KCPT President and CEO, Kliff Kuehl
As a new year begins, I look back and reflect on the past year with a sense of pride for what we have accomplished and thankfulness for the support we have received.
The support we received from the community for our capital campaign comes first to mind. These gifts continue to give back to the community – a more powerful signal, reaching an additional 359,000 viewers; three channels – KCPT, KCPT2, and KCPT Create, allowing us to bring you more local content, more encores of those favorite PBS specials and national favorites; and a new HD mobile unit that will bring you more content about what matters to Kansas City.
We hope you have been tuning into our new weekly program, The Local Show. This show is designed to highlight artists and entrepreneurs, leaders and overachievers from all walks of life – and in the process, help Kansas Citians discover substantially more about this place we call home. One of our most important goals is to connect our community and shine a light on the assets of Kansas City. We hope you agree that this show is accomplishing that goal.
Although we have a new focus on localism, we still have those treasured quality national programs loved by many – FRONTLINE, NOVA, Antiques Roadshow – to name a few. In May, as part of the American Experience series, KCPT will bring you Freedom Riders. Mark this on your calendars. It is a not to be missed documentary about segregation and the courageous fight for freedom in 1961. The Freedom Riders boarded a bus headed to the South, putting their lives on the line to challenge segregation. The Kauffman Scholars, right here in Kansas City, were awarded the first student seat on a bus that will re-enact the original ride. KCPT will be working with local leaders to organize outreach events and screenings to raise awareness and educate our community about this historical event. For more information about the film, visit freedomridersfilm.com.
If you have little ones in your home, make sure you tune into The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That. This program is filled with fun, learning opportunities for your little ones. It airs on KCPT at 7:30am weekdays and 6:30am on Saturdays. Please also visit kcptkids.org for a listing of all our children’s programming and fun activities. PBS sees children as young people full of potential. That’s why we offer all children a safe and trusted environment to explore the world around them, satisfy their innate curiosity, and develop a love of learning. KCPT is also proud to roll out its new Family Membership. Support KCPT and your family will enjoy discounts to family-friendly concerts and events throughout the year! For more information visit www.kcpt.org.
Can you believe that, in April, KCPT will be 50 years old? Be watching for stories on how KCPT got started and how we have evolved. I hope the New Year brings you and your family joy and happiness. Thank you for being a loyal supporter and friend to KCPT.
