By Dawn Scotland
The Truth Reporter
Rob “RC” Louis interviewed Stellar Award Winner Ben Tankard Thursday, September 5 virtually via zoom in anticipation of his upcoming visit to Toledo, Ohio. The acclaimed jazz and gospel musician will be performing at The Celebration of Black Kings event Thursday, September 12 at the Toledo Club.
Ben Tankard is a former professional basketball player, an American gospel/jazz keyboardist, a producer, a songwriter and an author.
Tankard dropped out of college after one year to play minor-league professional basketball in Canada. He was invited to an NBA camp where he suffered an injury and was cut. Tankard rebounded from his basketball injury to become a bestselling gospel and jazz musician and has recently been inducted into the Gospel Music Stellar Hall of Fame. He is also a motivational speaker for the NBA, suit designer (big and tall), pastor, record label president, aircraft pilot/owner, and reality television actor.
Tankard’s success is based on principles of faith and wisdom, which he shares in his bestselling books and articles and through public appearances. He and his wife, Jewel, live near Nashville, Tennessee, with their children.
On Thursday, September 12 at 5 p.m. at the Toledo Club, Juneteenth NY Toledo will host their signature event, “The Celebration of Black Kings”. Inspired by the Kwanzaa principles, the organization will honor 28 influential male leaders who have significantly impacted the Toledo community through their personal and professional endeavors.
This year’s honorees are: Lee Williams, Joseph Peterson, Tracy Knighten, Milt McIntyre, Truman Claytor, Willie Knighten, John Preston, Clarence Smith Jr., Elgin Rogers, Wakeso Peterson, Randall Parker, Rev. Cedric Brock, Judge Ian English, John Glover, Edward Cook, Judge Myron Duhart, Dr. Calvin Burney Jr., Emilio Ramirez, Josh Williams, Larry Jones, James Gant, Maurice Morris, Ronald Rice, Richard Jackson, Roy Hodge, Victor Coleman, Lesean Shaw, Anthony Atkins and Shawn Mahone.
For more information or to purchase tickets visit toledo.juneteenthnyworldwide.com/black-kings.