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GROWERS

Name: Jared Yerg Age: 33 Occupation: Beards BeCAUSE co-Founder & Organ Grinder Charlotte, NC As one of the co-Founders of Beards BeCAUSE, I am well aware that my ability to grow facial hair is secondary to the CAUSE. That being the case, my mission this year is to raise as much awareness to the CAUSE this year. We as a society should no longer be tolerant of the passive enabling of such behavior. And to have a good time...
Name: Scott Doerr Age: 34 Occupation:Beards BeCAUSE Founder & Civil Engineer Charlotte, NC I love to have fun, and I love to give back to the community…if I can combine the two, then life is truly rewarding. I’m pretty sure I can grow a burly beard, so those other growers better watch out! Thanks to everyone who are helping make this such a success.
Name: Ben Dolpens Age: 33 Occupation:Miller/Coors Company Charlotte, NC I was very pleased to find out last year that I am capable of growing a pretty good looking beard. I hadn’t tried to grow one since college, so it was anyone’s guess on how it was going to come in. I was just hoping it would connect in all the right places. Thankfully, it grew in nice…and with the support of friends and family I was able to raise a lot of money for a great cause. Well…it’s that time of year again, so I’m asking you to once again show your support in the fight against domestic violence and help me hit my goal of $1,000. We came close last year, and I know we can make it happen in 2009! Thank you in advance for your support of this worthy cause!
Name: Mike Stephens Age: Not quite 40 Occupation: Owner – MLS Construction Services, Inc Concord, NC We’ve got an impressive group of participants for a wonderful event. As a second year grower and last year’s top fundraiser I understand the support it take to make a difference. With all of use receiving that support and raising awareness for United Family Services, we’ll certainly exceed our fundraising goal while having a good time. And I can put the razor down for a couple of months.
Name: Jim McGivney Age: 32 Occupation: Video Producer/Editor Charlotte, NC Having been blessed with a father who taught me that boys don't hit girls (and a mother and sister who would put me flat on my keyster if I tried) domestic violence has always been an issue that has incensed me. This is my second year as a grower and while I'm not naive enough to think we're going to solve this problem by the hairs on our chinny-chin-chins, we can certainly make a difference for those women and children who find themselves in need of the shelter's services.
Name: Eric Rhew Age: 35 Occupation: Pool Boy Charlotte, NC This was alot of fun last year and it was all for a good cause. I enjoyed growing a terrible beard and helping raise money. Good times.
Name: Thad Mitchell Age:30 Occupation: Red Bull Racing Team Mechanic Concord, NC I decided to do this charity because it is a great cause with a awesome way to raise money. I have had a beard for years now and it about time I put that beard to work!
Name: Jeremy Mason Age: 34 years young Occupation: Wine Consultant for the Country Vintner Charlotte, NC I attempted to grow a beard for the first time this past summer, and was suprised that I was reasonably successful. I really enjoyed having the beard, and thought it would be a great idea to grow it in the fall for this charity. In my work, I see a lot of people everyday throughout the state and felt like I could make a difference in raising awareness about our cause.
Name: Christian Crute Age: ((168/4+8)/10*(sqr root of the sqr root of(106x2+2*11*2)) Occupation: Managing Director of InterLink Sports Charlotte, NC I has a fun time with it last year, think the cause is well worth me being a little scruffy for a couple of months and I think I can I raise some decent money for the cause.
Name: Bob Fredrickson Age: 33 Occupation:Mortgage Loan officer Charlotte, NC Well this is my 2nd year doing Beards Because and I think it’s a great cause. In a former life I was a Paramedic here in Charlotte and spent many nights picking up patients from the women’s shelter. I can tell you first hand how appreciative they are for having a safe place to go. The economy may suck right now but that doesn’t mean you stop giving or caring for others. So get your credit card out people and donate, “life happens” but you can make a difference.
