Clayton
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