Aurora Cops' No Shave November Raises $8k, Extends Thru December

AURORA, IL — Aurora Police officers raised $8,000 to pancreatic cancer research in this year's "No Shave November." A press release from the department called it a "spirited beard growing competition" to honor a former colleague, Sgt. Don Corp, who died from the disease in 2016.

Officers chipped in $50 in order to grow a beard or mustache in November. It turned out to be quite the competition. The following is a recap from the department:

“The Best Try” award was given to Officer Jeremiah Schufelt, who tried to grow a beard but couldn't quite get there.

“The Ugly” was awarded to Officer Dave Sheldon, who looked the most unkempt with his November beard.

“The Natural” was awarded to Officer Darren Pedota who wore his beard as well as the actors on the morning soaps such as The Young and the Restless, Days of Our Lives and the Bold & Beautiful.

“The Mean” was awarded to Investigator Max Worcester, whose beard enhanced the look of intimidation and command presence.

“The St. Nick” was awarded to Officer Dave Hornburg, who wore his luxurious, classy gray beard with pride and is guaranteed a job as a shopping mall Santa after he retires from the APD.

Winning the coveted "Don Corp Award" for the best overall beard was Investigator Nate Isaak.

Two additional categories were added at the last minute this year. "The Ginger," for the reddest beard, went to Officer Mike Ortinau, while Officer Garrett Wrobel captured the "What the HELL Were You Thinking" award due to the "pork chop"-style growth he sported.

Chief Kristen Ziman has extended "No Shave November" into the month of December to help our friend and colleague Maria Courtney, who works in our Records Division and is being treated for kidney cancer. Officers need to kick in another $50 in order to keep their beards growing for the month. All proceeds will benefit Maria and her family.

Images courtesy of Aurora Police Department