For the three Clallam County commissioners and the top county administrator, it could be the kindest cut of all.
To raise money and awareness for the United Way of Clallam County campaign, the commissioners and Administrator Dan Engelbertson said they will buzzcut their hair to encourage employee donations.
The gesture also has special inspiration.
Clallam County Commissioner Steve Tharinger has already cut off his blond hair as he undergoes chemotherapy to treat cancer.
Tharinger, D-Dungeness, announced last month that he has stage four lymphoma — cancer of the lymph nodes.
“First and foremost we want to support Steve in his recovery,” said fellow County Commissioner Mike Chapman, R-Port Angeles.
“And the dollars raised for United Way during this will really benefit the community.”
“I think this is terrific and a great way to support the United Way campaign, the community and Steve,” said United Way Executive Director Patty Hannah.
Donation plateaus
Hannah said Tharinger made a donation Monday to push county employee contributions to $6,000.
“Second in line, Commissioner Mike Chapman, who will shave his head when donations reach $12,000,” Hannah said.
“Third is Commissioner Mike Doherty when donations reach $18,000, and last is County Administrator Dan Engelbertson when employee giving reaches the goal of $24,000.
Chapman, Doherty, D-Port Angeles, and Engelbertson will bring their barbers into the courthouse foyer and county employees will cheer them on.
“I’m up on the block next,” Chapman said. “If the money is raised right away, then it could be a long, cold fall.”