LAKEPORT >> For some, it was their first time, while others had lost count how many times they had grown out their facial hair. Whatever their stage, Lakeport Police Department officers took to shaving cream and razors this weekend to conclude their participation in the No-Shave November campaign.
Several local nonprofits hold their version of No-Shave November, but the core purpose remains the same: to evoke conversation and educate about cancer awareness by having participants forgo shaving and grooming. Money is donated to the nonprofits to which funds are used to support cancer patients.
With that, Lakeport PD Officer and President of the Lakeport Police Officer’s Association Tyler Trouette organized the station to participate in the campaign. Their nonprofit of choice was Sponsoring Survivorship.
The nonprofit was founded by locals Julie Kelley and Shirley Crawford back in 1995 to support Lake County individuals and families fighting breast cancer in some ways, including medical expenses. Sponsoring Survivorship is known to raise as much as $16,000 during their annual Walk/Run events.
The Police Department had 10 men and women officers participating in the November campaign. The station had a competition where three officers would win, as they jokingly titled, “Best beard all around” for first place, “Best groomed” in second, and “Babyface” in third.
Crawford and Kelley chose the winners. First place went to Officer Mikey Sobieraj with the longest and thickest goatee and beard. Officer Trouette came in second, who said he kept his beard styled and maintained all throughout the month. And without hesitation, the judges and the station awarded Officer Andrew Welter with third place for his stubble.
According to the Department’s dispatch, all who donated raised just above $300 as of Friday. They are still receiving donations and will collect all funds to send to Sponsoring Survivorship later in the week.
“We are so thankful for all those who participated. It not only means a lot to us but those in need, too,” Kelley said. She and Crawford announced on Friday at the station their success in supporting 74 Lake County women battling breast cancer.
LPD Chief Brad Rasmussen said it was both an exciting and honorable participation. He added that officers had decided to wait until Saturday to shave as former barber, cancer survivor and law enforcement member Bob Marks offered to cut hair and beards.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Department also joined in on No-Shave November, with approximately 12 participants. According to the Lake County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, donations amounted to $4,391, surpassing the initial goal of $2,500.
