The Players -- Robert Jakobsen, Videographer

As you watch the Marker Memories...video, you'll notice the extraordinary graphics implemented by the videographer Robert Jakobsen.

Robert has won so many awards for his work it'd be nearly impossible to list them all here. His thoughtful editing, graphics and background music allowed the video to have the emotional effect it has had on viewers.

One behind the scenes note: as Robert, his very capable assistant Shelley Olson, and I returned from scouting locations and routes prior to filming, we came upon a crash. Police and rescue personnel were on scene so our help wasn't needed. But an opportunity was seen.

Shelley parked while Robert grabbed his camera equipment and crossed the road to record the event. Not out of disrespect for the victims, but to use the material for the video. If you'll notice toward the beginning when the IHOP is shown, you'll see his work on display -- the restaurant, strobing emergency lights, an officer wearing a reflective vest, the fire/rescue engine and so on. That's where that footage came from.

Another tribute to his skills and imagination occurred when he and I discussed ideas for using hearts in some manner.

I wondered if, as the introduction was read, the various markers he filmed could flash on the screen, much like computer screen savers, and at the conclusion of the introduction form themselves into the shape of a heart, perhaps broken on each side, to represent the broken hearts of all involved with traffic crashes.

What Robert created turned out to be much better. That was the long winding road with the hearts at the video's end, as the song "A Long, Long Road to Say Goodbye" played.

Impressive!

But what is more impressive is the new venture Robert and Shelley have started, Recovery Connection, to help people trying to cope with addiction problems. Please visit their site at www.drug-alcohol-addiction-recovery.com.

Please visit Mr. Jakobsen's web site at: www.gaoncreative.com to learn of his other projects and the skills and imagination he can offer to bring your project to a successful conclusion.