NIAGARA FALLS — The community is buzzing about two city councillors who will shave off their hair if residents can come through with $10,000 for cancer research.
But a lot of money has to come in between now and Monday if councillors Victor Pietrangelo and Jim Diodati are going to “go to the wood.” 

“I feel good about doing this,” said Pietrangelo, a regular participator in the annual Terry Fox Runs.

“I truly believe in the cause, I don’t mind at all.”

Pietrangelo and Diodati challenged the community to raise $10,000 for cancer research Sept. 15 at the annual kick off barbecue for the city’s Terry Fox Run campaign. If residents come through with the funds, they will shave their heads at Monday’s council meeting while the Cogeco TV cameras are rolling.

As of This Week’s press deadline Wednesday, only $1,400 had been raised.

But two other familiar faces have offered their hair to sweeten the pot. Mike DiCienzo, one of the heads of Canadian Niagara Hotels, and Joe Abbruscato, a local hair stylist who is usually on the other end of the clippers, have both agreed to go bald if residents can muster up the funds.

“It adds a little more excitement,” said Diodati.

Diodati and Pietrangelo said they wanted to do something since cancer has touched both their families. Pietrangelo’s father-in-law died in May after battling cancer of the pancreas. Diodati’s mother-in-law died from the same form of cancer in June.

“The foundation really wanted to get some municipal leaders to share their name because they figure it would increase awareness,” said Pietrangelo, who asked Diodati to take part. “It’s always a good cause to do. This year, I had more than a good reason to do it.”

“This is not about me or Vic, it’s about cancer patients. It’s about survivors and victims. It’s about raising awareness and funds,” said Diodati. “It’s about support.”

Anyone who wants to donate can follow the links on the city’s web page, www.niagarafalls.ca, or drop off a cheque made out to the Terry Fox Foundation with the Pietrangelo/Diodati Shave-Off marked on the subject line, to the clerk’s office at City Hall. Donations will be accepted until the run at Oakes Park Sept. 16.

In addition to the shave off, the kick-off barbecue and a charity car wash, the campaign also includes a silent auction at Rona Farr Lumber.