SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A well-known and award-winning photographer for a local news outlet has officially retired after a long and successful career. Don Treeger, who has been a photojournalist for the Republican and Masslive since 1981 is known for capturing compelling images of a wide range of events and stories, bringing them to life across western Massachusetts. Earlier Tuesday, a special celebration was held in his honor to recognize his time and achievements in his career and to wish him well in his retirement. "I think I'll miss the behind-the-scenes access. You know, when you're in the news business, you get to see a lot of things the public doesn't, but you get to tell the public about it. And I was able to do that with pictures. People out there in the newsroom do it with words. But it's been just a thrill to let the public see what goes on behind closed doors," expressed Treeger. During the celebration, Springfield Mayor Dominic Sarno also presented a proclamation declaring it "Don Treeger Day." This retirement also coincides with the 200th anniversary of the Republican newspaper. Local News Headlines Republican Newspaper and MassLive photographer Don Treeger retires after 43 years Local businesses unite to deliver 50 toy gifts to unhoused children serving Way Finders Holiday tree-lighting shines over Mason Square Flu shot rates drop as child flu deaths hit record high WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.