WASHINGTON COUNTY- Dick Nourse and his son Dane introduced the talented Justin Hines last Saturday night at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre.
 
Comedian Mike Beers opened for Hines, and both entertainers came to Utah in hopes to raise awareness and funding for the Red Rock Center for Independence.
 
The RRCI has helped more than 10,000 disabled individuals remain self-reliant through providing resources and education in Washington County and in nine surrounding counties.
 
St. George resident James McFadden imagined the Justin Hines concert and made it happen through hours of dedication and generous donations from local residents and businesses. Even though some funds were raised, the event did not raise as much money as McFadden had hoped, but the total amount raised is still undetermined.
 
In addition to the concert, a silent auction and benefit dinner was held the night before, which is where the majority of the proceeds were made.
 
“The silent auction was a success, and we issued thank you letters to those who donated and hope to receive more funds from that,” McFadden said.
 
McFadden and other volunteers spent many hours distributing vouchers to the concert, but unfortunately only 300 people attended out of the 1,100 vouchers dispersed. McFadden said the low attendance was a domino effect of a busy night. He said many other activities and fund raising events in the area contributed to the lack of attendance.
 
However the publicity for Justin Hines was considered a great achievement.
 
“For [Justin Hines] to see 300 people at a concert was a huge success,” McFadden said. “Also it was some great exposure in the United States.”
 
Justin Hines has been a singer/songwriter for many years.  His debut performance was at age 14 where he opened for the Toronto Raptors. Hines as been physically disabled since birth, but has not let his disabilities hold him back from doing what he loves best and that is performing music.  His newest album “Chasing Silver” is available now at www.justinhines.com.
 
“We raised hope,” McFadden said. “And a lot of people were touched and moved from the experience.”
 
The event also helped raise awareness for the RRCI, which was looking for another way to establish its presence in the community.  RRCI welcomes volunteers and donations at 435-673-7501 or in the office located at 515 N. 300 W. in St. George.