Lake Orion resident Joe Johnson knows all about the magic of television.
For the last 20 years, he has been working in public access television, creating programming and helping train others to create their own visions.
‘I can’t imagine doing anything else,? he said. ‘I love video production and I love teaching.?
For the last seven years, Johnson has been the Outreach Coordinator and Lead Trainer for Community Media Network (CMN), a public access organization that serves 11 cities in southeastern Oakland County, including Auburn Hills, Oakland Township, Rochester, Troy and Pleasant Ridge, among others.
During this time, he has trained hundreds of people through his 10-week video production course where participants learn all about producing, directing and editing videos.
‘I’ve seen people come into Community Media Network with just a dream and now they are producing a show that a year ago was just an idea,? Johnson said, adding that his job is a really rewarding experience.
Recently, Johnson has had several students in his video production class with various developmental disabilities who are supported by Community Living Services (CLS), a non-profit organization that promotes inclusion, full citizenship and a self-determined life for people with developmental disabilities.
‘The way (Johnson) conducted himself in the class with people with varying abilities was amazing,? said Annette Downey, CLS Oakland County Director. ‘Joe has incredible patience and the gift of teaching.?
Because of this, Johnson will be honored at an annual fundraiser hosted by the Friends of Community Living Services at an award ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 13.
‘He made quite an impact on the folk who were there (at the class),? Downey said. ‘I just felt that we wanted to honor him and this is one way of showing him that he is appreciated.?
Johnson can feel extra honored because not only is he one of the 12 people receiving recognition awards, but he is the only award winner who received three nominations.
‘I am very humbled by this,? Johnson said. ‘I do my job because I love it and it’s fun, but being honored by several people is very moving.?
Before Johnson’s tenure at CMN, he worked for many years as studio coordinator for Orion Community Television (now known as Orion Neighborhood Television.)
According to ONTV Executive Director Diane Griffiths, Johnson was the producer of ‘News 65,? covered many community events and taught classes.
He was always really popular with the volunteers, Griffiths added.