CENTRE– WEIS Radio was honored to welcome Molly Jordan into the studio Thursday morning, July 23. Jordan represented the Northeast Alabama Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

Jordan joined WEIS Radio’s “Merry Jerry” Baker on the morning show. They discussed the chapter’s annual Conservation Banquet and its work throughout northeast Alabama.

You can hear the full interview here:

The Northeast Alabama NWTF Conservation Banquet will take place Saturday, July 25. The event will be held at Chattokee Lodge in Gaylesville.

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. Whiskers Catfish of Sylacauga will cater a catfish and chicken meal.

The evening will include live and silent auctions, multiple raffles, and entertainment. Guests can also enjoy an evening of fellowship while supporting wildlife conservation.

Auction and raffle items will include exclusive NWTF firearms, outdoor equipment, and collectibles. Tennessee Valley Firearms will serve as the licensed Federal Firearms License dealer during the event.

The business will complete all required transfers for firearms and other regulated items. Jordan said the dealer’s presence helps ensure all applicable laws are followed.

Individual tickets cost $60, while couple tickets cost $80. Sponsorships cost $300, and tables are also available.

Tickets, sponsorships, and tables may be purchased online.

Purchase tickets for the Northeast Alabama NWTF Conservation Banquet

Jordan explained that money raised through the banquet supports the National Wild Turkey Federation. In addition, the Northeast Alabama Chapter invests money in local conservation efforts.

Those projects include habitat improvements and work on public hunting lands. The chapter also supports hunter education, youth outdoor opportunities, and conservation programs.

Jordan said NWTF membership is not limited to hunters. The organization also welcomes landowners, wildlife photographers, and anyone interested in conservation.

Some members enjoy improving their property for wildlife. Others prefer watching and photographing animals instead of hunting them.

Jordan described those wildlife observers as “green hunters.” Although they may not harvest wildlife, they still value healthy habitats and strong animal populations.

She said conservation benefits everyone who enjoys the outdoors. Better habitats also help support healthy wildlife populations and responsible hunting opportunities.

During the interview, Baker and Jordan discussed the peaceful experience of spending time outdoors. Jordan described seeing wildlife while quietly waiting in the woods during turkey season.

She said those experiences are part of what makes outdoor traditions special. The organization works to preserve those opportunities for future generations.

Jordan also discussed two free educational programs planned for later this year. Both programs will involve the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The chapter will host a free Hunter Education Workshop on September 12. The program will take place at the City of Centre Community Center.

Anyone age 10 or older may participate. The workshop will provide the knowledge and certification needed to become a safe and responsible hunter.

Jordan said the Northeast Alabama Chapter has helped conduct some of Alabama’s largest hunter safety courses. She credited local partnerships, volunteers, and conservation officers for their continued success.

Jordan said she remains focused on teaching people to enjoy the outdoors safely. She described herself as “a teacher at heart” during the interview.

The chapter will also host a free Women’s Firearm Workshop on October 10. Women age 17 and older may participate.

The workshop will welcome beginners and women who already have shooting experience. Participants will receive firearm safety education and hands-on instruction from certified instructors.

Jordan said participants do not have to own a firearm. Instructors will provide firearms and ammunition for the training.

The workshop will introduce participants to several types of firearms. Instructors will also teach proper handling and the importance of respecting each firearm.

Women who own a firearm may have an opportunity to train with it. Lunch will also be provided at no cost.

Jordan said the programs help make outdoor education more accessible. They also teach the safe practices required to preserve responsible hunting traditions.

The chapter continues to invest in local young people through scholarships. This year’s Alabama NWTF Super Fund Scholarship recipient is John Michael Murphy of Cedar Bluff School.

Murphy has volunteered at the Northeast Alabama Chapter banquet for four years. He has also organized and led teen volunteers during the event.

The chapter recognized Murphy for his leadership and dedication to conservation. His work has helped younger volunteers become involved in the organization’s mission.

Jordan also thanked the sponsors supporting this year’s banquet. Billy G. Mitchell is serving as the event’s call sponsor.

Table sponsors include Morgan Lavender with Modern Woodmen and Chris Jardet with Sam Boswell Honda of Gadsden. Other sponsors include Marty Borntrager, Jordan Counseling, and Kevin Henderson.

Ben Richardson with Whitetail Properties Alabama is also serving as a table sponsor.

Jordan said strong community support makes the chapter’s work possible. She also recognized local businesses that support the organization throughout the year.

Community partners include Blossman Gas, Leesburg Country Store, and Cedar Bluff Piggly Wiggly. Decks and Docks, Ingles, and the City of Centre also provided support.

Regions Bank in Centre and Tractor Supply Company in Centre also supported the chapter. Several additional businesses helped promote the banquet by displaying signs.

Those businesses include Tyler Farms, Coosa Corner, and Marks Grocery. Day’s Sporting Goods, Decks and Docks, and Cedar Bluff Piggly Wiggly also displayed signs.

Jordan thanked Baker and WEIS Radio for helping the chapter share its message each year. She said that support helps the organization reach more people across northeast Alabama.

For more than 50 years, the National Wild Turkey Federation has worked to conserve wildlife habitat. The organization also preserves hunting traditions and introduces future generations to the outdoors.

Jordan encouraged residents to attend the banquet and learn more about the organization. She said the chapter welcomes anyone who values conservation, safety, and Alabama’s outdoor heritage.