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SPECIAL TO THE DAILY NEWS

Congratulations to Drew Brown, the 16-year-old art student from Franklinton High School, for winning the Louisiana Junior Duck Stamp Best of Show! Drew’s stunning colored pencil rendering of a Green-winged Teal drake captured the judges’ attention and earned top honors in the 33rd Annual Federal Junior Duck Stamp competition.

A student in Mrs. Taffenie Mizell’s art class, Drew is the son of Justin and Meghann Brown. His award-winning artwork not only reflects remarkable technical skill but also a deep love and understanding of wildlife—something that’s been a part of his life since childhood.

The Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest is much more than just an art competition—it’s a national conservation program designed to engage students in wildlife and wetlands conservation through the arts. Proceeds from the stamp support environmental education, making Drew’s achievement part of a greater mission to connect youth with nature.

As this year’s Louisiana Best of Show winner, Drew’s artwork will now advance to the national level, where it will compete with other state winners from across the country. His piece will also be on display in Washington D.C. for a year, showcasing his talent on a national platform.

Drew’s success stems from more than just artistic talent—he’s also a Ducks Unlimited member, an avid outdoorsman, and a duck poultryman with a lifelong passion for waterfowl. Whether he’s in the art room or out in the field, Drew is at home. “There’s nothing more beautiful than watching the sunrise from a duck blind,” he says, reflecting his deep connection to the natural world.

We wish Drew the best of luck as he heads to the national competition and continue to applaud his dedication to art, conservation, and the great outdoors.