Name: Ryan Ford Age: 27 Occupation: Professional College Sports Spectactor Charlotte, NC and Abington, VA Wait, I need a reason for growing a beard other than supporting a great charity and raising awareness for a worthy cause? I guess I have a couple of reasons(1) Think of it as a winter coat, for your face,(2) 93.2% sure that God has a beard,(3) Some people don't like beards, but those people are wrong, and for my final reason I will leave it to someone who can express my feelings stronger: (4) The great Billy Shakespeare once said "He hath a beard is more than a youth, and he that hath no beard is less than a man".
<Name: Jeremy Kuster Age: 27 Occupation: Medical Photographer Charlotte, NC I participated in Beards BeCAUSE last year and had a great time raising money for a great cause, so I decided to do it again this year. Good luck to all the growers, let's raise even more than we did last year!
Name: Shawn Sluder Age:32 Occupation: Master Bear Builder Charlotte, NC Domestic Violence is on the raise and has simply grown to be somewhat expectable. Beards BeCAUSE takes a stand against Domestic Violence and I am honored to be apart of this cause. Everyone can have a voice and with it make a difference. It is my hope that with all the attention we will attract during this campaign, that new stricter laws will made to protect women of Domestic Violence. This is my third year and it will be my most successful year!
Name: Chris Sager Age: 30 Occupation: Banking Charlotte, NC Last year was such a great experience and it felt really good to be a part of something which supports such a great cause that I had to come back, plus shaving takes a lot of time so having an excuse not to do it is always good
Name: Brad Schmittle Age: 30 Occupation: Engineer Tech, US Infrastructure of Carolina, INC. Charlotte, NC This is year 3 for me. This is such a great thing I would not miss it for anything. My wife hates the beard but knows that its for such a great cause.
Name: Jon Littlepage Age: 34 Occupation:Network Support (IT Dept) at Moore & VanAllen & Co-Founder of Annual Bags For Wags Charity Cornhole Tournament benefitting Humane Society of Charlotte Charlotte, NC I always try to give back to the community and felt this is a perfect and unique opportunity to do so. I hope to bring much needed awareness to the fight against domestic violence and help raise much needed funds for the Battered Womens Shelter of Charlotte.
Name: Greg Jozwiakowski Age: 34 Occupation: TIAA-CREF Charlotte, NC When I first heard about Beards BeCause I wasn’t sure what it was…was it a support group for guys with beards or what?? But the beer was cheap & the bands were loud so I figured it was worth checking out. From there I was indoctrinated in the power of the beard & the things it could accomplish. Beards could raise money for a women’s shelter?? Who knew?? Blinded by this new revelation, I became an instant convert & promptly shorn my beard to join my beardless brethren to go forth & let the community know of this great cause!
Name: Rob Ito Age: 42 years young Occupation: Legman, Leg maker AKA Board Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist NoDa resident Charlotte, NC As a first time grower, I want to help raise awareness about domestic violence and help raise money for the Battered Women's Shelter by growing.........my.......very.......first.......beard.....EVER! I know its hard to believe I have never grown a beard in 42 years, but as a representative of the Asian clan, I must focus and channel all my growing energy towards the facial region. Grow grasshopper grow! As for anyone who thinks I can't grow a full blown Grizzly Adams beard, put your money where your mouth is and make a donation to watch my beard grow. My committment + your donation = best Beards fundraiser ever!
Name: Dave Cranmer Age: 42 Occupation: Principal Applications Developer for PAETEC Charlotte, NC Anyone who knows me is aware that I don't like to shave, so I figured this was a great opportunity for me not to shave for two months (at least) and to raise money for a great cause.
Name: Darin Keuker Age: 31 Occupation: Bicycle Mechanic Charlotte, NC Have been attending this event since it started. Hanging out while the wife shaved at the finale. So this year thought I would give it a shot. But not shaving at the end let it go!
Name: Neil Asher Age: 30-ish Occupation:Graphic Artist at TrainOne Charlotte, NC I have seen and heard too much and want to spread the word that there is help, and a better way of life.
