COUNTY LIFE
It’s Valentine’s Day Watch the stars, have a laugh: Most wanted dates in the U.S.
by Felix Richter, Feb 14, 2025, statista.com
What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than to plan a nice date with your loved one. And while dinner and a movie are always solid choices, why not try something new and make this one a night to remember. In a recent survey, YouGov asked U.S. adults about the kinds of dates they’ve never been on but would love to try.
At the top of the date-night wish list is stargazing – because what’s more romantic than cuddling under a blanket and looking up at the night sky? Another popular date idea is going to a comedy show, where laughter is basically guaranteed (as long as you don’t become part of the show!). Another popular pick? Taking an art class together, whether it’s pottery, painting or something else creative, is also something many Americans would love to try on a date night.
Of course, some classic dates never go out of style. Most Americans have been to a restaurant or seen a movie with a date, but they’d happily do it again. A cozy home-cooked meal is another favorite, as long as the food is made with love. However, not all date ideas are a hit. According to the survey, most people would rather skip haunted houses, fishing trips and – somewhat surprisingly – nights out at a bar or club. So if you’re planning something special this Valentine’s Day, consider adding a little adventure, but not too much, to the mix. It just might make for your most memorable date yet!
COUNTY LIFE
Benefit assisting McCracken family of Nocona
The community of Nocona and Montague County are pulling together to assist a young woman and her family as she fights for her life after being diagnosed with a rare and life-threatening disease Mesenteric Artery Thrombosis.
For Ashley McCracken it all began back on Aug. 29, 2025 when a blood clot was cutting off the blood flow to her intestines. What began as nausea turned into a critical medical emergency, that resulted in her being airlifted to Fort Worth where she underwent four major abdominal surgeries.
Ashley faces ongoing complications and has been referred to Duke University Medical Center, where she will be evaluated on Jan. 23 for possible placement on the small intestine transplant list.
Friends of Ashley McCracken are coordinating a silent auction and Facebook page to help assist the family. An account has been set up at Legend Bank to manage and distribute funds.
Donations are being accepted through caringbridge.org, type in Ashley McCracken and it will display the link to her page.
A silent auction will be set up in city hall as donations are received. This is a come and go auction during regular business hours. Auction items can be seen on the Facebook page Ashley McCracken benefit.
To donate auction items or for more information call Michelle Fenoglio Toerck 940-867-9595 or Donna Lemons 940-366-6825.
Read the full story in the Thursday Bowie News.
Pictured Ashley McCracken. (Courtesy photo)
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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