Sheriff DuMond Seeks New Term

By Matthew Avitabile

DELHI — Sheriff Craig DuMond is seeking a third full term as Sheriff. He has served in the position for eight years, as well as a year as acting sheriff upon the retirement of former Sheriff Tom Mills. We spoke to the sheriff about his work and plans for another term.

Sheriff DuMond said that he is entering into his 40th year on the job. He “loves what he does every day” and “makes a difference” for the people of Delaware County. It’s a “privilege to lead them” and is looking forward to another four years.

The sheriff said that he and his team have worked hard on professional training and accreditation standards. It’s the only police agency in the county to be fully accredited in all divisions. Only about 30% of agencies in the state can claim the same, he said.

There is also a substation and school resource officer program that provides a presence in the county’s schools. He hopes for a resource officer in each school in time. DuMond said that retired or near-retired law enforcement is welcome to apply.

The county maintains its special response unit, which supports local agencies and the New York State Police, as well as its canine unit. “It’s been a very robust and busy four years,” he said.

The office has also expanded its community services unit, including for Cornell Cooperative Extension, scouts, clubs, and more.

“The police can’t do it alone,” he said. The office hopes to build upon relationships with the community.

The Sheriff’s Office has an “excellent relationship” with the office of District Attorney Shawn Smith. The Sheriff’s office is working with the DA’s office specifically on sex crimes, especially against children.

“That investigator and Shawn have been instrumental in prosecuting a number of sex-related crimes in Delaware County, especially against children.” The same investigator aids other local police agencies for similar goals. “We’re very proud of our relationship with the District Attorney,” he said.

DuMond said that the department is working “every day” against the flow of drugs in the county. He cited difficulties since the passage of the New York Bail Reform law, including some who are released even after felony charges. He said that the sheriff’s office is diligent on such cases, including current cases. It’s a “scourge” we have to address, he said. Drug abuse and sales are an issue in the county, and DuMond hopes to cut off the supply that is “poisoning” many families locally.

The sheriff said that working with the Delaware County Board of Supervisors, the department has “cutting edge” equipment and technology. This includes in-car computers, body cameras, drug testing kits, forcible entry tools, ballistics defenses, and license plate readers.

“Everything you think of, whether it’s technology or equipment,” he said. This is thanks to a close relationship with the county board.

“We’re grateful for that as well.”

“We’ve worked very hard in the last year or two to work on our workplace assistance program,” he said. This includes aiding deputies exposed to trauma and offering counsel and care as needed. The department “touches base” with employees from time to time and offers anything that they need to make them “the best prepared police officers they can be on the street,” he said.

He cites his 2024 election as President of the New York State Sheriff’s Association.  "That was quite an honor to gain the trust and respect of all 57 Sheriffs across NYS and a first time for Delaware County." 

He is also an active member of the state and National Sheriffs Associations and at the state level serves on the executive, legislative, corrections and ethics and standards committees. On the national level he serves on the legislative/ government affairs, school safety, and drug enforcement committees.

“It’s an honor” to serve as sheriff, and “have the opportunity to serve and have the blessing of that,” he said.

 

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Short Films Show Coming to Phoenicia Playhouse Nov. 9

PHOENICIA — Asbury Shorts USA, New York City's longest running non-competitive short film exhibition and touring show, returns to the Phoenicia Playhouse in Phoenicia, N.Y. to present their nationally recognized "44th Asbury Short Film Concert" with a matinee screening on Sunday, November 9, 2025. The first film lights up the screen at 2:00pm. An Asbury short film concert is a fast-paced and highly entertaining showcase of short films from the past and present, specially selected from the world's top film festivals. The November 9th screening is recommended for ages 16 and way above.  Asbury Shorts founder/director Doug LeClaire will serve as the afternoon's guest host.

Asbury Shorts USA's mission is to screen internationally honored short films in theaters...projected on real cinema screens...as opposed to YouTube, Vimeo, smartphones or computers. "The 44th Asbury Short Film Concert" will feature the best in short film comedy, mixed with a few dramatic and outstanding animated selections.This will be Asbury Shorts USA's sixth year at The Phoenicia Playhouse. 

