Town of Hancock

American Legion Post 289 – Hancock, NY 🇺🇸 Join us this Monday at 7:00 PM for the first meeting of the 2026 year at Post 289! We’ll be discussing plans for upcoming events, including preparations to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday, along with conducting our regular Legion agenda business. This is a great opportunity to kick off the new year, get involved, share ideas, and help shape what’s ahead for our Post and community. All members are encouraged to attend—your voice and participation matter! 📍 American Legion Post 289 210 Pennsylvania Ave Hancock, NY 13783 🗓 Monday ⏰ 7:00 PM Let’s start 2026 strong—together in service, tradition, and community.

🍪 Girl Scout Cookie Sale at Hancock Town Square! 🍪 Come support your local Girl Scouts and stock up on your favorite cookies! 📍 Location: Hancock Town Square 📅 Dates: • Saturday, March 21 • Saturday, March 28 ⏰ Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Local Girl Scout Troop 60430 will be selling cookies to raise funds for troop activities and adventures. Stop by, say hello, and grab your favorites like Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs, and more! Cash or card accepted. Your support helps these girls learn leadership, teamwork, and entrepreneurship. 💚 Special thanks to Hancock Partners 501c3 for their use of the Hancock Town Square. We hope to see you all there!

A Special Meeting of the Hancock Town Board will take place Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 12 pm at the Town Hall. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss proposed, pending or current litigation and any other business as may come before the Board.


Cynthia M. Whiting,
Town Clerk
March 23, 2026

🍪 Girl Scout Cookie Sale at Hancock Town Square! 🍪 Come support your local Girl Scouts and stock up on your favorite cookies! 📍 Location: Hancock Town Square 📅 Dates: • Saturday, March 21 • Saturday, March 28 ⏰ Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Local Girl Scout Troop 60430 will be selling cookies to raise funds for troop activities and adventures. Stop by, say hello, and grab your favorites like Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs, and more! Cash or card accepted. Your support helps these girls learn leadership, teamwork, and entrepreneurship. 💚 Special thanks to Hancock Partners 501c3 for their use of the Hancock Town Square. We hope to see you all there!

🍽 Gather & Feast – Free Community Dinner Today at 4:30PM

Join us today (Thursday March 19th) for Gather & Feast, a free community supper from 4:30–6:00 PM (or until food runs out) at St. Paul’s Father Rausch Hall, 316 West Main Street, Hancock, NY. This month’s dinner is being served by Hancock Hounds Dog Park, Inc. (501c3) and everyone is welcome—families, friends, neighbors and visitors.

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring 3-bean vegetarian chili with choice of meat toppings, a make-your-own taco bar, fresh salad bar, sub sandwiches, and desserts, with dine-in or take-out available. Come share a warm meal, meet your neighbors, and celebrate the spirit of community. No registration required—just come hungry! 🍀

Village of Hancock NY -Election Reminder🇺🇸 Today (Weds March 18th) is Village Election Day. Polls are open from 12:00 PM until 9:00 PM at the Village Clerk’s Office. 📍 Village of Hancock Clerk’s Office 85 East Front Street Hancock, NY 13783 Locally registered residents are encouraged to come out and cast your vote for candidates and make your voice heard in our community.

🚨 WEATHER ALERT – HANCOCK, NY Valid: Monday evening through early Tuesday ⚠️ Hazard: • Strong winds gusting 40–50 mph • Heavy rain and possible thunderstorms • Rain may change to snow overnight ⏰ Timing: • Winds increase this afternoon • Strongest gusts this evening into tonight Possible Impacts: • Downed tree limbs • Isolated power outages • Difficult travel in heavy rain and wind Safety: Secure loose outdoor items and use caution if traveling tonight. 🌬️

Lucky Dog Bingo - Date Changed. Due to an unexpected administrative issue related to our bingo licensing, we need to postpone the Lucky Dog Bingo that was scheduled for Saturday March 21st. Our organization submitted the required NYS paperwork we were provided and paid the fees last year, but the new license has not yet been finalized. To ensure everything is fully approved and in compliance, we are moving the event to a later date. We’re working quickly with the appropriate NYS offices to resolve this issue and will announce the new date as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience and continued support of the Hancock Hounds Dog Park. We’re excited to host more community bingo events once everything is squared away!

