Mayor Eric Adams gets laser hair removal while touting $85M investment in NYC small businesses

A Unique Approach to Promotion: Mayor Eric Adams’ Laser Hair Removal Stunt

In a rather unconventional move, New York City Mayor Eric Adams made headlines this week after undergoing a laser hair removal procedure at a wellness spa in Harlem. The procedure, which took place at Harlem Zen on Frederick Douglass Blvd., was not just a personal grooming session but a strategic effort to highlight his administration’s support for small businesses. While the sight of the mayor reclining in a chair, wearing dark safety glasses as the laser was applied to his already hairless head, might have raised a few eyebrows, the underlying message was clear: small businesses matter, and the city is actively working to support them.

Adams chose Harlem Zen, owned by Angela McTair, as the backdrop for this promotional stunt. McTair, who had previously benefited from the city’s Small Business Opportunity Fund, was thrilled to host the mayor and showcase how the fund had helped her business grow. The fund, a public-private partnership launched in January 2023, has distributed over $85 million in low-interest loans to 1,046 businesses across the city. For McTair, a $60,000 loan from the fund was instrumental in allowing her to relocate and upgrade her spa services, including investing in the very laser machine used on the mayor.

The Small Business Opportunity Fund: A Lifeline for Entrepreneurs

The Small Business Opportunity Fund is a cornerstone of Mayor Adams’ economic development strategy. With an initial investment of $75 million, split equally between the city and private partners like Goldman Sachs and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, the fund aims to provide financial support to small businesses that might otherwise struggle to secure loans. The loans are capped at $250,000 and come with favorable terms, making them an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to expand or improve their operations.

The fund has been instrumental in helping businesses like Harlem Zen thrive. Angela McTair’s spa is a prime example of how the fund can transform a small business. The $60,000 loan she received allowed her to move to a better location and invest in advanced equipment, such as the laser hair removal machine used on the mayor. During the procedure, McTair excitedly pointed out to Adams that the machine he was experiencing firsthand was a direct result of the fund’s support. This personal touch added a layer of authenticity to the mayor’s visit, making it more than just a photo opportunity.

A Spa Visit with a Purpose: Adams’ Calm Demeanor During the Procedure

Despite the procedure being described as painful by many who have undergone it—some likening it to having one’s skin “lit on fire”—Adams seemed remarkably composed throughout the 10-minute session. While the laser pulsed away, he casually chatted with a reporter about his administration’s efforts to support small businesses. His calm demeanor was a stark contrast to the discomfort many associate with laser hair removal, and it added a layer of intrigue to the event.

Adams’ ability to remain focused on his message, even in the midst of a potentially uncomfortable situation, speaks to his determination to showcase the impact of his policies. “I’m able to come into the community and say, ‘Okay, we did this policy. We put these millions of dollars in, and now we can see the results,’” he said during the procedure. It was a calculated move to bring attention to the Small Business Opportunity Fund and its successes.

Public Reaction to the Stunt: Praise and Criticism

Reactions to Adams’ laser hair removal stunt have been mixed. While some have commended him for his creative approach to promoting small businesses, others have criticized the move as a distraction from more pressing issues. On social media platforms like Facebook and Reddit, users have weighed in with their opinions. Some have praised Adams for his willingness to think outside the box and bring attention to important initiatives. Others, however, have accused him of prioritizing publicity stunts over substantive governance.

“This guy will do anything except his job as mayor,” one critic wrote on Facebook, echoing a sentiment shared by many who feel that Adams’ focus on photo opportunities detracts from his responsibilities. Another user quipped, “Oh dear, the photo ops,” highlighting the perception that the mayor is more interested in generating buzz than in addressing the challenges facing the city. These criticisms are not new; Adams has faced similar accusations in the past, particularly after a previous stunt in January where he had his eyebrows threaded in Queens to promote a public safety initiative.

The Laser Hair Removal Experience: Painful but Effective

The laser hair removal procedure itself has been a topic of discussion, with many people sharing their own experiences online. While some describe it as a relatively painless process, others liken it to having their skin “lit on fire,” with one Reddit user comparing it to “having your skin repeatedly snapped with a rubber band.” The procedure involves the use of a high-intensity light beam to target and remove hair follicles, and while it is generally considered safe, it can be uncomfortable, especially for those with sensitive skin.

Despite the potential discomfort, Adams appeared to take the procedure in stride. In a video posted by ABC7, he can be seen reclining in the chair, wearing protective eyewear, as McTair carefully applies the laser to the back of his head. The video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the procedure and highlights the camaraderie between Adams and McTair, who seemed to enjoy the opportunity to showcase her work. “With help like what you gave us, we were able to upgrade to this machine that you’ll be experiencing today,” she said, drawing attention to the direct impact of the Small Business Opportunity Fund.

Implications and Questions: What’s Next for Adams and the Fund?

As the dust settles on this latest publicity stunt, questions remain about the effectiveness of such tactics in promoting the Small Business Opportunity Fund. While the event certainly generated buzz and brought attention to the fund’s successes, it also sparked criticism from those who feel that the mayor’s focus should be elsewhere. The stunt has also raised questions about the cost of the procedure and whether Adams paid for it out of pocket or used city funds. A representative from City Hall did not respond to requests for comment on the matter.

Looking ahead, it will be important to see how Adams continues to promote the Small Business Opportunity Fund and whether he maintains this unconventional approach to governance. For now, the laser hair removal stunt remains a talking point, with some hailing it as a clever marketing move and others dismissing it as a distraction. Regardless of one’s opinion on the matter, it is clear that Adams is committed to bringing attention to the fund and the businesses it has supported, even if it means enduring a little discomfort along the way.

In the end, the success of the Small Business Opportunity Fund will be measured not by the publicity it generates but by the tangible impact it has on the businesses and communities it serves. As long as the fund continues to empower entrepreneurs like Angela McTair, Adams’ unorthodox methods may prove to be a small price to pay for the greater good.