Editorial

Save Rosey’s barbershop

Posted

Three-year-old Kawan Shomo is part of the fourth generation in his family to get his hair cut at the Marble Hill International Unisex Salon, a staple of the neighborhood since 1962.

“It’s a family place. Everybody knows each other, everybody’s been here all their lives. And I don’t like everybody touching my son’s hair — it’s either Garfield or Rosey,” his mother recently said, referencing barbers Garfield Myrie and Roosevelt “Rosey” Spivey, the living legend who has run the shop since he opened its doors.

However, the apparent callousness of a landlord means the legacy is going to come to an unceremonious end — unless community members and elected officials do something about it.

Earlier this month, Mr. Spivey’s landlord unceremoniously handed the barber a notice to vacate the premises. Citing 151 West 228, LLC’s desire to set up an office at the storied barbershop, the company said Mr. Spivey has until the first week of February to get out.

The move would be a major blow for the community. As longtime customers know, Rosey’s is not just a place to get a haircut, but a hearth where values are reinforced and are spread down the generations.

A Moveon.org petition by a local filmmaker and member of the nearby St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church put it eloquently.

“Mr. Spivey is the pillar of the Marble Hill community, where many have come and continue to come from near and far to absorb his humbleness, wisdom and gracious aura, whether for a haircut or just shooting the breeze,” Edmar Flores wrote. “Mr. Spivey is not only Marble Hill’s barber but also father, brother, uncle, cousin and a dear friend.”

Residents of Marble Hill and concerned neighbors should sign the petition at once. Officials who have begun to intervene should be applauded for their efforts — and maintain pressure on the landlord.

A spokesman for state Sen. Adriano Espaillat says the official, who is known to get a haircut at Rosey’s, and Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez are working to keep the establishment open. Plans for a meeting between the senator and the landlord are in the works.

Marble Hill barbershop, Rosey's, Adriano Espaillat, Ydanis Rodriguez, Charles Rangel
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