The Alabama Broadcasters Association honored Scott Johnson, still going strong, for his 50 years of service as its legal advisor and board member.
During the ABA’s annual conference on Aug. 9, it held a surprise celebration for Johnson. Their Hoover, Ala., headquarters is now known as the “M. Scott Johnson Building.” More than a dozen former ABA chairmen and board members were there along with Johnson’s family and friends.
“No one before and likely no one after will ever match the impact Scott has had on the Alabama Broadcasters Association,” said ABA President Sharon Tinsley in a statement the association released following the ceremony.
Over his career as an attorney, the Gadsden, Ala., native has represented many different broadcast clients, including station owners, broadcast network and satellite program distributors, universities and cities with respect to telecom needs and funding, according to Johnson’s bio on the ABA website. He also represents equipment and tower site developers.
Johnson has also been a frequent presenter at industry conventions, including NAB’s.
In a recorded video shown during the celebration, NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt lauded Johnson’s service as the ABA’s trusted FCC expert, and his commitment to representing stations across the state and country. “Your reputation and impact are well-known throughout our industry and speaks volumes about your commitment to strengthening the future of broadcasting,” LeGeyt said.
Johnson, 79, was admitted to the state’s Bar in 1969. He is also a member of the U.S. Supreme Court Bar, the FCC Bar Association and the American Bar Association. He was named Alabama’s Broadcaster of the Year in 1999 and was inducted into the Alabama Broadcast Hall of Fame in 2007.
Johnson currently serves clients from his position with the broadcast regulatory firm Smithwick & Belendiuk. The statement describes him as being busy as ever and not nearing retirement.
