The beards are back.

The Persimmon Creek Longbeards chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will hold its fourth annual Hunting Heritage Super Fund banquet on Saturday.

The NWTF’s Hunting Heritage banquets raise funds for wildlife conservation while combining a great meal with a chance to swap stories with other sportsmen and sportswomen.

But according to chapter president Tina Little, the Persimmon Creek Longbeards’ banquet isn’t just for hunters.

“The banquet can be enjoyed by anyone that loves a great meal and that loves to socialize while enjoying a live auction,” said Little. “Not only can they bid on beautiful artwork, there are things such as wooden coat rack, storage bench, sculptures, knives, chair with ottoman, windmill, wagon, grill, heater, cooler, and jewelry — just lots of things to bid on. They all have the NWTF brand on them, but they are quality items that anyone would love to have.”

By placing the highest bid or winning raffle games, attendees can go home with sporting art, unique hunting firearms, knives, wildlife calls, outdoor equipment, and much more.

Little said the crowd for the event has grown each year.

“We started off in the small room at (Kayla’s Diner in McKenzie) and now we rent out the whole diner, and always have a full house,” she said. “I feel it has been successful over the past three years. We always have a lot of the same people that come every year along with newcomers. We love for people to get their tickets in advance so that we have an idea of the crowd size and to assured they have a seat. Although seating is kind of limited, we have always made room for last minute arrivals.”

Tickets are $50 for a single and $70 for couples.

The cost of admission includes a NWTF membership and a one-year subscription to Turkey Country, the NWTF’s full-color publication that includes stories about conservation issues, turkey calling and hunting, and much more.

Tickets can be purchased in advance by call Little at (334) 453-0304. They can also be purchased at the door the night of the event. Doors will open at 6 p.m.