A 15th anniversary photo retrospective

Circa 1999, Veterans Memorial Bridge spans the Housatonic River in New Milford. Photo: NC/Spectrum

An aerial shot of Veterans Memorial Bridge, Route 7, the Housatonic River and downtown New Milford on July 9, 2003, thanks to Preston Aviation of Sherman. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The town of New Milford has grown remarkably fast during recent decades. Yet the atentive eye can still find images of its small-town charm. This photo was taken in 2005 from Second Hil Road. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Pulitzer Prize-winning author and forever-young Frank McCourt of Roxbury and young Siobhan Comerford of Middlebury engage in deep conversation at Hickory Stick Bookshop in Washington. Mr, McCourt died July 19, 2009 at the age of 78. Photo: Norm Cummings

Board of Finance member George McLaughlin and Mayor Bob Gambino share a proposed budget during at New Milford Board of Education budget hearing on Jan. 7, 2002 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Many hundreds gather at Bryan Memorial Town Hall in Washington Depot for a millennium group photo by native daughter Heidi Johnson on an. 1, 2000. Courtesy of Heidi Johnson Photo: Contributed Photo, Heidi Johnson/Spectrum

Joe Wiser, athletic director at New Milford High School from the late 1940s until 1980, died Jan. 7, 2000 at the age of 76. Courtesy of the Wiser family Photo: Contributed Photo, Courtesy Of The Wiser Family

Three-term New Milford Mayor Art Peitler exhibits his consternation with opposition during a Town Council meeting in 2000. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Beloved Father Tom Ptaszynski and parishioner hug during his farewell get-together at Our Lady of the Lakes in New Milford on Jan. 20, 2002 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Mark Mankin, center, the director of the Maxx, is flanked by James Lyon, 17, left and Shane Hall, 17, both employees at the Maxx and New Milford High School students, as they look over a cookbook to find a macaroni and cheese recipe for a pasta dinner for the New Milford High School indoor track team on Jan. 28 2000. Spectrum file Photo: Contributed Photo

Region 12 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Richard Carmelich, front left, reflects the challenge faced by steering committee at a Shepaug Valley elementary school hearing on Jan. 25, 2006 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Caitlin Gillen, left, and Emma Homberg of the Shepaug Valley High School swim team help honor longtime coach Dick Ayer on Feb. 4, 2003 as coach Ayer's wife, Cheryl, looks on. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Noted author and playwright Arthur Miller, a Roxbury resident, signs books at the Hickory Stick book store in Washington Depot circa 2000. Mr. Miller died at the age of 89 in 2005. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Julie Bailey, left, and former New Milford mayor Liba Fuhrman of New Milford are among those who successfuly oppose the proposed Sempra power plant project in 1999. Photo: Michael Duffy

New Milofrd police Chief Colin McCormack and State Representative Clark Chapin (R-67th) discuss teen driving circa 2000.. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The ever-popular New Milford High School all-school musical for March, 2003 is a rousing rendition of "State Fair." Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

A car is hauled from the Housatonic River near Lovers Leap Leap in New Milford on March 7, 2002 Photo: Deborah Rose, Deborah Rose/Spectrum

The Rev. Dr. Gail Keeney-Mulligan of St. John's Episcopal Church addresses New Milford Town Council on March 24, 2003 Photo: Deborah Rose, Deborah Rose/Spectrum

The once-mighty Washington Oak along Gaylord Road in Gaylordsville eventually met its final demise soon after the millenium.. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

SPECTRUM/Jennifer Oliveira of New Milford attends a March 29, 2003 rally on the Village Green to support U.S. troops, proudly clutching a photograph of her brother, Matt Oliveira, Photo: Deborah Rose, Deborah Rose/Spectrum

The Sullivan family farm along Park Lane (Route 202) in New Milford came under the supervision of the Friends of Sullivan Farm after many years' guidance by the New Milford Youth Agency. Photo: Norm Cummings

Joe Pesente, a co-owner of the former Youngs Hotel building, fought a long and ultimately successful fight to have Railroad Street sidewalks be refurbished. April 13, 1999. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Skitch Henderson and Ruth Henderson celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Silo at Hunt Hill Farm in the Northvile district of New Milford in 2002. Photo: Deborah Rose, Deborah Rose/Spectrum

The St. John's Episcopal Church community hall in the New Milford village center is ablaze on May 9, 2004 Courtesy of Rick Bates Photo: Contributed Photo, Courtesy Of Rick Bates

Then New Milford police officer Scott Smith, left, and his attorney, John Kelly, are grilled by the media outside the Litchfield courthouse on May 11, 2000 after his sentencing in the Dec. 29, 1998 shooting of Franklyn Reid. Among the trhong are off-duty New Milford police officers who went to Litchfield to support Officer Smith. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Candlewood Lake has undergone change of ownership, numerous battles involving environmental issues and deregulation since this photo was taken in 1999 by longtime News-Times/Spectrum photographer David Harple. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Chief RIchard Velky of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation in Kent is shown in 1999 at the fire ring of the tribal pavilion where gatherings are held on the reservation. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Longtime Zoning Commission chairman George Doring speaks at a March 27 2002 public hearing before Town Council on the town's use of the $43.1 million settlement money from Waste Management. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

A car navigates through construction to build the downtown/skirting curb near Cramer & Anderson in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Principal Donald Fiftal and Student Council president Erica Harris offer a welcome to the new New Milford High School along Route 7 South in late summer of 2000 Photo: Norm Cummings

Combining their talents during the groundbreaking for the Route 7 project in New Milford are, from left to right, state legislators Mary Ann Carson, Andrew Roraback, Clark Chapin and David Scribner, Lt. Gov. Jodi Rell, Gov. John Rowland, state legislator Louis DeLuca, a state DOT reppresenatative and Mayor Bob Gambino. Photo: Norm Cummings

Originally a proponent of the Sempra power plant project, New Miford Mayor Art Peitler enjoys the support of numerous residents wielding 'no' signs as he offers his opposition to the proposal during a state Siting Council hearing at New Milford High School in 1999. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The pack of the third annual but short-lived Housatonic Valley Classic bicycle race speeds along Bridge Street inn New Milford on May 18, 2003. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Gracing New Milford's Memorial Day ceremony on the steps of the library on May 29, 2006 are, from left to right, Jeffrey McBreairty, Dan Sullivan, James DeLancey, National Anthem singer Curtis Thompson and David Bierce Photo: Norm Cummings

The Sherman School experiences a major and much-needed expansion. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Peter Henderson Sr., 89, a World War II veteran, bonds with his daughter during New Milford's Memorial Day ceremony on May 30, 2005 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Shiny, red Corvettes line Bank Street in New Milford during the filming of the Adam Sandler movie, "Mr. Deeds." Photo: Deborah Rose, Deborah Rose/Spectrum

New Milford Hospital president Dick Pugh talks about a proposed $21 million fund campaign during a May 5, 2000 press conference. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Longtime director Al Bayers conducts the New Milford High School band on the Village Green during a concert to promote the 100th anniversary of New Milford Public Library on June 6, 1998. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Shepaug Valley High pitcher Jack Baird hurls the Spartans to a 2-1 victory over Cronwell to claim the state class 'S' baseball championship in 1999. Photo: Norm Cummings/News-Times

Schaghticoke Tribe member Trudy Lamb Richmond offers a "Thanksgiving Prayer" during the June 16, 2007 dedication of Lover's Leap State Park in New Milford. Courtesy of Laura Lewis Photo: Contributed Photo

New Milford High School valedictorian Michael Silverman offers his perspective on the future during the June 21, 2003 commencement exercises at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Onlookers check out the tree felled alongside the 4th green at Lake Waramaug Country Club in New Preston by a June 25, 2001 tornado. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The Water Witch Hose Co. No. 2 firefighters, with kids aboard their iconic carriage, march along Bennitt Street during the July 1, 2007 tricentennial parade in New Milford Photo: Walter Kidd

Stephen Reich of Washington, shown bearing the Stars and Stripes during the 1993 World University Games, died June 28, 2005 in Afghanistan whie piloting a helicopter rescue mission for the U.S. Army Special Forces. Major Reich was a 1989 graduate of Shepaug Valley High School and a 1993 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point. Courtesy of the Reich family Photo: Contributed Photo, Courtesy Of The Reich Family

Celebrating the life of New Milford centenarian E. Paul Martin at the North Country Inn are town historian Joe Lillis Jr., left, and longtime businessman and community leader Merrill Golden. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Chestnut Grove director Brooks Temple shares a chat with resident Annanda Devlin. Spectrum/After Cathy Setterlin of New Milford gets assistance with a spinning demonstration from Isabella Gimenez, Ms. Setterlin ties a woven bracelet onto the seven-year-old's wrist at Sunny Valley Preserve's Open Farm Day held Sept. 17, 2011 in New Milford. Photo: Contributed Photo

New Milford PTO president Kathi Barringer tells town council the budget process is no longer about "support our schools," but now rather "save our schools" on July 22, 2002 Photo: Norm Cummings

A golfer extracts his ball from a sand trap on the 18th hole at Candlewood Valley Country Club in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings

Rush-hour and New Milford Village Fair Days traffic mix at about 5 p.m. to create near gridlock at the intersection of Bridge and East streets with Route 67, shortly after a thunderstorm-induced early closing of the fair on July 28, 2006 Photo: Norm Cummings

Brian Corridan, 2001 graduate of New Milford High School, expereicnes being a cast member of CBS TV's September 2005 Survivor Guatemala. Photo: Contributed Photo, CBS TV Website

