A Beard Behind The Badge?

Photo One: Before the facial hair initiative begins. We'll check back inn a month L-R Sheriff Bob Mendham, Jeff Sheppard, Justin Visser, Sean Maloney, Mateo Botello, Jon Borgman and Undersheriff Chad Palmiter

Facial hair for a good cause or two

The Newaygo County Sheriff Department will be sporting some new looks during October and November.

From October 1 to November 30 facial hair will be allowed among  the Sheriff Department personnel but with a catch. The sprouting of a beard or stache will also result in a $25 a month  donation to a pair of worthy local causes.

“Jon Borgman heard about the Mason County department doing this and suggested we try it,” said Sheriff Bob Mendham. “Any officer who participates is fined $25 a month for violating regulations regarding facial hair.”

So far several have jumped on board and we asked a few to pose for a ‘pre-picture.A month from now we’ll see if we can line them up again for a look at their progress.

Sheriff Mendham said the money raised will go to the DHHS Foster Children’s Christmas Fund and the Newaygo County Autism Community. He also added that many who are not participating in the Beard/Stache  initiative are still donating money.

"They want to give they just don't want to stop shaving,.".