Business News

BY JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@oglecountynews.com

Cherie Slack has run a barbershop in three Ogle County towns during the past 35 years.

This month, she’ll be retiring and will hand over the keys to a new owner. Short Cut Barbershop came to Oregon in 2011. Before that, it was in Mt. Morris for 23 years and in Leaf River for three.

“It’s already bittersweet,” Slack said. “I’ve been cutting some of these people for over 30 years. You become friends. Everyone is already teary-eyed.”

Slack’s retirement comes on her own terms. She’ll still have a chair in the shop to help out the new owner, Erin Dietrich, when she needs it. She plans to spend her other time doing some hiking and traveling.

COVID-19 did play a part in Slack’s decision. She was extremely busy after being closed for 11 weeks during the shutdown. Now, it’s slow, due to some people still not wanting to come out.

“We’re down 25 percent,” Slack said. “Most shops are. A lot of cli-

Alex T. Paschal/Shaw Media

Cherie Slack, left, and Erin Dietrich display the new sign for the downtown Oregon shop.

ents are still not coming out, especially the elderly. In Erin’s situation, maybe it’s good. She’s starting out slow and she can take her time and get to know people.”

Slack has been fond of many clients over her years in business. Her favorite was Kenny Miller, who would always come into the shop for coffee. She returned the favor by bringing him coffee at his home up until he passed away.

The barbershop business has changed its fair share over the years, Slack said.

“Barbershops are a thing of the past, but they’re making a resurgence,” Slack said. “People are into the straight razor shaving. I quit it years ago, but it’s hot again.”

Dietrich plans to rename the business the Patriot Barber Shop when she takes the keys. She’ll be having a grand opening on Nov. 3.

The Patriot Barber Shop name is inspired by Dietrich’s military service in the Army. She served active duty from 1999-2004 and was in Kosovo and Afghanistan. She plans to have photos on the wall of those who have served so their stories can be told.

“I was kind of inspired through other veterans,” Dietrich said. “I wanted a safe space for people to talk about service. What better time for a patriotic theme?”

Dietrich and Slack have been friends since Dietrich was a child. Dietrich decided to attend barber college recently after Slack mentioned the idea of taking over while one of Dietrich’s sons was getting his haircut.

Opening a business amid the pandemic does concern Dietrich, but she’s optimistic.

“I feel like it’s the right thing to do,” Dietrich said. “It’s probably not the best time, but I have to do it. I have concerns, but it won’t stop me. I can’t afford to. I have to bet on myself.”