The Phoenicia Playhouse is located at 10 Church Street in Phoenicia, N.Y. General admission tickets for the November 9th short film showcase cost: $15.00 general admission. For tickets and all show information please visit: http://www.phoeniciaplayhouse.com or call 845.688.2279. For more information about Asbury Shorts USA please visit: http://www.asburyshortfilms.com.

 

 

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Supervisor & Councilmember Switch In Andes - Two Council Seats Contested

ANDES - With Supervisor Wayland "Bud" Gladstone deciding to step down in his position, it made room for long-time Councilmember Ritchie Gabriel to step up. The two are running for election, essentially switching roles. However, Gladstone has a more challenging path as there are two councilmember seats on the ballot this year and three candidates. Incombent Richard "Dale" Cole, appearing on the Democratic line, and Dana Scuderi-Hunter, running on the Republican line, will appear on the ballot alongside Gladstone, who is running on the Democratic and People's Voice lines. Scuderi-Hunter appears on the ballot as Dana A. Scuderi.

The Mountain Eagle constructed the following questions for councilmember candidates:

A. Why have you chosen to run for election?

B. What makes you a good candidate?

C. What will be your first item of business if elected?

D. How long have you lived in Andes, and why did you choose to make it home?

Below are responses from each candidate.

 Dana Scuderi, Andes Council

A. I’m running because I love Andes; its beauty, its people, and its strong sense of community. My husband and I have called Andes home since 2007, and I want to help preserve its rural charm while keeping it affordable for everyone who lives here. I believe in protecting what makes Andes special and ensuring that residents of all ages can continue to call it home.

B. I’m a problem solver with a passion for people. As a licensed clinical social worker and former Commissioner of Social Services, I oversaw a $29 million budget, reduced waste, strengthened programs, and returned $12 million to taxpayers — all without cutting services. I’m dedicated, energetic, and results-driven. I’ve spent my career advocating for others and I’ll bring that same commitment and enthusiasm to advocating for the people of Andes.

C. I’ll start by reviewing the town’s finances—payables, revenues, and overall spending to make sure we’re operating efficiently and responsibly. My goal is to find ways to reduce the tax burden while maintaining strong services and protecting the character of our town.

D. My husband has lived in Delaware County his entire life and grew up in New Kingston. We made Andes our home in 2007, though in many ways it felt like Andes chose us. At the time, I was caring for my father, who was battling cancer, and I had shown him a picture of a little cottage with horses and a chimney in a Delaware National Bank of Delhi calendar. I told him that’s exactly the kind of home I’d love to have nearby. Not long after his passing, that very home came up for sale. We visited, fell in love with it, and were lucky enough to make it ours. It’s been the most wonderful home and community we could have ever hoped for.

I’d be honored to serve on the Andes Town Council and bring my energy, experience, and fiscal expertise to support our residents. My goal is simple — to help keep Andes beautiful, vibrant, and affordable for the people who make it the special place we all love to call home.

 

 Wayland Gladstone, Andes Council Candidate

A. I have chosen to step down as Town Supervisor at the end of this year to be able to devote more time to our farm transition to our daughter and son-in-law, Chelsea and Jason Guy, and their family.  

I am running for a Town Council seat as someone who loves my Community and has been deeply rooted and devoted to our Community my entire life, serving various organizations over the years. My hope is to continue to represent our Community.

