COUNTY LIFE
Nocona General reports staff, supplies sufficient for now
By BARBARA GREEN
editor@bowienewsonline.com
Officials at Nocona General Hospital said late this week things are “running fairly normal” for the emergency room and hospital, despite a slate of strict protocols and restrictions in place for staff, patients and visitors.
As the remaining hospital located in and serving Montague County, NGH operates the hospital, emergency room and a pair of rural health clinics located at the hospital, Bowie and Saint Jo, which is temporarily closed.
Lance Meekins, chief executive officer of NGH, said Thursday the clinic has tested five potential patients with no confirmed cases at this time.
The clinic has implemented protocols to deal with patients who may feel they have symptoms and may lead to testing for COVID-19. Anyone who feels they have symptoms should call the clinic and arrangements will be made to examine or test the person.
Friday nationwide the United States reportedly had the largest number of Coronavirus cases in the world at 85,707 confirmed cases and 1,268 deaths. Montague County saw its first confirmed case of a Nocona area resident who tested positive for the virus while in Wichita Falls.
On Wednesday County Health Officer Dr. Delbert McCaig confirmed the positive test. Due to federal law there is limited information that can be released about the patient.
Read the full story in the weekend Bowie News.
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.
COUNTY LIFE
All Together Show fills ring with smiling children
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