MMIP benefit concert set for Monday at Kwataqnuk

Live music will radiate from the Kwataqnuk Resort in Polson on Monday for the first time since the pandemic hit in 2020. The opening concert will help raise awareness of the problem of murdered and missing indigenous people (MMIP). All proceeds will benefit the Snowbird Fund, which helps families with the costs of searching for their loved ones.

The concert runs from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Kwataqnuk Casino outdoor patio, with indoor space available if needed due to weather. A mix of bands and guest speakers will rally attention about the MMIP cause.

Bands include Kenny Lee Lewis and Frenz with Billy Peterson; Linda McKenzie and Gen Huitt; and Michael Kenmille. Local musicians will be invited to jam. Lewis is a 30-year member of the Steve Miller Band, as was Peterson at one time. Peterson is a two-time Grammy winner, for his part in Bob Dylan’s “Tangled Up in Blue” on the “Blood on the Tracks” album.

Local musician Gen Huitt and Nashville singer/songwriter Linda McKenzie will perform the MMIP-themed song they co-wrote, “Missing,” joined by Kenny Lee Lewis, with whom they recorded the piece. Michael Kenmille will perform on the Native drum. Local promoter Randy Neumann brought the musicians together and has worked tirelessly to create the benefit event.

A $20 donation per person is recommended; children age 12 and under will be admitted for free. Donations of $100 and more are tax deductible. Additional donations of goods and services will go to the Snowbird Fund Raffle.

To learn more about the musicians, the Snowbird Fund and the MMIP issue, visit csktmmipconcert.org or call 406-313-8426 or 406-250-3061.