B. I have always approached issues in a non-partisan manner, looking at all aspects before making recommendations to the Board. I feel that I have strong budgeting skills and have worked hard with the Board's support and input to keep our taxes as low as possible, averaging an increase of just 1.97% over 9 of 10 years. Building a solid financial foundation has been my top goal for Andes over the past years. We have established an equipment fund for the highway department, established and maintained a healthy fund balance to handle emergencies without borrowing and invested funds wisely to generate additional revenue for the Town. I have worked with partnering agencies to develop shared service agreements that benefit our and neighboring Communities.  Our Town Board and I have delivered major Community investments, including securing $850,000 for streambank projects in the Hamlet (slated to begin in Spring 2026), and partnered with the MARK Project to obtain $500,000. Main Street Revitalization grant, secured NYSERDA funds to install EV charging stations, secured a grant to install our beautiful Victorian clock at Bohlman Park, and purchased speed-reduction warning signs at both Route 28 entrances to the Hamlet.  In addition, we are installing generators for both the Town Highway Garage and Town Offices by obtaining Federal funds through the ARP program.  

After many years of persistence, we are finalizing an agreement to install a cell tower in Andes

C. Over the years, I've witnessed tremendous growth in local businesses and Community spirit.  I have always tried to be a voice not only for my Community but for all residents of Delaware County.  I will continue to advocate for responsible spending, infrastructure improvements, and opportunities that keep Andes strong, sustainable, and affordable for generations to come. I thank the Community of Andes for your continued trust and support.

D. I am 5th generation on the farm. My family settled in Andes on Gladstone Hollow Road in the early 1800s. We've always been a dairy until we moved to beef about 30 years ago. To our family, Andes is our home!

 

                                                    Richard Cole, Andes councilmember

 

A. I enjoy working with the problem-solving board we have. Every board member has endorsed me, which has helped me decide to run.

B. I have been a councilman for the past 12 years. I am a lifelong resident and a retired rural letter carrier for the town, having served for 30 years, so I know the town inside and out.

I have coached various sports in Andes and the surrounding areas over the years. I coached baseball for 15 years in Andes, Stamford, and Delhi—that's a centerpiece of my life. A bright point was when we went to the States; we had four Andes players start, which I was proud of. Currently, I coach in South Kortright, which is combined with Andes sports.

C. We are currently working on three important projects, and I want to be a part of them: a cell phone tower, two flashing speed signs, and a radio station. The speed signs have already been purchased and will be installed as you enter the hamlet, down dangerous hills. The town radio station will benefit students who could be employed there.

The town went from being a farming community to a weekend hot spot. We have limited parking and no gas station within 12 miles, so these are still things we are working through.

D. I am a life-long resident, born and raised here. Every time I left, for the military and college, I always wanted to come back.

 

                                                        Richie Gabriel, Andes Supervisor

 

Gabriel is appearing on the Democratic and Republican lines for the supervisor position unopposed. He has served as a town councilmember for 34 years, worked with five different supervisors, and countless councilmembers. When asked what makes him a good candidate, Gabriel answered, "I feel well-versed on town law, sat on numerous committees negotiating contracts with contractors as well as town highway employees." Gabriel has 37 years of experience as a Maintenance Supervisor for NYS and is on the Coalition of Watershed Towns executive committee, which is currently advocating for Watershed communities in the NYC water supply permit negotiations.

When asked about some of the key projects he is most proud of working on, Gabriel said, the streetscape project, where all sidewalks, sewer and water lines, and curbs were replaced through Andes hamlet. The project also added new signage, ornamental lighting, and a handicap crosswalk. "I also enjoy working with the highway department," he said, "Picking out new equipment and specific options that made sense and were the best bang for the buck."

Gabriel noted a difficult project the board tackled, "The flood of '96 destroyed almost every road 111 miles in the town of Andes, exhausted nearly all our funds and inventory to replace. We spent countless hours solving this situation with the entire board."

Also on the ballot are incumbents Justice Thomas Joyce, appearing on the Democratic line, and Nicholas Burton, appearing on the Republican line. There are two Justice seats up for election for a four-year term. Incumbent Superintendent of Highways John Bouton is running on the Republican line. Town Assessor Tina Moshier is running for reelection on the Republican line.

Elections are scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 4, from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. Polling places are as follows: District One, Town Court, 5287 County Highway One, and District Two, Rod & Gun Club, 528 County Highway One.

