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 Ben is 17 years old and lives with his grandparents, J L Waites and his wife. He was born with Arthrogryposis, Multiplex Congenita. This is a congenital syndrome characterized by deformed joints with limited movement, atrophy of muscles, and contractures. While he may be physically challenged (wheelchair bound), he does not think of himself as being handicapped, for the Lord has given him a talent to sing. He sang, "I Can Only Imagine", at his 8th grade graduation ceremony. He received a standing ovation that he will remember for the rest of his life. This is his third year in Advanced Choir at Tioga High School. He was No. 1 in Honor Choir last year and also made the All State Choir. Mr.Mark Richards, Choir Director, has been and still remains an inspiration to Ben. Ben sang a solo at the Tioga High School Beauty Pageant last year and again this year. He participated in the Tioga High School Talent Show this year and won first place. He is active in the Beta Club, FCA (Future Christian Athletes) Club, One-Way (Christian club), SAAD, and is a member of the Student Council. He is active in GUMBO (Games Uniting Mind and Body) and has received many gold metals (State and National competition). He holds the State record in Soft Shot. Ben sings solos and/or duets with his grandfather, J.L. Waites who sings baritone with the Pineridge Quartet. He also sings at church, school, nursing homes, restaurants, and books solo concerts at various churches. He became a part of the Pine Ridge Quartet family in 2001. He sings with the quartet, and solos at all their concerts. He has two solos on the Pine Ridge Quartet CD "Then And Now" (July, 2004). They have been like a second family to him. They have helped him so much, not only musically, but have provided support to him in all of his endeavors. His biggest thanks goes to his grandfather, J. L. Waites, for getting him involved in gospel music. He was teaching him gospel music and how to read shape notes when he couldn't even carry a tune. He never gave up on him. Now southern gospel music is second nature to him. Ben has just completed his first CD and it's great. It's entitled "It Is Well With My Soul" and contains 10 songs: 1) My Name Is Lazarus, 2) Hide Thou Me, 3) Champion Of Love, 4) There Is A River, 5) It Is Well With My Soul, 6) How Long Has It Been, 7) Going Home, 8) With All The Many Miracles, 9) Haven Of Rest, and 10) I Feel Like Traveling On. CD Price = $15.00, Cassette Price = $10.00. If you want to correspond with Ben or order his CD, his email address is: bjwaites@excite.com |
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