This is solid white Italian marble and it weighs two tons,” said Midwest Investment Management Partner Bob Yaroma as he described the sculpture of a mother Polar Bear and her cub that was donated to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo recently, thanks to his efforts.

The two-ton sculpture was donated to the Zoo by Ken Herlihy, an award-winning sculptor who lives in Chestertown, Maryland. Soon after he began working on it, Herlihy, a retired mutual fund portfolio manager, sought Yaroma’s assistance in offering the sculpture to the Cleveland Zoo. Yaroma presented the offer to the Zoos’ executive director, Liz Fowler.

“Herlihy’s fondness for the Cleveland area began over 30 years ago when he visited the city regularly to meet with managers of Cleveland-based corporations,” said Yaroma. “Ken is a great friend, a skilled stock analyst and, obviously, a gifted sculptor. I am delighted his work will be displayed permanently here in Cleveland.”

Fowler agreed, saying “The bear statue is a wonderful addition to the Zoo’s attractions. I am sure it will delight people for many years.”