Susan Lunn

Reporters listen to a lot of stump speeches during election campaigns.

The speeches usually begin with a thank you to people who organized the event.

Sometimes a local politician like the local mayor is recognized.

But the media? Never.

Until today.

Former premier Bernard Lord began his speech welcoming the national media to Moncton.

People really are friendly in the Maritimes.

Lord was also eager to welcome Stephen Harper. At the end of his remarks he threw to the Conservative leader.

The crowd was on its feet. People waved thunder sticks.

But, where was Harper? Turns out he was still getting ready.

Lord had to admit to jumping the gun. The crowd sat back down for a while and the room was strangely deflated.

— Susan Lunn