Loycent Gordon, Owner of Historic Neir’s Tavern, to Receive Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award

 

Loycent Gordon, Owner of Historic Neir’s Tavern, to Receive Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award

QUEENS, NY (February 2026) — Queens Centers for Progress (QCP) has announced that Loycent Gordon, owner of the historic Neir’s Tavern, will be honored with the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award at its 30th Annual “Evening of Fine Food.” The event, a milestone celebration of culinary excellence and community impact, will take place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Terrace on the Park.

Named after the late Queens Borough President, the Claire Shulman Award recognizes individuals who embody leadership, advocacy, and a tireless commitment to the people of Queens. Gordon, a Jamaican immigrant and former FDNY firefighter, is being celebrated for his role in preserving Neir’s Tavern—New York City’s oldest continuously operating bar—and transforming it into a hub for community resilience.

“A community is only as strong as how it cares for its most vulnerable members, and that’s what QCP does for Queens every day,” said Loycent Gordon. “Like many of the people QCP supports, Neir’s Tavern is still here because of our Neir’s Ambassadors Council members and supporters who believed in us. I’m honored to receive this award as we stand with QCP in helping children and adults with developmental disabilities live more independent lives.”

Since saving Neir’s Tavern from closure in 2009, Gordon has leveraged the 196-year-old institution to support various civic causes. His "Road to 200" campaign aims to ensure the tavern’s legacy continues through its bicentennial in 2029 and beyond. Beyond historic preservation, Gordon’s philanthropic efforts include partnerships that provide meals to over 10,000 families annually across the borough.

The 30th Annual Evening of Fine Food will also honor "Chefs of the Year" Patricia Ornst (Delta Air Lines), Richard S. David (Con Edison), and Ben Guttman (Queens Economic Development Corporation). The evening features gourmet delicacies from over 20 of Queens' finest restaurants, with proceeds directly benefiting more than 1,200 individuals served by QCP’s programs.

For more information about the event or to purchase tickets, visit www.queenscp.org. or 

https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/dnyYLg?vid=1oasts

About Neir’s Tavern

Established in 1829 in Woodhaven, Queens, Neir’s Tavern is one of the oldest and most historic bars in the United States. Famously featured in films like Goodfellas and Tower Heist, the tavern serves as a community anchor dedicated to preserving the "Spirit of Queens."

About Queens Centers for Progress (QCP)

Queens Centers for Progress is a major provider of services for people with developmental disabilities in Queens County. For over 75 years, QCP has provided person-centered care, including educational, therapeutic, and residential services, to help individuals lead more independent lives.