News September 11, 2009 Bill Westbrook and his lady friend Miss Barbara visited Birdsong for the first time since 1961 when he and Bob Keast, Sr. came to Birdsong to respond to a small ½ ad in the Memphis Commercial Appeal selling Birdsong for $ 26,000. On the way back from Camden on Highway 70 (pre interstate 40), Bill and Bob Sr. got into a discussion on which one would actually buy Birdsong. Bob Keast, Sr. won the match saying, "I'll just buy the damn thing". Today, after 50 years Bill came back to Birdsong and spent the weekend in his RV meeting lots of friendly customers and sharing stories of Bob and the family. Bill and Miss Barbara were the guests of honor at the Labor Day Add a Dish BBQ Fest on September 6, 2009 with over 300 in attendance. September 11, 2009 Casey Christel and Bob Keast as she gave Bob a one of a kind Birdsong Resort and Marina cake at the 2009 Labor Day Pot-Luck Dinner. July 25, 2009 The Tennessee B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Annual Junior State Bass Championship Tournament was held out of Birdsong Resort and Marina on Saturday, July 25, 2009 with 18 fishermen and a total of 23 fish caught weighing 41.93 lbs. in all. Click HERE for results and photos. July 4, 2009 Ainsley Haines of Arlington, TN sold lemonade all 4th of July weekend in memory of Janis Keast and also to help raise money for the Birdsong Fireworks Extravaganza. Click HERE for photos. June 13, 2009 The Kids Fishing Tournament was a huge success at Birdsong Resort and Marina on June 13, 2009. 125 Kids total participated in the tournament catching a total of 366 fish weighing in over 64 lbs. combined. Click HERE for story and photos. May 15-17, 2009 The Fairview Cub Scout Pack 309 enjoys a wonderful weekend of camping, fishing and boating fun at Birdsong Resort and Marina. Click HERE for story and photos. February 11, 2009 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship/ACA announces 2009 Tennessee River Rumble!!! Click HERE for the whole story. January 28, 2009 Birdsong Resort and Marina to host Civil War Tours beginning this spring. Click HERE for the whole story. January 26, 2009 Premier Boundary Waters 310 - 10' Wide Luxury Pontoon Boats. Click HERE to view information and videos. November 1, 2008 2008 Halloween Dance & Dinner - Click HERE for highlights October 25-26, 2008 TN River Trail Bass Tournament Classic – Click Here for Results October 11, 2008 The Scenic Tennessee Board of Directors visited Birdsong Resort & Marina Click HERE for more results. October 4-5, 2008 C&O Team Trail Bass Tournament Trail Classic won by Russell & Garret with a total of 29.84 lbs. and was held out of Birdsong Resort and Marina. Click HERE for more results. September 27, 2008 3rd Annual Pearls for Paws event held at the Pine Tree Country Club in Lexington, TN with all proceeds going to Spay/Neuter Program for West Tennessee. Click HERE for story and photos. September 27, 2008 TN River Trail Bass Tournament held out of Birdsong Resort & Marina. Click HERE for tournament results and photos. September 27, 2008 An unidentified customer goes off the deep end when trying to launch his boat. Enjoy the movie. September 25, 2008 2008 Antique Boaters Tennessee River Cruise Group visits Birdsong Resort & Marina to blast off for their five day and 478 mile trip along the Tennessee River. The 2008 Roster includes Robert Bartholf, Mary Ann Caliel, John & Marcia Williams in a 1953 Chris Craft Sportsman boat named Bart; Ted Fish, Janet Howe & Norm Blackley in a 2000 Hacker Triple named Marriane; Dennis & Donna Friesel in a 1953 Chris Craft Racer named Mohogamous Affair; Robert & Janet Korts in a 1926 Chris Craft Triple named Flash; Robert & Mariana Wright in a 1926 Chris Craft Triple named Old Sweetheart. Click HERE to view photos. September 21, 2008 DuPont Reels In 2008 WTIC Trophy The 24th Annual West Tennessee Industrial & Commercial League Invitational Bass Tournament was held on Sunday, September 21st at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Lakeside RV & Tent Campground on the scenic Tennessee River's beautiful Kentucky Lake. Two Hundred and Sixteen (216) fishermen from area companies were able to spend a fun-filled day on Kentucky Lake, catch a few fish, enjoy Benton County's vast shoreline and even make new friends. Click HERE to view the full story and tournament results. September 13, 2008 C & O Team Trail Bass Tournament September 7, 2008 Yellow Creek Bass Club Fishing Tournament held out of Birdsong Resort & Marina September 6, 2008 American Bass Anglers Tennessee - West - Division 40 Fishing Tournament August 21, 2008 Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm featured in the Knoxville News Sentinel under title: “Wildly popular in the ’80s, Tennessee pearls still command attention.” Click Here for the full article and streaming video about natural pearls. July 18, 2008 Pearly Sights Tennessee River attraction boasts only freshwater pearl farm in North America by Joe Parrino, Courier staff "This is one of the best kept secrets in Kentucky and Tennessee," Keast said. The low profile of North America's only freshwater pearl farm is surprising given its long history and the coverage it gets from national media. Pearls have been historically tied with oysters and Far Eastern cultures. Most people assume every pearl originates from some exotic location. Click HERE for complete article. June 30, 2008 How much is your life worth? Is it worth a $15.00 life jacket? U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets range in price from as low as $15.00 to about $400.00 for the top of the line inflatable, although, even the most expensive life jacket is worthless if it is not worn. With the long Fourth of July holiday just a few days away the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary points out that life jacket wear is "critical" to surviving a boating accident. Click HERE for complete article. June 16, 2008 The Wonders of Benton County, Tennessee Hot Rods, Classic Cars, Motor Cycles, Chrome