Westchester Reporter

In White Plains, Westchester County Executive George Latimer led a flag-raising ceremony at the Michaelian Office Building to celebrate Italian Heritage Month. The event was attended by community members and local leaders and focused on recognizing the contributions of Italian-Americans to the county's history and culture.

Latimer remarked, "Italian Heritage Month offers us the chance to celebrate our Italian-American community, which has enriched Westchester's cultural landscape for generations. It's an honor to come together to recognize and celebrate those contributions, which continue to shape the diverse fabric of our County."

Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins added, "This annual event continues to remind us of how Italian-Americans have shaped Westchester County. Their contributions to Westchester's economic and social development are undeniable, and this celebration recognizes those contributions."

County Attorney John Nonna shared his personal connection: "As someone with Italian roots, today’s ceremony holds special meaning. It allows us to honor the legacy of our ancestors, who came here seeking opportunity and built thriving communities rooted in hard work, family and tradition."

Mara Persampieri, President of the Westchester Coalition of Italian American Organizations, emphasized the importance of community gathering: "The flag-raising ceremony provides a wonderful opportunity for our Italian-American community of Westchester County to come together and celebrate our heritage and to honor Italian Language students with scholarships donated by prominent individuals like John DeCicco and Michael Endico who want to give back and recognize these students."

Italian Heritage Month is observed every October across the United States. In Westchester, this year's ceremony underscored the significance of embracing diverse backgrounds that contribute to the county's strength. Following the flag-raising event was a reception featuring Italian cuisine in the County Executive's office. Scholarships from the DeCicco and Endico families were distributed among Italian Language students throughout the county.