Click any story headline to open the article and share it using social media: Facebook, Twitter.
October 16- October 20
Rated PG-13. Ends at 9:05pm
Coming Soon:
Closed Wed. & Thurs.
Box office opens 7pm
Admission:
Adults $8, Children $7
Senior Citizens (Mondays) $6
936-598-3864
Around Town
October 1, 2026 - Following the 50th Annual Poultry Festival open ceremony, Shelbyville 4th graders rocked the stage and took the crowd to a "Flashback to the 50s" singing 'At the Hop,' 'Yakety Yak,' 'Shake, Rattle and Roll,' 'Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini,' 'The Twist,' 'Rock and Roll Is Here to Stay,' and 'Always Be Together.'
October 2, 2026 - For over a century, Joaquin Lodge No. 856 has been a foundational pillar of its community. The lodge is currently celebrating its Quasquicentennial, marking 125 years of continuous fellowship and service from 1901 to 2026. To commemorate this historic milestone, local brethren recently gathered with community leaders and state Masonic officers at the Joaquin Masonic Lodge building for a special anniversary celebration.
From left: Robert Register; Scott Sims JD; Vance Jordan Chaplin; John Henry Holloway III - DDGM 15; Jimmy Wgstaff WM; Clint Walker JW; Tommy Spurlock Treasurer; Stephen Jean Tiler; and Jerry Agnew SS
The story of Joaquin Lodge No. 856 is intimately tied to the founding of the town itself. In 1884, Benjamin Franklin Morris granted a right of way across his property and provided a 100 acre townsite to the Houston, East & West Texas Railway (HE&WT) on the condition that a railroad depot be established there. As the community of Joaquin emerged as a railway station in 1885, new residents and opportunities flowed into the area. This rapid commercial and population growth set the stage for local Master Masons to seek a permanent meeting place of their own.
Joaquin Masonic Lodge #856
Freemasonry was already deeply established in Shelby County through earlier Masonic communities in Willow Grove and Tenaha. As the new railroad shifted the local population toward Joaquin, 20 members of Tenaha Lodge No. 737 demitted in 1901 to organize a new lodge in the growing railway town. Their dedication was rewarded on October 21, 1901, when Grand Master Nat M. Washer granted a temporary dispensation to begin their work. Following a charter recommendation in December, Joaquin Lodge No. 856 was regularly constituted on January 18, 1902. Built on the Masonic principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, the lodge grew rapidly, reaching approximately 100 members by 1913.
Grand Lodge Officers (from left) RW Greg Payne DDGM 20; RW Chad Lagrone GC; RW H.N. Chip Green GSW; MWGM Jim Rumsey MWGLTX; RW James Smith DDGM 27; W William Farmer GT; and RW John Henry Holloway III - DDGM 15
The recent 125th anniversary celebration brought this rich history to life, drawing a large general attendance of local members and statewide dignitaries. The event was highlighted by the presence of the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Texas, Jim Rumsey, who led ceremonial duties alongside Joaquin Lodge's Worshipful Master, Jimmy Wagstaff. The Grand Lodge of Texas was heavily represented by visiting officers, including RW Greg Payne, RW Chad Lagrone, RW H.N. Chip Green, RW James Smith, W William Farmer, and District 15 Deputy Grand Master RW John Henry Holloway III.
Worshipful Master Jimmy Wagstaff (right) and Most Worshipful Grand Master Jim Rumsey (left).
50 Year Service Award Recipient Haywood Delett Edwards with MWGM Jim Rumsey
A central moment of the gathering was the presentation of a 50 Year Service Award to Haywood Delett Edwards, honoring his half century of steadfast dedication to the fraternity. The local community also formally recognized the lodge's enduring impact when Joaquin Mayor Rusty Wilson made a special community service presentation to the brethren.
Mayor Rusty Wilson Presentation from City of Joaquin to the Lodge brethern for Community Service
Today, Joaquin Lodge No. 856 continues the legacy started by its 20 founding members. Guided by Worshipful Master Jimmy Wagstaff and a dedicated corps of officers, including Senior Warden Robert Wallrath, Junior Warden Clint Walker, Secretary John Paul Sledge, Treasurer Tommy Spurlock, Tiler Stephen Jean, Senior Steward Jerry Agnew, Junior Deacon Scott Sims, and Chaplain Vance Jordan, the lodge remains an active force in the area. As the brethren celebrate 125 years of navigating changing times, they remain dedicated to supporting their neighbors and fulfilling their timeless mission of "Making Good Men Better".
Jeff Cummings – Joaquin Lodge Member
October 1, 2026 - (Photo Album) - The 50th East Texas Poultry Festival ETPF is officially open and running.
The community gathered with public officials under the big tent at the Frances Oates main stage on Thursday, October 1, 2026, to welcome everyone and officially declare the 50th ETPF open.
