Danny & Lou

"Times are different now. It feels strange moving forward without you. I feel the void; some days are harder than others, but we know you're still here. Thank you, Louie Lou, for everything. THE GAME DON'T STOP! THE ORIGINAL KLIPPER KINGS MF"

Growing up in a strict Dominican household meant no talking back, doing as you're told, pants by your waistline and never getting the haircut you want because La pella tigere was not it. It was always the same number two clip Caesar cut, no frills, just a square back, and with no shape-up in the front. Despite this, I have a natural artistic talent and possess skilled hands. My passion for street art, particularly graffiti, was undeniable, and I seized every opportunity to go bombing whenever I could. I found myself drawn to the diverse avenues of self-expression, from fashion to music and other art forms. Everything changed when my cousin Jonathan, also known as Da Pro, moved in with us during junior high. My older sister, who was studying cosmetology, agreed to sell us her clippers, which we snagged for a bargain at Woolworths for 13 bucks. Desperate to avoid my father's strict immigrant nature, we decided to take matters into our own hands and learn how to cut each other's hair so that way I could avoid getting smacked up.

Before I knew it, I cut everybody in my basement, from my brothers to cousins, uncles, friends, and neighbors. Due to all the traffic in and out of my house, my mother eventually kicked me out of the basement and into the garage. A barber shop opened just three blocks away, and soon enough, people asked if I would start working there. The owner eventually approached me, offering me a spot, and that's how I began working at ShimsTrim, in 1993. However, tragedy struck soon after when Jonathan passed away at 18. I left ShimsTrim for a better opportunity and found myself at Los Amigos in Lynbrook, under the guidance of a skilled barber known as "El Chulo," who taught me the art of scissors and straight razors.

High school graduation took a bit longer than expected. The following year, old classmates of mine presented me with Luis "Lou" Estrella, who just moved into the area. Lou, a fellow Dominican from Jackson Mill, Queens, who also had a knack for barbering, came from a family with a similar background. We hit it off immediately, and a day later, Lou started working with me at Los Amigos.

I moved to Florida about a year later to start a new life. After being there for six months, I returned to New York for the arrival of my first child. During my time away, Lou had left working as a barber and was with his father at his supermarket. I began working as a deli man at the supermarket and continued cutting hair out of my garage. While at work one day, I asked Lou, "Why don't we open a shop?" His answer was, "Find a location." I found the perfect spot at 267 West Merrick Road in Valley Stream three days later. Lou and his father, Luis, pulled up and instantly fell in love with the location. Just like that Klipper KIngs was born.

Together, we became the youngest Dominican entrepreneurs in Valley Stream, facing challenges head-on while building a business rooted in family and community. We had our ups and downs, and I learned what it took to be a businessman. Through the years, there was a lot of blood, sweat, tears, and sacrifice. Many people don't realize what it takes to own your own business. However, Lou and I learned that firsthand. Our shop was and still is the place to get your cut. Some things will never change! For 23 years, Lou, our loyal barbers, and I stood side by side, serving our clientele with love and pride.

Unfortunately, on August 14, 2022, we received the news of Lou's sudden death. Valley Stream took a big hit that day with the loss of our brother. It's unbelievable that you don't realize your impact on people's lives. A barber is more than just the guy who keeps you looking good. He is a therapist, a friend, a marriage counselor, a mentor, and a brother. Lou served as all too many. I have yet to meet anyone who could cut like Lou, yet I have yet to meet anyone like him. You made this world a better place. The outpour of love from the community and our customers is beyond beautiful. You will be missed, and your memory will always live on.

"Times are different, it feels strange being in the shop without you. Some days are harder than others, but we know you're still here. Thank you, Louie Lou, for everything. THE GAME DON'T STOP! THE ORIGINAL KLIPPER KINGS MF"