"Community Conquers All": How NYC's Oldest Tavern Was Saved in 24 Hours!
I never intended to be a restaurant owner, but when my neighborhood was about to lose its nearly 200-year-old tavern, I volunteered to help.
I had no experience and I had a fulltime job but giving up wasn't an option because this was bigger than selling burgers and beer.
This was a cause. This was my way of becoming an Ambassador for a cause I cared about. Helping To save at least one disappearing historic local business.
Ironically I later found out it was one of America’s oldest taverns!
From Humble Beginnings to Community Triumphs
As a child, I moved from Jamaica to Queens. At ten years old, I couldn't read or recite the alphabet. The school staff's dedication helped me catch up, and I eventually graduated top of my class.
That experience taught me the power of community, which became my guiding principle: "Community Conquers All."
Saving Neir's Tavern: A Community Effort
My 10 Year in my journey of rescuing this tavern came to a head when it faced closure due to a triple rent increase. After announcing I have to close, all of a sudden thousands of supporters, including NYC Mayor and elected officials, rallied with me to save it.
This moment solidified my belief in the power of a community.
In 2020, we signed a new lease, securing Neir's future until its 200th anniversary in 2029.
Introducing Neir's Tavern Ambassadors Club
I realized Neir's Tavern couldn't survive on temporary leases alone and community support shouldn’t be built out of crisis but proactive intention.
That’s why when I was inspired by the community's support, I created the Neir's Tavern Ambassadors Club. This club is for those who want to move beyond being casual customers to become official Neir's Tavern Ambassadors who also have cause.
Whether it's your own a small business like I do, or want to have Neir’s Tavern help raise the awareness for a cause you care about like I was fortunate to accomplish, The Neir’s Tavern Ambassadors Club is the place for you.
Connect with fellow Ambassadors, learn with Neir’s Tavern owner and get a front row seat of our road to reach 200 years.
Thank you American Express to support the Road To 200 Journey
Neir's Ambassadors Appreciation Perks:
🍽️ Access to Neir's Ambassadors Table Experience!
🎖️ Anniversary Legacy Pin - Wear your commitment with pride. (One for every year you're a Neir's Ambassador. )
🎨 Named on the 16 Foot "Road To 200" Mural & In The Annual Anniversary Journal- Your name etched in history.
🎁 Curated Surprise Gift Item from a Historic Local Business and a Welcome Box Gift bundle - A thoughtful surprise, shipped to your doorstep you can keep it or gift it.(Platinum Level)
💬 Access to The Ambassadors Only Chat & “Owner’s Road To 200 Updates” - Stay connected with fellow Ambassadors, get special invites and get a front row seat to Neir's Road To 200 Strategies of success and lessons learned
You're journey can start here!
Exclusive Perks for You On The 195th Year:
🍽️ VIP Access to Neir's Ambassadors Table & Secret Menu
🎖️ Annual Aged Bronze Pin - Wear your commitment with pride.
📖 Named on the 16th Foot "Road To 200" Mural And Anniversary Journal- Leave your mark on the iconic journey.
🎁 Curated Item from a Local Business - A thoughtful surprise, shipped to your doorstep. (PLATINUM LEVEL)
💬 Access to Ambassador Chat & “Owner’s Road To 200 Updates” - Stay connected and informed.
Promote Your Cause To Neir’s Tavern Audience (Over 20k total following)