DUNNELLON, FL -- The director of Levy County's emergency operations has been chosen to receive an award for his work...as a banjo player. 

 

Mark Johnson is the recipient of this year's the third annual "Steve Martin Prize" for excellence in banjo and bluegrass music. He's been playing the banjo ever since he was 15 years old, and he's even managed to develop his own style, which he calls "clawgrass".

 

Over the years, Johnson has had the opportunity to meet several big stars in the world of bluegrass music, including famed actor and comedian Steve Martin, who's a banjo player himself, and for whom the award is named after. 

 

As part of his award, Johnson received a cash prize which he plans on using to further his banjo career. He will also be appearing on the "Late Show" with David Letterman on September 20th, when he will get to play the banjo on-stage with Steve Martin himself. 

 

Despite all his recent successes, Johnson says he still plans on continuing his day job for the county.