Hair Today, A Cure Tomorrow? St. Baldrick's Hopes So

The adage is that bald is beautiful, and so is giving to a good cause. The two intersect on Sunday when shear madness comes to Rancho Santa Margarita.

The St. Baldrick's Foundation's annual haircutting event takes place April 1 at the Bell Tower Regional Community Center. This is the fifth year that St. Baldrick's fight against pediatric cancer brings its message to Rancho Santa Margarita.

The event lasts from noon to 5 p.m.

About 350 people participated in , which raised about $125,000 for cancer research to help fight kids' cancer. Organizers expect about 250 participants who will raise about $100,000 this year.

Over the past four years more than 650 men, women and children have shaved their heads in solidarity of kids with cancer and raised $300,000 through the head shaving event, raffles, silent auctions and restaurant proceeds from the event day.

Although the Rancho Santa Margarita St. Baldrick’s event began with a goal of 10 friends raising $1,500, it has grown through the help of local schools, Boy Scout Troops, Cub Scout Pack, local restaurants, and many others who have supported the event through the years.

Over the years, sports celebrities such as Rod Carew—who lost his daughter Michelle to cancer—and Robb Nen routinely attend the event. This year, 2008 men's volleyball gold medalists Rich Lambourne and Riley Salmon are expected to attend.

City councilman Steve Baric, who participated last year, has committed to give his locks to the cause as well.

Additionally, local restaurants have committed 15-20 percent of their food and beverage sales to St. Baldrick's on Sunday; those establishments are , , , and .