Save the Date and Don't be Late!

You are Invited to the Capstone Showcase 

From the BC Class of 2013

Mark your Calenders for Saturday, December 1st. to be part of the Annual Showcase where Broadcast Communication Majors present their student project - a short documentary film.

In particular, plan on coming from 1:00pm to 3:30pm to view the 3 film cluster that includes my own film:

"Wounded Warriors, Healing Hounds"

A film that explores veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder using psychiatric Service dogs to reclaim their lives and freedom.

Also included during that time slot is a Connor Kobis film:

"Fourth and a Miracle"

The amazing story of a former Westminster coach recovering from a tragic accident with the love and support of his wife.

And also in the line- up is Ashley Durham as she goes:

"Over the Rainbow"

A personal and revealing experience with the Gay Pride Parade in Pittsburgh during the summer of 2012.

Service Learning for Capstone

   Service Learning is a key requirement in curriculum at Westminster College. The goal of the requirement is for students to learn in the process of doing, and the doing should be helpful and beneficial to others. So how do I see the benefits of my Capstone topic? The video below sums it up better than I can say, but I will add my thoughts in text to please my professor.
     Exploring the concept of PTSD alone is valuable simply because our society must be more aware and compassionate towards the veterans that are suffering from it. So many more will be coming back from Afghanistan and will need help in diagnosing their symptoms, and finding the best treatment. I want my documentary to raise awareness, inform, and inspire anyone with PTSD, or anyone related to someone suffering from it.
   Exploring the use of Psychiatric Service Dogs as a way of helping a veteran regain his/her freedom and quality of life is invaluable as well. These animals can be so very useful to the everyday life of a veteran, its important for others to know and recognize that fact. I want this documentary to enhance the  learning and appreciation for the program, the dogs, and those who make it happen.  I hope more trainers, sponsors, and donors will rise up to keep helping these deserving veterans find the "best friend" they need.

Nat sound and music

Naturally I have some great footage of veterans and their dogs that involves a lot of barking. Wouldn't want to not use that in my video. And since there will be plenty of talking by way of interviews and barking by way of training I don't have a major dramatic music score in the works. Thanks Hans Zimmer for being so willing to work with me, but next time:) BUT I do have access to a lady with a great voice who has agreed to croon for me a patriotic song as she plays piano. If that works into the story line  then so be it.


I also had a chance to cover URAC last year, and the gentlemen performing his original acoustic guitar piece was very willing to let me use it as needed for my documentary. It's a mutual agreement, since I could use the music, and he could get his name out there.

Here is what I filmed of his performance last year.


Tim Skero interview and music