Westchester County Legislator David Tubiolo presents Oliver Charles with a proclamation.
The Westchester County Board of Legislators celebrated Irish-American Heritage Month with a virtual ceremony that highlighted the life experiences and civic accomplishments Anne McPherson, former White Plains City Clerk, and Oliver Charles, proprietor of “The Butcher’s Fancy” which is located on McLean Avenue in Yonkers.
Chairwoman Catherine Borgia (D–Briarcliff Manor, Cortlandt, Croton, Ossining, Peekskill) convened the celebration talking about the Irish immigrant experience of coming to America in search of liberty and opportunity.
She referenced her Irish grandmother who came to America as a maid and said, “For centuries, Irish-Americans have played a crucial role in helping define the soul of our County and our Country. The story of Irish-Americans has always been one of strength and perseverance through adversity. Through it all, the Irish spirit has endured: the love of music, dance and storytelling, the sense of humor, and the affirmation of life through celebration.”
Legislator Ben Boykin (D-White Plains, Scarsdale, Harrison) presented a proclamation to Anne McPherson saying, “Anne is both an outstanding Irish-American and an outstanding citizen who has given so much to our great City of White Plains.
“She has been a successful and self-motivated civil servant who, while working full time, achieved an undergraduate degree in business, and certifications as both an accountant and a paralegal from top institutions. Anne has been blessed with some special gifts as well such as a photographic memory, and the knack for writing poetry and Irish step dancing. Anne loves all things Irish, and so she is a former Grand Marshal of our parade, and has been a member of the White Plains St. Patrick’s Day Committee for the past 14 years. We are lucky to have her.”
McPherson shared her cherished memories of growing up “Bronx Irish” which evoked the image of a lively and close-knit community rich with enjoyment of song, dance and conviviality.
The Board had declared March 8 “Anne McPherson Day” in the County of Westchester.
Legislator David Tubiolo (D –Yonkers, Mount Vernon) presented a proclamation honoring his McLean Avenue friend and neighbor, Oliver Charles.
"McLean Avenue is the heart of the Irish community here in Westchester and beyond, often called the 33rd County, the Emerald Mile, and the ‘Grafton Street’ of America.
“Oliver Charles is a wonderful person who, through his successful gourmet Irish food shop, ‘The Butcher’s Fancy,’ has been able to give back. In times of need, whether it be Hurricane Ida, the situation in Afghanistan, and most recently during the terrible COVID pandemic, he has donated food and service generously and without hesitation, showing himself to be a true leader in the community," said Tubiolo.
Charles thanked Tubiolo for the honor and stated: "I want to thank all of those who have supported us over the years, particularly those of McLean Avenue. I also want to thank my family and say I am proud to be from Yonkers, and proud to be living in this great country of America.”
The Board had declared March 9 “Oliver Charles Day” in the County of Westchester.