Name: Ben Premeaux Age: Occupation: CMS Teacher Charlotte, NC This is my first year actually participating in the event and I am really excited about being a part of such a great cause. A buddy and I (also participating this year) teach at a high school in CMS and are looking forward to all of the comments from the students. If you think your wife or boss is tough try answering to 100 crazed teenagers. My 2 young kids like the beard too Violet likes to say the word “mustache” and Miles just likes to yank on the whiskers.
Name: Adam Bitters Age: 29 Occupation: English Teacher Charlotte, NC A buddy of mine and I saw the site last year and unofficially started to grow beards for fun as we didn't sign up in time. This year we made sure to get in on the fun. Looking forward to growing a beard and raising some awareness.
Name: Matt Rivera Age: 33 Occupation: Senior Product Designer - Newell Rubbermaid - Baby & Parenting Essentials Atlanta, GA I think this is a great way to meet great people wanting to help the community. The chance to make a difference while having an excuse to not shave is worth it by itself. A gnarly beard will make it easier for a guy like me to break the ice and ask folks to chip in for a good cause. Grow hair grow!
Name: James Corbin Age: 36 Occupation: Wine Sales Manager Charlotte, NC I really wanted a reason to grow a beard because I heard the ladies dig facial hair. Let’s face it, I’m not that good looking and I’m really not a very nice guy so I’m hoping I could win a sympathy date with this cause. Other than my sympathetic roommate who only hangs out with me out of pity, Jared said that if I raised enough money, that he would become my friend. So from one sad, lonely, unattractive, desperate guy, please donate something!
Name: Ty Duncan Age: 32 Occupation: Graphic Designer, Photo Editor, dabbler in all things visual. Charlotte, NC I live by a pretty simple set of rules: Eat, drink & be merry. We have a fantastic community here in Charlotte and I'm only happy to look like a hobo for two months if it helps those who's lives have been hurt by something as ugly and disparaging as domestic violence. As my friends can attest making a fool of myself is more a matter of daily routine than a special event so I may as well do it for a good cause! I also enjoy short walks to the bar, bouts of manic hysteria, and ponies.
Name: Peter Eich Age: 31 Occupation: Senior Mortgage Consultant at Paramount Lending and Chair for the Young Affiliates of the Mint Museums' Mint After Five Charlotte, NC I want to help the Battered Women's shelter of Charlotte so much I am willing to alienate my girlfriend and risk my job by growing the scraggliest disturbing scruff ever witnessed by Beards BEcause. Considering that I've never been able to go longer than 2 weeks without shaving the hideousness... we'll have the "Patch Adams 09" over here! I'll be donating a portion of every loan I close in between now and December to the cause. Anyone buying a home or need a refi?
Name: Marc Levitt Age:34 Occupation: Foot and Ankles Sales Consultant - Dynasplint Systems Inc. Charlotte, NC I wanted to get involved with Beards Because, I wanted to find the easiest way to do charity, without really having to do anything...and on top of that it is for a really good cause. My hobbies include skinny-skiing, going to bullfights on acid, and playing golf...oh and my condo smells of rich mahogany. But in all seriousness, United Family Services does a lot for a lot of people, so I just want to do my best for them!
Name: Alex Sgambato Age: 25 Occupation: Salesman/Minion Charlotte, NC I've wanted to get involved with Beards Because ever since I found out it existed. I walk the streets bearded so I saw no reason why I couldn't do my part. If you know me, then you know I will indeed shed tears as I shave away all this beardly goodness. Watch out Charlotte, it has literally been one calendar year since I've let this face out of it's cage.
Name: Stuart Povall Age: 31 Occupation:Architecture Charlotte, NC Times are tough for many of us. But times are even tougher for women who find themselves without a safe home. Charlotte has a great program in The Battered Womens Shelter that needs funding and what better way to get the money than by growing nasty beards. Now I'm making it a little tougher on myself by having to explain to people why I have such a nasty patchy beard.
Name: Jeb Horton Age: 49 Occupation: Software Developer Matthews, NC I’m always looking for ways to help raise money for a good cause -- provided, of course, it doesn’t require much effort. I heard about Beards BeCAUSE on NPR’s Morning Edition (WFAE, 90.7). Growing a beard sounded like just about my speed!
