STANDING together, they started to sing.
Within seconds, voices powered by local rhythm and love for island culture gave enough goose bumps to fill a room.
Tonight, Jarvin Tarkong, Xaxier Fethal, Maurus “Jr. Bossy,” Yasta “Latta” Bolkin, Patrick Martinez and Swenson “Kesol” Ikertang—all individual artists in their own right—are combining their talents for a benefit concert, “Island Summer Jam” at Pacific Gardenia’s Sunset Bar & Grill.
“This is our first major event for the year, and we are pretty excited. The entire proceeds of this concert will go to funding the Child Visitation Center,” said Laura Tenorio, event coordinator. “There is a need for a safe, mutual place for children and their parents to visit each other and maintain their relationships.”
According to the Family Violence Task Force, one of the gravest difficulties victims face in leaving abusive relationships is the continued abuse that often occurs during child visitation.
The U.S. Department of Justice reported that 70 percent of women injured in domestic cases are injured after separation.
“The children are often caught in the crossfire, and the violence just escalates. It is important that we have this safe place where parents and children can meet with facilitators,” Tenorio said.
Organized by the Family Violence Task Force and Ayuda Network, Inc., officials and volunteers hope to raise $7,500 from the benefit concert.
“It is not just about raising funds, but increasing awareness as well. The event will send out a powerful message, bringing together positive role models who also support the cause,” Tenorio said.
The group’s producer, Tarkong, could not agree more.
“We are from one big family, we are all brothers and sisters here in Micronesia, and we share the same experiences––we can relate to what is going on in our communities today,” he said.
“We hope to unite our cultures and provide a positive outlet through our music. Just within the group, we have already begun,” he added. Hailing from Honolulu, Hawaii, some of the group members are originally from Palau, the Marshall Islands, Yap and Chuuk.
“Some of our members are learning each other’s languages, and we are all coming together as musicians,” said Tarkong.
Tickets for the benefit concert are $15 each and are available at any Shell gas stations and Ty & Tia in Garapan.