and Leather, Antique Tractors, Parades, Music, Dancing, Gospel Jubilee, Dinner on the Ground, Miss Tennessee, Rock Climbing Wall, Smokey the Bear, Hummer Rides, McGruff, Turkey and Duck Callings, Rocky T and the Reading Rangers, Catfish, Kid's with Mom's and Dad' and all the Grandparents combining to make Happy Endings... Click HERE for complete article. June 16, 2008 Benton County Three Star Program - Tennessee River Pearl Festival The inaugural observance of the TENNESSEE RIVER PEARL FESTIVAL was set for June 13-15, 2008. Click HERE for complete article. June 14, 2008 Take-A-Kid Fishing Day. Click HERE for more information. June 14, 2008 Pearl Run and Scavenger Hunt. Click HERE for more information. April 29, 2008 Bob Keast Speaks To The Senate Conservation/Environment and Tourism Committee on Behalf of Litter and Recycling. Click HERE to read what Bob said. April 28, 2008 Fishermen’s Spring Fling April 27, 2008 Bob Keast of Birdsong Signs CMT (Country Music Television) Contract. Click HERE for more information and photo. April 20, 2008 Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm featured in the Travel Planners Click HERE for more information and to hear interviews. April 20, 2008 Birdsong Resort and Marina Awarded 2008 Benton Countian Reader's Choice Award. Click HERE for more information and photo. April 14, 2008 Pearl Farm featured in the Travel section of the Nashville Tennessean. Click HERE to view article in pdf format (please allow time to load). April 14, 2008 The Benton County 4-H Group visited Birdsong Resort and Marina for complimentary popcorn & lemonade and group photo. The 4-H group helped to clean up trash at the Scenic Overlook located on Hwy. 191 as part of the Keep TN Beautiful and Stop Litter Volunteers. Click HERE for photos. March 15, 2008 Team Trails Bass Tournament Click HERE for results and photos February 29, 2008 21st Annual Taste of Jackson Pictured from left to right are Bob and Janis Keast at the 21st Annual Taste of Jackson. Over 2,000 people attended this chairtable event at the Carl Perkin's Civic Center. Click HERE for more info. January 7, 2008 Keeping Your Tournament-Caught Bass Alive Click HERE to download pdf. December 11, 2007 On December 11, 2007 Miles Dean of Piscataway, NJ and Jim Kelly of Hartford, CT stopped in at Birdsong Resort and Marina to stay overnight. Miles and Jim are members of the Black Heritage Riders association. In 1992 the Black Heritage Riders organized in New Jersey and within a few years became New Jersey's premier African American horse riding organization. Click HERE for more complete story. November 29, 2007 Grand Opening - Online Store Here it is!! Finally, after the tremendous requests of our customers Birdsong Marina and Resort has opened its doors to the world! The demand of our Freshwater Pearls and the vast merchandise of other items we offer can reach your hands with now just a click of your mouse. Click HERE for more info. November 16, 2007 Benton~Houston Ferry Camden, TN. November 16 — Connecting middle and west Tennessee's two grand divisions via the ferry service began between Benton and Houston counties... Click HERE for complete story and photos. November 12, 2007 Pearls Grow in Tennessee TN Freshwater Pearl Farm featured on WBIR-TV Knoxville. Click HERE to read complete story and view broadcast. November 3, 2007 Pilot Knob 10K Run Bob Keast, Conservation Commissioner and Owner of the Tennessee River Pearl Museum, Tour and Farm as MC and supporter of the Pilot Knob 10K Run. Click HERE to read complete story and view broadcast. October 27-28, 2007 2007 TN River Trails Classic October 6, 2007 Team Trail Bass Tournment September 24, 2007 Antique Boaters visited Birdsong Resort September 16, 2007 Norandal Reels in 2007 Trophy in the 23rd Annual West Tennessee Industrial & Commercial League Invitational Bass Tournament September 8, 2007 Kevin Downs Poker Run September 8, 2007 WLJT-TV Poker Run August 31, 2007 Bredesen Names Appointments to Boards and Commissions August 31, 2007 Tennessee River 600 Moving Downstream July 21, 2007 2007 Junior State Tournament Results July 9, 2007 Matthew Hudson and Daniel Richardson's Graduation - May 18, 2007 June 25, 2007 The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile visit the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Museum - June 25, 2007 June 9, 2007 Kids Free Fishing Day On June 9th at Birdsong Resort and Marina, the All American Kids Free Fishing Derby and the 10th Annual Kids Bass Fishing Tournament were held. The All American Kids Free Fishing Derby included: 3 divisions, bank fishing only, first through third place and a big & small fish competition and took place between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. and is conducted by Birdsong Resort and Marina. The 10th Annual Kids Bass Tournament included: First through third places, big bass, two divisions, youth fishing in a boat with an adult and a five fish limit and took place between Safe Lite and 11 a.m. at the mouth of Birdsong Creek, this event was conducted by the Haywood County B.A.S.S. Club. The Haywood Co. B.A.S.S Club has organized and conducted over 60 such events for youth, disabled anglers, and senior citizens. Click HERE for the full story. April 14, 2007 Fishers of Men National Tournament Trail at Birdsong Resort and Marina Caption: From left to right Tony Callis and Greg Sanders of Jackson, TN holding their catches of the day. 1st place: Picket & Taylor 3rd place: Amerson & Matrindall Click HERE for photo highlights March 25, 2007 Team Trail Bass Tournament On Saturday, March 24, 2007 the Team Trail Bass Tournament was held at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground. The bass tournament hours were from safe light to 3 p.m. when the weigh-in took place. A total of 24 boats were entered into the tournament for a total of 47 fishermen. Click HERE for results. March 12, 2007 Governor Launches CoverTN Governor Phil Bredesen launches CoverTN outside Maggie's Arcade Grill at Nashville's