Sheriff DuMond Announces Promotions

DELHI — On Thursday, January 8th, at a swearing-in ceremony held at the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Craig DuMond announced the promotions of two long-time members of the agency, recognizing their dedication, experience, and exemplary service to Delaware County.

Promotion of Investigator David Barnes to Senior Investigator: 

Investigator David Barnes, a ten-year member of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, was promoted to the rank of Senior Investigator.

Senior Investigator Barnes began his law enforcement career in 2009 as an Investigator with the Department of Social Services, working under the authority of the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office. In 2015, he transferred to the Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff assigned as a School Resource Officer to the DCMO BOCES - Harold Campus and the Sidney Central School District. In February 2018, he was promoted to Investigator within the Criminal Investigations Division.

In his new role, Senior Investigator Barnes will supervise the Criminal Investigations Division, with a focus on major crimes throughout Delaware County.

Promotion of Senior Investigator Christopher Erwin to Lieutenant

Senior Investigator Christopher Erwin, also a ten-year member of the Sheriff’s Office, was promoted to Lieutenant of the Law Enforcement Division.

Lieutenant Erwin began his law enforcement career in 2011 as a police officer with the Colchester Police Department, thereafter, joining the Walton Police Department. In 2015, Lt. Erwin transferred to the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff. In 2018, he was promoted to Road Patrol Sergeant, where he supervised the daily operations of the Road Patrol Division. In January 2022, he was promoted to Senior Investigator, assuming supervision of the Criminal Investigations Division.

As Lieutenant, Erwin will oversee the Road Patrol, Criminal Investigations, and Civil Divisions.

Commenting on the promotions, Sheriff DuMond stated:

“I am proud to make these appointments. Both Senior Investigator Barnes and Lieutenant Erwin are well deserving of these promotions. Their years of dedication to service, diverse experience, and overall knowledge will serve them well in their new roles. I have the utmost confidence in their abilities and know they will serve the Sheriff’s Office and the people of Delaware County well in their new positions.”

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD

H-T Tops Gilboa-Conesville/Roxbury

Both hands on the ball, Gilboa-Conesville/Roxbury’s Savannah Petterson tries to keep control, with teammate Jacey O’Donnell and Hunter-Tannersville’s Lily Constable both reaching for it. Photos by Scott Keidong.

Jacey O’Donnell takes aim from the foul line. O’Donnell led Gilboa-Conesville/Roxbury in scoring, with 13 points in Tuesday night’s game.

 

 

Gilboa-Conesville/Roxbury’s Calleigh Porter about to pass the ball, confronted by Hunter-Tannersville defenders Madeline Fromer and Lindsey Bellinger.

   

During a break in the game a referee shows the ball to four month old Delilah, in the bleachers with big sister Jaidyn Sutton—a player on the GCR JV team.

 Hunter-Tannersville’s Madeline Fromer reaches in an attempt to pick off a pass intended for Gilboa-Conesville Roxbury’s Calleigh Porter.

  

Hunter-Tannersville defender Madeline Fromer reaches around Gilboa-Conesville Roxbury’s Calleigh Porter as she looks for an open teammate to pass the ball.

 

Hunter-Tannersville’s Lindsey Bellinger looks to pass the ball as Gilboa-Conesville Roxbury defender Calleigh Porter blocks her progress.

 Under the basket, Gilboa-Conesville Roxbury’s Emily Maxim is unable to block a shot by Hunter-Tannersville’s Lily Constable—who led her team in scoring with 11 points. Hunter-Tannersville was victorious Tuesday night at Gilboa with a 39-32 victory over GCR.

   

Jude Sabugueiro nets two points for Hunter-Tannersville.

Hunter-Tannersville’s Abigail Dwon takes a running shot as Gilboa-Conesville Roxbury’s Savannah Petterson reaches to block it.

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD

Stamford-Jefferson Scores Big Victory Over Margaretville

 The referee signals a holding penalty as Margaretville’s Victoria Fairbairn and Kendra Balcom swarm Stamford-Jefferson’s Rose Bevilacqua in pursuit of a rebound.

Kendra Balcom led the Blue Devils in scoring with 8 points in Friday night’s game, including this first quarter three point shot that put Margaretville on the scoreboard. Photo by Scott Keidong. More in A - Mountain Eagle section.

Margaretville’s Livy Fronkwiak takes aim.  