Josh Payne was the emcee and introduced each of the morning’s speakers.
Full video of Opening Ceremony
“For 50 years this festival has brought our community together to celebrate our poultry industry, our local businesses and most importantly the wonderful people that make Shelby County such a special place to call home,” said Payne.
Pastor Porter Brewer, First Baptist Church, offered an opening prayer and he was followed by the Center High School Band performing the National Anthem. Timpson Kindergarten students then led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
David Chadwick, City of Center Mayor, quizzed the audience on how many poultry festival events they attended and of all present under the tent he was the only one to have said that he has been present for all 50 of them.
“I’m proud of that, because it’s the most fun we ever have,” said Chadwick. “It is such an opportunity for us to celebrate what God has given us as our assets, what people have done to make those things grow to build the community with strength, with friendship, with fellowship.”
Allison Harbison, Shelby County Judge, welcomed everyone to the 50th ETPF on behalf of Shelby County.
“Welcome to Shelby County Historic Courthouse square, it’s truly an honor to be here this morning,” said Judge Harbison. “This festival focuses on celebrating the poultry industry, which is a vital part of Shelby County’s economy; however, I feel it is also about the youth of the county and teaching them the importance of hard work.”
Amanda Treat-Brock, Shelby County Chamber of Commerce President, spoke on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce.
“Today we honor these visionaries, volunteers, businesses, families who have helped build this event into a cherished part of Shelby County’s history,” said Treat-Brock. “Their dedication has created a tradition that brings people together, and showcases the very best of our community.”
Rep. Joanne Shofner presented a State House of Representatives Resolution.
“It’s just such a delight to see families and young people celebrating what is most important to you all,” said Re. Shofner. “So grateful for Shelby County and all that you do all of the leaders, but it takes you all, we all depend on you all to let us know what’s important to you in your lives, as well as we want to celebrate with you in everything in all of your endeavors.”
Rep. Shofner then read the resolution for all to hear.
Payne handed the microphone to Opening Day Shelby Chick Greyson Arwine, and then the ETPF Court each had the opportunity to introduce themselves.
Emerson Wulf then officially cut the feathers and the 50th East Texas Poultry Festival was declared open!
September 29, 2026 - You signed up to cross the road at the 2026 East Texas Poultry Festival - Chicken Trot 5K! Pick up your race packet which includes bib, shirts, and goodie bag at Shelby Savings Bank main branch location on Selma Street in Center on Tuesday, September 29 from 11am until 3pm and Wednesday, September 30 from 11am until 3pm.
If you haven't signed up, visit runsignup.com or for more information visit https://scttx.com/articles/sign-run-2026-poultry-festival-chicken-trot.
September 28, 2026 - The Center Garden Club has been busy this week beautifying the square with fall colors for the many activities of the coming fall season.
The Garden Club will also be hosting A Standard Flower Show presented by the Tyler Area Council and Center Garden Club. The show will be Friday, October 2 at The Community House on 425 San Augustine Street in Center. Admission is free and open to the public from 2 to 4pm that day. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to see some lovely floral displays.
Submitted by Carol Newman
Emerson Wulf takes her walk across the stage as the newly crowned queen. (Photos by Charity Arwine)
September 28, 2026 - Congratulations to the 2026 East Texas Poultry Festival Queen’s Court Emerson Wulf. Emerson was crowned the 2026 East Texas Poultry Festival Queen at the Coronation held Saturday, September 26th. The Royal Court also includes Princess, Avery Metcalf and Duchess, Kenley Ramos. Escort, Slade Kirby was voted Grand Duke.
In recognition of the 50th Annual Poultry Festival, former Poultry Festival Queens were invited to attend and recognized on stage.
Thank you to the East Texas Poultry Festival Queen’s court Platinum Sponsor HR Group, LLC for making the pageant a huge success. Gold sponsors for the event were Badders Law Firm, Blake Furniture, Dazzle Me Pink and Blue and JML Management.
From left: 1st Runner-up Avery Metcalf, Queen Emerson Wulf, and 2nd Runner-up Kenley Ramos.
Thank you the wonderful Committee: Caroline Corbell, Committee Chairman; Amy Allen, Brooke Lane Sharisse McAdams and Emily Teske. Caroline Chadwick and Chris Watlington were the co-Masters of Ceremonies. Thank you to Center High School and Center ISD staff for all your help and allowing the use of the Cafetorium. Food and table floral arrangements were prepared by the CHS Culinary Arts Students and the Floral Design Class.
The 2026 East Texas Poultry Festival Opening Ceremonies, sponsored by Focused Care of Center, will be held under the Big Tent at 10am, Thursday morning, October 1st. Queen Emerson and the Court will cut the feathers opening the festival.