 

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Sylvenus Kelly to be Remembered for Revolutionary War Service

FLEISCHMANNS — On Sunday, November 9, there will be a dedication of a new gravestone for Revolutionary

War veteran Sylvenus Kelly in the Bedell Cemetery outside Fleischmanns.

The headstone, to be unveiled at 2 p.m., was hand carved by Michael A. Angelicola Stone

Carving of Connecticut, and produced with funds from a supporter of Delaware County

Historical Association (DCHA).

Bedell Cemetery is located on Little Redkill Road on what had been the Kelly farm. Sylvenus

and other family members were among the first to be buried there. The headstones for Sylvenus

(c.1750-c.1825) and his wife (name unknown) have long since disappeared.

Sylvenus Kelly served in the 3rd and 7th Regiments of the Dutchess County Militia at different

times from 1776 to 1777 and also with a regiment of levies (draftees) attached to the Second NY

Line in the Continental Army in 1782. Sylvanus’ cousins David, Edmund and Joshua Kelly were

also veterans of the Revolution and also migrated to Middletown and Roxbury following the

war.

Middletown Town Historian Diane Galusha and Dr. Samantha Misa of DCHA will offer remarks

at the headstone dedication, which is the first event in Middletown’s observance of the 250 th

anniversary of the Revolutionary War. The public is welcome to attend.

A reception will follow the unveiling in the nearby Advent Christian Church.

For more information, please call DCHA at 607-746-3849 or email dchadelhi@gmail.com.

 

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Andes Aids Cemetery Mapping Project

By Wildert Marte

ANDES — The Andes Town Board met for its regular meeting on October 14 with the evening featuring community updates, a presentation from a local Girl Scout, and discussion about property access near Lee Lane. 

During the privilege of the floor, Faith, a Girl Scout working toward her Gold Award, presented her plan to create a detailed map of the Andes Cemetery. The goal, she said, is to help families locate their loved ones’ burial sites. “My main idea for my project is to help people find their loved ones, knowing where they are located within the cemetery,” she said. Faith announced that there would be a bake sale on October 14 from 4 to 8 p.m. in front of Francesco’s Restaurant to raise funds, with hopes of finishing the project by spring 2026. Her troop leader, Penny Gargonis, who oversees Troop 30206, will guide fundraising and documentation for Girl Scout compliance. Donations are capped at $99 each, though local businesses such as Home Depot in Oneonta have already agreed to provide supplies. When asked about her inspiration, Faith said her grandmother and great-grandparents are buried in the cemetery and that many graves are unmarked. 

The chair of the Cemetery Board, said the project aligns with long-term goals. “We’ve talked about signage and mapping for years,” he said. Phase one will include turning digital records into a large printed map and an updateable guidebook chained in place to prevent removal. Residents and officials offered help. One volunteered a commercial kitchen for bake sales, while another suggested using drone photography to capture aerial maps. The supervisor said he would contact the Delaware County Cemetery Association for possible support. Faith noted the project involves detailed recordkeeping and paperwork. “We’re learning a lot,” she said. “It’s all about proper documentation.” Board members praised her idea and encouraged her to promote the project online to attract donors. 

“Put your vision out there,” said Councilman Ritchie Gabriel. Faith thanked the board and community for their support. Following her presentation, several board members discussed how the cemetery project ties into the town’s broader efforts to preserve local history. Supervisor Wayland said projects like Faith’s not only serve the community but also strengthen the town’s connection to its past. “This is more than just a map,” he said. “It’s about remembering the people who helped shape Andes and making sure their stories aren’t forgotten.” Other members agreed that the effort could inspire similar youth-led projects in the future. 

Later, a resident requested that the town consider allowing online tax payments after experiencing issues with mailed checks. The supervisor said the county has explored similar options and agreed it’s worth reviewing for convenience and reliability. Another resident raised concerns about property access near Lee Lane and Main Street, explaining that several parcels, including 2240 Lee Lane and the Reading Field, lack clear access to Route 28 due to old subdivisions. He suggested the town coordinate a shared easement or mapped access for safety and emergency response. 