Arcade on March 8, 2007. He hands a ceremonial CoverTN card to Angie Moore, the sales manager of The Pepper Patch, a specialty foods shop in Franklin, TN. The Pepper Patch has signed on to CoverTN, an affordable and portable health insurance initiative for working Tennesseans who are uninsured. He was joined by small business owners, their employees and elected officials outside Maggie's Arcade Grill at Nashville's Arcade. Among those in attendance was Bob Keast, 2nd generation family owner of Birdsong Resort, Marina and The Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Museum, Farm and Tour of Camden, Tennessee along with John Holladay, 2nd generation family owner of Maggie's Grill in the Arcade. Click HERE for complete story and CoverTN Program information. Governor Bredesen Takes Oath Of Office For Second Term Urges Tennesseans To Dream Big, Be Bold Nashville - With First Lady Andrea Conte at his side, Governor Phil Bredesen took the oath of office for a second term as Tennessee's 48th Governor today. The inauguration ceremony on War Memorial Plaza in front of the State Capitol was attended by members of the Tennessee General Assembly, Justices of the Tennessee Supreme Court, members of the Governor's Cabinet and staff, family and friends and a crowd of more than 2,000 Tennesseans. Click HERE for story and photo. November 5, 2006 Frasier 'Hooks' New Boat In KLOT Classic Click HERE for story and photos. October 31, 2006 Briarwood School's 3rd and 4th Grade Classes, Visit Birdsong Resort and Pearl Farm. Click HERE for story and photos. October 26, 2006 RV Industry Monthly News Features Birdsong's Pearl Museum and Farm Click HERE for story. October 23, 2006 Birdsong Featured in Houseboating Magazine - September 2006. Click HERE for story. October 19, 2006 Bob Keast attends Suzuki Dealer Meeting in St Augustine FL Click HERE for additional information. October 19, 2006 Hodge Duo Bass Team Nets Bass Boat Camden, (Kentucky Lake) TN. On Saturday and Sunday , October 7th and 8th, 2006 the Aluminum Boat Outdoor Bass Tournament Trail Grand Championship was held at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground. All year, fishermen have been competing to accumulate points for the championship standings in area lakes through out Tennessee. Click HERE for story and photos. October 16, 2006 Camden on Kentucky Lake, Tennessee October 14, 2006 - Court TV's Forensic Files Visit Birdsong Click HERE for additional information. October 12, 2006 Birdsong Resort & Marina Pearl Farm featured on WLJT-TV October 3, 2006 Senator Lamar Alexander visits Birdsong Tuesday, October 3rd. Click HERE for additional information. October 2, 2006 Senator Alexander is on a “listening tour” of West Tennessee and will be speaking on the goals and accomplishments he is involved with throughout Tennessee as our Senator in Washington, DC. Click HERE for additional information. September 27, 2006 LOWE Boat/ Mercury Motor being delivered to the Waverly Lions Club Click HERE for story. September 11, 2006 3rd Grade Briarwood Class attends Pearl Tour Briarwood Schools 3rd Grade Class of Ms. Gaye Wright and Ms.Judy Matheny visited Birdsong Resort and Marina today to take part in a Pearl of a Tour with tour guide Vanessa Patton. Click HERE for story and photo September 6, 2006 “One of a Kind” tourism site featured on statewide TV Show. America’s only Pearl Farm is at the BirdSong Resort on the scenic Tennessee River. Click HERE for story. August 28, 2006 Tennessee Motor Coach Association (TMCA) Click HERE to view their current newsletter in pdf format. August 8, 2006 Tennessee Treasures films segment at the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm and Museum. The show airs on the Fox and Pax networks out of Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Memphis. Click HERE for photos. August 3, 2006 John and Lola Pickul Celebrate their 50th anniversary and visit The Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm. Click here for story and photo. August 2, 2006 Bob Keast was keynote speaker at the National Association for Family & Community Education Annual Conference. Click HERE for story and photo. August 1, 2006 The Fisher King: Haywood grad after 4th state B.A.S.S. junior title Click HERE for story and photos. For additional story in pdf format, click HERE. July 31, 2006 A Day In The Life-Bob Keast A day for Birdsong Resort owner Bob Keast starts at 5 a.m. seven days a week. If he is lucky, he goes in each night around 8 p.m. In that 15-hour day, there are a lot of activities. From the general administration, promotions, maintenance, sales, service, tours and then some, made this writer worn out just keeping up with him during this interview. CLick HERE for complete story and photos. July 30, 2006 B.A.S.S. Junior Championships: World champ's run snapped on rainy day Click HERE for story. July 22, 2006 2006 Kentucky Lake Open Tournament On Saturday, July 22, 2006 the Kentucky Lake Open Tournament was held at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground. The bass tournament hours were from safe light to 3 p.m. when the weigh-in took place. A total of 76 boats were entered into the tournament for a total of 145 fishermen. Click HERE for story and photos. July 19. 