McKenna Hoty about to sink another second quarter basket. Hoyt led Stamford-Jefferson in scoring with 37 points in Friday’s 63-25 victory over the Margaretville Blue Devils.

 Stamford-Jefferson’s Tierney Turner confronts Margaretville’s Naomi Delpratt as she brings the ball to midcourt and looks for a teammate to pass the ball to.

Stamford-Jefferson’s Aubrey Merwin closes in on Margaretville’s Victoria Fairbairn as she drives the ball downcourt.

Margaretville’s Livy Fronkwiak jumps to block Stamford-Jefferson’s Aubrey Merwin as she considers passing the ball to Hailey Sarter.

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD

Charlotte Valley Boys Varsity Beats Hunter-Tannersville 42-32 on Jan. 10

Photos by Max Oppen; Stats by Nate Lull

HUNTER — Simon Cowles led the charge with 19 points for CV. Cole Whitbeck scores 10 points. Grady Maul contributes 9 points and 12 rebounds for HTC. Gideon Glennon nets 7 points.

CV's #5 Simon Cowels faces H-T defense on January 10

H-T's #3 Blake Cameron stays focused on the court against CV

HT's #5 Donovan Garcia defends CV's Logan Utter

HT's #11 Gideon Glennon goes all in for 2 points against CV 

HT's #14 Blake Ferrell goes head-to-head with CV's #2 Cole Whitbeck

HT's #21 Grady Maul goes for 2 against Charlotte Valley

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD

Stamford’s McKenna Hoyt Drops 2,000th Bucket

By Rosie Cunningham 

STAMFORD- Stamford Central School’s McKenna Hoyt is the fourth female basketball player in Delaware League history to exceed 2,000 points.

The feat took place during a Stamford Central/Jefferson Central (SC-JC) victory over South Kortright Monday night - Hoyt needed 13 points to reach the mark and with less than four minutes on the clock from the foul line, she did just that. 

“As soon as I hit my foul shot and looked at my teammates I knew,” said Hoyt. “They were so happy for me.”

The 17 year-old said she fell in love with the game at a young age.

“Watching my sisters play brought me into the game and ever since, it’s been a part of my life she said. “My sisters have been my biggest inspiration in my game. My oldest sister, Madison Hoyt, played at Division 3 SUNY Genseso for four years, while my other sister Melanie Hoyt, played at Division 2 at Saint Anselm for four years as well. Melanie is now overseas playing pro basketball and has been killing it on the court.”

The SC/JC forward will also be playing ball at the college level for Division 1 Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia. 

“This is one of the most exciting things I have ever looked forward too,” she said. “Even though I will miss my family and friends, playing the game I love makes up for it.”

SC-JC Coach George Nebesnik stepped into his role as varsity coach when Hoyt was in ninth grade. He said she gives everything she has in every play. 

“I feel lucky that my first four years in Stamford I have had McKenna Hoyt,” he praised. 

He added that he has watched her grow as both a player and leader over the years

This season, Hoyt is averaging 30 points in less than 25 minutes of playing time in each game (average). However, Nebesnik said she contributes more than just buckets. 

“She averages more than 15 rebounds a game and completely dominates the paint,” he said. “She gets teammates involved and her passes lead them to easy shots. She can handle the ball and she can handle pressure. There is nothing she can’t do at a very high level on the court.”

The athlete has worked hard to get to the level she plays at. From fourth grade to 11th she was part of a travel AAU team (HAVOC) in Albany, giving up countless hours and my free time to continue to work on her game.

“My HAVOC team built me as a person and a player and I will forever be thankful for them,” she said. 

Aside from basketball at Stamford, Hoyt played soccer for five years at the varsity level, as goal keeper. She also played tennis for two years in the spring and is President of the National Honor Society. 

Hoyt, who is the daughter of David and Rebecca Hoyt, said she cannot express enough how supportive the environment has been at Stamford and Jefferson.

“Everyone is truly happy for the things I have accomplished and I feel the same about my teammates,” she said. “Our fans have been a huge part of our game, their chants really help me and the girls get more pumped up. Outside of basketball, I pride myself on my relationships with my school, my family and friends.”

“I have worked with a lot of talented kids over the years, but she’s the best,” said Nebesnik. “I don’t think she always gets the credit she deserves for just how good she is. She’s a generational talent and I really think she has reached unstoppable territory. She had that rare gift of making everyone else around her better. That’s hard to do for a teenage athlete.”

