The Heartland Gobblers chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will celebrate its 26th anniversary when it hosts its annual hunting heritage banquet March 9 in Poplar Bluff.
The doors to the event, which will be held at the Brown-Mabry American Legion Post 153 off Kanell Boulevard, will open at 5 p.m.
“We’ll have all the normal raffles and games,” said chapter president Chuck Stewart.
A wide variety of items, such as framed prints, hunting gear, turkey calls, knives and more will be up for grabs.
A special women’s table also will be offered, with items geared just for them.
The Legion’s cook team will prepare a steak dinner around 7 p.m., followed by a live auction conducted by volunteer auctioneers Felix Baker and Haven Willis.
Back this year on the auction will be a four-person African safari with Limcroma Safaris.
According to chapter president Chuck Stewart, up to 25 guns will be given away, including a Browning 6.5-Creedmoor rifle, Kimber pistols and more.
This year’s NWTF Gun of the Year will be a 12-gauge Benelli M2 shotgun.
Tickets to the event must be purchased in advance and cost $50 for singles or $65 for a couple. JAKES tickets for youths age 17 and under cost $20.
Sponsorships also are available for $280 and include two meals and entry into a sponsor drawing. Table sponsorships can be purchased for $650 and include eight meals and entry into the sponsor drawing.
To purchase tickets, stop by Triggers Gun Shop in Poplar Bluff or call Stewart at 573-421-1257 or Toby Barton at 573-631-2285. Tickets also can be purchased online at www.nwtf.org/events.