John L. (Johnny) Morris, conservationist and founder of Bass Pro Shops, surprised BlueGreen 2018 attendees by announcing a $1 million at the end of his keynote speech. Speaking before an audience of 330 Florida conservationists, anglers and hunters, Mr. Morris reminisced on his childhood and early years in business, his fondness for fishing and his desire to share that passion with all Americans. Guests were treated to a slideshow of photos, many of them in Florida waters, shared from the family’s personal collection. At the end of his remarks, Morris presented Foundation Chair Dick Corbett with a $100,000 check, the first installment of a $1 million gift to address Florida’s most challenging water and conservation issues. “We were completely surprised by Bass Pro Shops’ generosity,” said Corbett. “What a tremendous gift that will conserve nature and our outdoor heritage in Florida.”
