In The News
September 5, 2012 –
Rob Mooy, Kingston This Week Academy of Learning Career and Business College students, from left, Tony Hart, Sherry Fraser and office administrator Cec Parks, size up director Michael Teglas’ head. Teglas has agreed to shave his head if his staff and students raise $2,500 for the United Way.
Michael Teglas is not ashamed to admit he has developed a bit of an attachment to his hair over the past 48 years.
Despite this unabashed fondness, Teglas, director of the Kingston campus of Academy of Learning Career and Business College, has agreed to shave his head if the staff, students and the businesses of the Parkway Plaza raise $2,500 for the United Way of Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington counties.
“I am very fortunate to have a full head of hair at my age and, sure, I have an appreciation for it,” said Teglas of his dark blonde locks.
“We do have a lot of fun, and what could be more fun than shaving someone’s head that has never done it before?”
As of press time, Teglas was closing in on his goal, with pledged funds reaching more than $2,000.
“Which means, you know what, bye bye hair,” joked Teglas.
Teglas chose to donate proceeds from his hair-shaving event to the United Way because of his strong belief in community.
“As an educator, our mission is to help people improve their lives through quality higher education and support through coaching,” said Teglas. “We know that what we do helps the community is so many good ways.”
He said as someone who believes strongly in community, he felt that they could do more with the other business owners in the Parkway Plaza.
“It was natural to put our support behind an organization that is truly focused on improving the wellness of the Kingston area community,” said Teglas. ¬†
The United Way’s mission is to build strong communities, mobilize community resources to address issues like homelessness, the impact of poverty and the importance of programs that support early development and children and youth at risk.
Teglas expects he’s going to miss his full head of hair once it’s gone, but admits he’s more worried about his motorcycle and hockey helmets fitting properly.
But it’s all worth it to support an organization and the region he has made home for the past 23 years.
“Helping people is in my blood,” said Teglas. “I come from a family of helpers. I never get bored of helping people, that’s what is exciting for me.”
He said it feels “great” to be helping out such a vital Kingston organization.
“Kingston is home. I have great neighbours, live in a great community and I feel strongly about ensuring that those that need help get it,” said Teglas. “It makes me feel proud that we can help make a difference.”
A barbecue will be held Sept. 12, from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m., at the Parkway Plaza to help Teglas reach his fundraising goal. $5 will get yourself some tasty food, and a chance to help Teglas help the United Way.
He’s encouraging Kingstonians to support the cause.
“Particularly now, with all the government cutbacks, the organizations that help improve this community need our support,” said Teglas. “We all have to have lunch, so why not head over and enjoy our barbecue to split your work week?”
Each business will be open to discuss their services during the barbecue, and there will also draws for prizes and services at each of the participating business locations.
Participating businesses include Physiotherapy Kingston, Active Orthopedic Solutions, Kingston Creekside Dental, Styles & Designs by Janey, Tranquil Moments and Parkway Grocery.
Source: Katrina Geenevasen, Kingston This Week
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