It's almost time for the Heartland Gobblers chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation's 25th anniversary banquet, and the organization's committee is making its final plans for the big event.
The banquet will take place March 10 at the Brown-Mabry American Legion Post 153 in Poplar Bluff, Mo.
The doors are slated to open at 5 p.m., with a social hour, games, raffles and a silent auction on the early bill.
A steak dinner prepared by the Legion's staff will be served around 7 p.m., followed by a live auction conducted by volunteer auctioneers Haven Willis and Felix Baker.
Available through the games, raffles and auctions at this year's event will be a variety of merchandise, including several framed art prints, hunting gear, a turkey fryer, a custom fire ring and more.
Back in the auction this year is a four-man African safari through Limcroma Safaris.
Also available will be several items geared specifically toward women and children.
Up to 25 guns also are expected to go home with new owners, including the NWTF Gun of the Year, a Winchester SX4 Field, along with Weatherby rifle, Kimber pistol, Henry Golden Boy and Silver Boy rimfire rifles and more.
Tickets to the banquet cost $50 for a single or $65 for a couple, while JAKES tickets, for those age 17 and under, cost $20.
As always, single sponsorships also are available for $280, while an eight-seat sponsorship table can be purchased for $650.
Tickets must be purchased in advance and can be obtained by calling Stewart at 573-421-1257, ordered online at www.nwtf.org/events or by contacting any committee member.