“Take your work seriously, but don't take yourself seriously….And every damn day-pursue happiness.” “He knew the influence he had-and chose empowerment over power,” she said. of the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation came onstage to announce that the organization was donating $10,000 to a fund established for Lermayer’s young son.Ĭullen continued her tribute by passing along some of Lermayer’s most cherished wisdom. John Lermayer understood that success was not about what you had, but about what you give back.” To illustrate the point, Gary Solomon Sr. We’ve all been complicit in Lermayer stories,” said Laura Cullen, Lermayer’s friend of more than two decades and one of the many bar owners he mentored.

passed away in June, was the recipient of 2018's Lifetime Achievement Award. There's Only One John Lermayer: The much-beloved bartender who owned Miami's Sweet Liberty and who.