JeanAnne Paddyfote becomes New Milford's interim Superintendent of Schools in August, 2002, beginning a long tenure that continues into 2013. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Acrobatic Savings Bank third baseman Rob Brown tags out B & B Mason runner John Bernardi near third base as New Miford Parks &b Recreation men's and women's slowpitch softball nears its annual late-summer climax. Photo: Norm Cummings

Bill Knipple, the 2002 New Milford teacher of the year, shares a hug with Sarah Noble teacher Claudia Banks on Aug. 28, 2002 Spectrum/After Cathy Setterlin of New Milford gets assistance with a spinning demonstration from Isabella Gimenez, Ms. Setterlin ties a woven bracelet onto the seven-year-old's wrist at Sunny Valley Preserve's Open Farm Day held Sept. 17, 2011 in New Milford. Photo: Deborah Rose

Emily Ferrier churns out her butterfly race at the Canterbury School pool for the New Milford High School girls' team. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The legendary Larson Farm stand lived its final days along Route 7 South during the months leading up to groundbreaking for the new New Milford High School in 1998. Photo: Norm Cummings

Building Committee chairman Bob McCarthy offers an emphatic "We did it!" during the New Milford High School dedication ceremony in 2000 Photo: Norm Cummings

'Brake service' might well come in handy for the many motorists who attempt to drive through Route 7 floodwaters in New Milford, such as this adventurous soul following Hurrican Floyd in September of 2000. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

John Kaiser of MVP-SOS holds aloft the trophy won this summer by New Milford Youth Baseball/Softball's Express 9-year-old baseball team during its run to state and New England championships, during the Sept. 8, 2007 MVP-SOS benefit dinner at the Arion Singing Society. Courtesy of Nicole Pliego Photo: Contributed Photo

The opportunity for the town of New Milford to build a municipal golf course on reservoir property on Second Hill came and went, but ultimately the site was turned into a popular park. Photo: Norm Cummings

Developer Tom Pilla, left, Adam Halasi-Kun, center, chairman of the New Milford Conservation Commission and president of the Weatinoge Land Trust, and Conservation Commission member Michael-John Cavallaro of New MIlford look in October 1998 at a site plan for proposed changes to the Still Meadow property prior to a town meeting about the site off Route 7.. Fifteen years later, the future of the property is still to be determined. Photo: Norm Cummings

Dr. Daniel Py welcomes guests Oct. 10, 2007 to the opening/ribbon-cutting of MEDInstill at the former Nestle plant in New Milford Photo: Deborah Rose

Earl Williams of New Milford is attended to by Dr. Hal Wasserman shortly after surgery at New Milford Hospital. On hand is Mr. Williams' wife, Dorothy. Mr. Williams was the hospital's first patient to receive cardiac catharization. Photo: Carol Kaliff

Chuck Smith, the manager for the 2007 energy independence project at Kimberly-Clark in New Milford, applauds everyone's efforts during a groundbreaking ceremony. Photo: Norm Cummings

Ronald Rajcok, one of those convicted in the rape-murder of New Milford 13-year-old Maryann Measles in 1997, is sentenced in 2005 to 36 years in prison. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

As New Milford resident Jay Lewin well knows, everybody's got somebody watching what they're up to.! Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

New Milford High School football's Vin Pullicino runs for a touchdown in the second quarter as Brookfield linebacker Dave Eggleston tries to stop him on Oct. 26, 2001 Spectrum file photo Photo: Tim Wheeler/Spectrum

Tiger Lily Erickson, a sixth-grader at Schaghticoke Middle School in New Milford, gets a close look at the statue of Sarah Noble, for which she modelled for creator Dayle Elsesser, in the library/media center at Sarah Noble Intermediate School in New Milford. The school was dedicated Oct. 28, 2001. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Christina Wells of Shepaug Valley High School girls' cross country was in a class by herself as she sped to four straight state class 'S' individual titles at Wickham Park in Manchester. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Pat Murphy strains to hear voting results over the phone as they come in from various New Milford polling districts in November 2003, the first of her five successful mayoral runs... and counting. Photo: Carol Kaliff

The Green Wave's talented Sarah DaRos of New Milford High School field hockey duels a player from arch-rival Pomperaug during the 2004 South-West Conference championship match at Danbury High School. Photo: Carol Kaliff, Carol Kaliff/Spectrum

The efforts of acclaimed vexillologist Dr. Peter Orenski, a.k.a "The Flagman," inspire the town of New Milford to have its own flag. Photo: Deborah Rose/Spectrum

Ben Danton, left, and Reid McEwen key New Milford High School boys' cross country's run to the first of two straight New England championships on Nov. 8, 2003 at Derryfield Park in New Hampshire. Courtesy of Sue Fisher Photo: Contributed Photo, Courtesy Of Sue Fisher

Bridgewater's first selectman, Bill Stuart, bonds with his grandson, Will Stuart III, at Mr. Stuart's farm on Nov. 13, 1998, just about midway through his 30-year tenure as the town's chief executive.. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Maryann Measles, 13, of New Milford was the vitrim of rape and murder in October 1997, a crime for which seven men and women were arrested, convicted and sentenced over the next nine years. Courtesy of the Measles family Photo: Contributed Photo

Nicole Russo, Kim Anson and Liza Connolly lead Shepaug Valley High School field hockey in a Nov. 16, 2002 celebration victory lap as the Spartans enjoy a two-year reign as state class 'S' champions. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Steam rises from the paving of the west side of Main Street in New Milford during the town's downtown major renovation project. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Town clerk Sheila Anson, a member of the Washington Parks & Recreation Commission, throws a shot on one of the two duckpin bowling lanes restored downstairs in Bryan Memorial Town Hall on Dec. 5, 2001. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Veteran firefighters Jim "Bear" Showalter, left, and Dwayne Acton engage in hijinks during a Water Witch Hose Co. No. 2 chicken barbecue in New Milford. Photo: Michael Duffy, Michael Duffy/Spectrum

Bridgewater's George DeVoe, gentleman dairy farmer, realtor and civic activist, celebrates his 100th birthday on Jan. 27, 1999. Mr. DeVoe, integral to the efforts to bring Kimberly-Clark to New Milford during the 1950s, died June 16, 2000 at the age of 101. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The Green Wave's electrifying Todd Ward is shown dunking the ball for New Milford High School boys' basketball vs. East Granby on Dec. 27, 2004 during the Tipoff Classic at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

T.J. Maxx and Staples are constructed along Route 7 South in New Milford in December, 2002 Photo: Deborah Rose, Deborah Rose/Spectrum

Franklyn Reid of New Milford, shown in a family photo from the summer of 1998, was shot and killed as a fugitive resisting arrest by New Milford police Officer Scott Smith on Dec. 29, 1998. Courtesy of the Reid family Photo: Contributed Photo

Bernie Meehan, quintessential smalltown volunteer and the chief of the Roxbury Ambulance Association, proudly shows off a bobblehead doll he received Jan. 6, 2009 during the annual dinner at town hall in Roxbury. Photo: Trish Haldin

The murder of New Milford's Rebecca Payne in 2008 in Boston shocked and saddened her family and many friends. Photo: Contributed Photo

Relaxed and confident as they head with their teammates to national competition are New Milford Bulls' Pop Warner Junior Midget cheerleaders, from left to right, Hannah Seigel, Olivia Thalissinos and Emily McGuire. The New Milford girls rose to the occasion in early December to claim national honors for their division. Courtesy of the New Milford Bulls Photo: Contributed Photo

Rachel Gioia lets her emotions go as she hugs Stephen Flanagan, one of her New Milford High School teachers, moments after receiving her diploma at the school's 2011 commencement exercises at Western Connecticut State Unviersity in Danbury. Photo: Norm Cummings

FineLine Theatre Arts' "Spring Dance Fest" in June of 2011 offers a lively and colorful showcase for dance talents at the five-year-old New Milford school. The shows featured skilled dancers such as, above, Tiffany Billings, foreground, Carlie Silva, left, and Stephanie Madeux, all of New Milford. Tiffany took center stage later in the show as the Snow Queen in "Swan Lake" and, in September of that year, took her talents to the perform with the world-famous Rockettes. Photo: Trish Haldin

Hannah Patrick, 3, of New Milford clearly enjoys the experience as she has her face painted by Katie Linke from the Village Center for the Arts during the Greater New Mford Chamber of Commerce's 2010 Village Fair Days. Photo: Trish Haldin

James Galbraith III looks up with admiration to his father, New Milfordís then Water Witch Hose Co. No. 2 fire Chief James Galbraith II, as the chief offers a final salute during the town's 2010 9/11 ceremony held in Patriotís Way on Sept. 11. Photo: Trish Haldin

The streets and sidewalks around the drive-in branch of Webster Bank on the Village Green in New Milford were patrolled by heavily armed police from the Regional Emergency Response Group on Jan. 18, 2011 after a reported armed robbery at the bank. Police investigators were searching the downtown and throughout the area for a suspect. Photo: Norm Cummings

Flooding throughout the Greater New Milford area closed Route 7 from Veterans Memorial Bridge to its north intersection with Sunny Valley Road. Above, Route 7 along the heavily commercial district just south of the bridge is several feet deep under water in late morning on March 7, 2011. The worst was yet to come as the oft-flooding Housatonic crested the next day, forcing schools' closing as well as numerous business closings along the beleaguered Route 7 corridor. Photo: Norm Cummings

Evan Scribner sports his Spartan baseball cap in his 2003 yearbook photo for Shepaug Valley High School. Nine years later, the Washington native was pitching in the 2012 major league playoffs for the Oakland Athletics. Photo: Contributed Photo

