Cherished longtime Belmont dive bar the Vern has reopened, following its sale to local bar owners Warren Boothby and Marcus Archambeault. The team—also owners of the Elvis Room, Sandy Hut, Lay Low, the Alibi, Double Barrel, and Gold Dust Meridian—gave the spot their patented makeover, incorporating elements rescued from other bygone Portland bars. In its previous incarnation, the Vern was actually called Hanigan's Tavern, and was a neighborhood fixture with the iconic "TAVERN" sign out front. It earned the nickname "the Vern" when the "T" and "A" on the neon sign ceased to function. The bar has now been officially renamed the Vern, and the Mercury was at last night's soft opening to grab these quick shots. Today the Vern is officially open for business, starting at 4 pm, so get in there and see the salvaged "Steaks" sign from Club 21 and the firepit from the Overlook Tavern for yourself. Regular hours will be noon to 2:30 am.