It has been many years since the Calgary Gay Community lost one of its shining stars in the spirit and the enthusiasm of Donnie Peters. Today, however, and following many years of uncertainty, the Donnie Peters Memorial Cut-a-thon continues to exist due to the likes of Eric Jackson (Mystare Divine) and Vancouver’s own Gale Force (formerly of Calgary). These two gentle-ladies work tirelessly to ensure the funding required to keep the much-needed Friday Positive Living Lunch Program, offered by HIV Community Link (formerly Aids Calgary), going is available.

From the first Friday in September until the last Friday of June, individuals living with HIV/AIDS are given an opportunity to break bread with friends, community workers and volunteers in a safe and welcoming environment. The funds generated by the September 1st Cut-a-thon goes directly to the 2014/2015 lunch program and ensures the community-mindedness of people like Mr. Peters continues for at least another year.

Eric points out that his involvement spans only the last three years, during which time the Artists for the Quality Of Life (AFQOL) organization resurrected the Cut-a-Thon. Unlike many fundraisers, Jackson is happy to report that 100 per cent of the funds raised that day will reach the intended program. It is with the help of a first-rate team of volunteers, as well as dedicated stylists, that this event comes to life.

On event day, which falls not only on the Labour Day Weekend but also the culmination of Calgary Pride activities, Tompkins Park will backdrop some of the country’s most talented hair artists. Top stylists from salons such as SHAG, Edges Salon & Spa, Fragments, Cabella and Alta Moda will be performing their artistry for public fodder, including Gary Klein (Calgarian and long time friend of Mr. Peters) and Jason Bannister (Edmonton).

This creative event is not only for adults – make it a day out for the entire family.  Snickles The Clown will be face painting, and the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Chinook Arch (ISCCA) will provide food and beverages for the day from 10am to 5pm. HIV Community Link will be setting up an info booth and DEA, a local DJ Group featuring DJ Mental Funk, BJ Honeeemyustard, Misselaynenous, DJ Tommy Ill and DJ Kid V, will be spinning tunes all day .

Neither the event nor the entertainment would have come to life without the generous sponsorship of Goliath’s, The Texas Lounge and Broken City.

The Donnie Peters Memorial Cut-a-Thon is a great opportunity to get a hot new do at an even hotter price: $20 for adults and $10 for kids. In the salon these stylists would be charging between $80 to $150. Tickets for a cut will be sold at designated location in the park. Just find an available stylist and your new fall look is yours, plus you’ve donated directly to a worthy cause.

Those looking to volunteer can contact Cut-a-thon organizers through their website.