2006 Bob Keast attended the WLJT/PBS Channel 11 Board Meeting. Click HERE for story and photos. July 15, 2006 The Fishers of Men Tournament. Click HERE for story and photos. July 15, 2006 Birdsong Resort and Marina To Host 2006 Tennessee B.A.S.S. Jr. Championship July 29 Junior Bassmasters who have qualified in their own clubs from across Tennessee will compete July 29 at Birdsong Resort on Kentucky Lake in Camden, Tennessee for the Tennessee B.A.S.S. Junior Federation National Championship. Click HERE for complete story July 14, 2006 Joe Whitworth and Family Celebrate His 80th Birthday July 10, 2006 "A Pearl of a Tour" My Visit to the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm - By Kristi Sayles. July 2, 2006 Camden, TN - Everyone enjoyed the huge bursts and massive fun of the fireworks display along the edge of Birdsong Resort's scenic Birdsong Creek Embayment near the Pearl Farm began at 9pm. on Sunday July 2nd. Click HERE for story and photo highlights May 31, 2006 Boat Donated to the Waverly Lions Club Birdsong Resort, Marina and Mercury Marine Company in Camden donated a 2006 Mercury Four Stroke 25 HP Outboard Motor, 16’ Lowe 52” wide aluminum all weld duck and fish boat with drive-on trailer to the Waverly Lions Club to be used as a fund raiser. Click HERE for story and photo. May 26, 2006 Marion J. Villalibby of Curves Lands Big Fish Click HERE for photos. Aluminum Boat Outdoor Tournament Trail - May 20, 2006 Click HERE for tournament results and photos. May 19,2006 Hunter Clifft - Camden Central High Class of 2006 graduation. Bob Keast’s star assistant and president of the Camden Skateboard Association. Hunter will be attending University of Memphis this fall majoring in Engineering. Click HERE for photos. May 11, 2006 ALPS Children from Paris Elementary School take Pearl Tour Escorted by Brendall Couan, the nine to eleven year old ALPS Children from Paris Elementary School Special School District, and several of their parents, attended a “Mini Pearl Tour” at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground on Kentucky Lake in Camden on May 11, 2006. Click HERE for story and photos May 6, 2006 Bass Pro Shop’s Big Cat Quest - May 6, 2006 Strong Currents Bring Big Wins at the Bass ProShop's Big Cat Quest The weather had been less than perfect the week before the Bass ProShop's Big Cat Quest presented by Coca-Cola on May 6th, 2006 from Ken Freeman Outdoor Promotions. The Tennessee River had been on the rise and the current was fast. Rain pelted down until the day of the tournament at Birdsong Resort and Marina. With prevailing winds and clouds looming from an incoming cold front, the tournament started off with a bang and 82 participants despite adverse water conditions. Click HERE for story and photos. May 5,2006 Show Me Tours Visits Freshwater Pearl Museum and Farm Show Me Tours, a motor coach group tour originating from Atlanta, Missouri had a full coach with tourists from Iowa and Missouri, traveling to Tennessee’s Freshwater Pearl Museum and Farm in west Tennessee. The group went on to LL’s Dude Ranch and overnighted in Nashville. The itinerary for day two is the General Jackson Showboat and then onto Opry Mills for shopping. “Quite a spectacular tour and such a beautiful State of Tennessee” says Doris Claybourne, Show Me Group Leader. Click HERE for complete story. April 7,2006 Fishing Expert Bill Dance Puts Tennessee Outdoor Adventures Center Stage National fishing icon Bill Dance is partnering with the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development to appear in a series of television spots promoting the state’s numerous fishing and outdoor adventures. Click HERE for complete story. November 8, 2005 WLJT Holds Retreat In Benton County CAMDEN, TN - WLJT Board of Directors converged from all over West Tennessee to Birdsong Resort, Camden, for a mini retreat Tuesday, October 25. The UT-Martin-based PBS station meeting included the board of directors, a national PBS representative, and key staff members – totaling 30 for the quarterly event. Click HERE for complete story and photo. November 1, 2005 BREDESEN AND CONTE WELCOME TROOPS HOME Hattisburg/ Gulfport /Biloxi, Miss. - Governor Phil Bredesen and First Lady Andrea Conte traveled Thursday of last week, to Gulfport, Miss., where they welcomed the first soldiers of the Tennessee Army National Guard’s 278th Regimental Combat Team home after nearly a year of duty in Iraq. Click HERE for complete story and photos. October 17, 2005 Cooper ‘Hooks’ New Boat In KLOT Classic The Kentucky Lake Outdoor Tournament Trail held its Fall Classic at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground, Camden, October 15 and 16. Sullivan Outdoors’ annual KLOT open bass tournament trail runs March through October with seven tournaments, and the season-end championship event on the Tennessee River’s beautiful Kentucky Lake. Click HERE for complete story and photos. October 12, 2005 Arizona by way of Birdsong or BUST! The Campbell Family visited Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground the weekend of October 8, 2005 in their moving route relocating from Virginia to Arizona. Click HERE for complete story and photo. October 11, 2005 RIVER RATS RETURN FOR YEAR 18 Commemorating their 18th annual visit to Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground, Fred Torres and The Savannah River Rats flooded the marina by boat for a action-packed, fun-filled weekend October 8. Click HERE for complete story and photos. October 10, 2005 Winterizing Preparing Your Boat For Hibernation Unfortunately, the boating season is winding down and it is time to start thinking about protecting your valuable recreational asset. Click HERE for complete story. October 10, 2005 Chamber Leadership Paducah Drops Anchor at Birdsong Resort Established in 1984, Leadership Paducah is a program to develop the leadership potential of men and women in the Paducah/McCracken County area. It is sponsored and coordinated by the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce Click HERE for complete story. October 4, 2005 Tennessee Travel Documentary Features Two Benton County Attractions Bennett-Watt Entertainment, creators of cultural, travel and sports documentaries, are in currently in progress of generating an entire library of “Discoveries… America.” The travel documentaries collection features an individual edition on each of the fifty states, and is available in high-definition digital DVD or VHS. To date, twenty-nine states are in final form and available for purchase, with the remainder of the fifty states estimated to be completed within the next eighteen to twenty-four months. Tennessee’s edition has just been released. Click HERE for more information and to order. September 27, 2005 Big Cat Quest Brings