Cuts-a-plenty for cancer research

BYRAM — Your Salon in Byram held their First Annual Cut-A-Thon on Sunday Oct. 23. The ebb and flow of regular clients and newcomers to the salon made the five-hour event a success. Men, women, and children came from as far away as Sparta and Green Township to have their manes managed. Some people had read about the fundraiser in the Township Journal or had heard about it on the radio and made their plans to stop by that day. Laurette Koserowski, a Byram resident who had never been to the salon, stopped in to get her hair cut and styled. She read about the event and takes part in many breast cancer awareness fundraisers. "My aunt had breast cancer at age 40 so I know how devastating it can be," said Koserowski. Others were just passing by and and had a spur of the moment idea to participate in the cut-a-thon. The enthusiasm, energy, and goodwill the clan of coiffeurs displayed was endless throughout the day. The employees took turns with the cutting and styling tasks for the walk-in clients. A small group even went roadside holding up a large sign to lure potential customers off of Rt 206. Jaysin Dohrenwend and Adam Kobes, two of the stylists proudly sporting pink t-shirts in support of breast cancer research, had an extra special message on the front that read "Man enough to wear pink." The salon has been open for 12 years and one of the owners, Jamie Hettinger, said she wanted to "do something uplifting and positive." The salon raised $545, all of which will be donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization. Next year's goal will be to double that amount and the team has already started making plans. In addition to the money raised from customers, all employees donated their day and any wages they might have been earned to the event. Cookies and cupcakes were baked at home and time was spent decorating the salon. Local stores in the Plaza including Shoprite, Dollar USA Plus, Subway, and Party Planet also pitched in to the effort by donating food, balloons, gift cards and supplies. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and fundraisers are being held worldwide to support the cause. The Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization helps provide education and awareness, ensures and improves quality care, and helps further research to find the cure for breast cancer. For more information visit www.komen.org.