THE sounds of 80s pop and the sight of big hair and colorful garbs filled the room at the NMI Red Cross “Back to the 80s” fundraising event on Saturday, Nov. 18.
Community members came decked out in their best neon colors, rubber bracelets, and acid-washed jeans to support the vital work of the American Red Cross.
The evening featured 80s throwback activities, recognition of key donors and volunteers, and most importantly, raising critical funds to help the Red Cross assist those in need across the islands.
According to NMI Chapter Executive Director John Hirsh, the 80s theme was chosen to “celebrate that part of our history and to help red cross” by tapping into the “lots of energy” that “all started with Madonna and her super charged energy.”
Joshua Wise, chairman of the board, added that, “The 80s theme is something that has not been done in the past, and we want to bring it again to the community.”
The event sold all 320 tickets and aimed to raise $150,000 through online donations, reaching $126,000 so far. These critical funds will stay local to support vital Red Cross services like providing free smoke alarms, disaster preparedness education in schools, training and certifying volunteers, and disaster response assistance.
Supporters at the event emphasized the importance of community support for the Red Cross. Lois Manese, general manager of Ace Hardware, shared that “it is important to give back to the community and that Joeten has always been into giving back.”
Natalie Mabel Ayuyu Glenn of McDonald’s said: “It’s really important to support any effort that Red Cross does” through ongoing collaboration and assistance. She also recognized Red Cross for doing events like this, especially as the community settled from the pandemic.
Catherine Perry, the weekly radio host of the Northern Marianas Humanities Council, was keen to support Red Cross, noting the contribution it gives to the community. She added that she will be back next year hopefully for the 80s theme again.
Triple J HR manager Francisco Ada said Triple J has been advocating for Red Cross through all these years.
He said, “As businesses, we want to support the organization who are also helping our community. It is imperative to continue to do that — to help each other in the CNMI.”
Dr. Bobby Cruz, vice chair of the board of directors, discussed his personal connection to the Red Cross’ mission, having come from humble beginnings and being in that position of need. He now volunteers to help provide the support he once needed to others lacking aid. “Really, it is the volunteers who are the heroes here,” he said.
Volunteer recognition
Hirsh and Wise announced the name of the volunteer who was to be recognized at the event. They noted that even the volunteer was not aware he would be recognized that night. “This guy is always ready to help and spent most of his time volunteering. Truly remarkable,” Wise said.
The commendation was given to American Red Cross volunteer Luis Crisostomo Jr. of Dandan. He has been volunteering for a year in Saipan and was also recognized as a “Spirit of the Pacific” for being active in volunteering across the region, including Hawaii and Samoa.
His roots inspired him to join Red Cross. His grandmother and his aunt were former Red Cross volunteers. He responds to disaster calls such as typhoons and fires. He recalls his first rescue when a family lost their house in a typhoon. He set the family up in a hotel.
At 37, he sees himself continuing volunteering in the future.
Donor recognition
In a video message, Hassen Khraibani, director of business development, government and student programs at Aetna International, noted how Red Cross responded to typhoons that impacted the islands and recognized the importance of the work they do in disasters. Aetna is this year’s Title Sponsor, having donated $25,000.
The Neon Light Donors were Joeten Daidai Foundation and Tan Siu Lin Foundation. The Pacman Donors were McDonald’s, Triple J, Docomo Pacific, Bank of Guam, Budweisser, Marpac, Brabu, and Herman’s Bakery.
The Boom Box Donors were Robert Tenorio Torres law office, Bridge Capital LLC, Micro Black Corporation, E-land, and Hyatt Regency.
80s Fun
Santi “Big Boy” Sablan brought the crowd to laughter with his energy in hosting contests like the Best 80s Dressed and Dance Off. The artist formerly known as Rob (Prince inspired) bagged the award for Best Dressed with Kianna “Kiki” Sablan as runner up. The Dance Off was a huge hit with the crowd with instant performances from supporters. Bryan Camacho, Roca Sablan, Brad Ruszala — all strutted their best moves to woo the crowd. In the end, it was Lee Tenorio who won the Dance Off award.
Lea Thompson, best known for her role as Lorraine Baines-McFly in the Back to the Future film trilogy, also sent a heart-warming video message.
As the final echoes of 80s pop faded into the night, the “Back to the 80s” fundraiser accomplished its goal — bringing the Northern Mariana Islands community together to invest in and celebrate the lifesaving work of the Red Cross. Through neon clothes, big hair, throwback music, and most importantly, compassion for helping those in need, attendees honored the past and looked to the future of the Red Cross mission across the islands. The 80s may be gone, but thanks to dedicated supporters and volunteers, the Red Cross continues assisting those in their darkest hours.
Volunteer Luis Crisostomo Jr. receives a plaque of recognition from the American Red Cross-NMI Chapter at Kensington Hotel on Saturday evening, Nov. 18, 2023.
Bryan Camacho shows his 80’s dance moves in the “Dance Off.” Also in photo are MC Santi “Big Boy” Sablan, Roca Sablan, Lee Tenorio and Brad Ruszala.
Francisco Ada, seated right, with Triple J executives and loved ones.
NMI Chapter Executive Director John Hirsh, back row, second left, with Red Cross volunteers.
A video message from actress Lea Thompson to the American Red Cross-NMI Chapter.
Lois Manese, general manager of Ace Hardware and Red Cross supporter.
Santi “Big Boy” Sablan poses with the Best 80’s dress contestants.
Mabel Ayuyu Glenn, center, with other members of the McDonald’s family.
Joshua Wise and Dr. Bobby Cruz deliver their welcome remarks.
