Category: History
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Honoring Veterans
Here are two short videos I produced this year while working on separate projects for Lutheran Life Communities and the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin (ELCA) Book of Faith Initiative. Both stories reference the everyday heroism, faith, fear and loss experienced by veterans of every generation. Nick Zanini served in Europe during World War II. James…
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Ancient Byblos
While in Lebanon, we visited Byblos, an ancient city just north of Beirut. It is believed by many to be the oldest continuously-inhabited city in the world. It is was also a great place for the IVAP team to get a sense of the historical depth that is woven into the fabric of the Middle…
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Quiet Strength: The Deaconess Community, ELCA
Quiet Strength is a short documentary I produced in for the Deaconess Community, ELCA. The video looks at the history of the community its role in Church and society and the future of the organization. The video is narrated by the Rev. Barbara Berry-Bailey.
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St. Joseph, Michigan Old Main Lighthouse
I recorded this windy shot of the St. Joseph Old Main Lighthouse on March 11, 2009. www.frakesproductions.com
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Alexander Robinson Woods
Alexander Robinson, Chief Cheecheepinqua of the Potawatomi (Squint Eye) was an important native leader and key figure in the early history of the City of Chicago. However, his role in the Fort Dearborn incident and the relationship between native people and European settlers is often left untold.
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The Rock Churches of Gokyurt, Turkey
High on a hilltop in rural Turkey is the ancient village of Gokyurt. It is called Lystra in the Bible. The book of Acts tells us that Paul and Barnabas were hailed as Gods when they healed a lame man here around 64 A.D. Later, the town’s folk turned on them and they were stoned.…
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Roman Ruins, Perge Turkey
Perge, Turkey is a world class archeological site. An important Roman shipping port during its heyday, it was abandoned centuries ago. Now, the only visitors come on tour busses from Side. It must have been a large city. The ruins include a stadium, a theater, public baths that still hold water and a colossal arched…
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Tanzania Jubilee
This video recounts the history of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania. I produced it back in 1992 in the Swahili language with the help of Lutheran Missionary Howard Olsen. The roots of organized Lutheranism in the nation now known as Tanzania had their origin in the late 19th century. The work began in 1887…
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Goliad, Texas
Goliad Texas, is one of the oldest cities in Texas. In 1749 Spanish explorers started a mission and fort. Goliad is also known for its part in the Texas Revolution. Col. James Fannin and 342 men were massacred after surrendering to the Mexican army at Goliad in 1836. The Mission Espiritu Santo was established in…
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The Life of Apostle Peter with Rick Steves
The Life of the Apostle Peter with Rick Steves is my fifth collaboration with the noted author and PBS travel show host. Past programs include: Opening the Door to Luther, Weaving a Global Neighborhood, The Life of Apostle Peter with Rick Steves, Faithful Travel and In the City for Good. Rick graciously offered his time…