Brothers talk uncertain future after tornadoes destroy grandfather’s barber shop

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Two Bowling Green brothers carried on their grandfather’s barber shop’s name for years.

When December’s tornadoes ripped through Bowling Green three months ago today, that all changed overnight.

Paul’s Barber Shop stood proud on Bowling Green’s Bypass since 1959, a family run business for over seven decades.

Brothers Tyler and Travis Rossi took over the shop when their grandfather passed, continuing the family business until December 11, 2021.

December’s infamous storms destroyed lives, homes and businesses in one stormy morning, and Paul’s Barber Shop was one of many businesses lost on the Bypass.

“I’ve always been down there at Paul’s, and to be quite honest I planned to retire from there,” said Tyler. “But, I guess after this tornado it may bump my plans around a little bit.”

“We’re just handling it the only way we know how to handle it, and that’s just getting back to work and picking up the pieces,” added Travis.

Fortunately, the legacy their grandfather’s shop carried actually helped the men.

“The two guys that own the [Hairitage Barber Shop], Mark Alderson and Keith Lindsey, they both worked at our shop years ago for our grandfather,” Travis explained. “So, when they found out about the tornado destroying the shop they called and offered us jobs over here. So, we’re really grateful for that opportunity.”

According to Tyler, talks with FEMA did not lead to a solution. So now, Tyler and Travis hope to rebuild, as many businesses owners on the Bypass do, but they’re prepared for anything.

“Our grandfather worked there for over 50 years. We’d love to see it back open and you know, this something happens. It doesn’t get to open back up we’re happy working here with these guys,” said Travis.

Until the future pans out, the brothers plan to stay Bowling Green Strong.