The Telly Awards annually showcases the best work created within television and across video, for all screens. For their 40th Anniversary, they received more than 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents. Telly Award winners represent work from some of the most respected advertising agencies, television stations, production companies and publishers from around the world.
We are honored to be recognized for the work we have done for Light of Life Rescue Mission. Here’s the thing – we didn’t do it alone. Eye of the Needle is three parts: The documentary, an art installation and a teaching program. Eye of the Needle was developed to raise the conversation and discussion around addiction and homelessness and create safe spaces in which to do so. The face of addiction has changed markedly in the last 5 years. No longer is it someone you see on the street – it’s more than likely someone you know or love. Between us – we’ve lost 5 people to overdoses.
So we share these awards with many people and are humbled by the response of the documentary and the corresponding art installation. Here’s the story (abridged):
When we approached Jessi Marsh, then the Development Director at Light of Life, with this idea she looked at us and said, “I don’t know but I trust you. Let me make some calls and get some people together.” True to her word, within a week we were sitting down with a team to walk through the idea of ripping the veil off of addiction and homelessness. Kate Kennedy ran internal point for us at Light of Life, coordinating schedules and providing us with opportunities to meet team members and staff. Dean Robinson, our guide, introduced us to people who wanted to share their stories. He showed us the heart of Light of Life and what real grace in action looks like in the middle of desperation. Phil Atkins, our DP, was there every late night, every early morning, and every time in between. He never questioned, he just made it better. Anita Harnish, second camera, captured the most poignant footage and was our sounding board bringing calm and perspective. Peter Horn, our sound engineer and at times digital tech made sure we heard what we needed to hear. And our editor, Ashley Rizzuto who helped us work through the stories to tell the truth – to tell the unspoken, to show the invisible. We thank you all for your time and your love and your heart. We thank you for trusting us.
We also want to thank Rick Werner, Jr. who fed us, built the installation and was and is a rock. Dax Parise for letting us steal his crew for days. Pitt-Mon Auto Salvage for letting us build in their garage (thanks Dad!) & Emmai Alaquiva for your beautiful installation photos and for running around Pittsburgh with us trading signs for sandwiches.
Thank you to the Telly Awards for the recognition.
x
the scooters
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