The Prattsville Scoop by Abby and Gabby - 24 May 2025

PRATTSVILLE - Take part in one or all of the Memorial Day ceremonies and/or attend the same. Our fallen heroes gave us the reason for this day. We thank them and all veterans for their service.

Prattsville Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will take place on Monday, May 26, with step off at 1 PM, Maple Lane. Line up starts at 12:30. You are invited to take part in the parade, stay for the Memorial Service on the Prattsville Town Green and, of course, be a spectator of all events. Remember to remove your hat and stand as the American Flag passes by. Thank you.

Legionnaires of the American Legion Virgil E. Deyo Post 1327 paid honor to one of their fallen heroes, Richard “Richie” Brainerd. The American Legion Auxiliary Virgil E. Deyo Unit 1327 members followed the Legionnaires in their final farewell to Richie. God Speed Soldier.

Got to interact with a multitude of residents of Prattsville and other Mountaintop communities.

Randy Brainerd said he is waiting for surgery on his right wrist/hand. His cardiac issues are under control and we wish him full recovery on all his issues. He has put his order in for strawberry/rhubarb pie and he will need at least one good hand to eat that dessert.

Stephen and Lisa Birnbaum made a trip to Ballston Spa to go to Guardian House, a half way home for female veterans plus a new facility for female veterans with children. They very generously dropped off clothing for the residents. The organization provides clothing and household items so the veterans can be self sufficient when leaving the facility. After taking care of medical appointments, Lisa and Stephen stayed overnight in Albany. It does seem the trip home takes longer when there is no sunlight. Thanks to the Birnbaums for their caring nature.

Debbie Wandursky and one time co-worker Debbie Mcullar where out enjoying the sunny day on Friday. The sunshine was reflected in their smiles.

Geanine Eisel was scheduling the wait staff for G-JimMieS Ice Cream Shop for the seasonal opening on May 23. The shop will be “Open For Business” on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 12 – 8 PM. Open on Monday, Memorial Day, 12 – 7 PM. Geanine promised they would have their delicious Hawaiian Sundaes, among all those other tasty ice cream offerings. See you there.

Bobby Hermance was almost complaining about sore back and muscles after working on the gardens. He said he will do the flower beds but Debbie will have to do the raised beds of vegetables. Debbie makes everything for current and winter time eating pleasure. She makes pickles of all sorts, jams, relishes, etc. etc. And when she is done canning and preserving, she does sewing of all sorts. Clever girl that Debbie.

Lana Breigle and daughter Laura, Rosie Randolph, Cathy Martino and Ginny Gurley were handing out Memorial Poppies for our veterans on Friday, the 16th. Marianne Krauss kept replenishing the poppies on the cans when necessary. All the aforementioned are members of the American Legion Auxiliary Virgil E. Deyo Unit 1327, Prattsville. Marianne, Cathy and Ginny then counted the money collected. It was very successful and all local supporters and out of town donors are heartily thanked for their generosity. Funds will be used for hospitalized veterans for Christmas gifts. Thank you again. Unit members also dropped off donations at the Stratton VAMC including chenille laprobe by Claudia Bracaliello and 8 quilts handmade by a group in Michigan and then mailed to Theresa Gier in Grand Gorge and Theresa then forwarded it on to Unit 1327 for veterans in need. Thank you to all who aided in this endeavor.

Austin Donisan celebrated his recent birthday by climbing yet again a mountain. Once he comes down from the mountain, he has started following in his mother’s and grandmother’s baking abilities footsteps. Suzette said that he is trying his hand at pastries – apple pie and rhubarb pie among others. Will be his taster anytime. Suzette and Bob are preparing for a visit from her brother Philip soon. Philip is looking forward to seeing many of his classmates of ‘75 Gilboa Conesville at their class reunion at the end of June.

Bobby Gurley is recovering at his daughter Nadine’s, and her husband Isaac’s, in Cooperstown where he will continue physical therapy for 4 to 6 weeks. Their son Crew had his second birthday party and being there were a number of medical professionals there with their children, those children decided to use Bobby as their “patient”, using tongue depressors and checking out ears, throat, etc. How fun is that? You never know what you are going to experience at two year old’s birthday party. And we do need medical professionals.

Rosalie Randolph is on the list to be serving you ice cream at G-JimMieGs this weekend and in future days of business there. Rosalie is gracious and friendly and will serve you with her great smile.

Laura Breigle will be in her third year of college for nursing in the fall. During her summer vacation, she will be working part time at Albany Med. Laura is following in her mother Lana’s footstep in the nursing profession. Thank you Lana and Laura for your chosen profession. You are needed.

Happy Birthday to David Lane on May 26. On May 27 we wish Jim Dymond Happy Birthday. Happy Birthday to Steve Baker and Mason Chase on May 27. Roxie King is wished Happy Birthday on May 30.

Please send your news to gurleyrv@gmail.com