Name: Cory Clinton Age: 29 Occupation: Production & Distribution of Creative Juices Charlotte, NC I developed a complex when, at 12, I was the last of my friends with silky smooth legs. For me, this is a desperate attempt to finally free myself of all that emotional baggage. Plus, I'm always looking for justifiable reasons to just completely let myself go. But in all honesty, domestic violence cannot be tolerated, so if this can help just a few people in bad situations, and spread awareness along the way, I'm all for it.
Name: Chuck Feimster Age: 33 Occupation: Residential Real Estate Appraiser Waxhaw, NC I heard about Beards BeCAUSE haphazardly through a friend and knew immediately this was the perfect way for me to raise money and awareness for a worthy cause! (For those that know me, convincing me to shave the beard OFF was plenty of reason to donate!)
Name: Samuel Hamorsky Age: 20 Occupation: Student at the Metro School Charlotte, NC Just wanting to give you guys some real competition and raise REAL money! Are you up for the challenge?
Name: Matt Coben Age: Occupation: President, Thunder Road Brandworks Charlotte, NC In 2006 I went to the Annual Men For Change Breakfast which raises money and awareness to fight Domestic Violence. I was so moved by the event that I immediately volunteered with United Family Services to help out. I went on to Chair the event in 2007, 2008 and 2009. As my role has changed, I wanted to find a way to stay close to the cause of wiping out Domestic Violence. The leadership of the Men For Change event had heard about the Beards Because efforts, so I was aware, but unable to split my time. I now have time to help out and raise money to continue the battle.
Name: David Warren Age:25 Occupation: Barista at Smelly Cat Coffeehouse Charlotte, NC Some friends of mine told me about the fundraiser and right away I knew I wanted to participate. I've seen and grew up around domestic violence, not just against women, but men and children as well. It's definitely not the healthiest environment to raise children in. If I can help in anyway, especially just by growing a beard (which I'm pretty much like teen wolf over here), I'd be more than happy and willing to devote a little of my time for the cause.
Name: J. Lee Collins Age: 31 Occupation: Qualified Mental Health Professional/ EC Student Teacher Charlotte, NC Good people standing up for a good cause to help other good people that are victims of domestic violence and are in time of need. It’s just the right thing to do. It’s an honor to assist this organization, I hope you will too!
Name: Brian Gay Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Tim Conlan Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Alex Shaw Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Tony Leone Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Nick Bantsolas Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Steve Kissel Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Matt Menees Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Matt Miller Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Rob Colyer Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Bruce Horldt Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Caleb Clark Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Chris Collins Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Randy Cook Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Scott Harding Age: 38 Occupation: Commercial Electrician, Part Time Bartender, Part time Musician....All the time giver Charlotte, NC At this time in my life all i wanna do is give back and this is a great charity....And we have to look out for the fairer sex....So help us raise some money and awareness....Lets raise some dough for charlotte's battered women
Name: Mark Roof Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Taylor Sullivan Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Rodney Graves Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: John Thomsen Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Mike Madden Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Bill Cormier Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Brian Kovaleski Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Jason Williams Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Ernest Clingon Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Jesse Soffer Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Jeff Taylor Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Robert Barden Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC

BEARDED LADIES

Name: Wendy Shanahan Age: I'll never tell Occupation: Partner Asterisk Creative Charlotte, NC
Name: Jenn Barrack Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Elizabeth Condrick Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Lindsay Hess Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Carla Garrison Age:30 Occupation: Owner of Green Rice Gallery Charlotte, NC As a former victim of domestic violence, I am extremely proud to be a Bearded Lady and lend my voice to Beards BeCAUSE. I remained in an abusive relationship for close to 6 years, not knowing that there were people who could have helped me out of my dangerous situation. Now, 3 years later, I am determined to speak out, raise awareness, and do all I can to put an end to domestic violence.
Name: Susan Hilger Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Holly Todd Age: 34 Occupation: Account Manager Charlotte, NC Recently met Jared and when he informed me about this CAUSE and since I have been looking for some positive places to spend my time and energy that help our community, I thought why the heck not help with this!
