License Lack Stops Yale Student Barber

Connecticut officials have stopped a Yale student who was giving haircuts without charge, asking only for tips in return.

Dust began collecting this week on the eight kinds of hair tonic owned by David J. VerMeulen, a resident of Timothy Dwight College. An order from the State Board of Barber Examiners said that the Eli junior would have to stop unless he obtained a license, registered his shop, and agreed to work only during certain hours.

VerMeulen closed down to avoid a possible $100 fine or 30 days in jail near his final examination time. He felt that the other was unfair to Yale students none of whom will now be able to get around the standard charge of $1.10 per haircut.

VerMeulen had though he was avoiding trouble when he refused fees while "encouraging" tips. He attributed the state order to action by local barbers.

A group of New Haven barbers had earlier complained that his system was unsanitary.