2026 SESSION

ENROLLED

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 76

Commending the Tri-County Longbeards Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

Agreed to by the Senate, March 5, 2026

WHEREAS, the Tri-County Longbeards Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, based in Smithfield, has distinguished itself as one of the premier volunteer conservation organizations in the Commonwealth and the nation through its exceptional leadership, fundraising success, and steadfast commitment to wildlife conservation and community engagement; and

WHEREAS, during the 2025 program year, the Tri-County Longbeards achieved extraordinary milestones, including recognition as the top chapter in the Commonwealth at its annual Leadership Weekend and State Awards Banquet in Roanoke; this prestigious honor reflects the chapter's excellence in membership growth, volunteer engagement, conservation impact, and fundraising performance; and

WHEREAS, building upon this state-level success, the Tri-County Longbeards were further recognized on the national stage at the National Convention and Sport Show Awards Gala in Nashville, Tennessee, where it received three distinguished honors: the No. 1 Banquet in the Nation for 2025, an Excellence in Fundraising Award, and the L.A. Dixon World Slam Chapter Award for raising more than $100,000 in support of conservation initiatives during the year; these achievements place the chapter among the most accomplished volunteer conservation organizations in the United States; and

WHEREAS, through its annual banquet and year-round activities, the Tri-County Longbeards generate critical funding to support wildlife habitat conservation, hunting heritage preservation, youth outdoor education, and community-based initiatives that strengthen appreciation for Virginia's natural resources; the chapter's work directly benefits conservation efforts across the Commonwealth while fostering leadership, volunteerism, and civic pride within the Smithfield community and surrounding region; and

WHEREAS, the success of the Tri-County Longbeards is a testament to the dedication of its volunteer leadership team and the unwavering support of its sponsors, members, donors, and community partners; their collective efforts exemplify the highest ideals of service, stewardship, and commitment to the outdoors; and

WHEREAS, the accomplishments of the Tri-County Longbeards have brought great credit to the Commonwealth, and its members stand as models of volunteer excellence, community partnership, and conservation leadership; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That the Tri-County Longbeards Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation hereby be commended for its achievements at the state and national levels; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Tri-County Longbeards Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for its contributions to conservation and commitment to excellence in service to the Smithfield community.