John Ichihara, who produced his own CD, handed his $500 donation to Japan on Wednesday to Hyatt general manager Nick Nishikawa.
He then proceeded to the San Vicente church where he also donated $500.
“We are very thankful for this support especially from a lone individual who dedicated his talent and time to help our fellowmen who had been victims of the tsunami and earthquake in Japan,” Nishikawa said.
Ichihara extended his thanks to his daughter, relatives, friends, family and the community in the CNMI and Guam who bought his CD’s.
“My daughter and I are so overwhelmed by the tremendous support from all over the CNMI. It is something beyond our anticipation and expectation,” Ichihara said.
He will make a second donation as he sells more copies of his CD.
“My goal is to sell 1,000 copies,” he added..
Ichihara has been knocking on doors of relatives, family, friends and strangers selling his CD titled “Si Yu’us Ma’ase Asagua-hu” since April 25.
“I am very thankful because although my CD has only one song, the community is supporting me in my endeavor to set aside 10 percent of the proceeds for the Japan disaster victims and another 10 percent for the church,” Ichihara said.
He sold copies of his CD at weddings and other gatherings, at the Sabalu market, and street market in Garapan on Thursdays and in schools.
“Si yu’us Ma’ase Asagua-hu” is a song Ichihara composed and dedicated to his wife of 29 years, Brigida. It tells about the first time they met each other, things they went through over the years, and how they have kept their love alive.
To get your copies of the CD or for more information, email [email protected]
