Longtime Local Radio Program Host Honored

Wilson

Jeff Raiford, Market Manager and Director of Sales for RadioJones, presents Wilson Johnson with an award for his service to the listeners of the Vidalia radio stations.

For more than 20 years, Wilson Johnson has been hosting a monthly radio program on first Vidalia Communications and now RadioJones, and each month he strives to keep the public informed on community projects as well as welcoming guests to discuss current events. Last Friday, he was the guest of honor at a special luncheon as the community came together to thank him for his service.

Zack Fowler, former General Manager of then-Vidalia Communications was the keynote speaker.

“If you remember, back in the ‘60’s this country in was turmoil,” Fowler said. “There was a lot of racial prejudice. Wilson had to decide if he was going to be a victim or a victor and he chose victor and ever since then, we’re all richer for it.

“I believe he has been able to make a difference in many lives because of his faith, his family, and his inner strength,” Fowler continued. “He has been able to say, ‘I’m not going to let people define ME; I’m going to define MYSELF!’”

Jeff Raiford, current Market Manager and Director of Sales for what is now RadioJones presented Johnson with an award to recognize his two decades of on-air programs.

“When I started at the radio station, I didn’t know Wilson,” he said. “I’d heard him on the radio. But not too long after I started, I became the producer of his show, and it didn’t take me long to figure out what Wilson Johnson was all about. He’s asked thousands of questions from hundreds of guests and all for one reason: to make this community a better place for all involved.”

Johnson said his decades of service on-air and throughout the community is based one thing, stating, “When I came back to Vidalia after serving n the Air Force and living in Miami for years, I realized there were things that needed to be done; things that needed to be said. I took it upon myself and decided to do what God would have me to do. I’m 82-years-old and I’m going to do exactly that for as long as He allows me to.”