Neir’s Tavern owner Loycent Gordon dedicated the tavern’s 194th birthday to the life and legacy of NY1 news anchor Ruschell Boone.
Photo by Gabriele Holtermann
The rain didn’t damper the spirits of patrons celebrating legendary Neir’s Tavern’s 194th birthday with a block party featuring Deejay Khalil, Jazz music by the Kelly Green Trio, raffles, a Steeplechase course and food on Oct. 7 in Woodhaven.
This year’s milestone was dedicated to the life and legacy of NY1 news anchor Ruschell Boone for her community reporting. Neir’s Tavern owner Loycent Gordon told QNS that Boone, who lost her battle with pancreatic cancer last month, touched everyone.
“Every year, we’re celebrating Neir’s like it’s a milestone year because tomorrow is not guaranteed,” Gordon said. “And it’s just a reflection of what has happened to Ruschell. You know, life is not guaranteed. So let’s celebrate as much as we can every day like it’s a milestone.”
Gordon said he is looking forward to celebrating Neir’s 200th birthday and shared that the tavern had “fully recovered” after it had hit a rough spot in 2020 when it was in danger of closing for good because of a steep rent hike.
Gordon was inspired by the outpouring of support that kept the bar going.
“It made me feel that I’m not alone on this journey. It made me feel that there was hope,” Gordon reflected. “People are not just here for burgers and beer. They’re here for a bigger purpose. They believe that we can actually reach 200 years and do it in a way where we are really supporting each other because that’s why I always say community conquers all.”
The most famous bar “you have never heard of” has been featured in blockbuster movies like “Goodfellas” and “Tower Heist.” It has been serving “cold” ones since 1829 and is the oldest watering hole to operate continuously in the same location in the United States — though it has yet to gain landmark status.
Gordon…
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