NAB 08: Cajun Proclamation

Mere moments after entering our Vegas chambers, Rick Portier presented Weaver and me with a landmark document. It seems a certain self-proclaimed Senator isn't just a potent blogger, he's a Man of The People. While I've been daydreaming in the Carolinas, he's been navigating the halls of the Lousiana Legislature! The Senator's mision: Outlaw the Dog Lick Live Shot, Ban the oversized microphone flag and Guarantee every working news shooter a sit-down lunch three days a week. Important enactments all, but after much lobbying by the News Directors' Union, each bill was unceremoniously shot down.

So the Big Man did one better, storming into the Governor's office and demanding some freakin' respect for Louisiana lensers, not to mention the Photog Nation at large. Okay, so maybe he bribed a bodyguard, bum-rushed some incumbent's bathroom stall or simply spiked the Guv's gumbo. Whatever Cajun tactic he applied, it worked - for the Pelican State's loftiest lawmaker put pen to parchment and signed a most important ordinance. Dig it...

WHEREAS television photographers are vital contributors in providing the community current news and public service events; and

WHEREAS they are necessary to every news organization in meeting deadlines and handling live shots.

NOW, THEREFORE, I Bobby Jindal, Governor of the State of Louisiana, do hereby proclaim April 14, 2008 as TELEVISION PHOTOGRAPHERS DAY in the State of Louisiana.

Most impressive, Senator. Not being a Louisianan myself (though twice I've over-imbibed in the French Quarter), I'm beyond honored you'd want me to hold onto this. Know that it will soon go on framed display here at Lenslinger Central while I launch a similar campaign here in the Tarheel State. With any luck, I (or a Raleighwood 'tog) will soon be able to reciprocate. All we gotta do is pry Easley out of his Hans Device. Trouble in Turn Two...