Hold onto your hats . . . better yet, take them off. The Black Hair, Nails, and More Explosion is back again this year.

The event, sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta sorority, is scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in Pollock Rec Room.

Delta Sigma Theta's Tanishia Lawson (senior-food science), who helps with fundraising, is coordinating participants for the evening.

"It's open to all students of all colors and races," Lawson said.

Lawson anticipates a $1 to $2 charge at the door to help with Delta Sigma Theta's service programs and scholarships.

"Since I've been here, it's been here," Lawson said about the program. "It normally is scheduled for Fall Semester and the months vary."

Lawson recognizes the need to showcase new hair venues in State College.

"It's hard to find stylists who deal with the texture of African-American hair. I used to go all the way to Philly. It helps if students know they don't have to drive miles to maintain their hair.

"Females and males can participate. We are looking for more females because they are always looking to get their hair done."

According to Lawson, participants set up display booths where they showcase their skills, whether they be makeover or massage.

"Some students do have business cards pre-made. We set up tables and participants post fliers and they could have models or photo albums. It's open to anyone who cuts hair or does braids, colors, curls or relaxers," Lawson said.

And hair isn't the only upkeep, there's also nails.

"In the past we've had businesses from College Avenue and the mall. For the most part it's talented students who do manicures," Lawson said.

Lawson welcomes businesses and students to apply if they are interested. She describes the process as an informal pre-screening. Participants usually call her to explain what they can do before the expose. "I need to get an idea," Lawson said.

Kelly Whittington (senior-human development and family studies) also a member of Delta Sigma Theta, is planning to attend the program again this semester.

According to Whittington, applications for participants will be accepted until the day before the show.

"I look forward to people showing up and getting the information they need," said Whittington.

According to Lawson, the event used to be titled "Black Hair & Nail Exposition." This semester it will be more inclusive, centering on wellness and open to anything art-related.

Lawson also believes local businesses will benefit by becoming involved with the show. "It helps them out. Students from out of town help give them business."

Lawson is aware of the benefits of community service efforts.

"Our sorority is based on community service to the community. We have points that we try to focus on like Education and Health. For instance, helping people of color maintain healthy lifestyles," she said.

Darlene James (junior-business management) is combining efforts with Lawson to ensure that the show provides meaningful services. "It's a chance for people to learn who does Afrocentric hair," James said.

When asked if stylists would perform free services for the public, Whittington was positive that they would come prepared with their equipment.

"They're coming with models already ready and their hair is already prepared," she said. "So basically anything goes if the stylists feel comfortable with that."

James said Spa Americana and Mary Kay Cosmetics skin care representatives are scheduled to participate.

The format for the show is still being planned and James hopes presentations will begin no later than 7:30.

Students interested in participating can call 814-862-5438 for more information.