Piper, the senior member of The Newtown Bee canine security team, slipped the lead of life this month, shortly after being diagnosed with lung cancer. Always a beautiful girl, when she was young Piper had the softest, fluffiest coat imaginable. One part of that was her genetics, the other probably had a lot to do with all the petting and snuggling she received from family, friends and passersby alike. Piper loved her tennis balls. She would always be chewing, chasing, or simply keeping one with her. She also loved catching Frisbees, but did not like returning them. She had an incredible knack for reading any room, finding the right person who would continuously give her scratches. Roaming the office and at home, Piper had the instinct to know when someone needed a bit of comfort or help. She would place herself next to someone and give unconditional love. During the final months of the life of the late R. Scudder Smith (“Grampy”), she spent hours with him, sitting next to his leg where he could simply stroke the top of her head. Piper may have been boisterous greeting people walking through the doors of our office, but the tail wagging and sitting next to visitors demonstrated the love and attention she yearned to give and receive. At home, Piper was in charge and there was never a negotiation on who got the best spot in the bed … it was always Piper. We have no doubt Piper and Grampy have reunited. He is sharing some of his sandwich with her, and she is chasing tennis balls once more. —Sherri Baggett photo