Thank you to Farmers State Bank, Poultry Festival Presenting Sponsor; and Festival Gold Sponsors, Badders Law Firm, City of Center, Pilgrim’s Pride and Tyson Foods.
See you at the Festival.
For additional information, call Shelby County Chamber of Commerce 936-598-3682 or email info@shelbycountychamber.com.
September 24, 2026 - (Photo Album) - The 50th Annual East Texas Poultry Festival Doo Dah Parade, Sponsored by Ihlo Sales and Import Co., was held yesterday Wednesday, September 23, on the Historic Downtown Center Square. Junior Chamber of Commerce Students and Ihlo Sales led the Parade.
Children of the Court
Doo Dah Parade trophy winners include: First Place, Children of the Court; Second Place, Farmers State Bank; Third Place there was a tie – FFA and the VFW.
The Queen’s Court float winners will be announced at the Coronation, this Saturday, September 26th at Center High School Cafetorium at 7pm. Tickets at the door are $5.
Farmers State Bank
Gold Sponsor for the Doo Dah Parade is J. Ken Muckelroy/Professional Title Service. Thank you to everyone who participated in the Parade this year!
Farmers State Bank is this year’s East Texas Poultry Festival Presenting Sponsor. The traditional Cutting of the Feathers and Opening Ceremonies, sponsored by Focused Care of Center, will be held Thursday, October 1st, at 10am on the downtown square. See you there!
VFW Post 8904
FFA
September 23, 2026 (Photo Album) - Many Shelby Countians flocked to downtown Center for the kick off of the 50th East Texas Poultry Festival with the 2026 Doo Dah Parade. Several businesses, organizations, and contestants from the Poultry Festival pageant decorated their rides to impress the crowd. The Junior Chamber of Commerce members led the way around the square. The Poultry Festival opens Thursday, October 1st at 10am and runs through Saturday, October 3rd.
The Chamber of Commerce will announce parade winners soon!
Enjoy the parade video and photos from the event.
Click image to go to photo album on SmugMug
Pictured are (from left) Deck Jones, Allen Miller, Mahesh Galal, Brian Dean, John Howard, Joey Lawson, Buster Bounds, Craig Ballard, Marlin Jones, and Stephen Gamble.
July 24, 2026 - The Center Noon Lions Club Danny Foster Memorial Fundraiser for 2026 is underway. The local civic club's primary fundraiser is awarding a new Ford Bronco Sport 4X4 and four cash awards at a drawing scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026 at the 50th Annual East Texas Poultry Festival in Center.
Members with the Center Noon Lions Club are now accepting donations for the fundraiser drawing. Proceeds will benefit the many community projects and charities supported by the civic club. Donations are $100 per ticket and only a limited number of tickets will be printed.
Tickets are available from any Center Noon Lions Club member
The truck is on display at Shelby County Farm Bureau on Hurst St. in Center with tickets available there also.
The first ticket drawn will win the new Ford Bronco Sport 4x4 and the next four tickets drawn will receive $250 each.
Through their humanitarian efforts from fundraiser donations, the Center Noon Lions Club supports local charities, schools, children's eyeglasses, children with health problems as well as assisting with the building of baseball, softball and soccer fields.
Details regarding the Center Noon Lions Club annual fundraiser and ticket purchases can be obtained by contacting Stephen Gamble, Center Noon Lions Club Project Chairmen at 936-332-9347 or email at stockgam@yahoo.com.
The long running annual fundraiser was named in memory of Center Lions Club member Danny Foster whose dedicated efforts helped make the fundraiser a success.
From left: Mary Roberts, Clint Porterfield, Dr. Jane Todd, Derrick Roberts, Leigh Porterfield, Brenda Lucas, Theresa Hume, Dylan Roberts, Larry Jones, Sean Martin, Richard Lundie, and John Clevenger. Photo submitted by Larry Hume.
September 22, 2026 - VFW Post 8904 and community members gathered at the Shelby County Veterans Memorial on Friday, September 18th in honor of National POW/MIA Recognition Day.
Larry Hume, Post Adjutant, welcomed everyone and VFW Post Chaplain Richard Lundie gave the opening prayer.
Hume shared a salute to the men and women who serve to keep America free and in doing so, sacrifice their own freedom, and to remember the families of the missing. He added a continued need to hope and pray that they will someday be accounted for.
Hume stated, there are approximately 81,000 Americans listed as missing and unaccounted for going back to the Second World War. Shelby County, Texas has had 39 of her citizens held as prisoner of war, 35 from World War II and four from the Korean War. Three died in captivity, while others lived through a terrible ordeal that cannot be imagined and returned home. They have all now passed from this life.
Post member Larry Jones placed the memorial wreath. Photo submitted by Larry Hume.
A memorial wreath was then placed on the Shelby County Veterans Memorial by Post Member Larry Jones. Post members then replaced the POW/MIA flag that flys on the square. The POW/MIA Flag design concept is: black for the grief of those still absent, white for the purity of their service, and the silhouette of a bowed head that reminds us our work is not finished until every name is known and every warrior is brought home.
