October 2, 2025 - The 49th Annual East Texas Poultry Festival is officially open as of Thursday, October 2, 2025.
The ETPF Queen Payton McGee and her court were on stage and the official cutting of the feathers to signify the opening of the event was performed.
Emcee of the opening ceremonies and ETPF Committee Chair was Josh Payne who welcomed the community to the event and introduced each of the speakers and performers for the morning’s proceedings.
The Center High School Roughrider band performed the National Anthem and the Timpson ISD Kindergarten class recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
First Methodist Church of Center Pastor Malcolm Monroe offered the opening prayer for the event and he was followed by opening remarks from David Chadwick, City of Center Mayor, and president of Farmer’s State Bank.
“On behalf of the City of Center we open our doors wide today to welcome you to our community, welcome you to having a good time, enjoy all that life has given us and our resources of poultry, timber, watermelon and good people,” said Chadwick.
Allison Harbison, Shelby County Judge, spoke on behalf of the county and the commissioners. She stated she was honored to share the stage with the “Flock” of smart, talented, and beautiful ladies of the East Texas Poultry Festival court.
“I feel so blessed to live in a small county that is made up of wonderful, friendly communities, especially in these trying times,” said Judge Harbison. “Goodness knows that we have our challenges, but I feel that it will strengthen our love for our rural county and reinforce our belief that we live in the most wonderful place in the world.”
Brandy Filz, 2025 Chairman of the board of directors of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce, offered words of welcome on behalf of the chamber, board and the Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors.
“We want to welcome you to the 49th Annual [East Texas] Poultry Festival, and we’re so glad you’re here,” said Filz.
She remarked on the festival being something the entire community looks forward to every year and something the chamber is always seeking to make a little bit better every year.
Joanne Shofner, Texas State Representative, presented a Resolution from the Texas House of Representatives recognizing the East Texas Poultry Festival.
“It is such an incredible honor to represent you all in Houston when you travel many, many counties and the most beautiful courthouse of course is Shelby County’s courthouse,” said Shofner. “There is no other courthouse, there’s no other square, it is a delight, and this festival I’ve come many years, this festival there’s no other festival that everyone in the community gets involved.”
Rep. Shofner then recited the resolution which was signed by the Dustin Burrows, Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives.
The Queen and her court commenced to then introducing themselves and the official cutting of the feathers took place to open the festival.
