'Redneck Stonehenge' backdrop for fundraising
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By KIM SMITH
Standard-Examiner correspondent
Owner raising funds to help seriously hurt 3-year-old girl
HOOPER -- Rhett Davis's "Redneck Stonehenge," crafted as a statement in a rural-vs.-urban debate, now will serve as the backdrop for a fundraising event.
The row of vertical vehicles, complete with a semi trailer and tractor centerpiece, extends from fence line to fence line across Davis' backyard. As many as 60 visitors a day stop by to see the vehicles standing on end, and Davis has a request of the visitors: a donation for a 3-year-old girl fighting for her life at Primary Children's Medical Center in Salt Lake City.
Davis is turning his newfound fame into a way to raise money for charitable causes. "With the eyes of the world on me, I thought I could do something useful," he said.
Davis' story appeared in newspapers from Guam to Canada, and he has been on talk radio shows from Australia to Ohio.
"The first couple of weeks were pretty crazy," said Davis' wife, Brook. Her mother-in-law helped field telephone calls to their home.
About a week into the experience, Davis decided to use the notoriety as a way to raise money for children's hospitals. It was a call from the neighbor of 3-year-old Ali Marshall, of Lehi, in mid-August that provided a specific focus.
Ali was kicked in the head by a horse and was in a coma at Primary Children's Medical Center until recently. Shortly before the accident, her parents lost their jobs, their home and their medical insurance.
So far, Davis has raised about $600 in a collection jar at his home and is planning a fundraising barbecue and carnival in his backyard on Sept. 20. Famous Dave's will provide the food. The entertainment is expected to include a live country band, a mini carnival and a hypnotist.
Davis plans to continue to raise money for children's hospitals and for the FFA, formerly Future Farmers of America.
Davis became the focus of worldwide attention when he created a backyard "fence" of three cars buried nose down in the ground to answer a neighbor's complaints about living next to a farm.
Hooper city officials are keeping a wary eye on the unexpected attention, but so far haven't taken any action. City Manager Glenn Barrow says no codes are being violated but there could be safety issues.
"We've always been concerned about making sure the cars are drained of fluids and anything else that might be hazardous," Barrow said.
Residents haven't complained about the vehicles, but Barrow said the city has received a few outside calls calling the display an embarrassment to the state and community.
"We've allowed him to have his 15 minutes of fame, and we hope it doesn't extend much longer than that," said Barrow.
Davis has told the city council he will take the cars down if asked.
"I wanted to make a point, and I made it the first week. I still farm. I still cut hay. I still have a few cattle and horses."
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what is the address, I would love to see and donate. Also live in Hooper