The Connecticut Conservatory's spring dance concert finale featured a stunning Ode to 9/11 at New Milford High School on April 27, 2002 Photo by Rich Pomerantz Photo: Contributed Photo, Rich Pomerantz/Spectrum

The iconic Happy Acres Farm in Sherman was brought under the town's umbrella for posterity, March 3, 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

This exquisite 2007 image of Spartan diver Courtney Weaving reflects the stirring dominance by the Shepaug Valley High School swimn team over its Berkshire League rivals for many years. Photo: Norm Cummings

The town of New Milford has grown remarkably fast during recent decades. Yet the atentive eye can still find images of its small-town charm. This photo was taken in 2005 from Second Hil Road. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Mike Caridi of the Berkshire League champ Shepaug Valley High School team swims in the 200-yard freestyle vs. Woodland, Jan. 4, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

Betty Waldron and Gordon Waldron stand in front of their former home, 48 Grove Street, at the intersection with Mill Street in New Milford, during the early stages of the Grove Street/Route 67 realignment project, Feb. 2, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

Board of Finance member Larry Tripp looks on during a Feb. 19, 2008 budget session of Town Council and Board of Finance at town hall The retired New Milford High teacher also keeps busy as a veteran member of New Milford Community Ambulance. Photo: Deborah Rose

Tom Cullen, Amy Donahue, Stephanie Tyler and Jake Horvath enjoy leads roles in New Milford High School's all-school production of "Thoroughly Modern Millie," in March 2008. Courtesy of New Milford HIgh School Photo: Contributed Photo

The talented New Milford High School marching band and color guard performed at Shea Stadium in New York for the Mets' final opening day at the old stadium on April 8, 2008. Courtesy of Bob Stone Photo: Contributed Photo

The Potter farm along Sunny Ridge Road in Washington was a local farming icon, April 20, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

Rubble remains of the big building at 5 Bridge Street in New Milford razed June 30-July 1, 2008 as part of the Grove Street/Route 67 realignment project in New Milford. June 30, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

David Sewall of Roxbury performs at the Roxbury Volunteer Fire Department's July 12, 2008 Pickin' and Fiddlin' contest at Hurlburt Community Park. Photo: Trish Haldin

Jackson Olson (2) of the New Milford Youth Baseball/Softball Express 10-year-olds is mobbed by teammates after a home run in the state tournament, July 9, 2008 at Rogers Park in Danbury. Photo: Norm Cummings

Lauren Sproule models for Creature Creations during the New Milford Village Fair Days, July 25-26, 2008 Photo: Trish Haldin

Sara and Carl Strait of New Milford happily finish the 41st annual New Milford 8-mile road race, July 26, 2008 Photo: Trish Haldin

Bridgewater firefighters hitch a ride with one of the department's old firetrucks before the parade at the Bridgewater Fair, Aug. 15, 2008 Photo: Trish Haldin

Firefighter Wendell keeps busy at the grill during the Kent firemen's fair, Aug. 22, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

Northville School principal Tom Atticks, who will retire in February 2009 after 28 years as a New Milford school principal, responds with emotion to a standing ovation during Aug. 26's day-before-school opening ceremony for the schools staff at New Milford High School. Photo: Norm Cummings

John Allen, owner of Danbury Square Box in Danbury and active in Washington civic life, born 1936, and died Aug. 21, 2008 Courtesy of the Allen family Photo: Contributed Photo

Hill and Plain kindergartner Evan Carlson, 5, left, and pre-school brother Brennan, 3, look at photographs shot by their mother, Stephanie Carlson, on the opening day of school, Aug. 27, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

Sarah Noble Intermediate School fifth-grade teacher Linnea LeClair waits for the bus for her daughter, Emrin LeClair, on the opening day of school in New Milford, Aug. 27, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

Nick Murad of New Milford High School boys' soccer demonstrates his athleticism vs. New Fairfield, Sept. 16, 2008 at NMHS Photo: Norm Cummings

Chuck Smith, manager for the energy independence project at Kimberly-Clark in New Milford, applauds everyone's efforts. Oct. 16, 2007 during the project groundbreaking. Photo: Norm Cummings

The Creative Playground at Pettibone School in New Milford, was razed in mid-October 2008 after more than 20 years' service to the community. Photo: Norm Cummings

Voters cast their ballots on election day, Nov. 4, 2008 at Bryan Memorial Town Hall in Washington Photo: Norm Cummings

Joe Mustich, 54, left and Ken Cornet, 67 just after their wedding ceremony at the Bryan Memorial Town Hall in Washington, Nov 12, 2008, the first day of legal gay marriage in the state. Photo: Carol Kaliff

The New Milford Bulls Junior Pee Wees' Cody Madden catches a pass to start a 51-yard touchdown play during the Nov. 29, 2008 New England regional championship game against the Brookline (Mass.) Patriots at Foley Stadium in Worcester, Mass. Courtesy of John Cheng Photo: @ 2008 John Cheng

Patil Clark, 7, of Kent indulges in a chocolate cupcake, one of several desserts she sampled at the annual Chocolate Festival in Kent, February 2008 Photo: Deborah Rose

The Housatonic River at Bull's Bridge in South Kent has been flowing heavily in recent days. In fact, last week the river flowed right over its edge along Route 7 in New Milford. Jan. 8, 2008 Photo: Deborah Rose

Arthur O'Connor offers Nicholas Clark, 4, left, of New York City, visiting the Clark family in Roxbury, and Ben Wiemer, 5, of New Milford some train tips. December 2007 at the railroad station train show. Photo: Deborah Rose

Vivian Harris, owner of Harris Hill Farm, Aug. 14, 2004 during Mayor Pat Murphy's 50th birthday party at the farm. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Prominent businessman and civic activist Art Sega, 92, of New Milford died March 12, 2009. Courtesy of the Sega family Photo: Contributed Photo

An unoccupied house at 33 Park Lane along Route 202 in New Milford appeared gutted Monday in late morning by a fire of undetermined cause. Firefighters from New Milford's Water Witch Hose Co. No. 2, Gaylordsville and Northville were among those battling the blaze. March 30, 2009. Photo: Norm Cummings

Greater New Milford Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Denise DelMastro has a heart to heart with recent New Milford High School graduate Joanna Hernandez, moments after Joanna had been awarded the Chamber's annual $1,000 college scholarship. The presentation came during a ceremony on the stage shortly before the July 24-25, 2009 Village Fair Days came to a close. Photo: Norm Cummings

Rose Schuette, 4, of New Milford and her mother, Alice Schuette, will soon enjoy a trip to Disney World in Orlando, Fl. thanks to the Make A Wish Foundation. September 2009 Photo by Norm Cummings Photo: Norm Cummings

Third-grader Nova Chen, 8, and her sister, Irene, 3, starting Excel that day, excitedly wait for their bus to stop to take them for opening day of classes at Hill and Plain School in New Milford, Aug. 26, 2009. Photo: Trish Haldin

Alissa Parmalee, 18, of Bethlehem snuggles next to her cow, Carter, during a break in the livestock competition at the Aug. 20-22, 2010 Bridgewater Country Fair. Photo by Alyson Hickey Photo: Alyson Hickey

Actor and community activist Lynn Redgrave, 67, a resident of Kent who died in May, is shown here relishing an April chat with Kent Film Festival director Frank Galterio. Photo: Trish Haldin

Stephen N. Hume, 84, died in August 2010 after a career as an attorney with Cramer & Anderson in New Milford. He served on the New Milford Board of Education from 1960 to 1971 and the Board of Directors of New Milford Hospital from 1962 to 1987, as well as a trustee at Canterbury School from 1980 to 1995. Photo: Contributed Photo

Seasonal changes are perhaps nowhere so dramatically reflected in the Greater New Milford area than at the historic Lover's Leap Bridge and gorge in New Milford, as seen here in January, 2010. Photo by Norm Cummings Photo: Norm Cummings

An active year in scouting for boys and girls throughout the Greater New Milford area celebrated a high point when Girl Scout Troop 40324 from New Milford traveled in April 2010 to San Diego and Hollywood in California during school spring break. All New Milford High School seniors and college bound in the fall, the girls went to Sea World, Mission Beach, Universal Studios, took the Hollywood movie star home tour and visited the Wax Museum. Above, the girls frolic at Mission Beach, from left to right, Christine Hogan, Tracey Howard, Samantha Martin, Rachel Berger, Emily Hauser, Danielle Toussaint, Meghan Bresson and Emily Hendrix. Courtesy of Suzette Berger Photo: Contributed Photo

The New Milford Police Department's new chief, Shawn Boyle, is pinned during a swearing in ceremony in October 2010 by Officer Kim Maher of the Winsted Police Department, the day before the couple was to be wed. Photo: Norm Cummings

Among those on hand Jan. 12, 2010 at the Holiday Restaurant for a Rotary Club meeting during which time the club honored its 50 years of service in the community are Barbara Straub, Jack Straub, Andy Armstrong and Sharon Ward. Photo: Deborah Rose

Happy Acres Farm in Sherman, at the intersection of Anderson Road and Route 39 North, as seen from Farm Road in April, 2010 happily is now under the town's auspices under an agreement with longtime owner and former first selectman Tony Hapanowich. Photo: Norm Cummings

Danny DeRocco and Jessica Cochrane sport royal smiles as Prince and Princess of the New Milford High School Junior Prom, "Moonlight Night," in May 2010 at the Amber Room in Danbury. Photo: Trish Haldin

Joy Gaiser, a fourth-grade special education teacher at Sarah Noble School in New Milford, was awarded the school district's 2010-2011 Teacher of the Year award in August. Photo: Lisa Weir

