The historic Neir’s Tavern and LIJ Forest Hills Hospital have teamed up to launch a new essay contest for local students in honor of Black History Month.
The contest, launched on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, invites young writers from the Woodhaven community to explore the rich history, significant contributions, and lasting impact of Black leaders and historical events.
The essay contest, which runs from Jan. 20 to Feb. 20, is open to students at participating schools, including P.S. 97, P.S. 60, and St. Thomas the Apostle School. Students are invited to submit essays between 150 and 300 words about a Black leader, past or present, or a historical event that has inspired or impacted their lives.
Three winners will be selected and honored at an awards ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 26, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Neir’s Tavern. Each winner will receive a $25 gift card to the bar, courtesy of the Hospital, and a complimentary meal from Neir’s.
The winners will also be able to read their essays aloud at the event, sharing their perspectives with the community. The students or their parents may only redeem gift cards for food and soft drinks.
“We’re thrilled to launch this meaningful contest with LIJ Forest Hills Hospital,” said Loycent Gordon, owner of Neir’s Tavern. “It’s an opportunity for young people to reflect on Black history and share their perspectives. Neir’s has always been a hub for community dialogue, and this contest aligns with our mission on the Road to 200.”
Neir’s, located at 87-48 78th St. in Woodhaven, is the ‘oldest continuously operating bar’ in New York City and one of the oldest in the United States. It will be 200 years old in 2029. Infamously referred to as the “most famous bar you’ve never heard of,” it served as the backdrop for iconic films such as “Goodfellas” and “Tower Heist.”
Lorraine Chambers Lewis, president of the hospital, emphasized the initiative’s importance, stating: “This essay contest celebrates Black history and inspires students to think critically about the past while imagining a brighter future. Education is vital for building stronger communities, and we’re proud to partner with Neir’s Tavern for this initiative.”
The hospital is situated at 102-01 66th Road in Forest Hills and is a division of Long Island Jewish Medical Center. It specializes in women’s health, urology, and bariatric surgery.
“We envisioned this contest as a way to celebrate Black history and empower young writers. As Program Manager at LIJ Forest Hills, it’s rewarding to see this idea come to life through our partnership with Neir’s Tavern, strengthening our community in the process,” added Stancy Saji.
The essay contest offers students a chance to engage with Black history and voice their thoughts on how it continues to shape their lives. It provides an invaluable opportunity to amplify young people’s perspectives and foster a deeper understanding of its ongoing significance.
Richie Salmon, president of the Neir’s Tavern Ambassadors Club, shared a famous quote by baseball legend Satchel Paige that has always inspired him and he thinks will help the young writers. Paige once famously said, “Don’t look back. Something might be gaining on you.”
Essentially, Salmon said, it means you can’t live your life – or play baseball – in fear. Always focus on moving forward, at any age.
For more details and submission guidelines, those interested can email info@neirstavern.com.