Loved ones made a sign in tribute to Stamford/Jefferson ball player McKenna Hoyt in anticipation of her 2,000th point on Monday night on her home court. 

Stamford/Jefferson Coach George Nebesnik presents a ball to McKenna Hoyt, a senior, congratulating her on her 2,000th point feat Monday. 

Stamford/Jefferson point guard Emily Eklund (1) defends South Kortright’s Lexi Hendrickson (11) during a Tuesday night game in the Delaware League. 

Stamford/Jefferson’s McKenna Hoyt (34) takes the ball to the hole during a victory Monday as South Kortright’s Carly Drop attempts to defend. 

Tierney Turner (2) of Jefferson/Stamford looks to take the ball up against Ram opponent Alyssa Tucker (5). Photos by Rosie Cunningham

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD

Obituary - Catherine Cama

April 25, 1930 – December 25, 2025

Catherine Cama, a loving wife, mother, and grandmother passed away peacefully on Christmas day, December 25, 2025, at the Inn at Poland Way in Poland, Ohio at the age of 95. 

Catherine was born April 25, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of  Joseph Maffa and Anna (Chiacchiera) Maffa. There she spent her formative years surrounded by family and traditional values. Throughout her life, her New York roots remained a proud part of her identity. She learned at an early age the importance of respect, hard work, and kindness. These are the values she carried with her and lovingly passed down to her children and grandchildren. 

Catherine enjoyed spending time with her sister, Rose LaRosa, and her dear friend, Beatrice LaRusso. She enjoyed singing and bowling with friends and family. She also had a great fondness for animals and adored cats, spending many years caring and finding homes for them.  

She enjoyed working with children and had a full career in the New York Public School system. After she retired, she and her husband, Frank Cama, moved to the Catskill Mountain region in NY, and soon became snowbirds travelling to their winter home in St. Augustine, Florida. 

Catherine was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Anna Maffa; her husband, Frank Cama; and her brother, Thomas Maffa.  

Catherine is survived by her three children, Domenick Cama (Karen); Maryann Cama (Hank); and Joseph Cama (Theresa). She is also survived by her grandchildren, Ethan & Aaron Markowitz; Olivia Cama; Evan and Katherine Cama; and by her sister, Rose LaRosa. 

Catherine will always be remembered for her kindness and deep love of family. Her smile and laughter brightened everyone she met. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Catherine’s family would like to thank the staff at the Inn at Poland Way for taking such loving care of her while she resided there. 

Contributions in Catherine’s honor can be made to Heart of the Catskills Humane Society, 46610 NY-10, Delhi, NY 1375. 

Family and friends are invited to calling hours at Hynes Funeral Home, 48 Walnut St., Margaretville, NY 12455 on January 24th from 12-3pm and 5-7pm. 

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD

Obituary - Paul A. Pagano

Paul A. Pagano, loving son, brother, uncle and friend, found eternal peace on Monday, January 5, 2026.

Paul was born 46 years ago on January 10, 1979 in Brooklyn, to Linda and Donald Pagano and his life was nothing short of amazing.  

Gifted musically, Paul was 1st chair flautist through High School and College and loved sharing the gift of music with others.  He sang with several church choirs through the years and performed with the Metropolitan Opera and also in several Off-Broadway productions.  

Paul gave of himself to others whenever he could help and also found great solace in the beauty of flowers and his gardens.

Loving Paul forever are his parents: Linda and Donald Pagano of Schoharie, NY; his brothers: Keith Pagano of Quinton, VA and Gene (Dina) Pagano, of Rumson, NJ; his nieces and nephews: Tristan, Carinne, Arabella, Guiliano and Sophia; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends. 

All are invited to a visitation with Paul’s family from 11:00AM- 12:00PM on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, Main Street, Middleburgh, NY followed immediately by the Funeral Mass at 12:00PM.

Inurnment will take place privately.  

Paul’s family requests memorial donations in his honor be sent to Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, PO Box 311, Middleburgh, NY 12122

Please visit www.coltrainfuneralhome.com to share online condolences with Paul’s family.

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD

Obituary - Michael J. Dugan

Michael J. Dugan, of Middleburgh, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 11, 2026

A native of the Bronx, NY, Michael was born to Grace (Nelson) and Edward Dugan. Michael served proudly in the United States Air Force from 1974-1979, serving as a Security Police K-9 handler stationed both in the US and overseas. Returning from active service to the Bronx, he went on to join the NYPD Auxiliary Police and then finally a 33-year career with U.S. Customs, as a Narcotics Detecting Dog Handler, before retiring.   