Ashley O'Connor of New Milford High School gymnastics captures a second straight individual title on the uneven parallel bars to help the Green Wave to an historic team championship at the New England meet in March, 2010. Photo: Norm Cummings

The Piersalll twins, Michael and Megan Piersall, sweep the respective Charles McInnis and Joseph Babcock awards as the top male and femaile senior athletes for 2009-10 during Shepaug Valley High School's year-end sports awards ceremony in June. Photo: Norm Cummings

Shepaug Valley High School freshman golf prodigy Mia Landegren of Bridgewater romps to victory in June 2010 at the New England girls' championship at Brentwood Country Club in Keene, N.H. Photo: Norm Cummings

Autumnal splendor on a placid Candlewood Lake in New Milford in October 2010 bely what a crowded recreational summertime venue the lake has become in recent years. To the right, in morning shadows, are the docks at Lynn Deming Park. To the left, a colorfully forested hillside basks in the warm sunshine. Photo: Trish Haldin

Jack Morrison of New Milford reflects on "Priscilla," the bearded dragon lizard, in November 2010 during one of the many children's programs offered at the Pratt Nature Center in New Milford. Photo: Trish Haldin

Anastasia Kouloganes and Mike Stoklosa are editors of The Wave Review at New Milford High School, January 2010. Photo: Norm Cummings

Connor Wiseman, 15, of New Milford is the recipient of the Medal of Honor with Crossed Palms from the Boy Scouts. Courtesy of the Wisemans has achieved something few people have: the receipt of the Boy Scouts Medal of Honor with Crossed Palms, the highest Boy Scout award. Connor, who is the first Connecticut Boy Scout to receive such an honor in many years, was recently presented with the award in recognition of, on Feb. 1, 2009 in Vermont, saving a boy he was seated beside on a ski chairlift from falling. Connor was given the medal by State Sen. Andrew Roraback (R-30th) at a local ceremony. He was later invited to the Boy Scoutsí Connecticut Rivers Council dinner during which the presentation was recreated in front of the approximately 300 people in attendance. After learning Connor has an interest in attending the United States Military Academy at West Point after high school, the dinnerís keynote speaker, Rear Admiral Scott Burhoe, president of the Coast Guard Academy and an Eagle Scout, encouraged Connor to check out the Coast Guard Academy. Connor did and subsequently announced he wants to attend the Coast Guard Academy. Since, he and his family attended a private tour of the academy. In addition to the medal of honor, Connor has received a certificate, a citation from the state General Assembly and a proclamation from the governor, all in recognition of saving the boyís life. Connor held the boy who had slipped off the chairlift for several minutes until he gained the attention of the ski patrol, who formed a drop catch, and instructed Connor to let the boy drop 20 to 25 feet into the arms of the ski patrol. No one was injured in the incident. Connor is a member of Troop No. 432. Courtesy of the Wisemans Photo: Contributed Photo

Lucas Mendonca, 17, a senior at New Milford High School, exhibits his talents March 19, 2010 at the Young's Field skateboard park for fellow NMHS student John Silk, 15, a sophomore. Photo: Trish Haldin

New Milford High School student Thomas Bowen plays guitar and sings in advocac of reinstating $1.8 million into the Board of Education's proposed budget for 2010-11, during April 1, 2010's hearing at Sarah Noble Intermediate School. Photo: Norm Cummings

The Windmill Diner restaurant along Routh 7 south (Danbury Road) in New Milford has served customers since 1970 on its present site and since 1967 overall. May 2, 2010. Above are, from left to right, Maria and Angelo Rountos, their daughter, Angela, and their son, Steve, who now manages the restaruant and is the chef. In back are, from left to right? Photo: Norm Cummings

Celebrating 70 years of marriage, Mieke and Joe Michael of New Milford are among the hundreds of Greater New Milford-area residents helping raise awareness of the Alzheimer's Association's cause by participating May 1, 2010 in the annual Alzheimer's Memory Walk at Harrybrooke Park. Photo: Trish Haldin

The Merryall Center along Chapel Road in New Milford has been named to the Connecticut State Register of Historic Places, May 2010 Photo: Norm Cummings

Max, a 3-year-old chocolate Labrador retriever, and Archie, a 2-year-old pit bull, both former shelter dogs, stage their own "meet and greet" before the Animal Welfare Society's 10th annual walk-a-thon in New Milford. They were participating with respective owners Jen Fisher and Frank Smith of New Milford and Stephanie Campbell of New Milford. Photo: Trish Haldin

Longtime Washington resident and civic volunteer Jack Muckstadt, 90, a World War II veteran and former chairman of the town's Fourth of July celebration, extends a salute moments after receiving the Stephen Reich Award for community service, Washington Memorial Day parade and ceremony, May 31, 2010 Photo: Trish Haldin

Elizabeth Parkinson dances a special performance during FineLine Theatre Arts' June 6, 2010 "From Soup To Nuts" dance show at Shepaug Valley High School in Washington Courtesy of Yen Photo: Norm Cummings

New Milford Social Services director Peg Molina, foreground, and Culinary School director Dawn Hammacott are on hand to make and serve breakfast at the June 11, 2010 Red Cross breakfast on the Village Green in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings

Pleased to be counted as a cancer survivor following chemotherapy that ended in January is honorary chaiman Claudia Avery, left, joined by felllow survivor Barbara Hallecks at the New Milford Relay For Life, June 26-27, 2010 at Sarah Noble Intermediate School Photo: Trish Haldin

Sam Sweeney, a volunteer for nine years at H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut, shows her affection for equine friend Toby, a former race horse, while helping out at the horse farm in New Preston. H.O.R.S.E. hosted a volunteer day in 2010 in hopes of attracting other people willing to spend time with horses in need of care. Photo: Trish Haldin

A black bear pays a casual visit to the home of Carol Moretz of Possum Lane in New Milford, June 11, 2010. Courtesy of the Moretz family Photo: Contributed Photo

Pooling their culinary talents are Schaghticoke Middle School teachers Gerry Lukovits and Jim Martin at the celebrity cook-off hosted in 2010 on the New Milford Village Green by the First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ in New Milford, the Community Culinary School of Northwestern Connecticut and New Milford Hospitalís Plow to Plate program. Teams from five New Milford schools competed in an event featuring live music, childrenís games, a farmersí market, the sale of ìchurch ladyî pies and food. Photography by Alyson Hickey Photo: Alyson Hickey

Patrons of the Bank Street Tavern have an excellent vantage point to watch proceedings during the Harvest Festival, Oct. 10, 2010, in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings

Housatonic Valley Association executive director Lynn Werner, left, and honorary chairman Christine Baranski bond at the Housatonic Valley Association auction, Nov. 21, 2010 at Bryan Memorial Town Hall in Washington. Photo by Alyson Hickey Photo: Alyson Hickey

Yasmine Bazos of Bridgewater stands near her town's Christmas tree, which is topped by a star for the first time this year thanks to her urging and the craftsmanship of New Milford resident Sandy Petersen. Dec. 3, 2010 Photo: Trish Haldin

Mabel Anderson Honan died Nov. 30, 2010 at Havenwood convalescence in Concord, New Hampshire. She was 100 years old, born on July 22, 1910 in New Milford, the youngest of four sisters, and lived for many years in Gaylordsville. Courtesy of the Honan family Photo: Contributed Photo

Photographer Sally Andersen-Bruce, 58, poses with postal stamp models Bindi Su, 8, left, and Frankie, 6, in her New Milford studio, Monday, April 19, 2010. Photo: Michael Duffy

The mood at New Milford Republican Party headquarters at the Bank Street Tavern is upbeat Tuesday in mid-evening as early vote counts appear promising for incumbent State Rep. Clark Chapin, R-67th, left, in his race with Green Party candidate Nicholas Payne and for New Milford Judge of Probate Martin Landgrebe in his contest against write-in candidate William DeFeo, the incumbent New Fairfield/Sherman Judge of Probate. November 2010 Photo: Norm Cummings

The Holiday Restaurant in New Milford has always been about family, both in its ownership and much of its patronage. The popular eatery headed into its second half-century in 2011 with Georgia Kapetanopoulos, left, and her sister, Helen Dafilis, guiding the restaurant with chef Michael Mosera. June 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

The dramatically expanded firehouse along Route 39 North in Sherman will be known in the community as the town's emergency services facility. 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

World-renowned New Milford native Valerie Tutson enthralls her audience at the United Methodist Church in New Milford with her initimitable storytelling talents. 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

Rebecca Johanson, foreground, and Carlie Silva of the Flower Conductor's Quartet perform to music by Chopin and choreography by Studio D's Ginny Zellner as the New Milford dance school presented "Alice in Wonderland" May 14-15, 2011 at New Milford High School. Photo: Trish Haldin

Kimberly Muirhead, a Sherman resident and Canterbury School graduate now attending the United States Naval Academy, offers a passionate reminder that service to our nation very much includes community service. She was her town's Memorial Day guest speaker. May 29, 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

Former U.S. Marine Sgt. Art Singer addresses those on hand Monday for the Roxbury Memorial Day ceremony. Mr. Singer spoke of Megan Henry, the daughter of Roxbury First Selectman Barbara Henry and now serving in the U.S. Army Special Military Intelligence. Meg also is active in the World Class Athlete program for which she competes in skeleton. May 30, 2011 Photo: Trish Haldin

Barbara Dratch, right, of the Moots and Pellegrini law firm, and Bonnie Blackman of Union Savings Bank share the spotlight as co-chairwomen of the 13th annual benefit "Breakfast on the Green" held June 10, 2011 on the Village Green in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings

