Today, I sat in the seat of power. No, I did not sneak into the West Wing like Al Gore on Saturday Night Live. Nor did I warm the big chair for Nancy Pelosi while she took a call off the House floor.
I was nearby though, in another bastion of power and style; the Senate barber, or more accurately, Senate Haircare. Even for locals it’s an open secret that anyone from anywhere can get a haircut in this time capsule of a shop located in subterranean halls of the Russell Senate Office Building. On any given day you will be seated next to people you are more accustomed to seeing on the evening news or a Sunday talk show.
Of course, you won’t bump into Senator Edwards, apparently it’s not swanky enough. No worries though, it’s his loss because they do an excellent job at a much more reasonable price – currently a mere $18. Still, it’s always an interesting experience. Once, to my surprise, I looked over and saw Supreme Court Justice Steven Breyer next to me. Sharp guy, very nice.
If you do want to swing by for a cut, its best to call ahead for an appointment. And bear in mind that if a senator or congressman calls in for a last minute trim, you’ll just have to wait. There’s even a sign on the wall telling you so, albeit in very formal and reasonable language.
Today, in fact, I was bumped by a politely grateful representative from a certain southern state. But that’s alright because it’s always worth the wait. The staff is not only talented and interesting, it’s great to hear them discuss legislation and senate traditions like the old pros they are. It’s also old school; you get a strait razor and warm lather to clean up the edges and trim your sideburns.