By Andy Furman
Point/Arc
Point Proud TV, a news television show hosted by Point/Arc/Zembrodt Education Center students, premiers Wednesday, November 3.
Shannon Chalfant-Jones will be executive director for the show.
Shannon Chalfant-Jones
Point Proud TV is produced and directed by Point/Arc staff in conjunction with the Telecommunications Board of Northern Kentucky (TBNK). It will air on Spectrum Channel 185 and Cincinnati Bell Channel 821, Wednesdays at 7 pm, and Saturdays at 11 a.m. – in Kenton County.
“The half-hour show will highlight community development such as new restaurants, new stores and upcoming community events. It will also promote Point programs,” Chalfant-Jones said. “Viewers will get a behind-the-scenes look at cast preparations and the show production. The students are so excited to conduct interviews like a real newscaster!”
The goal of the show, according to Chalfant-Jones, is to demonstrate the capabilities of those with intellectual and developmental (I/DD) disabilities and, at the same time build awareness of The Point/Arc and Zembrodt Education Center.
“We also want to forge community relationships and partnerships,” she said. “It’s a big part of our show. The Point/Arc’s Zembrodt Education Center is not just the pretty new building on the block. Our building is full of vibrant and talented students who are passionate about being part of the community and eager to make it grow.”
The first episode will include a features on The Point Perk Coffee Shop, behind-the-scenes footage of the cast creating the show, and an interview with chef of the restaurant – Cedar– located in Mainstrasse, Covington.
The cast includes three students with various intellectual disabilities.
“This is just a super way for The Point/Arc to reach into the community, and at the same time letting people know what The Point/Arc is all about,” said Judi Gerding, President and Founder of the non-profit organization. “The work that our staff does will now be seen – and appreciated – in the entire region.”
The Point/Arc celebrates its 50th year of service in 2021.
It was founded by a group of parents fighting for the education rights of their children, who were diagnosed with an intellectual and developmental (I/DD) disability. The mission – to help people with disabilities achieve their highest potential educationally, socially, residentially and vocationally. More than this, The Point/Arc has been an organization that identifies gaps in services and provides care and support to fill these gaps – even when government funding sources are not available.
Point Proud TV may be viewed on Public Access Channels, You Tube, Facebook, LinkedIn and The Zembrodt Education Center blog.