Workers from the state Department of Transportation and Housatonic Railroad combine talents Nov. 8-10, 2011 to finally fix the railroad crossing on Bridge Street in New Milford. Crossing the tracks then proved a much smoother go for cars. November 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

Still with plenty of spunk as he experiences hospice care in his home in 2011 from Kathy Leier, Hugh Nuremberg of New Milford does his best to sit still while she conducts basic health checks. Photo: Norm Cummings

Mayor Pat Murphy shares a salute with World War II veteran John Farrell during an emotional Veterans Day ceremony held Nov. 11, 2011 on the Village Green in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings

An atrium being constructed alongside the Tivoli Restaurant along Main Street in New Milford has prompted much dialogue among Greater New Milford residents. December, 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

This secluded path is among the many wondrous settings awaiting patrons of scenic Harrybrooke Park, a privately owned but public-access jewel along Lanesville Road in New Milford. 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

Water Witch Hose Co. No. 2 firefighters, from the left, Todd Russell, Dwayne Acton and Jim Ferlow, offer a heartfelt salute at the war memorial at the south end of the Village Green in New Milford on Memorial Day. 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

Berkshire League champion Logan Ross of Shepaug Valley High boys' cross country quickly establishes his position as a contender in the snow-plagued state class 'S' race at Wickham Park in Manchester in October 2011. Photo: Norm Cummings

FineLine Theatre Arts in New Milford create magic with December 2011 performances by its acting and musical theater students. Here, Grace Kellogg of Roxbury performs with flair her role as radio personality Margie O'Brien during a show centered on a World War II-era radio broadcast from Hoboken, N.J. Photo: Norm Cummings

An emotional Clay Cope is greeted with a round of applause by GOP compatriots in November 2011 after learning he'd been elected Sherman's first selectman. Photo: Trish Haldin

William Newton, a veteran of the Kent Volunteer Fire Deparment, shares a special moment with great-grandson William Star during the Kent Firemen's Fair in August 2011. Then event was among the highlights of a special year for the Kent firefighters, who celebrated their 100th year of service to the community. Photo: Trish Haldin

A pair of very wet but quite contented youngsters enjoy their ride aboard Witch Hose Co. No. 2 firefighters' ceremonial carriage as they cruise Main Street (Route 133) during the opening parade for the Bridgewater Country Fair in August 2011. Photo: Trish Haldin

A graceful vestige of warmer months gone by bows in deference to a snowy blast from the future, Oct. 30, 2011's freak snowstorm which the closed schools and businesses for several days and resulted in major power outages throughout the Greater New Milford area. Photo: Trish Haldin

Morgan Gallagher holds the title plaque aloft while joining her teammates in celebration following New Milford High School girls' soccer's 1-0 victory over Newtown in the South-West Conference title match in November 2011. The championship is the first ever league title for either NMHS boys' or girls' soccer. Photo: Trish Haldin

A field of about 565 runners of all ability ranges sprints confidently north along Village Fair Days tents on the Village Green in late July 2011 as they begin New Milford Parks & Recreation's annual 8-mile road race and Village Fair Days 5K. The 8-miler marked the 44th renewal of the state's third oldest road race. Photo: Trish Haldin

Mike Croft, a Region 12 middle-school teacher, explains the use of mimeo technology during a Jan. 24, 2011 Region 12 Board of Education meeting at Shepaug Valley Middle-High School in Washington. Photo: Norm Cummings

A pair of "arms" stick out of the snow bank in front of New Milford Post Office after yet another winter snowstorm., Jan. 31, 2011. Photo: Norm Cummings

Author, historian and bon vivant Michael John Cavallaro of New Milford, February 2011 Courtesy of Wendell Minor Photo: Contributed Photo

Michael Matty, a graduate of New Milford High School, summits Mt. Vinson in Antarctica, Dec. 3, 2007. Courtesy of Michael Matty Photo: Norm Cummings

Longtime New Milford Senior Center director Anne Potter, a Washington resident, seems to love a new sign created for the occasion as she enjoys a surprise farewell party in her honor Feb. 25, 2011 at the New Milford Senior Center. Photo: Norm Cummings

Rebecca Anderson Darling, director of Studio D in New Milford, takes a break during a 2012 photo shoot for the ìSMASHî national ad campaign. Photography by Martin Lofnes Photo: Contributed Photo

Gov. Dannel Malloy gets a first-hand look in March 2011 at flood damage on Chinmoy Lane in the Merryall district of New Milford. Sharing the experience with the governor are Mayor Pat Murphy and Mike Zarba, the director of Public Works. A large section of the road was washed away by the Merryall Brook early Monday morning. March 8, 2011. Photo: Carol Kaliff

New Milford High School graduate Caitlin Hennessy, a senior at James Madison (Va.) University in Virginia, poses with young friend Gustavo during her March 2011 trip spent assisting people in Honduras. Courtesy of Caitlin Hennessy Photo: Contributed Photo

Town custodian Jamie Pritchard offers a sincere 'thumbs up' after Sgt. James Brady had saved him from choking March 28, 2011 at the New Milford Police Department. Photo: Max Steinmetz

Allie LaPerch, 10, on bass, Emily Lessa, 11, on the drums, and vocalist Taylor Hay, 10, offer "You Keep Me Hangin' On" by Kim Wilde and her band from 1987. The Troop 40237 members were dueling fellow Girl Scouts Rachel Sherwood, 11, Phair Haldin, 10, and Julia Kenny, 10, who were singing as the Supremes, April 1, 2011 at New Milford High School. Photo: Trish Haldin

R.J. Harkin, 8, of New Milford enjoys the challenge of harvesting as many eggs as possible as he participates in the age 7-8 division of New Milford Parks & Recreation's annual Easter egg hunt in 2011. Photo: Trish Haldin

Karla Roder, the membership president of the Arion Singing Society, studies an archival photo as the society prepares in 2011 for its 100th anniversary celebration at 411 Danbury Road (Route 7 South) in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings

Brian McEntee, right, a former New Milford resident who graduated from New Milford High School, poses in 2011 for a photo with Jeopardy host Alex Trebek during the taping of a show. Courtesy of Jeopardy Productions, Inc. Photo: Contributed Photo

Roxbury resident Asia Russell, a student at Shepaug Valley High School, offers a glorious smile as she accompanies Tina Yard, har grandmother and a fellow cancer survivor, at the head of the opening walk at the 2011 Shepaug Relay for Life in Washington. Asia shared responsibility as the event's honorary chairwomen with Whitney Ryan of Washington. Photo: Cristina Bernardi

Kent fire Chief Eric Epstein, center, socializes with Cheryl and past assistant chief Jack Kinney at their annual Firemen's Ball, an event marking the firefighters' 100th anniversary of service in Kent. June 11, 2011 Photo: Walter Kidd

Frank Benincaso leads his peers in the ceremonial turning of the tassel to climax the June 15, 2011 New Milford Adult Education commencement exerices at New Milford High School. Photo: Walter Kidd

Steven Cronin appears deep in thought June 25, 2011 while listening to a speaker at the New Milford High School commencement exercises at the O'Neill Center on the campus of Western Connecticut State University in Danbury. Photo: Norm Cummings

Tiffany Billings of New Milford will be headed soon to perform as as Rockette under the brights lights of Radio City Music Hall in New York. July 2011 Photo: Contributed Photo

Students buddy up to share a chair while reading at the Children's Center of New Milford in August 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

Curt Fitch, left, the raffle chairman for the New Milford Lions Club, presents Cliff Lampman of Torrington the key to his new car - a 1931 Model ìAî Ford. Mr. Lampman was the winner of the Lionsí car raffle. His winning ticket, No. 1503, was drawn Sept. 17, 2011, during the Lions' country fair and car show at Harrybrooke Park in New Milford. Courtesy of the Lions Club Photo: Contributed Photo

Ted Adams, 78, former longtime chief of the New Milford Police Department in the 1970s and '80s, died Oct. 1, 2011 Courtesy of the Adams family Photo: Contributed Photo

Lauren Woodard, a New Milford High School and Smith College graduate, is photographed during time spent traveling in Russia. She is now a Fulbright Scholar doing research in Kazakhstan. October 2011 Courtesy of Lauren Woodard Photo: Contributed Photo

The Warren volunteer firefighters celebrate 50 years of the Warren Fall Festival with the Oct. 8-9, 2011 renewal of the popular fundraising event. Photo: Cristina Bernardi

Judy Huntington of New Milford is the president of the College of New Rochelle in New Rochelle, N.Y. October 2011 Courtesy of the College of New Rochelle Photo: Contributed Photo

Power lines bow ominously under the weight of a fallen tree lying across Aspetuck Avenue in New Milford in October 2011. Nearby Canterbury School, whose campus was left without power by Storm Alfred, cancelled classes and activities for much of the week. Photo: Norm Cummings

Members of the Hassiak family remove the cover revealing the sign memorializing Donald Hassiak along Route 7 in New Milford on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011. Donald, a Danbury police officer, was the family patriarch and was killed in a hit-and-run accident while biking to work on June 3, 2010. The Hassiak family from left: Kimberly Duff Hassiak, and sons Matthew, 9; D.J., 6; and Luke, 8. Photo: Jason Rearick

Three-month-old Carina Taylor appears to have captured the heart of Santa Claus while her sister, Mikayla, 3, is simply happy as can be sitting on the lap of Jolly St. Nicholas during the Village Center Organization's Festival of Lights celebration, held Nov. 26, 2011 on the Village Green in New Milford. Photo: Walter Kidd

