Sheriff Craig S. DuMond Sworn In for Third Term as Delaware County Sheriff
Written By The Mountain Eagle on 1/4/26 | 1/4/26
Hoyt Scores Career High in S/J Win Over Franklin
By Rosie Cunningham
STAMFORD - Hosts Stamford/Jefferson (S/J) cruised to a hefty 79-20 victory in the opening round of the holiday tournament Monday.
McKenna Hoyt scored a career high 41 points in the win. She had a double-double, grabbing 12 boards and tallied eight assists and nine steals. Teammate Tierney Turner contributed 13 points in the win for S/J.
According to S/J Coach George Nebesnik, he was most impressed with the squad’s defense.
“Defensively, we were very good. We were active and forced them into turnovers and bad shots,” he said. “Lillian Eklund had a great defensive performance, shutting down the middle of the court. They (Franklin) kept trying to get the ball inside and she just wouldn’t allow it.”
Nebesnik added that Aubrey Merwin provided “great minutes” off of the bench for S/J.
“She hit two three pointers and her defense was fantastic,” he said. “She was active and quick and with her length, she caused a lot of problems.”
S/J played the Laurens/Milford Varsity Girls Monday in the championship round (results not available at press time).
Margaretville Girls Fall in Holiday Tournament Opener
By Rosie Cunningham
STAMFORD - Laurens/Milford (L/M) Varsity defeated the Margaretville girls 54-32 in the Stamford/Jefferson Christmas Tournament opener Monday.
Senior Kyrah Andrades led L/M in scoring with 19 buckets. Teammate Bella Garlic contributed 15 points and Kelsey Cox netted 14 points, respectively.
For the Blue Devils, Mackenzie Hubbell tallied eight points in the loss.
According to L/M’s Coach Jim Weir, who heads the team with fellow coach Andy Carr, he was overall pleased with how his squad performed.
“I thought we did okay considering we haven’t played in 12 days,” he said. “Kyrah Andrades and Kelsey Cox were the scorers for us offensively.”
Defensively, Weir added that Andrades is also a force.
“She makes things happen,” he said.
L/M will play Stamford/Jefferson in the tournament championship Tuesday (not available at press time).
Obituary - Julia A. Castillo
Julia A. Castillo, born Julia A. Harty to Joseph Harty and Margaret Wolshenk-Harty on March 17, 1942 in Manhattan, N.Y. She passed peacefully on December 11, 2025.She was one of eleven (11) brothers and sisters.
Julia is the wife of Manuel Castillo II, for 63 for very happy years.
Julia is the mother of three (3) children, Julia, Joann and Manuel the III, who currently live in the Catskill Mountains, N.Y. She is the grandmother to six (6) and the great grandmother to seven (7).
She was a kind hearted woman, a wonderful cook, a beloved wife and mother and friend and will be forever missed by all who knew her!!!!!
Memorial visitation for friends and family will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 11am-1pm at Hynes Funeral Home. A funeral service will immediately follow visitation.
Obituary - Edmund Alvah Armstrong
April 3, 1933 – December 19, 2025
Ed’s life was defined by service – to his community, to the land he loved, and above all, to his family.
Born in Freehold, Ed grew up on his family’s farm in Cornwallville, where he learned early the values of hard work, responsibility, and commitment. A 1951 graduate of Cairo High School, he dedicated more than five decades – age 15 to 67 – to running the family farm, a place that shaped his character and anchored his life.
Ed’s devotion to his community was unwavering. Over the years, he wore many hats, each one reflecting his desire to give back. He drove a school bus for 12 years, ensuring that local children got to school safely. He served as town assessor for 10 years, represented his neighbors as a Greene County Legislator, and worked as a Cornell DHI Milk Tester for 14 years. Later, he continued his public service as Greene County Treasurer for a decade.
A lifetime member of the East Durham Volunteer Fire Department, Ed answered the call whenever his community needed him. His nearly 30 years as Director of Soil and Water Conservation further demonstrated his commitment to protecting the land and supporting local agriculture.
