Valley News staff photographers and interns are sharing the stories behind their favorite photographs of the year. More of their favorites can be seen in Photo Galleries. Photo Editor Geoff Hansen shares his pick below.
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In May, I headed off to Claremont for an assignment, not expecting much.
As part of a school project, Oliver Beeman, 10, was to present his petition to the City Council, asking councilors to lower the speed limit in front of his house on South Street.
Thinking I would witness a child doing what adults thought would be a good idea, I was surprised to meet a self-assured boy who cared strongly about the issue, speaking at a podium over which he could barely see.
As I moved to find another angle to photograph, I stood close to Oliver. I noticed his mother, Jocelyn Beeman, wiping her eyes while watching from the gallery.
As a parent myself, I felt the pride she had in seeing her child speak confidently before the nine-person board.
The photo is one of so many in the newspaper telling stories of people who are going through joyful and sad times every day in the Upper Valley.
I’m immensely proud to be part of a staff that cares deeply about community journalism.
By the way, three months later, the City Council voted to lower the speed limit near Oliver’s house to 25 mph.