Name: Elizabeth Brumbach Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC There are probably a slew of reasons why I opted to “grow” for Beards BeCAUSE; after all, who could say no to having a great time with some burly guys while being a part of one of the best events in Charlotte. But one reason stands out the most. About 18 years ago I stood between a man and a good girlfriend who was a victim of DV. She grew stronger in herself after that day. So guess it’s about time I stood in the gap again until my fellow sister can join me.
Name: Beth Robb Age:28 Occupation:Business Development - Bartender - Fitness Instructor - Superwoman - Promotions I am physically here in Charlotte, NC... how ever my mind is all over the place I joined the cause first, for my friend who when I came to Charlotte gave me room and board and built dog houses with me. Secondly, and more importantly, to help bring awareness to domestic violence. I have seen it and I hate it.... if I can impact, and help a woman find strength, no matter how removed... I feel like I have helped serve those closest to me as well.
Name: Ashley Foran Age: 25 Occupation: Director of Marketing, ARC International and Special Event Coordinator, Charlotte STYLE Magazine Charlotte, NC Throughout my life I have seen, heard about and been a victim of domestic violence with not one, but two members of my family. The toll it takes on a family is quite devastating and the effects can be very long lasting emotionally. It is an issue that I think effects each one of us on a daily basis, even if we are not in a domestically violent situation on a personal level. We all know someone who is, and more than likely don't even know it. Domestic violence is a terrible crime against victims who cannot escape their horrible situation without help and support from their community and families.
Name: Kera Keene Age: 17 Occupation: Hickory Ridge Senior Harrisburg, NC My boyfriend signed up this year, and when I heard about it, I thought it was for a great cause. This is how I show my support.
Name: Leah Wong Age: 39 Occupation: Herff Jones Yearbook Sales Rep Charlotte, NC Who'd have thought you could be a Bearded Lady and not have to give up your razor? I hope to bring some much needed estrogen and funds to this amazing series of events while simultaneously maintaining my femininity! Now if only I had a fitted logo T, matching area rugs and accent pillows... Jared, Scott & Wendy – thanks for letting the girls play. If you need me I'll be raising awareness AND looking for the perfect pair of shoes for the finale...
Name: Kellan Fallucca Age: 35 Occupation: Buyer Charlotte, NC I have a personal story that relates to this cause. I want to help other women know there is another way and they do not have to live in fear. I might tell you my story if you ask.
Name: Anna Vandiver Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC

FUNRazors

Name: Nod Norkus Age:32 Occupation:Owner/Operator of Nod Original Designs and GM of Freeman Screen Printers, amateur drummer and painter Charlotte, NC Last year I grew a beard to look like a rock star, feel cool, talk to ladies with beard fetishes and meet some great people. This year I'm just plain excited about believing in a cause and doing something to make the world a better place. Collectively we can take care of those who fall victim to this prehistoric behavior while also speaking out so that every ear in our community hears and understands that domestic abuse shall not be tolerated....and it doesn't hurt that i get to look like a rock star too!
Name: Kevin Hughes Age: 28 Occupation: Currency Trader Charlotte, NC I joined the Beards BeCause Fundraising efforts because of the devastating affects domestic violence has in our society today.
Name: Ryan Blalock Age: 29 Occupation: AT&T Charlotte, NC Because domestic violence is unacceptable. Also, I have a good chance at winning the "Patch Adam's" award for worst beard grown.
Name: Sam Stikeleather Age: Occupation: Charlotte, NC
Name: Paul Roof Age: 37 Occupation: Assistant Professor of Sociology Charleston, SC I run the Holy City Beard & Moustache Society in Charleston, SC. This is the third year I have known about Beards Because & the 2nd year I have had a chance to participate (luckily without starting from scratch as I have been bearded for 6 years straight). I have competed in the NYC Beard & Moustache Championships & the World Beard & Moustache Championships in Anchorage, Alaska. This is a great cause & glad to join in the fun!

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