Supervisor Wayland “Bud” Gladstone said he and Councilman Gabriel consulted the town attorney, who advised against using eminent domain because the matter involves private rather than public interests. Many lot lines date back decades, before

modern planning laws. Residents pointed out that the shared parking lot behind the mercantile building has historically been used by multiple businesses, setting a precedent for shared access. 

In closing, the board thanked Faith for her community project. “Good luck,” said one councilman. “It’s a great example of civic pride.” The meeting adjourned after final comments and correspondence review.

 

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Two Contested Seats In Roxbury - Highway Superintendent & Tax Collector

By Mary A. Crisafulli

ROXBURY - This year, Roxbury will have two seats contested: the position of superintendent of highways and the town tax collector. Incumbent Bonnie E. Walker is seeking re-election as tax collector on the democratic line against Republican challenger Marlyn L. Hamil. Incumbent Highway Superintendent Ralph J. Sprague, seeking reelection on the Democratic line, is contested by Republican candidate Austin E. Sanford. Each candidate was asked why they believe they are the best candidate for the position. Their responses are below. Sanford did not respond to phone calls by press time.

Ralph Sprague; Roxbury HW Superintendent

Incumbent Ralph J. Sprague, seeking election as Superintendent of Highways under the Democratic line.

I feel like I am a good candidate for election as the Town of Roxbury Highway Superintendent because I have over a decade of experience in the industry.  I gained experience with road repair and maintenance, operating equipment, hauling material, and, most recently, was appointed as the Deputy Highway Superintendent four years ago.  Due to the untimely passing of the most recent Highway Superintendent, Bill Sprague, in January 2025, I was appointed as acting Highway Superintendent. I am looking forward to continuing my role as the elected Highway Superintendent beginning in 2026.

Roxbury Tax Collector Candidate Marilyn Hamil

Marlyn L. Hamil, seeking election as Town Tax Collector under the Republican line.

My name is Marilyn L. Hamil, and I am writing to express my interest in the upcoming Roxbury Tax Collector position. I read about the position from a Delaware County Chamber of Commerce newsletter. I’ve always wanted to do something like this, a job to help serve my community. I thought this was a great way to do that! I have years of experience with customer service, having worked in different areas of my community. Additionally, I have substantial experience in tax preparation for a local Roxbury business and in my current position at NBT Bank.  I believe that experience and community familiarity will make me a great candidate for the job! 

Bonnie Walker, tax collector

Incumbent Bonnie E. Walker, seeking re-election for a fourth term as Town Tax Collector under the Democratic line.

I have already served three terms, totaling six years. I have learned a lot and know what to do. I enjoy being with the public and helping them. I hope I always have answers to their questions. After six years, you learn a lot and you see all the different questions. You encounter all kinds of issues and learn how to solve them. And I like it, I like doing it.

I am a retired educator, so I am available during business hours, which is helpful to a lot of people.

I have lived in Roxbury for 50 years. I was a member of the school board, I'm an avid volunteer, people know who I am, and they know they can trust me.

Other seats on the ballot this year are town supervisor, town clerk, and two town council positions.

Supervisor Republican Allen Hinkley is seeking re-election for a 3rd term. Supervisors are elected to serve two-year terms. When asked what he is most proud of being a part of on the town board, Hinkley said, "I am very proud of all of our accomplishments over the last six years." He noted the team worked well together during the global pandemic, which hit just three months after taking office.

"I believe one of our biggest accomplishments was the acquisition and renovation of the new Roxbury Town Hall in the former MIDROX insurance office," said Hinkley, "This has provided much needed space and better access to the town hall." Another major accomplishment, he noted, was the town's receipt of the $10 million Downtown Revitalization Grant, benefiting both hamlets, Grand Gorge and Roxbury. "I'm looking forward to seeing these projects unfold over the next few years."

"We have also worked together as a community to update and rewrite the town's Comprehensive Plan," said Hinkley, "Many thanks to the committee that has worked diligently over the last two years to develop a plan that maps the future of Roxbury for many years to come."

