Thank you!
Your support is sustaining the future of local news in our communities.

‘Heroes’ honored at Housatonic

‘Heroes’ honored at Housatonic

Jim Vanicky, left, commended Niya Borst, center, and Emil Urbanowicz, right, for their efforts in saving a driver from a burning car.

Riley Klein

FALLS VILLAGE — For their bravery in rescuing a driver from a burning car, Niya Borst and Emil Urbanowicz were recognized in front of the student body at Housatonic Valley Regional High School Friday, April 4.

Principal Ian Strever said the two seniors “stepped up in ways that were truly brave, courageous and absolutely heroic.”

The single-car accident occurred in Cornwall Saturday, March 29. The car was upside-down, engulfed in flames and tangled in electrical wires when Borst arrived, she explained.

Borst said she and her aunt used a sledgehammer to break the rear window in an attempt to free the driver.

“She was stuck and the fire was just going and going,” said Borst.

She and others nearby worked together to pull the driver out of the car.

Urbanowicz called 9-1-1 and assisted first responders.

Jim Vanicky of the Cornwall Volunteer Fire Department arrived shortly after with a fire extinguisher.

“They’re heroes,” said Vanicky. “They showed incredible bravery when they risked their own safety to save a life from a burning vehicle. Their quick thinking and selfless action reminds us what real courage is.”

The students were presented with honorary CVFD member t-shirts.

Latest News

Anita L. Gochey

Anita L. Gochey

CANAAN — Anita L. (King) Gochey, 85, of 77 South Canaan Rd. died June 5, 2026, at Geer Village. She was the wife of the late Lester Gochey. Anita was born July 16, 1940,in Winsted, daughter of the late Ivan and Irene (Dulude) King.

Anita was well known throughout the Northwest Corner. She worked for many local businesses and organizations. Anita worked at the Rexall Drug Store, C.A. Lindell and Sons, Bob’s Clothing, Brooks Pharmacy, and the Housatonic Valley Regional High School in the cafeteria.She used her skills in calligraphy to complete the record books for the North Canaan Congregational Church.Anita’s daughter remembers her as being very creative with cardboard, and a loving mom.

Keep ReadingShow less

Susanne Cecilia Berberoglu

Susanne Cecilia Berberoglu

SHARON — Susanne Cecilia Berberoglu, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14 surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on Fe 13, 1951, in New Milford, Susanne lived a life filled with warmth, adventure, compassion, and dedication to those she loved.

Keep ReadingShow less

Celebration of Life — Jim Dresser

Celebration of Life — Jim Dresser

A Celebration of Jim Dresser’s Life

Saturday, July 18, 12 – 3 p.m. At Hill Acre Camp on Mt. Riga, Salisbury, CT.

Keep ReadingShow less
google preferred source

Want more of our stories on Google? Click here to make us a Preferred Source.

Memorial Service — Rafael Porro

Memorial Service — Rafael Porro

SALISBURY — Rafael Porro passed away on January 6, 2026.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service in his honor on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Salisbury.

Keep ReadingShow less

Memorial Service — Walter E. DeMelle

Memorial Service — Walter E. DeMelle

LAKEVILLE — Friends are invited to participate in a memorial service for Walter E. DeMelle on Saturday, June 27 at 2:00 p.m. at The Hotchkiss School Chapel, Lakeville, Connecticut.

Full obituary at: https://lakevillejournal.com/walter-earle-demelle-jr

Nicholas Gandolfo Jr.

Nicholas Gandolfo Jr.

CANAAN- — Nicholas Gandolfo Jr., 94 of East Canaan passed on June 4,2026, after a courageous battle with kidney cancer and CLL Leukemia.

Nicholas was born and raised in East Canaan to Nicholas Gandolfo Sr. and Marie Zucco Gandolfo both Italian immigrants, a heritage Nicholas embraced with pride.

Keep ReadingShow less
google preferred source

Want more of our stories on Google? Click here to make us a Preferred Source.

google preferred source

Want more of our stories on Google? Click here to make us a Preferred Source.