To end the memorial program, Taps was played.
The names of those that were prisoners of war and those missing in action are listed below.
Prisoners of War:
Harlan F. Adams, World War II - German POW
Haskell Beard, World War II - German POW
Harold F. Beasley, World War II - Japanese POW
Sharkey Brown, Jr., World War II - Japanese POW
Thermon D. Brittain, Sr., World War II – Bataan Death March, Japanese POW
Frank M. Butler, World War II - German POW
Oran J. Childs, World War II - Bataan Death March, Japanese POW
Basil A. Coats, World War II - German POW
Sam Davis, Jr., World War II - German POW
Dr. Roy L. Emken, World War II - Bataan Death March, Japanese POW
Ray Emmons, World War II - German POW
Newell Evans, World War II - German POW
Clifford Gary, World War II - German POW
Hilton Hooper, World War II - German POW
Calvin R. Hutto, World War II - Japanese POW
Audrey C. Jacobs, World War II - German POW
Jesse F. Kennedy, World War II - German POW
Johnnie M. Lee, World War II, Japanese POW - Died in Prison Camp
Dravis Massie, World War II - Japanese POW
Austin W. Mayes, World War II - German POW
Phillip E. Murphree, World War II - German POW
James H. Myers, World War II - Japanese POW
R.B. Neal, World War II - German POW
Truman B. Owens, World War II - German POW
Sherman S. Pickard, World War II - German POW
George O. Rivers, World War II - Bataan Death March, Died in Japanese Prison Camp
Charles D. Rogers, World War II - Japanese POW
George B. Stutts, Jr., World War II - German POW
Vernon B. Walters, World War II - Bataan Death March, Died in Japanese Prison Camp
Henry L. Wilburn, World War II - German POW
Hulon Williams, World War II - German POW
R.L. Williams, World War II - German POW
Levi A. Williford, World War II - German POW;
Marshall (Tex) Windham, World War II - German POW
John E. Woodfin, Sr., World War II - Bataan Death March, Japanese POW
Hubert L. Langford, Korean War - North Korean POW
Paul D. Lucas, Korean War, North Korean POW
Leonard Scott, Korean War - North Korean POW
Billy Lee Wescoat, Korean War - Chinese POW
Missing in Action:
John W. Temple, WWI - Missing July 19, 1918, France
John C.B. Alford, World War II - Missing May 7, 1942, Pacific Theater
Lloyd L. Andrews, World War II - Missing December 25, 1944, European Theater
Cecil A. Armstreet, World War II - August 31, 1942, Atlantic Ocean
Lee O. Brunson, World War II - Missing December 8, 1944, European Theater
John B. Byrn, World War II - Missing August 24, 1943, European Theater
Philip H. Childs, World War II - Missing July 29, 1942, Pacific Theater
James A. Cleveland, World War II - Missing September 7, 1944, Pacific Theater
Lewis V. Dockens, World War II - Missing June 2, 1942, European Theater
Reed Dominy, World War II - Missing April 15, 1944, European Theater
Roy V. Duncan, World War II - Missing April 16, 1945, Pacific Theater
Hubert Haley, World War II - Missing May 14, 1942, European Theater
Pershing H. Harvey, World War II - Missing October 24, 1944
Walter B. Henry, World War II - Missing August 7, 1943, European Theater
Curtis Jolley, World War II - Missing October 24, 1944, Pacific Theater
Willie E. Lathon, World War II - Missing December 12, 1943, Pacific Theater;
James A. McDaniel, World War II - Missing April 20, 1944, Pacific Theater
Woodrow W. Moro, World War II - Missing May 5, 1942, Gulf of Mexico
Kenneth N. Nicholson, World War II - Missing October 27, 1942
Darwin Risinger, World War II - Missing September 5, 1945, Pacific Theater
John C. Scott, World War II - Missing June 19, 1944, Pacific Theater
Choron Smotherman, World War II - Missing November 27, 1943, European Theater
Johnny F. Stack, World War II - Missing November 30, 1942, Pacific Theater
Richard M. Wallace, World War II - Missing July 26, 1942, European Theater
Robert H. Wharton, World War II - Missing November 20, 1943, Pacific Theater
Marion B. Whiteside, Jr., World War II - Missing October 19, 1942
Claude M. Wilkerson, World War II - Missing May 8, 1942, Pacific Theater
Elgie P. Williams, World War II - Missing December 6, 1943, Pacific Theater
Elmer E. Williams, World War II - Missing November 8, 1942, Pacific Theater
Ray D. Williams, World War II - Missing July 11, 1944, European Theater
Willie E. Windham, Korean War - Missing August 12, 1950, Korea
Pages
