On November 16, the national organization Hope’s Hope held the Hope OUTLOUD Benefit Concert at Trocadero’s in Minneapolis. Highlights included Tim Mahoney, who was featured in November’s Rolling Stone magazine, performing a solo act. He was followed by Rockfist and the Chris Hawkey Band. The artists donated their time and talent for the nonprofit organization, which raises awareness and provides assistance to families of children afflicted with debilitating, terminal illnesses, such as giant axonal neuropathy, infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy, pantothenate kinase associated neurodegeneration and other neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation disorders.

Chris Hawkey (from KFAN Radio) and the Chris Hawkey Band made the live auction very energetic. In addition, Hope’s Hope acquired a guitar and had it signed by country stars Big & Rich. The event also featured a few surprise auction items; both Tim Mahoney and Chris Hawkey donated in-home concerts. A variety of different companies as well as individuals generously donated many items that helped make this event the success that it was.

Two local radio stations, KFAN and FM 107.1, added to the event’s success with their promotion. In the past, Hope’s Hope has hosted several events in North Carolina, but this is the first event held in MN.

Anticipation is already high as bands prepare for next years’ Hope OUTLOUD. For more info about Hope’s Hope, and to see pictures from the event, visit the Web site at www.hopes-hope.org