Ed was predeceased by his parents, Floyd and Beulah Armstrong; his sisters, Mabel, Mildred, and Thelma; his daughter Sharon; and his beloved wife of nearly 47 years, Louise. He leaves behind a large and loving family who will forever cherish his memory – his wife Janet; sisters Minnie and Marjorie; brother Floyd; his children Ronald (Dawn), John (Adnan), Leslie, Melinda (Bruce), and Raymond (Charline); 12 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren; and Janet’s 5 children and 11 grandchildren. His legacy lives on in each of them – in their stories, their values, and the love he shared so generously.
Calling hours will be Monday, December 29th from 2 to 6 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville, with a service at 6 p.m. Burial will be Tuesday, December 30th at 11 a.m. in Cornwallville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be appreciated to the East Durham Volunteer Fire Department or the Durham Methodist Church, two institutions that reflect Ed’s lifelong dedication to service and community. Condolences may be posted at ajcunninghamfh.com.
Obituary - Joe Cooper III
Everything about Christmas brings love to mind, and the same can be said of Joe Cooper, III, who found eternal love and peace on Saturday, December 13, 2025, after his second courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by those who loved him most.
Joe was born on October 30, 1993, in Covington, Louisiana, to Tina Rohacevich (Fisher) and Joe Cooper, Jr. He later graduated from Gilboa-Conesville Central School in 2011.
Like many little boys who grow into energetic teenagers, Joe poured his energy into sports and loved every minute of playing basketball, soccer, and baseball. His quieter side found peace and serenity in casting a fishing line into the water in hopes of the perfect catch. His senior-year talent show performance still brings smiles and laughter to all who witnessed it—something Joe did best. His enthusiasm and zest for life lit up every room he entered. Known as the life of the party, Joe's dancing, quick wit, and sarcasm guaranteed laughter. Even his notoriously lousy karaoke performances were unforgettable, as he sang with the confidence of a true superstar.
Joe worked for the New York State Department of Corrections at Greene Correctional Facility and most recently for Valet Park of America. Wherever he worked, he made lasting friendships and earned the respect of coworkers and peers through his strong work ethic and professionalism.
In 2013, Joe's charm and personality captured the heart of a sweet young woman named Nicole, beginning a new chapter in both of their lives. Together, they loved traveling, exploring new places, and creating lifelong memories and friendships. Their love and devotion grew stronger with time, leading to their marriage in 2021. Their bond stood as a shining example of devotion through sunny days and courage and strength through life's storms.
Joe's inner child shone brightest with the birth of his son, Jaxsyn. From the very first day, they were inseparable, and Joe's world revolved entirely around his boy. Jaxsyn was blessed with the best teacher, sports playmate, and father a child could ever wish for, just as Nicole was blessed with a best friend, soulmate, and family partner beyond measure.
Joe will be forever loved by his wife, Nicole (Morse) Cooper; his son, Jaxsyn Cooper; his mother, Tina (Jon) Rohacevich; his siblings, Christian Cooper and Hope Cooper; his niece, Olivia Rode; his mother-in-law, Sharon Myers; his sister-in-law, Gabriela Myers; and countless extended family members and friends.
Family and friends are invited to visit with Joe's family from 5:00–7:00 PM on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Coltrain Funeral Home, LLC, 134 River Street, Middleburgh, NY 12122. A Celebration of Joe's Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 27, 2025, also at the funeral home.
Joe's family requests that memorial donations in his honor be made to:
National Bank of Coxsackie, 4507 State Route 30 Middleburgh, NY 12122
Reference: Jaxsyn Cooper (Account Ending -0806)
Please visit www.coltrainfuneralhome.com to share online condolences with Joe's family.
Obituary - Janet W. Tinkler
Janet W. Tinkler, of Middleburgh, found peace on December 14, 2025 from failing health.
She was born 85 years ago on the family farm in Middleburgh, to Ina and Leonard Wood and graduated from Middleburgh Central School in 1957.
She attended Mildred Elly Business School in Albany and worked for many local businesses over the years including Pauline Frank’s Insurance office, Lenny’s Tire and Cleary’s 5&10 Cent Store. Many will remember her last position at the Schoharie County Dept. of Motor Vehicles, where she retired as Head Clerk.
Janet loved gardening around her home and wintering many years in Ocala, Florida, walking on the beach and visiting local parks, listening to folk music there. She also treasured her family and watching each generation grow.