Winter Storm Warning – Hancock, NY - WHAT: Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 7 and 15 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph. WHERE: In New York: Delaware and Otsego Counties (including Hancock). In Pennsylvania: Northern Wayne, Susquehanna, and Wyoming Counties. WHEN: From 1 PM Sunday to 7 PM EST Monday. IMPACTS: Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility to below one quarter mile. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning and evening commutes. ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Gusty north-northwest winds will increase overnight Sunday and persist into Monday morning, which could reduce visibility due to blowing and drifting snow. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph are possible through the day on Monday. Travel only as needed and be safe!

SAVE THE DATE: Everyone is invited! Join us for a free community supper by Gather & Feast Community Group with this months event being staffed and hosted by the Hancock Teachers Association — all are welcome! 📅 Thursday, February 19, 2026 ⏰ 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM 📍 St. Paul’s Father Rausch Hall 316 West Main Street, Hancock 🍴 Menu: Ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans, salad, rolls, and dessert 🥡 Take-out available at 6:15 PM (while supplies last) Come enjoy a warm meal, good company, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Hope to see you there! 💛

❄️ Cold Weather Advisory – Hancock, NY --When: Tonight through Sunday What: Very cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills Details: Temperatures are expected to drop well below freezing, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Prolonged exposure to the cold may lead to frostbite or hypothermia, especially for those outdoors for extended periods. Impacts: • Risk of frostbite on exposed skin • Increased danger for pets, livestock, and vulnerable individuals • Potential strain on heating systems and plumbing Precautions: • Dress in layers and limit time outdoors • Wear hats, gloves, and cover exposed skin • Bring pets indoors and ensure adequate shelter for animals • Check on elderly neighbors and those without reliable heat Stay warm and stay safe, Hancock.

The Town of Hancock NY will be in a State of Emergency starting at 12:00 PM (noon) today and continuing until further notice - Hancock NY Town Supervisor Jerry Vernold.

⚠️ Winter Weather Safety Notice – Town of Hancock ⚠️ Due to the severe snow and ice storm forecast for this weekend, the Town of Hancock wants to ensure all residents stay safe, warm, and informed. Hazardous travel conditions, potential power outages, and dangerously cold temperatures are expected. Hancock NY is expecting upwards of 10-18" of snow according to the National Weather Service, please get supplies early and stay warm, and stay indoors as much as possible. ⸻ 🚧 Road Safety Tips • Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, especially after dark. • Roads may be snow-covered or icy, even if they appear clear. • If you must drive: • Reduce speed and allow extra stopping distance. • Keep headlights on and fully clear snow and ice from your vehicle. • Carry emergency supplies such as blankets, water, snacks, and a phone charger. • Stay clear of snowplows and give them plenty of room to work. • If your vehicle begins to slide, do not slam on the brakes — ease off the accelerator and steer gently. ⸻ 🔥 Home Heating Safety Tips • Use space heaters safely: • Keep them at least 3 feet away from anything flammable. • Never leave them unattended or use them while sleeping. • Never use ovens, grills, or generators indoors, as this can cause deadly carbon monoxide buildup. • Ensure carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working and have fresh batteries. • Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to help prevent pipes from freezing. • If using a fireplace or wood stove, make sure vents and chimneys are clear and properly ventilated. ⸻ 🚧 Town of Hancock Warming Center If you lose power or heat during the storm, Hancock Town Hall 📍 661 W Main Street will open as a Warming and Safety Center beginning at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 24th. Anyone in need is encouraged to come in, get warm, and shelter safely until conditions improve. 🐾 The warming center is pet-friendly — please bring your pets so no one is left out in the cold. 🚗 If you are unable to drive or cannot safely reach Town Hall, please call: 📞 607-287-2317 Arrangements will be made to assist with transportation. ⸻ 🏠 Additional Regional Warming Centers The following locations will also be available as warming stations for residents within their fire coverage areas during the anticipated winter storm: ⚠️ Note: Preston Area School has very limited power capabilities and should be considered a last-resort option. At this time, we do not expect it to be needed, as the storm is expected to produce lighter-weight snow. Preston Area School 1493 Crosstown Hwy Lakewood, PA Northern Wayne Fire Company 1633 Crosstown Hwy Lakewood, PA Equinunk Volunteer Fire Company Lookout Station ONLY 2625 Hancock Hwy Equinunk, PA Hancock Volunteer Fire Department (For residents within the fire coverage area, including Starlight, Winterdale, and Scott Township) 24501 NY-97 Hancock, NY ⸻ 📞 Emergency Contacts For residents wishing to use Pennsylvania warming locations, please contact: Michael Schuman – Wayne County EMA Deputy Director 📱 570-390-9217 Dan Harmuth – Wayne County EMA Director 📱 570-390-9216 For residents within the Hancock Fire coverage area: Fire Chief Blaise Bojo 📱 607-427-0238

❄️⛸️ The Hancock Holiday Ice Rink OPENS TODAY! ⛸️❄️

Lace up your skates and join us TODAY, Friday, January 23rd, for opening day at the Hancock Holiday Ice Rink! We will have an outdoor heater, hot cocoa, and music for everyone to enjoy the rink before the storm hits.