Town Clerk Stefani J. Albano is seeking election on the Community Party line after being appointed to fulfill the remainder of Diane Pickett's term.

Democrats Kenneth F. Davie and Deanna L. Osborn are both seeking re-election as councilmembers for a four-year term. Davie was first elected to the council in 2018. Osborn was first appointed to the board to fulfill a remaining term in 2021 and was then elected in 2022.

Justice Jerald M. Stein, appearing on the Justice For All party line, is similarly seeking re-election for a second term. Justices are elected for four-year terms.

Elections are on November 4th at the following locations, based on district: District one at the Civic Center, 60933 State Highway 30, Grand Gorge; District two, three, and four at the Town Hall, 56 Hill Crest Drive, Roxbury.

 

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The Honor is Theirs

7th grade Honor Roll  2024-2025   left to right: Landin Amundsen -8th grade Aubrey Hougen - 8th grade Miller Fairbairn Vivian Faraci Matthew Greene Sadie Smith Caydence Fronckowiak Missing: Autumn Buerge, Sawyer Grocholl and Patrick McLoughlin

 

Grade 3  2024-2025 New York State Testing Program Top scorers: Enrique Flores receiving his certificate Missing Luna Wilkens

 

Margaretville Central School held an award ceremony for students who had either achieved Honor Roll, New York State Testing Top Scorers, New York State Regents Exams Top Scorers and New York State Regents Exams Resilience Awards on Monday. Photo by Kimberly Smith.

Top Scorers of NY State Regents Exams 2024-2025 left to right: Genevieve Curlew-Siclare Brynna Asher Maximilian Siciarz LilliAnn Van Benschoten Olivia Wells Missing Christopher Hull
 

 

 

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Great Save in Sectionals but MCS Falls to Charlotte Valley

A wall of Margaretville Lady Blue Devils — Cailen Passarelli, Livy Fronckowiak, Victoria Fairbairn and Naomi Delpratt — jump to block a Charlotte Valley/Schenevus direct kick, with Mackenzie Hubbell and goal keeper Kendra Balcom backing them up.

 

 Margaretville’s River Williams charges down the field with Claire Clark of Charlotte Valley/Schenevus hot on her heels.

 

Charlotte Valley/Schenevus‘ Jordan O’Dell jumps to head the ball in a play in front of the net. 

 

 

Margaretville defender Naomi Delpratt heads downfield with the ball, with Charlotte Valley/Schenevus’ Hayden Marino in pursuit. 

 

 

In front of the net, Margaretville defender Livy Fronckowiak and Charlotte Valley/Schenevus‘ Carleigh Reed go head to head as Fronckowiak boots the ball safely away. 

Margaretville goalkeeper Kendra Balcom prepares for the shot as Charlotte Valley/Schenevus’ Carleigh Reed closes in on her. Reed’s kick was towards the side of the net, and Margaretville defender Livy Fronckowiak was able to deflect the shot.

 

Charlotte Valley/Schenevus’ Jordan O’Dell looks up as she runs, tracking a high flying ball, about to trap it and take it downfield.

Margaretville goalkeeper Kendra Balcom reaches and makes the save on a shot by Charlotte Valley/Schenevus’ Jordan O’Dell late in the second period of Saturday’s Section IV Class “D” girls soccer tournament game. Charlotte Valley/Schenevus kept Balcom quite busy, this was one of fifteen saves she made in the match.

Charlotte Valley/Schenevus’ Jordan O’Dell dribbles along, pursued by Margaretville’s Evie Curlew-Siclare. O’Dell led her team in scoring with two goals, and a total of 9 shots on goal and one assist in Saturday’s game.

   

The Charlotte Valley/Schenevus team celebrates, and congratulates Sophi Camilleri on the team’s fifth goal in Saturday’s Section IV Class “D” girls soccer tournament game, scored with a minute left to play. Charlotte Valley/Schenevus won 5-0 over Margaretville, and will go on to play Edmeston/Morris in a semi-final tournament game. Photo by Scott Keidong. Much more in Catskills Chronicle section.

 

 

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