Yorktown resident Ashley Rooney Hedtke was recognized by Sen. Pete Harckham during an Irish Heritage Month ceremony on March 28 for her contributions to the community and efforts to promote Irish and Celtic culture.
The event, held at the John C. Hart Memorial Library, included the presentation of a New York State Senate proclamation and an Empire Award to Rooney Hedtke for her work as owner of the Celtic Aer Gift Shop in Shrub Oak. Town Supervisor Ed Lachterman also presented a town proclamation recognizing her impact on the local community.
Other honorees included Bernadette “Bernie” Cummins of Carmel and Patrick MacLennan of Peekskill.
Rooney Hedtke, the daughter of an Irish immigrant, founded the Celtic Aer Gift Shop in 2010 in Mohegan Lake before relocating it to Shrub Oak. The business offers goods and serves as a gathering place celebrating Irish, Scottish and Celtic heritage.
In addition to running her business, Rooney Hedtke serves as vice president of the North American Celtic Trade Association and has been involved with the WestPut Setanta Gaelic Football Club and the Hudson Valley Irish Fest & Center. She has also coached youth soccer locally and volunteered with the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Mass and Parade, while supporting community organizations and events throughout the Hudson Valley.
Irish Heritage Month is observed annually in March in the United States to recognize the history, culture and contributions of Irish Americans. The monthlong observance coincides with St. Patrick’s Day on March 17.
“It’s important that we honor the accomplishments of the Irish and Irish Americans here in our community,” Harckham said. “The history of the United States—and the history of New York State—is filled with the achievements and profound contributions of Irish Americans to our culture, economy, and arts.
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