Leo Pickett, left, is shown here with fellow Washington Volunteer Fire Department past chief Tom Osborne with Engine 2, Mr. Pickett's familiar ride in all events related to the fire station. Courtesy of Mark Showalter Photo: Contributed Photo

Enjoying the spotlight during the Washington Art Association's 60th anniversary exhibit in July 2012 at its Bryan Memorial Plaza home in Washington Depot are, from left to right, Liz Dexheimer, Elizabeth MacDonald, Linda Allard, Marc Chabot and Georgia Middlebrook. Photo: Norm Cummings

Sherman Chamber Ensemble founders Eliot Bailen on cello, foreground, and Susan Rotholz on flute perform with cellist Jennifer DeVore as the Sherman Chamber Ensemble celebrates its 30th season in 2012. Photo: Trish Haldin

George Pineman, 78, of Pineman Sign in New Milford celebrated a half century in local business in 2012 before his death in October. February 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Beatrice White, 90, a writer, editor, mother and gardener, died Oct. 30 2012 at her Bridgewater home. Courtesy of Nick Rostow Photo: Contributed Photo

Judge Howard J. Moraghan, 82, of New Milford, longtime and prominent Superior Court judge in Danbury, died Nov. 27, 2012 Photo: Contributed Photo

Everett Wilkinson and the family cat, Peach, share a happy reunion days after the Aug. 29, 2012 explosion at their Sunny Valley home in New Milford. For days, the cat had been seen around the blast site but no one had been able to catch it. Courtesy of Alice Wilkinson Photo: Contributed Photo

A new era begins in March 2012 when Joe Listro takes the reins as manager of Sullivan Farm in New Milford, under the direction of the Friends of Sullivan Farm. March 27, 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

The venerable bandstand on the Village Green in New Milford was in desperate need of a facelift and longtime resident Rich Austin of RA Construction in New Milford rose to the occasion in June, 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Tommy Morse of New Preston becomes the eighth silbing in his family to graduation from Shepaug Valley High School in June 2012 when he receives his diploma during commencement exercises at the school in Washington. Moments after the ceremony, Uncle Tommy finds himself posing with six of his adoring nieces and enphews. Showing remarkable patience in front of the camera are, from left to right, Matthew Willmot of Bethel, son of Melissa (Morse) Willmott; twins Lily and Lorelai Reeb, daughters of Melanie (Morse) Reeb of Brookfield; Jackson Morse, son of Meghan Morse of New Preston; and Ava and Olivia Maltz, daughters of Mindy (Morse) Maltz of Newtown. Tommy's other nephew, Gregory, is in attendance but can't be corraled for the photo. Courtesy of Melanie Reeb Photo: Contributed Photo

A brilliant senior campaign for Conor Kirkegard of the South-West Conference champion and state class 'LL' runnerup New Milford High School wrestling team climaxes with competiton in the national high school tournament. 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

An artist's rendering depicts the planned entrance to New Milford Hospital from the Elm Street side following a planned, $10.8 million ER expansion. 2012 Courtesy of Western Connecticut Health Network Photo: Contributed Photo

Jim Williams, longtime employee and more recently owner of Southworth in New Milford, recently explains the effects of Route 7 flooding on his business. 2012 Photo: Contributed Photo

Peg Molina, the New Milford Social Services director, beams April 11 2012 as she accepts the inaugural award for "exceptional service" during "Dinner With Friends," the Community Culinary School of Northwestern Connecticut's sixth annual benefit dinner-dance at the Ethan Allen Inn in Danbury. April 14, 2012 Photo: Trish Haldin

Drawing the winning ticket for the evening's 50/50 raffle are Dawn Hammacott, left, the culinary school's executive director, and event chairwoman Deborah Matta during "Dinner With Friends," the Community Culinary School of Northwestern Connecticut's sixth annual benefit dinner-dance at the Ethan Allen Inn in Danbury. April 14, 2012 Photo: Trish Haldin

An April 11 2012 ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of the New Milford sewer plant renovation and expansion featured a VIP cast including, from left to right, Chris Blocker, the town's economic development supervisor, plant supervisor Ken Bailey, former Sewer Commission chairman Bill Johnson, current commission chairman Frank Bidetti, Mayor Pat Murphy, and former commission chairmen Tom Pilla and John Heaton. Photo: Norm Cummings

Charter members Charlie Chapin, left, and Maurice Grossenbacher stand proudly with the 50-year-old Northville Volunteer Fire Department's first tanker. April 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Bonding with their baton following a record-break effort in the 4 x 400-meter relay are Green Wave teammates, from left to right, Lindsay Guptill, Helen Bayers, Sierra Grazia and Meghan Dietter. The New Milford High School girls' track quartet thus echoed success they'd enjoyed in the South-West Conference, the state and regionally during the wintertime indoor season. May 20, 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Joe Hurley, former journalist twith the News-Times and Greater New Milford Spectrum, wore out more than his share of sneakers during his cross-country trek. June 2012 Photo: Michael Duffy

Mark Lyon, the first selectman of Washington, does his best to match strides with grandson Travis Lipinsky during the 2012 Stephen Reich 5K Freedom Run at Steep Rock Reservation in Washington, July 4, 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Emotions run high on July 12 2012 for Fran Smith, whose impetus proved integral in the creation of an Underground Railroad plaque for New Milford, July 12, 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Biddy and John Roger are bidding farewell from their roles supervisiing the Loaves and Fishes Hospitality House in New Milford. July 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Mary and Chris Prause show off the proclamation designating them as king and queen of the Greater New Milford Chamber of Commerce's 45th annual Village Fair Days. July 27, 2012 Photo: Trish Haldin

Workers engage Aug. 9, 2012 in taking down the sign for New Milford Pharmacy at the corner of Main and Bank streets in the New Milford village center. The impending move of the Big Y Pharmacy from the site to its Kent Road home will at least temporarily end more than 80 years of the town having a pharmacy at that downtown spot. Photo: Norm Cummings

Kent native Donald Kingsley Gowan III, assistant admissions director and boys' varsity basketball coach at Canterbury School in New Milford, died May 7, 2012 at the age of 38. Courtesy of Canterbury School Photo: Contributed Photo

The photographic talents of John Cheng of New Milford now grace the shelves of grocery stores and homes everywhere thanks to this image of the United States Summer Olympic team's "Fab Five" gymnasts on the latest edition box of Kellogg's Corn Flakes. Mr. Cheng captured the photo during the London Olympics and successfully marketed it soon thereafter. The five gold medal-winning gymnasts are, as most Americans probably know, from left to right, Kyla Ross, Aly Raisman, McKayla Maroney, Jordan Wieber and Gabby Douglas. August 2012 Courtesy of John Cheng Photo: Contributed Photo

Russell Devin, for nearly 30 years a teacher, coach and administrator at New Milford High School, is shown here in a typical pose, likely from the 1970s, as he directed a track meet at NMHS. Courtesy of the Devin family Photo: Contributed Photo

Kevin Dykes, 7, and his sister, Emily, 4, make a new friend in the sheep tent during the Bridgewater Country Fair, Aug. 17-19, 2012 Photo: Walter Kidd

The fourth annual New Milkford Lions Club fall festival and car show proved a major attraction inn September 2012 as many hundreds flocked to Harrybrooke Park for the seven-hour event. Above, Lions stalwart Curt Fitch serves up a plate of tasty food for a hungry patron. Photo: Walter Kidd

John Kaiser of MVP SOS welcomes patrons of the group's ninth annual benefit dinner auction at the Connecticut Sports Arena in New Milford. Sept. 22, 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Among those on hand July 7, 2012 on the Village Green from the Woman's Club of Greater New Milford to celebrate the Fourth on July, as well as the club's 50th birthday, are, from left to right, Liz Rosiello, Diane McCaffrey, Patty Murphy and Ellen Thompson. July 7, 2012 Photo: Trish Haldin

Karen Ross has shepherded the growth of Joe's Salon for 30 years along Bank Street in downtown New Milford. November 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

A slide presentation depicting the tragic consequences of texting while driving delivered a powerful message to area students, their parents and others on hand during "Survive The Drive," hosted Nov. 8, 2012 at Sherman School by the ShermanTraffic Safety Work Group and the Sherman PTO Photo: Norm Cummings

Peggy Remlin and her daughter, Tiffany, 12, of New Milford join the singing of "Silent Night" during the vigil on the New Milford Village Green in remembrance of Dec. 14, 2012 tragic shootings in Newtown. Photo: Trish Haldin

30th District State Senate candidate Bill Riiska, left, of Falls Village and Andrew Grossman, center,of New Milford, the Democratic candidate for the 67th District state representative seat, maintain a hopeful posture as the local vote count begins to mount against them on election night in New Milford. Alongside at Democratic Party headquarters is longtime party stalwart Eric Lundgren. Nov. 6, 2012 Photo: Trish Haldin

Eight-month-old Liam Burk likely can't figure what the fuss is all about as his mother, Lindsey Burk, delivers an emotional plea to keep the New Milford Hospital birthing center open, Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012 during the state Department of Health's public hearing concerning the New Milford Hospital Family Birthing Center at New Milford Hospital. Photo: Norm Cummings

The Village Green and the First Congregational Church in New Milford after a snowstorm on Jan. 23, 2005 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Dolph Traymon, owner and almost 90-year-old pianist at the Fife'n Drum Restaurant in Kent, performs on the piano on Feb. 4, 2009 Photo: Norm Cummings

Spectrum photographer Norm Cummings does his best to focus on the action at the South-West Conference indoor track meet in New Haven. Feb. 7, 2009 Courtesy of John Cheng Photo: Contributed Photo

