Employees at the Jackson Rancheria Casino shaved their heads to raise funds for Camp Out for Cancer. Casino Manager Nadine Clark, front center, joined the auction participants after the Jackson Rancheria auction to thank them for their support in her fight against cancer. "You are all part of my recovery," she said. Photo by: Courtesy to the Ledger Dispatch

There are more bald men around Jackson Rancheria Casino lately, but it's for a good cause.

The casino held an auction on Sept. 8 to raise funds for the Camp Out for Cancer event to be held Sept. 16 and 17 at Argonaut High School. Funds from the casino will support the team headed by casino Manager Nadine Clark, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Clark addressed the group, urging all women to have regular checkups and thanking everyone for their support. After the event, she removed her wig and joined the participants, saying "You are all part of my recovery."

At the auction, employees bid on the right to shave the heads of 13 management personnel. High bidder for each individual got to wield the razor.

In addition, at least nine women donated a minimum of 11 inches of hair each to Locks of Love, which provides custom wigs made of donated human hair to children with cancer.

Tribal Police Administrative Assistant Shantell Thibodeaux and Executive Casino Host Margie Walcott challenged other women to donate to Locks of Love. "They need hair from all races and all colors," added Thibodeaux. "Could there be a better reason to cut off your hair? Think about it. It will grow back."

The auction collected more than $7,000 with more donations still coming in.

Donations are still being accepted and can be made out to Amador STARS and sent to casino Manager Jason Zysman, Jackson Rancheria Casino, 12222 New York Ranch Road, Jackson, 95642.

The casino staff also encourages everyone to attend the Camp Out for Cancer. The fund-raiser includes a 24-hour walkathon, plus events and activities for all ages. The casino's participation includes a team doing the walkathon, a bake sale, raffle and a prize wheel.

Everyone is encouraged to stop by and bring quarters. They are going to try and circle the school track with quarters to assist the fund-raising effort.