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BRONXVILLE, N.Y. – From working as a gas station attendant in the Bronx to owning his own bar and restaurant in Bronxville, John Fogarty is the definition of an immigrant success story.
Fogarty, owner of J.C. Fogarty's Bar and Restaurant in Bronxville, was the recipient of the 2012 Cabrini Immigrant Services Award for his support of various community and charitable organizations.
Originally from Holycross, County Tipperary, Ireland, Fogarty immigrated to the United States in 1971. He worked multiple jobs, including as a painter, gas station attendant and beverage distributor, before becoming the owner of a German delicatessen in the Bronx. In 1998, Fogarty bought the Town Tavern in Bronxville, and after a full renovation, reopened it as J.C. Fogarty's Bar and Restaurant.
His success isn't a product of luck, rather it's one of hard work and dedication, Fogarty said.
"It's just such a great feeling to be asked to be a part of this celebration," he said. "I've met a lot of great people in the area over the years, and for them to recognize me is truly an honor. I love being in Bronxville because I love the people here. They've all been great to me over the years, as I hope that through my efforts I've been good to them as well."
Over the years Fogarty has supported various charitable organizations, including Bedford Park Seniors, the Northeast Bronx Community Coalition, the Special Olympics, The Community Fund, St. Baldricks, the Irish Holy Ghost Fathers and Cabrini of Westchester. Fogarty also organized a relief effort in Bronxville for victims in the Rockaways after Hurricane Sandy.
Helping out different organizations and stepping up when people are in need is something that enriches his life, Fogarty said.
"I help out other people because I can, because it's the right thing to do," he said. "I had an idea of what I wanted to achieve from a young age, and I just went with it. America truly is the land of opportunity, and if you want something badly enough, anything is possible, and I'm proof. As for the future, I just want to keep doing what I'm doing and continuing to help out along the way."
Comments (1)
Congratulations to Mr. Fogarty and all the others who have succeeded in achieving their dreams. Along those lines, a new book/ebook explains the role, struggles, and contributions of immigrants and minorities: "What Foreigners Need To Know About America From A To Z: How to understand crazy American culture, people, government, business, language and more.” Endorsed by ambassadors, educators, and editors, it paints a revealing picture of America on numerous subjects for those who will benefit from a better understanding. Immigrants and the children they bear account for 60 percent of our nation’s population growth and are 60 percent more likely to start a new business than native-born Americans. It identifies “foreigners” who became successful in the US and contributed to our society. It has four chapters on business in the US, including options for starting your own. However, most struggle in their efforts and need guidance. Perhaps concerned citizens and books like this can extend a helping hand. Peace. www.AmericaAtoZ.com