The Middle Island Longbeards chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will host its 15th annual Hunting Heritage Banquet on March 9 at the Momentive Park Training Facility on Rt. 2, Bens Run.

Doors will open at 5 p.m. with dinner scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. There will be a silent auction, games, raffles, and door prizes. For tickets to the event, call ticket chairman Bob Leasure, 1-304-758-4374 or email wildwvjakes@hotmail.com and ask about the Early Bird Special which is good until March 2.

This is the 15th anniversary for the Middle Island Longbeards, as well as the 40th anniversary of the National Wild Turkey Federation, the premier conservation organization.

All wildlife has benefitted from the conservation efforts of the NWTF, both game and non-game species. If you have killed a turkey in West Virginia, it is because of cooperation of the WV Division of Natural Resources and the NWTF.

Also, the Outreach programs, such as JAKES. (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics, and Sportsmanship.), benefits boys and girls ages 17 and under. In addition, the JAKES programs include a scholarship.

The WITO (Women In The Outdoors) is for women ages 14 and up to help women enjoy the outdoors safely and more fully.

There also is Wheeling’ Sportsmen/NWTF, which enables people with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors, too.

To join the NWTF and support the Middle Island Longbeards’ Chapter, make a donation, attend the event or be a sponsor. For more information, call 304-758-4374.