If you're a resident of Easton – or if you happen to have visited the historic town within the last few months – you might have noticed something, well, hairy... On the faces of some locals, at least.
Whether it's a beard, 'stache, or some other funky growth around the chin and cheeks, rest assured it's not a new style trend sprouting on the Shore (although we hear lumbersexual is quickly becoming this winter's most sought after look!). It's for charity.
Three to be exact: scholarship funds for Camp Possibilities, Baywater Animal Rescue, and the veterans program at the Mental Health Association in Talbot County.
After three months of perfecting their facial fuzz, competitors and their supporters will join together at the Closing Ceremonies party this Saturday to see who will be named this year’s Cover your Chin Champion. Five judges will critique contestants on a scale of one to 10, recognizing the top three scorers in each category – beard, mustache, and partial. Additionally, the “King of Fundraising” will be crowned, honoring the fella with the most funds raised.
What started last year on a whim to raise money for local charities is now in its second year. Bigger, badder, and better than ever. And while the beards are certainly worth admiring (check out the CYC Facebook page for contestant photos), the closing ceremonies aren't to be missed either. Read on for more details…
The Basics
Date: Saturday, January 17th
Time: 8 p.m. until… Whenever everyone’s kicked out!
Location: The Old Armory, also known as the Waterfowl Building, located at 40 South Harrison Street in Easton.
Website: coveryourchin.com
The Details
What can guests expect? A casual, fun party celebrating the best beard (and other facial hair stylings) in Easton, along with music, dancing, a silent auction, and more!
Food and drinks? There will be plenty of delicious food available, complimentary no less! Perhaps even better than free food, free booze – wine and beer to be specific. What more could you ask for?
What about parking? If you’re not familiar with downtown Easton, there’s lots of free street parking along Harrison Street. There’s even a parking lot a block or so away from the venue (towards the corner of Dover and Harrison Street) if parallel parking isn’t your strong suit!
The dress code? It’s more about having a good time than dressing to the nines, so, according to the event organizers, as long as you’re wearing shoes, you’re in! (Editor’s note: I’m going to throw in a “shirt required” for good measure!).
Are tickets still available? Yes… and it couldn’t be easier. Simply visit coveryourchin.com, donate to a contestant (and charity) of your choosing, and voila! You automatically receive a ticket to the event. (Note: minimum donation of $25 required). Donations will be accepted online until noon Saturday, January 17th. However, if you forget to donate in advance, you can still get into the party by paying $25 at the door. And, if you’re feeling particularly charitable Saturday night, cash and credit card donations will be accepted throughout the evening.
Where do the proceeds go? Last year brought in about $12,000, and the event organizers are looking to top that this year. All earnings go directly to three charities: Scholarship fund for Camp Possibilities, Baywater Animal Rescue, and the Veterans Fund program at the Mental Health Association in Talbot County. Though only a few days away, the event continues to seek out corporate/business sponsors. Check out the website for more info.
