RM EnterpriseRicky Martin will be shaking his patriotic bon bon Wednesday night as one of the performers on this year’s Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, but he’s got more on his agenda this Independence Day than just delivering his hits.
“Obviously Fourth of July is a very important holiday and like every American, I will be hopefully in the pool, cooking amazing barbecue with a Latin twist to it,” he says. “But I will dedicate this Fourth of July to my fellow Puerto Ricans.”
As Ricky points out, “After the hurricane, we are still struggling. We’re talking about four million U.S. citizens…some of them have no power and it’s been almost 300 days.”
In September of 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated the island, causing catastrophic damage, death and destruction. The island’s electrical grid was knocked out and still isn’t fully functional.
“I’ll have them in my prayers,” Ricky says of those still struggling on the island. “And the rest of the country has been so generous.”
He notes that every day, the account he set up — YouCaring.com/RickyMartin — receives many small donations, which add up to “a great amount.” Of the initial goal of $6 million, nearly $5 million has been raised.
“We are gonna start building new homes for those in need now in Puerto Rico,” he promises.
In addition to Ricky, the Macy’s 4th of July special will also include performances by Kelly Clarkson and country stars Blake Shelton and Keith Urban, as well as a whole lot of fireworks. Tune into NBC Wednesday night at 8 p.m. ET to watch.
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