Murfreesboro police officers and detectives will again participate in the American Cancer Society's "No Shave November". The goal of No-Shave November is "to grow cancer awareness and raise funds to support cancer prevention, research and education." The ACS encourages participants to "donate the money usually spent on shaving and grooming for a month to support life-saving research." More information and a link for donations can be found at www.noshavenovember.com.

In support of this effort, participating officers and detectives will be donating money to the American Cancer Society in order for the Chief of Police to waive the department's policy regarding shaving during the month of November.

Since the Officers participating are always in contact with the public, they hope to spread awareness of the fundraiser and the needs of the American Cancer Society just by being visible in public with their bearded faces.

The Department believes this will not affect the officer's ability to perform their duties and the officers will have restrictions that will allow them to be safe while growing the beard. Chief Chrisman stated: "If you see an officer in the field looking a bit scruffy, don't worry, they are growing their beards for a good cause and they will be back to smooth faces December 1st."

At the conclusion of the 2014 campaign, officers raised over $2,400 for the American Cancer Society. Officers from each shift and division nominated an officer with the best beard to participate in a "Beardoff" to be considered for the "Best Beard Award". After reviewing each of the officers' beards, City Manager Rob Lyons selected Detective Michael Yates as having the Department's "Best Beard".

Last year, Detective Yates was presented with a certificate and a free shave from Jason Rigney at Drakes Barber Shop.