Cathedral Prep’s uniform policy assures that students are are to be polished and professional in every aspect. That includes being clean shaven. In some parts of society today, growing a beard defines a man. But Prep believes that the young men should be clean shaven daily. Last week Prep’s Student Government Association organized a “Beard Week” for students. Beard Week was conveniently scheduled for the first week after a long break, allowing students to nurture and grow their beards. Sign ups were held in December, before break, and the contest ended on Friday, Jan. 8.

The contest was simple: who can grow the best beard? Those who signed up who cannot yet grow a thick, manly beard also had a chance to be recognized. A $25 iTunes gift card was awarded to senior Thomas Rosenthal for having the best beard, and a $15 gift card was awarded to Mason Fillak for the worst beard. Austin Braendel and Michael Buzas were honorary mentions for growing a beard full of potential.

Even though the prizes were worth participating for, other students had other intentions for joining. Tanner White, a senior, found joining Beard Week worth it because he did not have to shave the scruff he had grown ever since break. One person in particular, Joseph Spiegel, also a senior, thought that it would be better to spend $10 on a pass instead of getting several demerits and $5 fees for not shaving. The event concluded when all participants were cleaned shaved as they reported to school on Monday, Jan. 11.