Time for Growth and Giving

Every year around this time, I encourage the gift of giving. This year my candidate is Terence O’Neill and his ‘Stache endeavors for charity with M4K Richmond. I’ve know this favorite person of mine for over 30 years and he owns one of my favorite pubs in RVA, Penny Lane. I adore his family, and his staff has always been excellent to me for many a nightcap, happy hour, and footy match (Go LFC!). I’m asking you all to support him and in turn support a local business as he takes his bald face into a progressive mouth brow — For the children!

Let’s support Terence and his attempt for Ted Lasso lip broom status, and I’m hoping you will join in. Here’s his message:

Terry O’Neil, Owner of Penny Lane Pub
Clean Shaven and Ready for Donations

Last year I joined some neighborhood gentlemen in a wonderful charity endeavor. I have since realized how big this actually is. M4K Richmond, Mustaches For Kids, is a huge nationwide organization. If you were part of my facebook page you know (some of you new additions are about to find out) that last year I grew a mustache for M4K Richmond in the hopes that I can raise money for the many Children's Charities here in Richmond that they represent. Before looking forward to this growing season I would be remiss if I didn't take a moment to look back at what we did last year, and how your donations had a major impact.

Last year the growers of M4K Richmond raised over $500,000 for charities here in Richmond! Think about that, a bunch of guys growing mustaches and drinking beer managed to raise over $500,000 for children in need. That would not be possible if it wasn't for the generous donations from those who support us, so thank you. Because of your donations we were able to present some seriously large checks, both in physical size and monetary value:

Richmond Friends of the Homeless $80,000
Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU $150,000
ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation $140,000
SCAN (Stop Child Abuse Now) $60,000
Feed More $40,000
and more!

Those impressive numbers have given me the strength to shave my face, and pledge to only allow the hairs on my upper lip to be the ones that the world sees. Sure there are more socially acceptable facial hair options like the ever popular full beard, the "I'm only half committed" 5 O'Clock shadow, humble Goatee, or even the somehow non-spiritual Soul Patch. But those don't quite make the same statement as the mustache, so here we go. I will be sending you weekly updates on my progress along with photo or video proof, and encouraging you to donate to my fundraising page.