Earthquake & Tsunami Relief for Japan

Dear Friends & Customers,

On Friday, March 11 a massive earthquake struck just off the coast of Japan triggering a massive tsunami that devastated the Sendai area as well as causing massive damage all over the country. I am sure you have all seen the news footage of the the horrifying destruction caused by the the tsunami, and in particular, the footage of people in cars desperately racing to get away only to be swallowed up by water and debris. Heartbreaking. Right before my eyes on TV I saw the last moments of people's lives. I can only imagine what they must have been thinking in their final moments when they realized that there would be no tomorrow for them. No last chance to say goodbye. No last hugs. No last I love you.

I have visited Japan many times for vacation and for business. And although I am a 4th generation American, I still feel a connection to Japan because that's where my ancestors are from. My wife and I went to Japan twice in the past two years and have shared great memories with the people there. I even see our business partners there as friends even more than I see them as clients. And what always strikes me is how similar we are even though we are of different countries, cultures and language.

And that is why it hurts to see them suffer. We are all pulling for them to survive and emerge from this tragedy stronger and more determined than ever before. But it won't be easy. For many of them, the road ahead will be long and difficult, physically, financially, and psychologically. They are a proud nation and every single person that I know there would never ask for help or assistance. So we are going to quietly donate a portion of all our sales to relief efforts in Japan (Red Cross Japan).

And if anyone from Japan reads this post, がんばって下さい。アロハ。

Sincerely,
Scott Murakami, President
AlohaFunWear.com