BARBERING BIZ: Barber shops and barbers have dwindled over the seven decades Mike Ross has been cutting hair, and the reasons for that are as varied as the tastes of customers.

Mike and his shop are decidedly old school. You won’t hear a hair dryer blasting in the place, and if you want your hair shampooed, colored or permed, you’ll have to go elsewhere.

But if you’re looking for a haircut — not a “style” — or a close shave and some good conversation, the shop in the Seneca Building would be a good choice.

The talk frequently goes back to the 1940s, ’50s and even ’60s, when Main Street and intersecting side streets were filled with clothing stores, newsstands, dress shops, jewelry stores, restaurants and delicatessens that served a bustling community.

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