“Cherish” will remain on display surrounded by a beautiful garden in front of the bathhouse and the entrance to the public beach at Glen Island Park.
Watch the full news conference.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer hosted a special ceremony to dedicate a memorial art sculpture named “Cherish” to honor Westchester County residents who have lost a child. The event was held on Wednesday, Oct. 30, at 3:30 p.m. at Glen Island Park in New Rochelle.
“Cherish” was designed and created by Peter Mitrione of Mitrione and Sons Ironworks and generously donated to the County by Peter and and his wife, Antoinette. This innovative artist was inspired to create the sculpture after a dream he had about Antoinette’s adored late niece, Chrissy, who sadly passed away in a fire at the tender age of 10. The sculpture portrays a playful young boy sitting on an anchor and gazing upon a butterfly. Once the piece was completed, the Mitrione family felt it should be shared with the community and asked if it could be exhibited in one of our Westchester County Parks. “Cherish” will remain on display surrounded by a beautiful garden in front of the bathhouse and the entrance to the public beach.
County Executive George Latimer said, “Losing a child is heartbreaking. It leaves an overwhelming sense of emptiness and loss. The grief is intensified by the unfulfilled potential and experiences that the child will never have, leaving parents with a profound sense of sorrow and longing. Our parks are a sanctuary for our mental well-being, our physical health, and for the enjoyment of Westchester residents. ‘Cherish’ provides a special space for healing for parents, family and friends who have lost a child. They can come to Glen Island Park to reflect and appreciate the many wonderful memories made together.”
Westchester County Parks Commissioner Kathleen O’Connor said, “The sculpture is lovely and in a gorgeous, tranquil location along Long Island Sound. Everyone who sees it will be emotionally touched and appreciate its meaning. We would like to thank Peter and Antoinette Mitrione for their generous donation, contributing to the beautification of Glen Island Park and sharing this incredible piece of art with the community.