For Those In Prison

The calming perfection of nature’s presence, if only fleeting,
offers hope for the weary heart tired of beating.

March 13, 2010

                       

© 2010 Peter Tobia

Change

The Right Response

A call came into the newsroom on Thursday evening that the Camden police were dragging the Cooper River in Camden, NJ for the body of a young woman who had been reported missing since Monday. As a photographer for the local newspaper, working nights, I was sent out to cover the assignment. 
As I arrived at the scene, I noticed a police helicopter with search lights hovering over the river as divers below assisted in the search. A crowd of on-lookers and other media had gathered at a bridge which was blocked by a police car. I greeted the reporters who told me the cops weren’t letting anyone through. Looking around I noticed I was the only photographer present. 

As I surveyed the scene, I thought I might be able to get a picture of the activity on the river if I could get to the middle of the bridge; I started walking toward the police car. 
As I approached, a young police officer stood in front of me and said, “No reporters allowed!” 
I replied, “I’m not a reporter. I’m a photographer.”
Without hesitation, he said, “Alright. Go ahead.” 

© 2010 Peter Tobia