Fishermen In From 12 States For Championship CAMDEN – Slick “monsters” from the murky depths of the Tennessee River rolled across the weigh-in scales on Saturday, Sept. 24 and Sunday, Sept. 25. “Monster” catfish, that is. The Bass Pro Shop’s Big Cat Quest Open Catfish Tournament Trail ended its’ 2005 trek throughout the Southeastern Region of the United States with a two-day championship event in Camden, Tennessee at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground. Click HERE for complete story, photos and standings. September 19, 2005 West Tennessee Industrial & Commercial League Invitational Bass Tournament DuPont Lands 2005 Bragging Rights The 21st Annual West Tennessee Industrial & Commercial League Invitational Bass Tournament was held on Sunday, September 18th at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Lakeside RV & Tent Campground on the scenic Tennessee River's beautiful Kentucky Lake. Two hundred and forty eight (248) fishermen from area companies were able to spend a fun-filled day on Kentucky Lake, catch a few fish, enjoy Benton County's vast shoreline and even make new friends. Click HERE for complete story and photos. September 16, 2005 Disaster Relief Teams In Mississippi This Week Local and area United Methodist Church Districts have formed disaster relief teams that are – or will be - assisting with clean up and recovery efforts from Hurricane Katrina. Under the organization of the Memphis UMC (United Methodist Church) Conference, three combined-district teams have been established that will maintain an organized schedule for arrival in the Katrina disaster-stricken area in rotating shifts of week-long periods. Click HERE for complete story and photos. ‘The Face Of Grace In Action’ As Mississippi begins pulling itself out of the rubble left by Hurricane Katrina, United Methodists have become "the face of grace in action." "The response of the church has been the face of grace in action," said the Rev. Jeff Pruett of Tunica, the Mississippi Annual (regional) Conference coordinator for the United Methodist Committee on Relief. "It has been a reflection of the spirit of care and compassion."The response with food and water has been overwhelming. We've been able to work with other agencies in communities when they were not able to get those supplies." Click HERE for complete story and photos. Birdsong #3 SeaArk Seller in Nation Click HERE for complete story. Ag Day/U.S. Farm Report Covers Area Agri-Tourism Attraction Click HERE for complete story. Bob Keast spoke to the Tennessee Property Assessor’s Conference. Click HERE for complete story. KLOT WINNERS – The Kentucky Lake Outdoor Tournament Trail took flight out of Birdsong Marina on Saturday, July 21, 2005. 98 boats – a total of 196 fishermen – entered the competition. Click HERE for complete story. Bass Pro Shop’s Big Cat Quest Bass Pro Shop’s Big Cat Quest Catfish Tournament Trail began its season in Eufaula, AL, has traveled to Pickwick, TN, Fort Madison, IA, Gilbertsville, KY and will end its 2005 season with a 2-Day Championship Event at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground September 24 and 25. Click HERE for more information. Camden Central High School Class of 1995 Click HERE for more information. ‘Bubba Jug’ World Championship Open Catfish Tournament Click HERE for complete story. Carroll County Team Lands First Place With 113.54 lbs. Of ‘Fat Cat’ Click HERE for complete story and photo gallery. “A Pearl of A Tour” - Area Tour To Be Featured In WLJT West TN Journal Click HERE for complete story. West Tennessee Represented At Fan Fair Click HERE for complete story. Outdoor Writers Press Tour Samples Kentucky Lake Click HERE for complete story. Tennessee Travel Documentary To Feature Two Benton County Attractions Click HERE for complete story. Tennessee River Pearls on Display in Washington Click HERE for complete story. Fur Ball at Country Club draws purrs and paws handing over cash Click HERE for complete story. Taste of Jackson - Birdsong Receives 10-Year-Plus Participation Award Click HERE for complete story. ParFishing Tour Stop In Jackson, Tennessee at the 19th Annual West Tennessee Boat, Sport, Travel and RV Show Click HERE for complete story. What's New at Birdsong for 2005 Click HERE for all the details in PDF format. KLOT Birdsong Results by Randy Sullivan Click HERE for complete story. The Fred Torres and Savannah Tennessee Volunteer Navy River Rats trek to Birdsong Click HERE for complete story Trophy 'Caught' By TVA at the 20th anniversary for the West Tennessee Industrial & Commercial League Invitational Bass Tournament. Click HERE for complete story AUSTRALIAN VISITORS COME TO CAMDEN Click HERE for complete story Looney4Gin Gathers At Birdsong From 8 States, 2 Foreign Countries Click HERE for complete story English Hover Craft Adventurist Passing Through Camden Click HERE for complete story Birdsong designated official cooperative weather observer station. Click HERE for complete story Tennessee Pearl Farm Touts Itself As America's Only Freshwater Pearl Farm Click HERE for complete story Beech River Bass Club Tournament Winners Click HERE for complete story BOAT WINNER - James Johnson, Big Sandy was the winner of the drawing held by the Big Sandy Chamber of Commerce at the Waterfowl Festival and Duck Blind Drawing, Saturday, August 7, 2004. Click HERE for complete story Tennessee River 600 Makes Annual Stop At Birdsong Marina Click HERE for complete story Hampton, Jackson Join Birdsong Sales Team In Time For ‘05 Season Click HERE for complete story TDOT Federal Enhancement Grant awarded to the City of Parsons Click HERE for complete story Bob Keast attends the Decatur County annual Chamber of Commerce Membership Banquet and reception for Governor Bredesen Click HERE for complete story Dottie’s Marine was awarded the 2004 Retailer of the Year by the Decatur County Chamber of Commerce Click HERE for complete story Pearl Museum And Farm Flaunts Its Gems During Benton Co. FAM Tour Click HERE for complete story Commissioner of Tourism visits Benton County Click HERE for complete story Pearl Farm featured on WKRN Channel 2 News, Nashville, TN Click HERE for complete story Pearl Farm featured on Nashville Public Radio Click HERE for complete story. Spaghetti Super Auction & Dance - Friday June 18th Click HERE for complete story in pdf format. SUMMER FUN HAS BEGUN! Click HERE for complete story. Keast Speaks To Lions Club Click HERE for complete story. Pearl Farm featured in Tennessee River Marinas Directory Click HERE for complete story. Pearl Farm featured in Where To Go Next, a travel newsletter e-mailed daily to 55,000 subscribers. The feature is based on the publisher's visit to the Farm in April as part of the Geiger Press Group. Click HERE for complete story. Boating Fans Have Plenty of Options Around Tennessee Jackson Sun - May 10, 2004 - Jacque Hillman Click HERE for complete story. Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Museum and Farm declared official location of freshwater pearl culturing in the State of Tennessee Click HERE for additional information. The Kentucky Lake Outdoor Trail (KLOT) Bass Tournament Winners Click HERE for tournament results. Authors To Be In Camden For Book Signing Click HERE for complete story. Benton Co. Pearl Attraction To Appear in International Film Documentary Click HERE for complete story. Hickman County Fire and Rescue Chief Mike Frizell takes the keys for the organization's new boat. Click HERE for complete story. Bubba Says "Finally" Click HERE for complete story. First Lady Announces Plan For Long-Range Restoration & Historic Preservation of Executive Residence Click HERE for complete story. KLOT Tournament 2003 Kentucky Lake Outdoor Tournament Trail Classic was held at Birdsong Resort & Marina November 8 & 9, 2003. Click HERE for tournament results. Governor Phil Bredesen Conducts Asian Trade Mission October 22 – 31, Governor Phil Bredesen traveled to Japan and Korea for meetings with Asian business and government leaders. The trade mission was a bi-annual trip that has become a cornerstone of the state’s international economic development outreach for nearly three decades. Click HERE for complete story. Ms. Cheap's pearls of great wisdom ... go get the cheap pearls! You may remember my story about the American Pearl Farm, an aqua farm on Kentucky Lake in West Tennessee, where they ''grow'' pearls. Well, the pearly fruits of that unique process will be available right here in Nashville today and tomorrow at a wholesale cultured pearl trunk show in Green Hills. Click HERE for complete story. Governor Phil Bredesen to Conduct Asian Trade Mission Nashville - Governor Phil Bredesen will travel to Japan and Korea for meetings with Asian business and government leaders from October 22 - 31. The trade mission is a bi-annual trip that has become a cornerstone of the state’s international economic development outreach for nearly three decades. Click HERE for complete story. Keast Appointed To PBS Board of Directors Bob Keast, Camden was recently appointed to serve on the Board of Directors for the West Tennessee Public Television station, WLJT Channel 11. The four-year term is a non-paid working position serving alongside the remaining twelve seats overseeing the marketing, programming, budgeting, engineering, production, education, and administration of the PBS (Public Broadcasting Station) affiliate. Click HERE for complete story. Antique Boaters visited Birdsong Resort in 2003 DuPont Takes Home The Trophy For 2003 The 19th Annual West Tennessee Industrial & Commercial League Invitational Bass Tournament was held on Sunday, September 28th at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Lakeside RV & Tent Campground on the scenic Tennessee River's beautiful Kentucky Lake. Two hundred and forty two (242) fishermen from area companies were able to spend a fun-filled day on Kentucky Lake, catch a few fish, enjoy Benton County's vast shoreline and even make new friends. Click HERE for complete story and photos. America’s Great Loop Cruiser’s Association Cruisers Stop In Camden On Friday, September 5, two large vessels cruised into Birdsong Creek off of the main river channel at the TRM (Tennessee River Mile Mile) marker 103.5. The “Two J’s,” Hatboro, PA owned by John and Judy Gill, and “Marge’s Barges,” Willow Grove, PA owned by Margaret and Howard Daniels pulled in to the docks of Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground with a story to tell. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Lt. Governor John S. Wilder Roast Bob and Janis Keast shown here with Lt. Governor John S. Wilder (center) at a "recent roast."Lt. Governor Wilder is 80 years old and the longest running Lt. Governor in Tennessee's history - and in the "free world." CONGRESSMAN HAROLD FORD - Bob visits with Congressman Harold Ford at the West Tennessee Emergency Management meeting August 2003 in Pickwick, TN. They spent some quality time discussing new avenues and methods to direct more funding to the Benton County area. Area Attraction Owner Visits Mexico Pearl Farm Since 1996, the only commercial cultured saltwater pearl farm on the continent has been located in Mexico's Sea of Cortez, also known as the Gulf of California, the balmy body of water separating mainland Mexico from the narrow Baja peninsula. Click HERE for complete story photos. 