911 Heart Symbol
911 Heart Symbol
22 Greycourt Road Chester, NY 10918 | 973-296-5777
History
The 911 Heart Symbol© was created and designed by Louie Ponstingel, a local artist in the community of Paterson, NJ. When the tragedy of 9/11/2001 struck our country, like so many Americans, Louie was in disbelief and overcome with emotion. Looking for a way to find peace and comfort he took to his studio and started to draw. In the immediate hours to follow, The 911 Heart Symbol© was created. The initial intention was purely personal. Louie had many friends and family that were directly affected in some way, but many community members also wanted to show their support my embracing the symbol, as it was fitting, simplistic, poignant and beautiful.
Over the years through grassroots efforts, The 911 Heart Symbol© has been used to raise funds for various 911 causes and charities such as The Red Cross, The World Trade Center Families Organization, The Injured Marine Fund and injured Marines from our local communities. It has been proudly featured in newspaper articles, television segments and highlighted in former G.W. Bush’s presidential campaign.
Louie has used the symbol to design a 9/11 Heart Symbol Monument which was built and dedicated to local First Responders, resident Kenneth Lira and to the many other people who lost their lives on that tragic day. This 911 monument permanently stands in Paterson, NJ where a yearly memorial takes place.
Mission
To continue to provide The 911 Heart Symbol© in the form of commemorative flags, magnets, pins or stickers, all made in the U.S.A., with the objective and concentrated effort to raise essential funds for various 911 charities, organizations, events, causes, enactments, etc. through the sales of such items.
Vision
To have The 911 Heart Symbol© endorsed and introduced to the Nation as an official National Symbol of remembrance, unity, strength and healing. For it to be used in cooperation with all Federal, State and Local Government agencies including the White House, The U.S. Capitol, Federal cemeteries, Military installations, U.S. Postal Service, school boards, and every national September 11th memorial in an effort to unite Americans in a fitting and lasting tribute; To be used in various flag raising ceremonies held on Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, The yearly anniversary of 911 and Veterans Day. For it to be developed into a U.S.P.S. Semipostal stamp. For The 911 Heart Symbol© to serve us as a daily reminder to never take our lives or the lives of others for granted. To have The 911 Heart Symbol© become a lasting and honorable tribute to our service members, our brothers and sisters, our First Responders who taken from us too soon.
Need and Purpose
To continue to raise awareness and support for 911 victims, families, causes, charities and organizations. The support of the American People is critical in assuring that those who perished and those still affected today to
Never Be Forgotten.