COUNTY LIFE
Spring break coastal safety reminder from Texas game wardens
AUSTIN— As spring break approaches and warmer weather draws visitors to the Texas coast, Texas Game Wardens encourage everyone planning recreational fishing, boating or beach activities to make safety a part of their plans.
Spring break is often the first peak of summer-like weather, bringing increased activity along the coast. Visitors are encouraged to take a few simple precautions to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:
Check local weather and marine forecasts before heading out. High winds, rough waves, sudden storms and lightning can create hazardous conditions for both swimmers and boaters.
Beachgoers should remain alert for rip current conditions. If riptides are present in one area, they are likely to occur further up or down the coastline.
Proper safety equipment is critical for anyone spending time on the water. Wearing a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket is strongly recommended for all water-related activities and is required for children under 13 while aboard a vessel that is underway.
Boaters should do a safety check before leaving the dock. This ensures they have all required equipment, including, but not limited to: life jackets for everyone onboard, a throwable flotation device, a sound-producing device and current vessel registration.
Boaters are also encouraged to file a float plan with a trusted person on land before departing. This information can significantly reduce search times if assistance becomes necessary.
Texas Game Wardens want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable spring break. By taking a few simple precautions and planning ahead, visitors can help make their time on the Texas coast both safe and memorable.
Once again it’s time for the Free Comic Book Day Mini-Con at the Bowie Public Library on May 2.
What began several years ago as a free comic book day has grown into a full day of fun activities for the entire family centered around comics, video games, cosplayers and other creatives.
It is organized by the Bowie TX Freakz & Geeks and the Bowie Public Library. Activities run 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the library located at 301 Walnut.
There will be free comic books to kick start or expand your collection, an epic video game high score tournament, costume contest for cosplayers of all levels, raffles swag giveaways and exclusive goodies. Unique vendors also will be on hand with special guests. Bowie TX Freakz & Geeks is a local discord group on a mission to bring nerd culture and a better connection to the area and surrounding communities. Find group on Facebook. Share your passions that may be anime, art, comics, gaming, or movies.
Entries are now open for the 2026 Miss Jim Bowie Days Pageant with a deadline of May 31 to enter.
This contest is a longstanding tradition during Jim Bowie Days giving young women an opportunity to represent the community, promote rodeo and carry on a legacy building character, integrity and western heritage.
The pageant include two age divisions: Miss Jim Bowie, age 14-21 (as of June 1, 2026) and Little Miss Jim Bowie Days, ages 6-13 (as of June 1, 2026). Entry deadline is 11:59 p.m. on May 31. All applications, fees and required materials must be submitted by this time.
Applications and information is available at jimbowiedays.com, click Miss Jim Bowie Days.
There is an optional orientation meet at 6 p.m. on May 31 at the Bowie Community Center. It is strongly recommended contestants and parents attend this meeting.
Read more on this story in the Thursday Bowie News.
Pictured – Rodeo royals from 2025 competition. Bowie News file photo
Nocona’s Robert Fenoglio (Center) stands with his family after he received the Ed Wright Community Service Award during the North Central Texas College Foundation Starlite Gala. The award honors service and dedication to one’s community and supporting education. (Top photo)
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