2003 Big Sandy Waterfowl Festival The 2003 Ducks Unlimited Waterfowl Festival held in Big Sandy, TN on Saturday, August 2 was a wet one. Thousands of duck hunters gathered from all over Tennessee for the TWRA duck blind drawing. Exhibitors sporting boats, hunting gear, accessories and food items were all on hand for the annual event. Birdsong Resort, Marina came out in full force for the day's activities. Click HERE for photos. FAM Tour Owner and tour guide, Bob Keast entertains Art Henry for a poolside "brown bag" lunch. He joined the Wednesday, July 30, 2003 "Pearl of a Tour" group for a "FAM" (familiarization) Tour. Click HERE to read complete story and view photos. Travel Guide Authors Visit Camden Kids Love Publications’ authors George and Michele Zavatsky toured a variety of Tennessee’s attractions July 11-21 gathering information for their 2004 book: “Kids Love Tennessee.” Over the last several years, the Ohio-based couple has researched and published several travel books including editions for Indiana, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio and the Virginias, now on the best seller lists. Click HERE to read complete story and view photos. Billboard Erected On I-40 Billboard on I-40 at the 109 Mile Marker at Parkers Crossroads across the Interstate promoting the Chamber of Commerce and Camden. This was posted around July 21, 2003. Click HERE to see billboard. Ross's Celebrate 50th Anniversary Ross Family gathered for reunion and to celebrate 50th Anniversary over the 4th of July holiday weekend, 2003 at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground. Click HERE for complete photo gallery. 'Ms. Cheap' Explores The Camden Area Mary Hance aka “Ms. Cheap” ventured to the Camden area to explore aspects of time and money saving tips. Three-time-a-week columnist for the Nashville Tennessean for over 40 years, “Ms. Cheap” has become quite a personality and appears as a regular on Channel 5’s “Talk of the Town” with Meryll Rose, Debbie Allen and Harry Chapman with a variety of “cheap” ideas for going and doing. Click HERE for complete story and photos. 2nd Annual World Class Open Bubba Jug Catfish Tournament Tourney Winner Hauls In 19.84 lb. ‘Cat’ Jug fishermen from three states gathered at Birdsong Resort and Marina, Camden, for the 2nd Annual World Class Open Bubba Jug Catfish Tournament June 21 and 22. Official “ooze off” was at 7:00 p.m. Saturday night, June 21, with weigh-in at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, June 22. Well over 500 lbs. of fish were hauled in for the big show down. Lots of tired faces awaited the calculations to determine the winners. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Benton County Library Summer Reading Program Over 150 Children Visit Pearl Farm Over 150 children gathered in the lakeside pavilion at Birdsong Resort and Marina for their second field trip with the Benton County Library's "Summer Reading Program." Click HERE for complete story and photos. Growing the BIG Cabbage Mr. William L. Presson, Bruceton, gives Bob Keast a present notable of a photo opportunity. Click HERE for complete story and photo. Tennessee Statehood Day Festival Benton County Promoted At State Celebration Participants from all over the state joined hands to enjoy the Statehood Day Festival, Sunday, June 1. This "birthday party" for Tennessee celebrated the addition of the last bell to the Tennessee Carillon. Governor Phil Bredesen joined in the festivities at the Bicentennial Mall. Click HERE for complete story and photos. On The Phones Taking Pledges Bob Keast, owner of Birdsong Resort, Marina and Campground, along with friends Dan McCue and Gene Graff volunteered to "man the phones" Thursday, March 13. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Benton County Receives $10,000 Grant The State of Tennessee Department of Military and Emergency Management recently notified Benton County Executive Jimmy Thornton and Emergency Management Director Bob Keast that Benton County had been chosen as recipient of a $10,000.00 grant. The grant awarded is “earmarked” for use in purchasing new and upgrading existing Emergency and Fire Response Team equipment. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Bob Keast to Moderate a Signage Panel on Tourism and Ribbon Cutting on the New Pearl Museum In Feb. 2001, a group of several interested people met in Benton County to explore the possibility of identifying and developing some trails on the Tennessee River. And so began a number of meetings on the subject, each meeting being attended by more and more people. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Bredesen Outlines Plans To Expand Tourism Economy Nashville, TN – In what is becoming a regular pattern in the governor’s race, Phil Bredesen last Friday presented plans to expand Tennessee’s tourism economy, while Van Hilleary declined the opportunity to speak on the issues. Hilleary did spend about 10 minutes with the board of directors of the Tennessee Tourism Roundtable. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Tennessee River Freshwater Pearls Featured on NewsChannel5's 'Talk of the Town' NewsChannel5's 'Talk of the Town' included locals Bob Keast and Kristi Halsey on Thursday, December 5. Keast and Halsey were invited to appear on the show to bring the freshwater pearls from the Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm and jewelry for the Holiday Gift Guide segments that aired during the Christmas season. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Monster fish tank on the road again. The 5,000-gallon rolling aquarium brings lots of smiles to the young and old alike. You can view the native fish in a quite natual habitat or enjoy the pros when they climb atop the tank to share their best-kept secrets to fishing. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Briarwood 3rd Graders Enjoy Halloween Over 50 Benton County children from Briarwood's 3rd grade classes enjoyed a fun-filled Halloween at Birdsong Resort and Marina. They visited an internationally visited tourist attraction that can be found right here in Camden at the site of America's only Freshwater Pearl Farm and Museum. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Dedication of the New Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy It was a fog filled morning, October 22nd, as 74th District Representative John Tidwell, Bob Keast (Benton County Emergency Management Director, and Rescue Squad Member), Don Nerren of Decatur County Sheriffs Department and Jim Corbin, Assistant Chief of the Big Sandy VFD and Sec. Click HERE for complete story and photos. The Fred Torres and Savannah Tennessee Volunteer Navy River Rats trek to Birdsong For the 16th year, Fred Torres and the group from Savannah Tennessee and beyond arrived at Birdsong Resort and Marina for a fun filled fall weekend by boat. