Jason Holm, Assistant Regional Director for External Affairs, and Rachel Levin, an outreach specialist, participated in the national First Day of Sale for the Federal Duck Stamp and Junior Duck Stamp at Bass Pro Shops' world headquarters in Springfield, Mo., on June 22.  This unprecedented event marked the first time the First Day of Sale has been held outside the Washington, D.C., area, as well as a kick-off of sorts for a budding partnership between Bass Pro and the Federal Duck Stamp Program.

Deputy Regional Director Charlie Wooley represented Region 3 during the formal speaking program.  Other speakers included Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris, Service Director Dale Hall, Federal Duck Stamp artist Richard Clifton of Milford, Del., and Junior Duck Stamp artist Paul Willey of Conway, Ark.  Following the speakers and the ceremonial sales of the first Federal Duck Stamp and Junior Duck Stamp to Dale Hall and Johnny Morris, dignitaries and audience members made their way across to the Wonders of Wildlife Museum where, after some scissor difficulties, the ribbon was cut on a new Duck Stamp and Federal Assistance exhibit.

Levin worked with Bass Pro Shops communications staff to coordinate media outreach prior to the event and on-site during the event, including doing stand-up interviews for two television stations.  The Springfield News-Leader ran several articles and sent general assignment and outdoors reporters to the event.  Several local television stations sent camera crews and the local National Public Radio affilitate also sent a reporter.  Media reports were positive, capturing the celebratory nature of the day.

Other Region 3 attendees at the event included Charlie Scott, project leader at the Columbia, Mo., ES field office, and Barbara Moran and Molly Comstock of Big Muddy National Wildlife Refuge.