Michael was an active member of his community supporting many endeavors. He served as Area Steward with NTEU, Coach and Board member of Little League, was a Boy Scout Commissioner, volunteer with the Habitat for Humanity, and was a member of the Middleburgh Volunteer Fire Department and the US Coast Guard Reserves. Impacting the lives of so many along the way. 

Michael was an enthusiastic golfer, pickleball player, woodworker and an avid baker.  He also enjoyed glamping with his best friend Frank and bicycling with his grandchildren.

Loving him forever are his wife: Andrea (Lambeth) Dugan, whom he married on May 15, 1998; his mother: Grace Dugan; his children: Robert, Sean, and Sydney Dugan; his grandchildren: Haylee Dugan, Sean Dugan, Emma Salisbury, Tyler Salisbury, Annalisa Russotto and Charlotte Dugan; his step-sons: Jason Wicks and Michael Mastropietro; his step-grandchildren: Zoe Lohman, Ella Wicks and Jaxon Wicks; his step-great-grandchildren: Callum Lohman and Davina Imer; his siblings: Edward Dugan, Dennis Dugan, Susan Vogler, Stephen Dugan, and Jeanne Knapp;  and many nieces, nephews and his loving, faithful Belgian Sheepdog Kitai.

All are invited to visit with Michael’s family from 11:00AM-1:00PM on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Coltrain Funeral Home, LLC, 134 River Street, Middleburgh, NY.  A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00PM, immediately following the visitation.  Inurnment with Military Honors will be held at a later date in the Saratoga National Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, Michael’s family requests donations in his honor be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project, donations online or printable form to mail at www.woundedwarriorproject.org or to the Habitat For Humanity at www.habitat.org.

Please visit www.coltrainfuneralhome.com to share online condolences with Michael’s family.

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD

Obituary - John A. Rice, Jr.

John A. Rice, Jr., age 73, of Stamford, NY, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born on September 28, 1952, John lived a full and active life rooted in love, hard work, and quiet strength.

John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be remembered by family and friends for his kind heart, quick sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family. A lifelong and devoted fan of the Buffalo Bills, John also enjoyed watching NASCAR and spending time on the golf course or playing pitch—simple pleasures he truly cherished.

John retired in December of 2015 after 40 years of dedicated service and 33 years of which he was Highway Superintendent for the Town of Stamford, a role he took great pride in. He especially loved driving and operating large equipment and was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to the community he served.

Music was another important part of John’s life. In his younger years, he played drums for Jerry Madore & the New Prairie Ramblers and the Country Nighthawks. Later, he became an avid fan—and the proud, unofficial roadie—of his son’s band, Outrage. John was also a proud veteran of the National Guard, serving from 1972 to 1977, and an elder of the Stamford Presbyterian Church, where his faith and service were deeply valued.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Nancy (Rockwell); his three sons, Bryan Rice of Cobleskill NY, Derek & Marissa (Bailey) Rice of Liverpool NY , and Jared Rice of Stamford NY; and his four grandchildren, Derek Jr., Sebastian, Michael, and Amanda Rice. He is also survived by his brother Ralph (Michele) Rice; sister Celia (Ken) Soden; sister Melody (late Joseph Hochbrueckner); sister in law Molly Keogh (wife of Bob Rice); and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, John Sr and Lucille Rice; his mother- and father-in-law, Ken and Elsie Rockwell; his brother Bob Rice, his sister Brenda Rice and his in-laws Ken & Sue Mattice, Jim Mattice, Shirley & Dick Loucks and Sandie & Richard Martin.

John is also survived by his in-laws Ronda & Rick Frazee, Kenny & Sandy Rockwell and Dawn Mattice.

Though he will be deeply missed, John’s presence lives on in the stories we tell, the memories we carry, and the love we continue to share.

Services will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the First Presbyterian Church in Stamford. Calling hours will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a service at 1:00 p.m. All are welcome to stay after the service for a celebration of John’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Stamford Fire Department or The 1st Presbyterian Church in Stamford, reflecting John’s lifelong commitment to helping others.

Please visit www.macarthurfh.com to share condolences with the Rice family.

Remember to Subscribe!

Subscription Options

One Year $50.00 USD Six Months $30.00 USD One Year with Insider Newsletter $75.00 USD