A scenic moment atop Botsford Hill in Roxbury, Feb. 5, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

The barn at Greyledge Farm on Townline Road in Bridgewater, Feb. 28, 2006 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Spectrum writer/photo Deborah Rose, 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

Janine Toussaint served as office manager for five years in the Spectrum/News-Timea office in New Milford.. 2009 Photo: Norm Cummings

Carl DiMilia, acting director of tne New Milford Public Library on Jan 9, 2001 soon begins a long tenure as the fulltime director. Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Rich Pomerantz, nationally known free-lance photograher from New Milford, was a contributor during the early years of The Greater New Milford Spectrum. Courtesy of Rich Pomerantz Photo: Contributed Photo, Rich Pomerantz

The state DOT design of the proposed "realignment" of the Grove Street/Route 67 intersection in New Milford, dated October 2006, displayed at April 3, 2007 meeting at town hall . Spectrum/After Cathy Setterlin of New Milford gets assistance with a spinning demonstration from Isabella Gimenez, Ms. Setterlin ties a woven bracelet onto the seven-year-old's wrist at Sunny Valley Preserve's Open Farm Day held Sept. 17, 2011 in New Milford. Photo: Deborah Rose

Exploring the cosmos, Michelle Murphy of New Milford assists her son, Timothy, 7, as he takes a closer look at Saturn, located in the evening sky near the moon, through a telescope on the skydeck of the John J. McCarthy Observatory on the New Milford High School campus. The Murphys were in attendance as the observatory participated in the International Year of Astronomy's "100 Hours of Astronomy." Spectrum/After Cathy Setterlin of New Milford gets assistance with a spinning demonstration from Isabella Gimenez, Ms. Setterlin ties a woven bracelet onto the seven-year-old's wrist at Sunny Valley Preserve's Open Farm Day held Sept. 17, 2011 in New Milford. Photo: Deborah Rose

School resource officer Kevin O'Neill of the New Milford Police Department has shown his support for Sarah Noble Intermediate School fifth-grade student Vincent Galanti, 10, by shaving off his hair. Vincent is battling the disease alopecia areata, and has lost much of his own hair. April 21, 2009 Photo by Norm Cummings Photo: Norm Cummings

The historic main barn at the Larson Farm along Danbury Road (Route 7 South) in New Milford. 1999 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Venterable New Milford attorney Paul Altermatt retires in May 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

Karen Beckerman served as office manager at Greater New Milford Spectrum/News-Times office from June 1998 until June 2006 Photo: Norm Cummings

New Milford High School as viewed from the west. Photo: Norm Cummings

Veteran Water Witch Hose Co. No. 2 firefighters James Hulton, a.k.a. Bud, left, and Rick Onorato enjoy the ride in one of the fire department's trucks during Monday's Memorial Day parade in New Milford. May 26, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

Tristan Tuz, 10, of New Milford offers a heartfelt salute while serving as an honorary member of the color guard of his town's Memorial Day ceremony and parade. Tristan's older brother, Cody Tuz, is serving his country in Iraq. May 28, 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

Norm Cummings of The Greater New Milford Spectrum photographs the May 26, 2007 Shepaug Valley High School junior prom at River Oaks in Sherman. Courtesy of Gene Horrigan Photo: Contributed Photo

Welcome sign "New Milford Settled 1707 Historic Village" and flowers planted by the Garden Club at the Route 7/Bridge Street intersection near Veterans Memorial Bridge; Aug. 4, 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

A late afternoon view of the stunning buildings gracing Bank Street in the New Milford village center. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

Side by side, pillars of the community - Lynda Wellman of the Greater New Milford Spectrum, pillar of journalism, meets classroom pillar at Sarah Noble Intermediate School. 2000 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The ceremonial groundbreaking for Bull's Bridge Golf Club on the South Kent/New Milford bouundary on Aug. 14, 2002 Photo: Norm Cummings

State Attorney General Dick Blumenthal rides in Bridgewater's traditional Labor Day weekend tractor parade on Warner Road, Sept. 2, 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

Rowers compete Sept. 24, 2006 in the GMS Rowing Center regatta on the Housatonic River in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings

Bank Street Theater in New Milford, looking northeast toward Main Street and the Village Green, March 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

A snow scene on the Village Green in New Milford, circa 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

The "rush hour" scene at the Village Green at 8:45 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 17, 2003 during the early stages of Storm Daniel in New Milford. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The statue of Abraham Lincoln stands watch at the north end of the Village Green in New Milford.. Photo: Norm Cummings

New Milford Public Library circa 2002 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The railroad station in New Milford, circa 2002 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The iconic bandstand on the Village Green and Town Hall in New Milford circa 1999. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The venerable railroad bridge spanning the Housatonic River, just south of the vilage center, would get plenty more traffic if passenger service were to be returned to New Milford and points north, circa 2000 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

New Milford Town Hall, circa 2002 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The Richmond Citizen Center in New Milford, circa 2002 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The First Congregational Church in New Milford circa 2000 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

A New Milford Village Green aerial view in Octover, 2000 by News-Times photographer David W. Harple. Photo: Contributed Photo, David W. Harple/Spectrum

The railroad bridge over the Housatonic River in New Milford, circa 2001 Photo: Norm Cummings

Magnolias on the Village Green and the First Congregational Church in New Milford, April 2006 Photo: Deborah Rose

Sidewalk and trees along New Milford Village Green, April 30, 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

New Milford Public Library, May 1, 2005 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The First Congregational Church along the Village Green in New Milford, Oct. 14, 2006 Photo: Norm Cummings

Foliage on the New Milford Village Green and the St. John's Episcopal Church, circa 2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

A lamppost and foliage along the Village Green in New Milford, November, 2002 Photo: Deborah Rose, Deborah Rose/Spectrum

Christmas lights adorn Bank Street in New Milford, circa 2000 in an image captured by John P. Lawson. Photo: Contributed Photo

Circa 1999, Veterans Memorial Bridge spans the Housatonic River in New Milford. Photo: NC/Spectrum

State Sen. Andrew Roraback (R-30th) talks to The Spectrum/News-Times editorial board during his 12-year tenure. Photo: Carol Kaliff

The First Congregational Church along the Village Green in New Milford, Oct. 14, 2006 Photo: Norm Cummings

Ron Rajcok was one of of seven convicted of the rape and murder of 13-year-old Maryann Measles of New Milford. 2006 Spectrum file photo Photo: Contributed Photo

Fall foliage along the Village Green in New Milford, circa 1999. Photo: Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The former Scovill and Century Brass mill along Housatonic Avenue and Aspetuck Ridge Road in New Milford, Oct. 21, 2006 Photo: Norm Cummings

The cupola atop the Bridgewater Country Store, Oct. 21, 2006 Photo: Norm Cummings

Joe South, a New Milford High School senior, who died in 2004 as the result of an auto accident. Courtesy of the South family Photo: Contributed Photo

Mayor Pat Murphy accepts a congratulatory phone call at Republican headquarters shortly after early returns showed her well in the lead in her bid for a third term as New Milford's chief executive. Nov. 6,2007 Photo: Norm Cummings

Peter "Flagman" Orenski, the catalyst for the creation of New Milford's town flag Photo: Deborah Rose/Spectrum

Art Cummings, editor of The News-Times, moderates the Oct. 22, 2007 Washington selectmen's debate. Photo: Norm Cummings

Laura Buckbee Lewis of Laura Lewis Photography has been a significant contributor to the pages of The Spectrum, November 2004 Photo: Deborah Rose, Deborah Rose/Spectrum

Frank Morris, a U.S. Navy veteran who served in the Korean War, salutes during the Veterans Day ceremony in New Milford. Nov. 11, 2008 Photo: Norm Cummings

Veteran photojournalist Walter Kidd serves as a freelance photographer for The Spectrum. Dec. 1, 2005 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

The 2008 Canterbury School holiday girls' ice hockey tournament will be named for the late Mike Onorato, a likeable and well-respected New Milford resident who for many years was the prep school's facilities manager and ice hockey supervisor. December 2008 Courtesy of Canterbury School Photo: Norm Cummings

Lynn Werner, longtime director of the Housatonic Valley Association, poses along the riverbank in Kent. Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

American flags fly along Bank Street and the Village Green plaza to the backdrop of Town Hall in New Milford, July 2003 Photo: Norm Cummings, Norm Cummings/Spectrum

News-Times reporter Nanci Hutson has contributed countless stories to the pages of The Spectrum. Photo: Norm Cummings

Popular New Milford High School teacher Stephen Flanagan here enjoys a graduate's speech during the school's commencement exercises in June, but by year's end he had retired from his job as the result of the findings of a sexual harrassment investigation. 2011 Photo: Norm Cummings

Joseph DaSilva Jr. of New Milford, Jan. 4, 2012 Photo: Michael Duffy

State Sen. Clark Chapin (R-30th) was officially sworn into office in Hartford during the opening day of the 2013 legislative session, Jan. 9, 2013. Sen. Chapin begins his first term serving a district including Brookfield, Canaan, Cornwall, Goshen, Kent, Litchfield, Morris, New Milford, North Canaan, Salisbury, Sharon, Torrington, Warren and Winchester. Photo: Contributed Photo

Carolyn Haglund has been selected as the new director at the New Milford Seniior Center, January 2011. Photo: Contributed Photo

The Spectrum's media specialist Cindie Niemiera, a member of the Greater New Milford Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors, flashes a smile during the Chamber's 15th annual Crystal Winter Gala, Jan. 26, 2013, at the Candlewood Inn in Brookfield. Photo: Deborah Rose

