We are one day away from the Glorious ManPageant and Mustache Showdown. My mustache growth, while slow, is still significant and is now visible to the naked eye. I’ve raised $85 so far, which is awesome!

What I’d really love you all to do is to come to TomTom at 7pm on Saturday (tomorrow, Nov. 3) and cheer me on in the pageant. Remember, I’ll be dressed like Mike Ditka, and I’ll likely be intoxicated. It’s just $10 at the door, and don’t forget to say that you’re donating in my name (Michael Whitney, in case you didn’t realize whose site you’re on). You can read more in this Washington Post announcement about the event, and you can say you’re attending on Facebook. As I note below, there will be a text-message based vote, so don’t forget your cell phone!

I am up against some hairy competition. We were given the list of characters competing, and there are some impressive names. Check it out:

Earl Hickey (My Name Is Earl)

White Goodman (Dodgeball)

Mike Ditka (that’s me!)

Aunt Agnes (???)

Ron Burgundy (Big expectations here)

Milton Waddams (Office Space)

Lt. Dangle (Reno 911)

Ned Flanders (The Simpsons)

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (Iraqn)

Robert Goulet (potentially dangerous competitor)

Here’s what’s going to happen, according to the organizers:

you’ll have about a minute during the “parade of heroes” round to strut your stuff. We’ll play your theme music as you are introduced and your make your way into the crowd for the catwalk.

During the Slapback round, you’ll come out one by one and lady friend of yours should come up form the audience to assist you with your skit that ends with a drink to the face. It should be quick (and amusing) 30 seconds….

We’ll take a break and add up scores. We’ll announce the Best Grower, Most Money Raised, and Mr Congeniality at this point…and announce the semifinalists who advance to final the round.

You’ll be pleased to know that we’ve added a nice new touch this year… a crowd voting system… Attendees can send a text vote for you live and on site and we’ll crown a CROWD FAVORITE winner this year.

So please, do come, and let me know if you have any questions!