Background: Owner of Gossip bar and restaurant in New York City, and Harbor Hill in Nyack, Rockland County.  Will be the honoree at the Tipperary Hurling Club annual banquet at the Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester this Saturday.

Where are you from?

“I’m from Grangemockler, Co. Tipperary. I came to the U.S. in 1984 to play hurling for Tipperary in Gaelic Park. I returned to New York again in 1985, and that time I stayed for good. The economy was so bad in Ireland at the time.”

Tell us about your involvement in the Tipperary Hurling Club:

“I have been a member since my arrival here. The club and its members have been very instrumental in my life here in the U.S. It has been the foundation for many strong friendships and great success in sports and my business life.  The club is very typical of how Irish communities away from home help each other out.”

You are the honoree at the annual dinner dance on Saturday. How does that make you feel?

“Immensely proud! I am excited for the occasion and look forward to sharing it with my family and friends from Ireland and New York.”

What advice do you have for new arrivals in the U.S.?

“New York is the greatest city in the world and the U.S. is the land of great opportunities, but you must be prepared to work hard for what you want. Do not be afraid to ask for help. The Irish community in New York is truly amazing. Our sense of community and support for each other can be seen from the help and assistance we’ve given to the victims of Hurricane Sandy.” 

For information on the Tipperary Hurling Club banquet, call Brendan Maher at 914-966-2582.