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Longtime Westfield Barber Is Retiring

Deb Christina, also known as "Deb The Barber" cutting hair at Deb's Barber Shop, located at 23 N. Portage St., Westfield. Christina is retiring, with Shannon Ryan starting a new business, Custom Cuts, at the same location. Submitted photo

WESTFIELD — After 39 years of barbering, Deb Christina, also known as “Deb The Barber,” has announced her retirement. She would like to thank all who have walked through the door of Deb’s Barber Shop.

“You have come from near and far, some from very far, to support my business,” she said. “There are so many wonderful memories I will be taking with me. I’ve had the honor to cut many first haircuts. I have cut four generations of hair and made many lifelong friends in my 39 years of business. I’ve had the opportunity to celebrate births, graduations and weddings with many of you. For years there were mornings when three and four cups of coffee were lined up on the counter from thoughtful customers. Then there were fresh baked goods from wives, cards with lottery tickets in them, a special book to share, unexpected visits just to get and give a hug and so many kind words. Often times handmade gifts just for me. The list of wonderful acts of kindness goes on and on.”

Christina said her life has been enriched by each and every one of you.

“I can say it has truly been a wonderful and satisfying career. All made possible because of you,” she said.

Deb’s Barber Shop, located at 23 N. Portage St., has been a barbershop for decades. First with Tom and Joe (Jasper) Guido as “The Portage Barber Shop” then it became Deb’s Barber Shop. On April 1, a new business “Custom Cuts,” owned and operated by Shannon Ryan, will be carrying on the haircutting tradition at the location. A familiar face at Deb’s Barber Shop for eight years, Ryan will be back running her own business. The phone number, 326-4004, will remain the same, only the face and name will change.

Deb Christina with Tom Guido who operated The Portage Barber Shop before it became Deb's Barber Shop in Westfield. Submitted photo

“I wish Shannon much success in her new venture,” Christina said.

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