Oregon Trail NHOTIC Video
Supporting materials for the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center (NHOTIC) video proposal. Solicitation 140L4323Q00182
A good story has the power help us understand the world around us in a way that touches deeper than just facts alone. Powerful stories touch hearts and minds and by doing so influence the course of history.
We bring our passion for rich storytelling to every project. Our films will take visitors to a world when Oregon's promise inspired so many people to undertake the adventure and hardship of a lifetime.
Visitors will feel and experience the history.
Spencer Skeen: Film Director / Producer
With over 25 years under his belt Spencer Skeen’s talents stretch from nature cinematography to intricate post-production visulas. Having dedicated much of his career to producing cinematic documentaries, lifestyle, and tourism films in Oregon, Skeen's holistic approach to storytelling is evident.
His profound involvement in every filmmaking phase reflects not just his expertise but also his unwavering commitment to crafting resonating tales. Spencer Skeen isn’t merely a filmmaker; he is an artist who encapsulates Oregon’s essence, immersing viewers in the state's untold stories, showcasing both the land's grandeur and its whispered tales.
Rick Steber: Scriptwriter & Narrator
Rick Steber, western historian and author of more than 30 books with sales of more than a million copies has received national acclaim for his writing. His numerous awards include the Western Writers of America Spur Award for Best Western Novel, Western Heritage Award, Benjamin Franklin Award, Mid-America Publishers Award, Oregon Library Association Award, Oregon Literary Arts Award, Independent Publishers Book Award, Indies Award for Excellence; and the USA Best Book Award. Three of his books have been optioned to movie production companies.
In addition to his writing, Rick is an engaging Western personality and has the unique ability to make his characters come alive as he tells a story. He has spoken at national and international conferences and visits schools where he talks to students about the importance of education, developing reading and writing skills, and impressing upon them the value of saving our history for future generations.
Authentic storytelling
“Wandering the Native American Trail” - An evening of history and stories by Rick Steber
Rick Steber, Historian and storyteller, grew up near the Oregon Trail. His commitment to authenticity saw him walk 450 miles of the Oregon Trail, from The Dalles to Fort Boise. Every morning, putting miles underfoot, he navigated challenges the settlers faced - be it avoiding sprained ankles, snake bites, or confrontations with the native inhabitants. Through Stebers' voice, the story of the trail is not just retold; its relived, including BLM's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Ricks lifelong journey and authentic writing and voice will bring an integrity and charm to NOHTIC’s Oregon Trail videos.
“Wandering the Native American Trail” - An evening of history and stories by Rick Steber
In his captivating book, "Oregon Trail, Last of the Pioneers" from the Heart of the West Series, Rick shares personal interviews with the last living pioneers who braved the Oregon Trail in covered wagons. Through their stories, Rick masterfully depicts the hope, tenacity, and spirit of these trailblazers.
Spence Skeen, a lifelong resident of Oregon, has traveled the state capriting Orgon’s vistas. From high above the terrain to close up on Flora and Fauna, his expression makes the hills and valleys accessible to all.
Beautiful Cinematography
"We love Oregon, and would be honored to celebrate the history of how we came to be here through the iconic stories courage and struggles along the Oregon Trail."
Spencer Skeen
"Nature cinematography isn't a 9 to 5 job; you rise before dawn and sometimes wait all night for that one fleeting moment of magic."
Spencer Skeen
Emmy Award Winning Visual Effects
Having produced Motion Graphics for dozens of television shows and movies, KAIA has the experience to create accurate topographic maps rendered with realistic detail that capture attention and support the story. These beautifully animated maps add depth, detail, and polish to the video.
National overview that draws the Oregon Trail across 7 states.
Oregon Trail from Independence, Missouri to Flagstaff Hill, Oregon. Topographical reliefs that contrast the flat wide plains, mountain passage and deep valley.
Oregon Trail: Big Lookout to Baker. Text call outs highlighting the many features and challenges along the journey. Close in views that show the location of river crossings, narrow trails, and camping locations.
Historic Photo Treatment
In the sprawling expanse of America, the Oregon Trail carved a 2,170-mile path from the Missouri River to Oregon's valleys. A bridge between east and west, it bore witness to footprints and wagon wheels, from fur traders in 1811 to settlers in the 1860s, leading many to the promise of fertile lands.
As the iron rails of the transcontinental railroad spread across the nation, the trail's footsteps faded. Now, modern roads trace its memory, a testament to the endurance and hope of those who traveled it.
Oregon Trail: Flagstaff Hill, OR
Jon Levy is an Emmy Award-Winning Executive Director with 3 decades experience. Managed hundreds of design projects for Fortune 100 firms like Sony, Nike, Warner Bros, and Disney, and government customers like NASA, FAA, MIT, DARPA, and the U.S. Army. Extensive portfolio includes Concept Design, Interactive, Visualization, Film & Television, and Marketing -- A leader who steps into ambiguity, frames a solution, and brings the team together for a pixel-perfect delivery.
Julie Zimmermann is an experienced Program Manager focused on marketing, communications, process development. Complete understanding of global communications — branding, digital & integrated marketing, advertising, public relations, design, collateral development, in-person and virtual trade events, eLearning and training, promotion, and internal communications
Proven results-driven team leader who meets deadlines and solves complex business problems by building bridges, creating processes, and implementing change
Experience & Accolades
Three decades of experience, dozens of awards, hundreds of projects.
KAIA is a prolific design studio with extensive portfolio including 789 video productions.
Marketing, Advertising & Communications
Product & Concept Design
Film & Video Production
Government customers include NASA, MIT, DARPA, FAA, and the US Army.
Fortune 100 clients including Sony, Nike, ABC, Warner Bros, and Disney.
“KAIA’s perspectives on how to tell the story to shape the message as well as the high quality original material exceeded the project team’s vision. The content was utilized to introduce the initiative to the FAA Administrator and all key executives across the agency, and was received with high accolades.”
Program Manager, Federal Aviation Administration
“KAIA helped us to imagine an elegant, logical, and realistic path forward. I’ve both hired and recommended KAIA on multiple design projects. They are responsive, organized and is a joy to work with.”
Kent Solberg, Global Design Director, SRAM Corp
“Oregon is an inspiration. Whether you come to it or are born to it, you become entranced by our state's beauty, the opportunity she affords, and the independent spirit of her citizens.”
— Governor Tom McCall’s Address to the 1973 Legislature