🕓 Opening Day Hours (Today): 4–6 PM
📍 Hancock Town Square
20 E Main St, Hancock, NY 13783

After today, the rink will be:
🕗 Open daily from 8 AM–8 PM, weather permitting and when properly frozen
⛸️ Bring your own skates
⚠️ Skate at your own risk

🎉 FREE for children & teens
Adults: $5 suggested donation
Your donations help cover the rink liner, winter maintenance, and essential supplies.

💙 Donate here:
👉 https://www.hancockpartners.org/o/partners/page/donations
Hancock Partners is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit — donations are tax deductible.

🧊 Important Safety Reminders:
✔️ Only skate when the penguin sign says OPEN
❌ If it says CLOSED, please stay off the ice to protect the rink liner
🚫 No snowballs on the ice — they freeze into bumps and create trip hazards

Thank you for helping us keep the rink safe, smooth, and fun for everyone. We can’t wait to see you out on the ice tonight!
❄️⛸️ #HancockNY #HancockHolidayIceRink #CommunityFun #WinterInHancock #HancockPartners #SkateIntoTheNewYear

⚠️ Winter Weather Safety Notice – Town of Hancock NY Residents ⚠️

Due to the dangerous winter weather forecast for this weekend, the Town of Hancock wants to ensure everyone stays safe and warm.

If you lose power or heat during the storm, Hancock Town Hall will be open starting at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 24th as a warming and safety center. Anyone in need is welcome to come in, get warm, and shelter safely. The Hancock Town Hall Located at: 661 W Main Street - Hancock, NY 13783.

🐾 The warming center is pet-friendly — please bring your pets with you so no one is left out in the cold.

If you are unable to drive or cannot get to Town Hall on your own, please call 📞 607-287-2317 and someone will come pick you up.

Your safety and well-being are our top priority. Please don’t hesitate to reach out, and check on neighbors, family, and friends if you are able.

Stay safe,
Jerry Vernold
Town Supervisor, Town of Hancock

❄️ WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY ❄️ 📍 Hancock, NY 🗓️ Saturday through Sunday A winter weather system is expected to impact the Hancock area late Saturday night through Sunday, bringing accumulating snow and hazardous travel conditions. 🌨️ Snowfall Projection: ➡️ 3–5 inches likely, with locally higher totals up to 6–7 inches possible depending on storm track and intensity. 🕒 Timing: • Snow develops late Saturday night • Continues through Sunday, with occasional snow showers lingering 🚗 Impacts: • Snow-covered and slippery roads • Reduced visibility at times • Difficult travel conditions, especially Sunday morning 🧤 Safety Reminders: ✔️ Allow extra travel time ✔️ Use caution on roads and sidewalks ✔️ Keep vehicles winter-ready ✔️ Monitor updates in case totals change ⚠️ Snow amounts can still shift — stay tuned for updates as the storm approaches.

❄️⛸️ Hancock Holiday Ice Rink Opens January 23rd! ⛸️❄️

Skate into the New Year with us! The Hancock Holiday Ice Rink opens January 23, 2026, weather permitting just after the holiday season — the perfect way to keep winter fun going in Hancock.

📍 Location: Hancock Town Square
20 E Main St, Hancock, NY 13783

🕗 Hours: Open daily from 8AM–8PM, weather permitting and when properly frozen
⛸️ Bring your own skates
⚠️ Skate at your own risk

🎉 Free for children & teens!
Adults: $5 suggested donation

Donations help cover the rink liner, winter maintenance, and essential supplies, and can be made here:
👉 https://www.hancockpartners.org/o/partners/page/donations

Hancock Partners is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all donations are tax deductible.

🧊 Important Safety Rules – Please Read:
✔️ Only skate when the penguin on the door is set to OPEN
❌ If the sign says CLOSED, please stay off the ice
This helps prevent damage to the rink liner if the surface is not fully frozen.
🚫 No snowballs on the ice — they freeze into hard bumps and create trip hazards.

Thank you for helping us keep the rink safe and fun for everyone. We can’t wait to see you on the ice! ❄️⛸️

#HancockNY #IceRink #CommunityFun #WinterInHancock #HancockPartners #SkateIntoTheNewYear