City of Hope in Forty Fort

by Rachel Pugh
Weekender General Manager
Times Leader Director of Community Relations

What if simply looking good wasn’t really simple at all but rather crucial in helping people with cancer, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and other life threatening diseases? On Sunday, Nov. 9, that’s exactly what your new haircut or manicure will mean to people suffering from diseases — diseases which will need millions of dollars of research to make headway in an ongoing battle. And Sakari Salon at 900 Rutter Ave. Forty Fort, is going to help you make that contribution.

Last year, salon owner, Nancy Medico decided to have her opening day fall on the HopeCuts day of giving, which meant her new staff donating all their time and services to the cause and raising money for the fight. Being a brand new salon, it was the perfect way to introduce the public to her staff and company while making a difference in the lives of the ill. This contribution landed her a spot in a hair competition in Philadelphia where her team won “Best New Talent” and “Best in color ’07.”

This year, Nancy hopes even more people stop by Sakari on Sunday whether they want reduced-cost services or not. Anyone can walk in and make a donation to this terrific cause on this day. Harry Giordano, director of development for City of Hope comments on the importance of the cause, “HopeCuts is a great way for people to get a new look from their current stylist, maybe try out a new salon and support an important cause that affects us all. The money raised will [help] City of Hope’s efforts to quickly move scientific concepts into cured for patients everywhere.”

Since its conception in Philadelphia in 1993, thousands of salons have held HopeCuts events and have contributed to raising more than $1 million dollars for City of Hope. This research and treatment center has been credited as a Comprehensive Cancer Center which is the highest honor given by the National Cancer Institute. It also serves as a center for diabetes and other life threatening diseases. Their research efforts assist care across the country. Located in Duarte, Calif., according to the U.S. News & World Report, City of Hope has been ranked one of “America’s Best Hospitals” for cancer and urology. To find out more information on this hospital, visit www.cityofhope.org. For a complete listing of all the participating salons in this national event, visit www.hopecuts.org.

Make your difference right here in Kingston by taking a trip over to Sakari Salon in Forty Fort (directly behind Beer Deli on Welles Street) this Sunday. Get a new haircut, relax and enjoy a manicure or simply bring a contribution. HopeCuts is leaving its mark in research and treatment and you can be a part of this important cause in NEPA. Visit Sakari on Sunday. You’ll leave with a brand new look … one that brings national attention.

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