On Friday, volunteers raising money for the homeless were granted a temporary permit to sell beer at a benefit on Sunday - after soliciting the help of some heavy hitters who had asked liquor control commissioners to convene an emergency meeting.

Last week, commissioners readily granted a last-minute beer permit so that thousands of spectators during Utah's only official PGA tour stop could enjoy a cold one.

Nova Tall, a volunteer for the homeless benefit concert, said she had also asked for an emergency teleconference, but the staff turned down her request.

"The homeless need help," she said. "So I decided if there's a will, there's a way."

Volunteers contacted Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon and Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson for help. Three of the five commissioners called in for a quorum and unanimously granted the permit.

Talitha Day, director of the Gallivan Center, said volunteers had failed to sign up for a hearing during the regularly scheduled monthly meeting because they didn't understand the state's liquor laws.

"The laws can be complicated," she said. "Things like this can happen."

Still, Day promised that she would personally ensure that organizers obtain necessary permits for next year's event, which volunteers say will be the second annual benefit for the homeless.

Last week, commissioners also had called an emergency meeting to accommodate imbibers at the PGA's Nationwide Tour stop that was broadcast live on The Golf Channel.

The permits allow for only brews containing no more than 3.2-percent alcohol. Drinkers will also be required to sip from distinctive cups and wear identifying wristbands.

Sunday concert for the homeless

The Gallivan Center will rumble with rock, reggae and hip-hop Sunday during an all-day concert to raise money for Salt Lake County's homeless.

The homeless advocacy group Wasatch United Front will host a benefit concert between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. in Salt Lake City's central plaza, featuring art displays, food and nonstop music. Cost is $5.

"We've made tremendous strides to end chronic homelessness in our community with housing the homeless first," said project director Nova Tall. "But now we need to ensure that homeless people have the necessities to remain in these residences."

Proceeds will pay for basic household supplies for the homeless.