Janet was married to John “Jack” Tinkler for 56 years before he predeceased her in 2014. She was also predeceased by her parents and her sister and brother-in-law: Virginia and Bob Durie; her brothers and sisters-in-law: Orville and Ingrid Wood and Thomas and Jeanne Wood.
Janet is survived by her daughters: Kathy (David) Potter and Tammy (James, Jr.) Smith; her son: Jesse (Colleen) Tinkler; her grandchildren: Michael Tinkler, Jesse Tinkler, Amanda (Will) Roberts, Sarah (Nicholai) Chase, Benjamin (Stephanie) Houck, James Smith, III (Alyssa) and Mark Smith (Barbara); her great-grandchildren: Jack Tinkler, Amelia Tinkler, Alexandra Chase, Elijah Houck, Ian Smith, Jacklyn Smith, Bradley Smith and Brook Smith; her brother and sister-in-law: David and Donna Wood; many nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held in the spring in Middleburgh Cemetery.
Please visit www.coltrainfuneralhome.com to share online condolences with Janet’s family.
Obituary - Joseph “Joe” Stock, Jr.
Joseph “Joe” Stock, Jr., of Endicott, formerly of Gilboa/Stamford, NY, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at Mercy House in Endicott.
Born on June 7, 1958 in Queens, NY, he was the son of the late Joseph and Loretta (Mueller) Stock.
Joe worked for his family at the former Nickerson’s Campground in Gilboa. He enjoyed watching old western movies and western wear.
He is survived by his sister: Catherine Weredyk of Saugerties, a brother: Kevin (Pam) Stock of Gilboa; along with his nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Joe was predeceased by his brother: Gerard Stock.
Friends and family are invited to call from 4-7PM on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at MacArthur Funeral Home, 15 Buntline Drive, Stamford, NY. A Mass will be held at 11AM on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Sacred Heart Church, Harper Street, Stamford, NY with the Very Rev. Michael Cambi celebrant.
Please visit macarthurfh.com to share a condolence with Joe’s family.
Blowout Win for Bulldogs
Written By The Mountain Eagle on 12/22/25 | 12/22/25
Cayden Cernauskas #12 in the air without being blocked. One of the few times in this game. Galway was good with the blocking, take aways, and passing. Bulldogs dominated with their shooting ability.
Samual Reedy #50 was Galway's tallest player, seen here trying to block Cam Jackson #3 for the Bulldogs.
Galway's Hayden Flint #11 comes away with this rebound in the third period of play with a score at this point of 47 Bulldogs and 21 for Galway.
Nicah Hantho #14 send one up in this not so close match. Final score Bulldogs 74, Galway 36.
Solid Win for Sharon Springs
Tyler Lyon (#20) kept vigilant and scored 7 points.
Kyran Krebs (#21) stayed focused under pressure and scored 8 points.
Hayden Belfance (#12) made scoring 13 points look effortless.
Serious Brewing Hosts Seriously Good Time for Animal Shelter
Top three contestants Sage center, Pepper on the right, and Maggie. Not pictured is Sella who couldn't make it. Photos by Robert Duso.
Santa was played by the always delightful Larry Fort Sr.
Group photo. Like trying to herd cats!
1st Place winner is Sage who graciously accepted her award.
Around the Neighborhood By Karen Cuccinello - Summit
Merry Christmas
Now we play the winter games: will the roads be OK to get to town or to meetings or will it be snowing and blowing again and everything gets cancelled; but somehow we get through it all.
I wish we would get a foot of snow, lets say every other week instead of 3-6” every few days.
A few ice fisherman have been out on Summit Lake, burr.
Went to the Stamford Library Christmas party with my granddaughter and had a great time. Made a few ornaments and had some yummy goodies. Photo of Erika Eklund, director of the library, helps a child write a letter to Santa.
Wreaths Across America ceremony at Charlotteville Cemetery was attended by 10 hardy souls in windy 19 degree weather. Thank you to Georgia VanValkenburgh, Deb and Fred Soucia, Steve and Lori Fyfe and Judy Kramer for hanging up the wreaths. Charlotteville FD followed the ceremony by delivering goodies to seniors in town.
