[Leica] As tory from long ago as a rookie.

[tedgrant at shaw.ca (Ted Grant)]

Hi Crew,
I'm working on a new book project, here's a story being considered:  It
hasn't been officially edited yet. 

C&C appreciated. thanks.

Tentative story title??? 1 or 2?......................

1/ "A ROOKIE RE-ACTION."

2/ "DON'T BE AFRAID."

Ottawa -- One of my first news assignments was to photograph Prime Minister
Louis St. Laurent when he officially opened an art gallery show.

"Wow, how do I address the Prime Minister?  Am I allowed to speak to him?
What do I call him? Sir? Mr. St. Laurent? Prime Minister?"

You have to appreciate it wasn't like the media circus of to-day.  The
Prime Minister was opening an art gallery and I was the only photographer.

When I explained my concerns to his Executive Assistant, (yes you could
talk to them in those days) that I had never been this close to a Prime
Minister before and what should I do, his response was, " don't worry
everything will be fine."

Much to my embarrassment he told the Prime Minister, (Uncle Louis as he was
affectionately known) came over and asked me what I would like him to do.

Just try and imagine the Prime Minister of Canada asking you, what would
you like him to do?  In reflection, there were good old times!

I was in a state of shock as I tried to explain;  "if he didn't mind would
he stand with the artist by the paintings and may I take two pictures?"
This sounds very simplistic today, but let me assure you I was a basket
case. Oh yes and I was using a "4X5 Speed Graphic and flash bulb!"

After I had made my second exposure and indicated I was finished  he came
over to me, thanked me and hoped I had a good picture. He gave me the best
advice I have ever received from a politician, " don't be afraid of us, we
are people like yourself!"

THEY WERE IN THOSE DAYS! 

(Thank you Prime Minister, wherever you are?)