A special retirement celebration was held at the Lehigh County Courthouse April 24. The honoree was Ramona, an 11-year-old Black Labrador retriever, who has served as a comfort companion for those about to testify in court, especially children. The presence of Ramona was especially comforting to children who needed to testify in court, though both families and adults benefited from her presence. She is handled by Kimberly Silvestri, victim witness coordinator in the public defenders office. A large crowd of courthouse employees gathered in a jury room to wish Ramona well in her retirement. LEFT: Lehigh County Deputy Sheriff Tonia Taylor greets Ramona, the Lehigh County Courthouse therapy dog, with one of her favorite plush toys, during her retirement ceremony held at the courthouse April 24. Additional photos appear on Page A2.PRESS PHOTO BY LOU WHEELAND

Visitors to the retirement party for Ramona include Debra Naish from the Northampton District Attorney’s Office during Ramona’s retirement ceremony.

PRESS PHOTOS BY LOU WHEELANDKimberly Silvestri, victim witness coordinator, is the master of ceremonies for Ramona’s retirement ceremony held at the Lehigh County Courthouse April 24. Silvestri and her family are Ramona’s caretakers and she will live with them in her retirement years.

Saying farewell to Ramona, the Lehigh County Courthouse Therapy dog, are Dalma Colon, public defenders office and Lisa Stella-Ali, clerk of the judicial court during the retirement ceremony.