An American Success Story
Like many American success stories, the Najjar family saga began in a land far away. For centuries, the Najjar family enjoyed a happy and prosperous life in the beautiful port town of Tripoli, Lebanon. The family was well known in their community as being the premier bakers of baklavas and Turkish Delights.
Their bakery was strategically located near the water. As boats would dock, the heady scents of rosewater, fresh butter and roasted nuts mingled with the soft sea breeze. Seamen would drop into the tiny well stocked bakery for some “exotic treats” to bring home. Residents were fortunate to have a little taste of heaven every day.
Mrs. Najjar, who ruled the store with an iron fist and work tirelessly with her husband to make these treats, always greeted old timers and new customers alike with an open heart and a little sample. While Mr. Najjar would bake the pastries fresh daily, Mrs. Najjar would manage the front making sure all the baked goodies were fresh and baked with love and care. It was well known that Mrs. Najjar would always sneak an extra sweet like a piece of fresh Turkish Delights to kids as their mothers placed orders. It was a warm smile, a hello and that little extra that endeared the Najjars to their customers.
While the family enjoyed a good life in Lebanon filled with family, friends and financial security, like millions before them, they wanted to try their hand at the American dream. They knew that the streets were not literally paved with gold but in such a large country with limitless opportunities, the possibilities for success were limitless.
Mr. and Mrs. Najjar along with their five young children boarded a Pan AM flight to the United States. There was a strong feeling of exhilaration mixed with fear of the unknown and excitement for the future. The family settled in the Bay Ridge Area of Brooklyn and immediately set up shop. While the young children went to school, Mr. and Mrs. Najjar spent many sleepless nights getting their bakery off the ground. To make ends meet, little Mohammed Najjar sold freshly baked baklavas and Turkish Delights during recess and on his way home from school. The neighborhood went crazy for the sugar kissed pastries and nut packed confections that were a nice change from typical American sweets.