Owosso Mi. – Karl Manke, 77, a barber for over close to 60 years in Owosso states, he is reopening

Karl in an email had this to say:

Nearly sixty years ago, I passed a state exam to become a licensed barber. Part of that exam had to do with sanitation. We are required to wash our hands between clients (nowadays we have the option to use hand sanitizer). We are also required to use ultraviolet light to sanitize any scissor, clipper, comb, or razor that will be used on a client. All these precautions are meant to protect the health and wellbeing of our clients. I have practiced these exercises throughout my entire career. And I might add, I have never missed a day of work because of an infectious disease.

Before we were ordered by the state government to shut down our practices, my shop was especially diligent in further sanitizing door pulls, bathrooms, waiting room chairs, and applying air sanitizers. The only thing I would add to this mix would be for me to wear a face mask if requested and will gladly accommodate a client feeling they too would prefer to wear a mask.

I believe, as a professional barber, I am responsible enough to determine how I need to protect my clientele, and I believe my clientele have the right to determine whether they are satisfied with my precautions. The building housing my barbershop is 2000 sq. feet. We can easily seat people in the suggested six-foot separation with no problem.

Just in passing as a professional, I can quickly recognize an amateur attempt at cutting a man's hair. One of my observations has been, there is no one in front of a TV camera with a homemade hair cut--whether a government person or a TV personality. They are all done by a professional.

I am certain that the intentions of the state administration as well as the federal government are meant to protect its citizens. But like all people in positions of authority, they worry about how well they're performing. The problem presenting itself in this instance is the same problem an overly protective parent has with a child that is emerging or has already reached the age of responsibility. There comes a time when all of us must take responsibility for our own actions. I believe my time has arrived. I fully intend to open my barbershop on Monday, May 4th, 2020. Because of the backlog of clients, I intend to work from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.  

Karl Manke Owner of Karl Manke's Barbershop 421 W.Main St. Owosso, Mich. ph. for an appointment or walk-in. 989-723-2926.