The Blaster Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation met Thursday night at the Southern Sportsman Lounge in White Hall to thank sponsors of the organization.

A group of about 70 came together to eat, win prizes and to enjoy each other’s company.

“All of our members are important but we owe a special debt of gratitude to those that sponsor our local chapter, meaning that they pay an amount greater than the $35,” said Jere Peak, who serves on the NWTF’s national board of directors.

Sponsors pay $315 instead of $35 a year, which is what it costs to be a member of the NWTF. Peak said the local chapter, called the Blaster Chapter, has had the highest number of sponsored members in the state of Alabama. Being a sponsored member means getting special recognition at the banquet, the chance to win gifts selected only for sponsors and to receive seed subsidy benefits, such as corn, clovers and wheat.

Sponsors also get an invitation to the sponsor appreciation dinner, which is what took place Thursday.

“This is the chance to show the appreciation of these sponsors that have been with our banquet for all 27 years,” Peak said.

“It also gives a laid-back atmosphere in which we can enjoy fellowship, camaraderie, enjoy a great meal and share some turkey stories.”

However, this wasn’t even the biggest event that the NWTF is holding this month in Selma.

On March 10, the Blaster Chapter will hold its annual banquet at the Carl C. Morgan Convention Center at 6 p.m. Single tickets are $65, couple tickets are $90 and tickets for children 16 and under are $25. Sponsorships are also available for $315.

Eighty percent of the money raised at the banquet will go toward habitat projects.

Tickets include a membership to the National Wild Turkey Foundation and a meal.

There will be a live auction, silent auction and games. Peak said about 16 guns will be given away and a seafood buffet will be served for dinner.

“It’s a great chance to get together, have fun with your family, great food and an opportunity to give back to the habitat of this great state so that future generations can enjoy the privileges that we enjoy now.”

The NWTF was founded in 1973 with a focus on conservation. The nonprofit organization holds about 2100 banquets nationally each year. Peak said the Selma chapter is one of only 50 chapters nationally that has achieved Golden Gobbler status, which means they net the most money for the federation to use.

Tickets to the banquet will be sold at the door, but can be purchased in advance by calling Peak at Peak Insurance at (334) 872-2303.