Reverend Benjamin Lawson Hooks, Baptist minister, crusading attorney, legal scholar, criminal court judge, astute businessman, FCC commissioner, executive director of the NAACP, Presidential Freedom Award recipient, and orator supreme died on Thursday April 15, 2010 at the age of 85 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Many will remember Dr. Hooks for his legendary civil rights efforts.  He was also an inspirational mentor who’s quiet but forceful mannerisms initiated a resurgence in the NAACP after he became the executive director in 1977. continue reading » »