Former Roxbury resident Lindsey Jacobellis, who was born in Danbury is a snowboard athlete who will compete in the Winter Olympic Games in February 2010 in Vancouver, Bristish Columbia, Canada. She won a silver medal in 2006 at Torino, Italy. Photo: Contributed Photo

The New Milford Parks & Recreation men's and women's softball leagues 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

Lynn Deming Park on Candlewood Lake in New Milford, 2012. Photo: Norm Cummings

Deborah Weymouth, senior vice president and CEO at New Milford Hospital. February 2012 Courtesy of New Milford Hospital Photo: Contributed Photo

Fashion designer and longtime HVA stalwart Diane Von Furstenburg enjoys enjoys a well-deserved spotlight at Dec. 6, 2009's Housatonic Valley Association auction at Bryan Memorial Town Hall in Washington. Photo by Trish Haldin Photo: Trish Haldin

Lt. James Duda of the New Milford Police Department is placed on administrative leave in February 2011 Photo: Carol Kaliff

Natalie Sirkin, 90, of Sherman died March 5, 2011. She is shown here in the heart of Sherman, just down the hill from the town hall. Courtesy of the Citizen News Photo: Contributed Photo

Jimmy Bain as the Cat in the Hat performs in a March 15, 2010 rehearsal for the New Milford High School all-school musical presentation of "Seussical." Photo: Norm Cummings

Jordan Butler, a Shepaug Valley High School senior, spent a busy day March 31, 2011 at the Greater New Milford Spectrum learning about journalism from Spectrum editor Norm Cummings, writer/photographer Deborah Rose, reporters Susan Tuz and Nanci Hutson, and office manager Janine Toussaint. Jordan hopes to major in journalism when she attends college in the fall. Photo: Deborah Rose

New Milford attorney and lifelong resident Harry Cohen will end his 63-year law practice in town this month, April 2010 Photo: Norm Cummings

Deborah Calhoun stands in front of plants given to her by her children on past Mother's Days at her home in New Milford. May 4, 2010 Photo: Max Steinmetz

Third baseman Trevor Halas of the Howland & Associates' Cal State Fullerton Titans reaches out to tag Cal Martin of the Food & Ankle Specialists Georgia Bulldogs in a bang-bang early-season play May 1, 2010 in New Milford Youth Baseball/Softball 'AAA' baseball at Garick Farms fields. Photo: Norm Cummings

Jessica Ho, left, and Lauren Torre, both fifth-graders at Sarah Noble School, engage each other on a see saw at the new playground along Pickett District Road in New Milford, May 22, 2010. Photo: Norm Cummings

Michael Condon, left, a graduate of Shepaug Valley High School and for many years a town resident, presents the Major Stephen Reich Award for Exceptional Citizenship to Washington resident Lou Magnoli during the 2009 Memorial Day ceremony. Among his other contributions, Mr. Magnoli was honored for his 52 years' service to Rumsey Hall School as a teacher, coach and headmaster, as well as to Washington's Lions Club, the American Legion, the town's Parks & Recreation Commission and its citizenship scholarship committee. The award is given in memory of Stephen Reich, who died June 28, 2005 in Afganistan while serving with the U.S. Army Special Forces. May 25, 2009 Photo by Trish Haldin Photo: Trish Haldin

Renowned children's book writer Nan Rossiter of New Milford has made her debut in the adult literature field with "The Gin & Chowder Club." Courtesy of Nan Rossiter June 2011 Photo: Contributed Photo

Jonathan Wolken, co-founder and director of the world-renowned dance troupe, Pilobolus, died June 17, 2010. Courtesy of the New York Times Photo: Contributed Photo

Art Cummings, editor of The News-Times and member of New Milford High School Class of 1965, is inducted June 20, 2009 into the school's Hall of Fame during commencement exercises at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury. Photo by Trish Haldin Photo: Norm Cummings

A beautiful rainbow is seen in the southeasten sky in the neighborhood of Prospect Commons in New Milford following an early-summer thunderstorm, circa 2007 Photo by Norm Cummings Photo: Norm Cummings

Tony Harkin of New Milford enjoys his experience on Kids Jeopardy. Courtesy of Jeopardy Photo: Contributed Photo

The American flag flies in a gentle summer's breeze from a lamppost along Main Street in New Milford. The steeple of St. John's Episcopal Church emerges above the treetops across the Village Green. July 14, 2009 Photo: Norm Cummings

Shepaug Valley High School principal Gene Horrigan will step down Aug. 26, 2009 after a 21-year tenure at the Region 12 school. Photo by Norm Cummings Photo: Norm Cummings

The bubble clearly hasn't burst on the good times enjoyed by Kaitly Goetz, 3, of New Milford as she frolicks near the Dental Associates booth at the July 24-25, 2009 Village Fair Days in New Milford. Photo by Trish Haldin Photo: Trish Haldin

Robert Reinhardt, since 2006 the dean of students at The Gunnery in Washington, has been dismissed from his position, August 2009 due to alleged sexual abuse. Courtesy of The Gunnery Photo: Contributed Photo

Charlie Toussaint, for 15 years a mainstay of The Spoectrum's advertising corps, volunteers at the second annual Lions Club Festival at Harrybrooke Park in New Milford, Sept. 18, 2010 Photo: Trish Haldin

Turtles familiar to those who stop by Conn's Pond along Park Lane (Route 202) in New Milford seem quite content to idle away their morning. Moments later, however, several of the terrapins took a quick swim while one, left, opts for a few more moments of sunning itself, circa 2000. Photo: Norm Cummings

Musical entertainment is just one of the many attractions that keep Bank Street bustling with area residents nearly throughout Sunday's inaugural Bank Street Festival in the New Milford village center. Oct. 11, 2009 Photo by Norm Cummings Photo: Norm Cummings

The last days of the fall season's foliage cycle have nearly arrived in the Greater New Milford area. On a gorgeous mid-autumn afternoon, the south end of the Village Green in New Milford is bathed in golden sunlight, accenting the beautiful flowers arranged by the New Milford Garden Club. Circa 2004 Photo by Norm Cummings Photo: Norm Cummings

Bridgewater First Selectman Bill Stuart acknowledges congratulations from a well-wisher at his home after winning a closely contested battle with longtime fellow Democratic selectman Neil Cable for the next two years at the helm. Photo by Alyson Hickey Photo: Contributed Photo

Longtime Village Fair Days committee chairman Bill Babbino, who stepped down in 2009 in favor of Kurt Thoennessen, shows he's a relaxed sort during the Village Fair Days in New Milford. Mr. Babbino stepped down as Chamber president in late 2010. Photo by Norm Cummings Photo: Norm Cummings

Five New Milford mothers and their children followed Friday morning's moment of silence and bell ringing dedicated to those who died Dec. 14, 2012 in Newtown by walking slowly through the rain and blustery wind around the Village Green in New Milford, each carrying a poster bearing the name of one of those who died. Among the participants are, front left, Paige Tannone, Hannah Ciampini, behind Paige, and Landon Tannone. Among the moms are, from left to right, Aimee Ciampini, Kayla Tannone, Mary Kate Tannone and Rebecca Chepren. Also lending their efforts to the demontration are Starr Gustas, Skylar Gustas, Luke Gustas, Jessica Stellato, Kyleigh Stelatto, Braydon Stellato and Lauren Tannone. Paige and Landon Tannone are carrying respective posters honoring Sandy Hook Elementary School principal Dawn Hochsprung and teacher Lauren Rousseau. Photo: Norm Cummings

Performing "Flowers" are pink ladies, from front to back, Campbell Coughlin of Sherman and Jackie Mercer, Madeleine Diamond, Elizabeth Franciamore and Kayla Blackburn, all of New Milford, during FineLine Theatre Arts' presentation of "The Nutcracker," Dec. 22, 2012 at New Milford HIgh School. Photo: Norm Cummings

Posing for a keepskae photo outside the office of The Greater New Milford Spectrum are, from left to right, civic patriot and bon vivant Peter Orenski, charitable cause activist Don Clady and veteran New Milford policeman Lt. Larry Ash. Dec. 20, 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

The Sullivan Farm stand along Park Lane (Route 202) in New Milford, 2012 Photo: Norm Cummings

U.S. Rep. Chris Murphy, D-5th, meets with The Spectrum/News-Times editorial board on Tuesday, July 3, 2012 during his successful run for the U.S. Senate.. Photo: Carol Kaliff

Reporter Susan Tuz. has covered The Spectrum's seven-town area since May of 2009. Photo: Carol Kaliff

Photojournalist Trish Haldin of The Greater New Milford Spectrum carefully takes down the vital information to go with her photographs during the 2010 Kent Film Festival. Photo: Trish Haldin

The Spectrum staff poses for its first annual holiday staff portrait on the New Milford bandstand, Dec. 17 1998. On hand for the occasion are, foreground, from left to right, office manager Karen Beckerman, photographer Stephanie Kouloganis, reporter Lynda Wellman, writer/photographer Deborah Rose and advertising salesperson Charlie Toussaint; and, back row, advertising salesperson Marty Bailey, editor Art Cummings, advertising manager John Brosz and writer/photographer Norm Cummings. Courtesy of Helene Palella Photo: Contributed Photo

The Spectrum staff, minus Susan Tuz, wishes its best for the holidays and 2013: from left to right, front row, Roberta Buddle, Cindie Niemiera and Walter Kidd; middle row, Norm Cummings, Deborah Rose and Rob Prest; and, back row, Charlie Toussaint, Trish Haldin and Art Cummings. Dec. 6, 2012 Courtesy of Kurt Haldin Photo by Kurt Haldin Photo: Trish Haldin