Johnson sees Madison as best of both worlds
- Michael Johnson likes Madison’s “big-city benefits.” CONTRIBUTED
MADISON – Michael Johnson views Madison as a small town with big-town benefits.
While Madison retains a small town’s charm and community spirit, residents have “access to ‘big-city’ benefits, such as the Von Braun Center for musical performances, comedy shows and Broadway Theatre League,” Johnson said. Plus, families relocating from across the country result in a diverse population.
“Add to that the fantastic school system and Southern hospitality, and you have a great place to live!” Johnson said.
Born in Decatur, Johnson lived in Hartselle during his youth. “I was lucky to see much of Central and South America because my father was in the military. After graduating from Troy University, I lived in Miami but was eager to return to North Alabama.”
“My amazing wife Stephanie and I have four boys between us and wanted to live in an area that provided them with the best education possible,” he said. “Madison was an easy choice. We were excited to move to James Clemens’ school district two years ago.”
“I’m very proud of the work my wife does with the Firelight program at Eagle Rehab. With Firelight, they offer free screenings for children with special needs or who may be on the autism spectrum and give parents tools to make informed decisions about the best care,” Johnson said.
The Johnsons also help Miracle League, a sports league for special-needs children. “My wife and I already have a soft spot for children but are also blessed with a special-needs child ourselves and understand the challenges it can bring to families,” he said.
Johnson is CEO of Mozaic Audio Video Integration, a custom AV company in Madison that specializes in residential and commercial technology integration.
His playlist has rock, 1980s to 1990s pop, folk and Americana charts. Favorite musicians are Ray Lamontagne, Peter Gabriel, Amos Lee, Jack White, Prince and Guns N Roses. His favorite Madison restaurants are Old Black Bear and Main Street Cafe.
The Johnsons own a fish, a lizard and Reece, an eight-year-old German shepherd mix.