And they're off...

I guess It isn't really the time to say that we're in the thick of it since it's only been 3 days since Clean Shaven Day, but the stubble is beginning to rear it's ugly head. Last Friday all participants had to shave it all off (if they had anything to shave that is) to start this fundraising event on level terms. Most of us took care of this on or own time, but one in particular decided that a mid-day shave-off was warranted. Our beloved (and sometimes feared) A.P.E. teacher, Ken chose to take his long standing goatee down to nil during his "non-duty" lunch. Thanks for the afternoon shock!

I was fortunate enough to have received a donation from my lovely wife to go to the barber shop and get a man style straight razor shave. What an experience that one was. The place was cool (Syndicate on Broadway in Long Beach) and the price was fair (only 20 bucks plus tip), however it did take a bit longer than I had planned.  All the guys working the place were friendly enough for guys who have tattoos on their faces. Really...very nice guys...with tattoos on their faces...every single one of 'em. The shave itself was smooth and left my face red, bare and frightening cold as I left the shop into the evening beach breeze.

Yes, that is a motorcycle hanging on the back wall.

Yikes. Make sure there are plenty of band aids on hand. 

So once that was over and done with it was time to head over to The Thirsty Isle for our first Friday Night 'Stache Party. Now, for those of you who aren't familiar with this place,  The Thirsty Isle is in every sense of the term a "dive". Touch as little as possible, don't make much eye contact and save your trips to the bathroom until you get home. We had a decent turn out and had a lot of fun. A few drinks, some good laughs and a few games of chicken (for penalties). To allow our participants to save face, the 'stache-master won't divulge too much information about who had to complete which penalties but I'm sure if you ask around you'll find out the details.

As of now we have 20 participants signed up. Not all have had their first photos taken, but for the time being check out the beauty marks, butt-chins and tan lines on those of us who have. Enjoy...