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.

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.