Saint Paul -- Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of Thomas Plash to the Board of Barber Examiners.

Plash, of Fridley, owns Tom's Haircutters in Hopkins. He has been a barber and a shop owner for over 40 years. Plash is also an active member of the Minnesota Barber Stylists Association, having served as a local chapter president and national president. Plash replaces Robert Nelsen as a barber member for a four-year term that expires on January 7, 2008.

The Board of Barber Examiners examines, registers and licenses barbers; enforces statutes regulating barbers, barber instructors, barber schools and shops. The Board consists of four members appointed by the Governor, including three barbers and one public member.