No Shave November rises in popularity

As senior Timmy Brankin walks through the halls, he notices one thing. From the peach fuzz on freshmen to the varied patches and straggling hairs on the juniors, and finally to the rare, full bearded senior, many students have or are attempting to grow some form of facial hair.

The trend is called, “No Shave November” by some and “Movember” by others, and it’s becoming more and more prevalent within Central each year.

“This year it’s definitely much more popular than it has been in the past,” Brankin said. “It’s hard to walk through the halls without seeing someone with some sort of facial hair. It’s just a fun way to participate.”

Officially, No Shave November is a movement to raise awareness for cancer, specifically prostate and testicular. It’s origins can be traced back to Australia in 2004 when a group of 30 men organized an event and grew mustaches to raise awareness for the illnesses.

In less than 10 years, it transformed from just 30 men in one country to millions across the globe. It becomes more and more popular each year, and Central is not excluded in this trend.

“I’m glad that so many people are doing it,” Brankin said. “It’s awesome to see what everyone can do, and it really is a great way to raise awareness for a great cause.”

Along with the general trend, the student council is hosting an official No Shave November contest for any students willing to stow away the razor for one month. Jack Duggan, senior and social chairman, is one of the leaders and organizers of this contest. Students will compete for whoever has the biggest beard at the end of the month and will have the chance to win prizes as well.

“It’s good to see so many people joining in for a good cause,” Duggan said. “The more people that participate, the more awareness we raise. And on top of that, it’s just a fun thing to compete for. Students get to see what kind of facial hair they can grow in one month and compete for prizes. It’s a great experience all-around.”