SHORTY'S BARBERSHOP CELEBRATES 90 YEARS IN NEW BOSTON

This past week a milestone in New Boston history took place.  Shorty's Barbershop on Harrisonville Avenue celebrated 90 years of serving our local area.

It is no secret that in today's economy small business interests throughout the country are not given the priority needed for continued growth and productivity.  Most all tax credits and business incentives are aimed at big business corporations and franchises. 

A small, private business owner today must work long hours both during and after the doors close, to make sure he can actually open his doors the next day.  We owe a debt of gratitude to these private entrepreneur's for their dedication and passion in keeping what has been known as part of the "American Dream," alive and well under intensely difficult times.

Here in New Boston this small barbershop has provided hairstyling services to our local area for the past 90 years.  It is a true hometown barbershop where haircuts come with friendly talk on everything from sports to politics to jobs, families and pets.   True Americana!

James "Shorty" Mowery first opened "Shorty's" in 1923.  In the 1960s, Mowery sold the business to one of his barbers, Jerry Dodd.  Mr. Dodd operated the business until March of 2007 when he sold it to the current owner, Drew Rucker. 

Some of my first haircuts came at "Shorty's."  Earlier this week fellow councilman Dan Fetty and I had the pleasure of going over to the shop to congratulate Mr. Rucker.  The minute I walked in the place a flood of memories came rolling back.  Dad and I on Saturday morning would come in early, sit in the chairs and listen to the guys from the mill and railroad talk "shop" and of course everyone was always talking Friday night football, basketball and of course, Ohio State.   (By the way the shop is now decorated with the red and gray colors and Ohio State theme.)

Congratulations to Drew Rucker as well as one of the nicest men I ever had the pleasure of knowing, Jerry Dodd.   I know both Jerry and Shorty are looking down with pride.

Mike Payton
10-26-2013