Concert to benefit Flathead residents needing economic assistance

Being down on your luck in this economic climate shouldn't leave you on the street, at least that's what Bigfork resident Jack Hanes decided when he ran into a friend a few weeks ago.

The economic downturn had hit him hard – he'd lost his business and, if he can't make up his payments by Dec. 20, will lose his home.

Hanes immediate reaction to his friend's news that he may be homeless was to say, "That won't happen."

That impulsive statement led Hanes to start asking other friends for help with a fundraiser and from that formed the Housing Relief Council, a group of five local business people who would monitor and administer funds raised to help people in need in the Flathead Valley.

"It's amazing how much empathy people have for others having financial difficulties in the Valley," Hanes said.

The group will put on a benefit violin concert Sunday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

Tickets are $20 a piece to see renowned violinists and local residents Wai and Idara Mizutani perform for the first time publically in Bigfork.

Hanes is adamant that 100 percent of the funds raised through the benefit will go directly to helping his friend, who has chosen to remain anonymous, and others like him in need in the Flathead Valley.

If the funds dry up after helping their initial person in need, the council will dissolve, but Hanes is hopeful there will be even more than needed and the group will be able to take applications to give to others who need a little help.

For more information, call Hanes at 837-5117.Want to learn more about Wai Mizutani's background? Pick up a copy of the Nov. 5, 2009, Bigfork Eagle print edition.