COUNTY LIFE
Team on the spot: Emergency communications team fills critical role for Montague County
By ERIC VICCARO
The Montague County Emergency Communications Team started in the basement of President Kirk Higgins’ home.
Today, the team has its headquarters in the back of the Bowie Community Room, complete with the latest computer technology, weather radar capabilities and ham radio equipment.
Higgins said there was a need for the communications team because county dispatchers were overwhelmed when handing severe weather reports. Read the full feature on this team that is on the spot during emergency situations in your Saturday News and don’t miss tips for emergency information. Pictured: Jim Spinks, Diana Higgins and Kirk Higgins, members of the Montague County Emergency Communications Team. (Photo by Eric Viccaro)
COUNTY LIFE
Youth fair changes go smooth, sale tops $253,450
By BARBARA GREEN
editor@bowienewsonline.com
The 2026 Montague County Youth Fair had one of its biggest premium sales in recent history Saturday night with $253,450 sold with 170 slots in the sale.
This year marked some big scheduling changes as the swine and ag mechanics shows were moved to a new day, along with leadership and home economics. There also were expanded classes in some livestock events which added a few more slots to the sale.
Kenton Holloway, fair committee secretary, said on Monday after scratches the final county was 302 exhibitors and 972 entries. The 2026 sale jumped to $253,450 up from $213,500 in 2025 where there were 161 slots.
Top photo – Kellen Rater is congratulated by the judge as he won overall reserve heifer.

COUNTY LIFE
Bowie Chamber seeking nominations for annual awards
The Bowie Texas Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its 2025 community awards which includes Business of the Year, Community Support Award and Frances Brite Citizen of the Year.
Nominations can be submitted through Jan. 16. Forms are available on the chamber’s webpage at bowietxchamber.org. All nominations are strictly confidential and should include why you feel this business, entity or person should be considered for this award. You may nominate anyone who qualifies, including your own business.
The submissions will be reviewed by the committee and results announced during the chamber banquet on Jan. 26.
Read the full story in the Thursday Bowie News.
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