The Last American Shoemaker in Roselle (FINE CUT), by Joseph Eulo

9 min), Documentary The Last American Shoemaker is the story of Luis Ruales, a 65-year-old Ecuadorian Zapatero who has served his community as the borough’s shoemaker for the past 40 years. In coming to America, Luis has overcome many obstacles. Among them learning English, assimilating into American culture, raising and supporting a family, and operating a business in a sometimes volatile economy. Now he must face his biggest challenge yet: retirement. With his 66th birthday fast approaching, Luis must decide to either enjoy his golden years or continue as the Roselle’s only shoemaker. This 9-minute film will explore the consequences of globalization on the shoemaking trade in the United States and the obstacles Luis must face, amidst tough financial times, to make his final decision.