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Benton County LEPC met at Birdsong The morning of Tuesday, October 8th began on a cool, crisp note with temperatures dropping into the low 50's overnight. But at 10 a.m. when the members of the Benton County LEPC met at Birdsong in the warm sunshine, it didn't take long for interests in local emergency planning to warm up. Click HERE for complete story and photos. The 18th Annual West Tennessee Industrial League Bass Tournament The 18th Annual West Tennessee Industrial League Bass Tournament was held on Sunday, September 29th at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Lakeside RV & Tent Campground on the scenic Tennessee River's beautiful Kentucky Lake. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Bob Entertains Girl Scouts Down at the Pearl Farm Almost 50 Benton County Girl Scouts, gathered from five troops across the county, enjoyed a fun-filled Saturday afternoon. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Annual Motorcycle Ride for Life and Cookout It was the first Annual Motorcycle Ride for Life and Cookout that took place on Saturday, September 7th. The sign-ups for the ride began at the Carhartt Parking lot in Camden and the group left the lot at 10:40 a.m. to begin the 'first ever' Motorcycle Ride for Life with all proceeds from the event being donated to the Relay for Life. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Sportsman's Challenge Nets Nearly 400 Pounds of Bass Fifteen pounds would only put you in the top five, there was some serious fishing on Kentucky Lake. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Keast Speaks to Jackson, TN Rotary Club About Tourism & Pearls The Jackson Country Club in Jackson, Tennessee was the setting for the Jackson Rotary Club's weekly meeting on Wednesday, April 3 at noon. The special guest speaker was Bob Keast, CEO/Owner of Birdsong Resort, Marina & Campground, and host to America's only Freshwater Pearl Farm in Camden Kentucky Lake, Tennessee. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Charles Searcy, Sports Writer, Retires from the Tennessean After 45 Years The retirement column, a tough one to write, so we’ll skip with all the baloney and just say thanks to a bunch of people. Length and a lapse of memory over the past 45 years will, undoubtedly leave someone out. For that, I’m deeply sorry. So, here goes.... Click HERE for complete story and photos. Whiteville FBC Tours Pearl Farm The Whiteville First Baptist Church visited with us March 14 for a pearl tour. Click HERE for photo. Birdsong Markets Kentucky Lake in 18 Cities The marketing team from Birdsong Resort participated in travel and trade shows in 18 cities since January 1, 2002. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Keast Addresses Japanese Travel & Media Bob Keast, CEO/Owner of Birdsong Resort and the Pearl of a Tour, addressed tour operators and media from Japan in Jackson, Tennessee. Click HERE for complete story and photos. 'Taste of Jackson' Loves Benton County Sorghum Birdsong Resort's marketing team presented Benton County sorghum and fresh biscuits to hungry show crowd. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Pearl Farm Featured on CBS News Sunday Morning CBS News' Rita Braver came to Camden to get the real story behind "Pearls" Click HERE for complete story and photos. Camden Elementary Third Graders Visit Birdsong Mrs. Jill Barnett's and Mrs. Susan Woods' third graders came to visit and learn about the lake environment. Click HERE for photo highlights. Keast Gets a First Hand Glimpse of the 9/11 Disaster Bob & Janis Keast traveled to New York City shortly after the 9/11 tragedy and had the privilege to speak to and encourage the Ground Zero Firefighters and Rescue Workers. Click HERE for photo highlights. Keast Named Official Ambassador Bob Keast has been selected by Governor Don Sundquist and Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, Alex Fischer, as an Official Ambassador of the State of Tennessee. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Savannah River Rats Fred Torres and the Savannah River Rats stopped over recently for their 15th Annual River Run. Click HERE for photo highlights. Fishermen Weather Storm Jimmy French and Bryant Bawcum, Bruceton, teamed up to gamble - not only that they could catch enough bass to keep their number four slot - but also that they could get back to weigh them in. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Birdsong Resort Hosts TEMA Meeting On Terrorism Terrorism is no longer reserved for remote countries or international boundaries. The new threat, as we have witnessed, is the emergence of terrorism within the borders of the United States, such as the bombing at the World Trade Center and in Oklahoma City. Click HERE for complete story and photos. 17th Annual West Tennessee Industrial League Bass Tournament The 17th Annual West Tennessee Industrial League Bass Tournament was held on Sunday, September 23rd at Birdsong Resort, Marina and Lakeside RV & Tent Campground on the scenic Tennessee River's beautiful Kentucky Lake. Two hundred and sixty two (262) fisherman from area companies were able to spend a fun-filled day on Kentucky Lake, catch a few fish, enjoy Benton County's vast shoreline and even make new friends. Click HERE for complete story and photos. Wednesday, June 9, 1982 - Bass Tourney Pays Out $10,000 Camden-Fishing Capital of Tennessee J. W. WARD, President of the Camden, Tennessee, Chamber of Commerce, replied, I don’t know if we’re big enough to handle something like this, but we would certainly like to try, to Glen Andrews’ question if Camden would sponsor the first annual Tennessee Open Invitational Bass Tournament on Kentucky Lake. Click HERE for complete story and photos.   Designed and maintained by Whitestone Open Services