By Shelley Smith
ssmith@salisburypost.com
Has Rowan County Sheriff Kevin Auten pulled a Britney Spears — minus the breakdown — and shaved off every hair on his head?
Not yet.
But he will May 13 on stage at Rowan County’s Relay for Life event at the Rowan County Fairgrounds if enough money comes in to the sheriff’s office Relay team.
Auten is challenging his team to raise $5,000 for his campaign — Shave the Sheriff — that focuses on one of his wife’s co-workers and friends, Stacy Beaver, who has breast cancer.
So far the team has received about $3,100. It has until May 13 to raise $1,900 more.
When Stacy became sick, Auten said, it “shook up” his wife. And knowing Stacey’s husband, Terry, for about 35 years, Auten started thinking about what he could do to help the family have a laugh in such a trying time, while also helping the American Cancer Society.
“So I put my hair on the line,” he said. “And it just kind of caught steam.”
Joining Auten on stage will be Terry and Stacy Beaver, who plan to help shave his locks with the sponsor, Great Clips.
Those wishing to donate can visit www.relayforlife. org, drop off or mail checks to the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office, 232 N. Main St., Salisbury, N.C., 28144.
Auten said Cheerwine slushies will also be available as part of the fundraiser.
“We’ll make it,” he said. “I’m confident we will.”
For more information or questions, contact the sheriff’s office at 704-216-8700.