Updated: Does he have the right 'stache stuff?

With wax in hand, Greg White is ready to take his swirling moustache to the next level, aiming to win the title of "saltiest 'stache" in a national competition.

The Cloquet Area Fire District firefighter/EMT competed in his first moustache competition last year, and became a brand ambassador for 'Stache Salt - which sells moustache and beard products and sponsors the competition he is aiming to win.

White shared a secret revealed only after he decided to grow a moustache during the pandemic.

"It's kind of like a secret club," he said. "I never knew that there was a huge following for mustaches until I started growing one."

The contest involves more than a remarkable moustache, it's also about character, as illustrated through a series of three judges' challenges.

That's not a problem for White, who sees his handlebar moustache as an icebreaker, which might lead to a conversation about mental health, something he wants firefighters and other public safety workers to start talking about.

"A good friend of mine killed himself four years ago, who suffered from mental health problems. So my mission, my goal, is to continue pushing for mental health," he said.

The judges announced their Top 10 on Wednesday and White was on the list. He has one more task to do for the judges, then it's all about who can get the most votes. Voting will take place Dec. 4-5 with the national winner announced Dec. 6. White is hoping community members will take the time to go online and vote for him.

To vote for White, go to https://stachesalt.com/, click on the 2024 Moustache Competition, then look for White or the name "FF_g.white" and vote.