For my next Old Summit Farms book I wanted to find and take a current photo of the Peck farm house, to go with an old photo of the house from Lisa (Peck) Crapser. I could not find the house so stopped by Lisa Crapser’s and she told me it was at 683 Bear Gulch Rd., now Lee Benedict’s house. While there, we chatted about this-n-that including a wonderful story about her mom, Eleanor Peck’s engagement ring.
At some point before getting married on December 21, 1940, Eleanor Belle Rivenburgh had received an engagement ring from R. Douglas “Doug” Peck. The Peck’s ran a dairy farm and raised four daughters. When you have a farm and kids there is lots of laundry to be done.
The Peck’s had a Westinghouse washing machine that vibrated on the spin cycle. When Eleanor did the laundry/cleaning she must have put her engagement ring on the shelf above the washer. On one of those laundry days the ring evidently vibrated to the back of the shelf getting caught between the shelf and wall, tucked away safely, never to be seen by Eleanor again. Fast forward to 2024, Lee Benedict was doing alterations and removed the shelf in the area by the washing machine and found a paint covered ring stuck to the shelf. He cleaned up the ring then researched the previous owners of the house. Finally, he tried calling Lisa Crapser and asked if she knew of somebody losing a ring when she lived there. YES, her mother had always been on the lookout for her lost engagement ring! Lisa had her mom’s wedding ring that matched up perfectly, as they were a set, with the newly discovered engagement ring. Amazing that Lee found the ring at all, then researched previous owners and found one of Eleanor’s daughters 80+ years after Eleanor married Doug Peck. The Peck’s were later, owners of the High View Campground. Eleanor passed away in 2006 and Doug in 2010.
CESRPL Team and High Individual Match Scores 12/12/25 Match IX, Stamford/Richmondville beat Rockdale: 1099-14X to 1061-16X. High Stamford/Richmondville Scores were from: Gus Mueller 284-5X; Carl Tubbs 276-5X; Steve Baker 273-0X; and Jim Hitt 266-4X. Other Stamford/Richmondville Shooters were: David Ferris, Larry VanDeusen, and Maynard Vance. High Scores for Rockdale were: Rob Gould 273-5X; Pat Hawkins 263-7X; Jason Fleming 263-3X; and Rick Braun 262-1X. Other Rockdale Shooters were: Dave Dewey, Steve Ingalls, Tom Reese, Rick Jaycox, Cole Fleming, Jennine Noxon, Gloria Galley, David Smith, Dave VanValenburg, and Joe Ocas.
December 19 -Summit Community Center Winter Celebration with hot beverages & cookies 6-8pm at Summit FD. Bring a nonperishable food item to share with our local friends in need.
December 20 – Holiday Piano Sing-Along in Judd Hall, 163 Main St, Jefferson 3pm. Free and all welcome.
December 20 – CRCS Wrestling: Varsity Battle in the Valley versus multiple schools 8am at the high school.
December 21 – Winter solstice shortest day of the year 9 hours and 17 minutes. But never fear, on the next day we gain 3 minutes.
December 25 – Christmas
January 1- Happy New Year
January 15 – Summit Town Board meeting 7pm.
January 18 - Charlotteville FD Breakfast Buffet 8-11am at the firehouse. Includes pancakes, french toast, sausage, ham, home fries, eggs, biscuits, sausage gravy, juice hot chocolate & coffee; adults $12 and children $5, plus a 50/50 drawing. Buckshole Sugarshack real maple syrup.
January 20 – S.C.O.P.E. meeting at Carlisle Town Hall 7pm
History
December 22, 1910 Jefferson Courier- Charlotteville - Mrs. L.D. Smith has had a very sore time with the arm she so badly bruised falling out the sleigh some days ago. - About five o’clock last Tuesday morning Mr. and Mrs. John Gray were awakened by the noise of something dropping. Upon investigation the rooms upstairs were full of smoke and the cupboard full of books and papers, supporting one chimney, was rapidly burning. Help was summoned over the telephone and so promptly did the neighbors respond to the call that the fire, which had burned well into the attic, was put out before it reached the roof. - Eli Wayman and Everett Spurbeck went to New York city last week and disposed of a carload of Christmas trees.
























