- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Alto Today
By the People, for the People
Octogenarian Barber Mike Graham Keeps Clipping After 89 Years
The longtime owner of Alto Barber Shop in Georgia continues his lifelong passion for cutting hair.
Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:23pm
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
Mike Graham, an 89-year-old Korean War veteran, has been cutting hair at his Alto Barber Shop on Shorter Avenue for decades. After learning the trade following his military service, Graham has continued his lifelong passion for barbering, celebrating his 89th birthday this year and showing no signs of slowing down.
Why it matters
Graham's story highlights the enduring appeal of small-town, community-oriented businesses and the value of pursuing one's passions later in life. As many small businesses struggle to survive, Graham's Alto Barber Shop has remained a fixture in the Alto community for generations.
The details
Graham learned the barbering trade after his two-year stint in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He has owned and operated the Alto Barber Shop on Shorter Avenue for decades, cutting hair for generations of locals. Despite his advanced age, Graham says he still enjoys the work and feels good, continuing to serve customers at his longtime shop.
- Mike Graham will celebrate his 89th birthday this year.
- Graham has owned and operated the Alto Barber Shop for decades.
The players
Mike Graham
An 89-year-old Korean War veteran who has owned and operated the Alto Barber Shop on Shorter Avenue for decades.
Alto Barber Shop
A longtime community barbershop located on Shorter Avenue in Alto, Georgia.
What they’re saying
“I still enjoy working, and I feel good.”
— Mike Graham, Owner, Alto Barber Shop
The takeaway
Mike Graham's story is a testament to the enduring appeal of small, community-oriented businesses and the value of pursuing one's passions later in life. Despite his advanced age, Graham continues to find joy and fulfillment in his lifelong career as a barber, serving generations of customers in his Alto Barber Shop.
