The fur won't be flying, but hair will be reaching new heights during HAIR WARZ to raise money for the Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP).

Speaking on the October 3 edition of the local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up, STAP spokeswoman Mary Kamiski talks about the fifth annual hair styling competition that features local salons creating over-the-top hair and make-up reflecting the theme of their choice.

15 salons are participating at the Binghamton Riverwalk Hotel and Conference Center on Water Street Binghamton December 6.

Tickets went on sale October 1.

Mary also touches on this year's 3rd annual Mud Gauntlet, which has athletes of all skills plowing through mud and over obstacles, also to raise money for STAP.

Mary says the way AIDS and HIV are viewed and discussed has changed drastically since the disease first made headlines in the early 1980 and laughs about some of the weird misconceptions that ran rampant at that time.

Information about STAP, HAIR WARZ and other events can be found at the agency's website: www.STAPinc.org or by calling (607) 798-1706.

Southern Tier Close Up can be heard Sunday at 6am on 99.1 The Whale.

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