The Prattsville Scoop by Abby and Gabby - 28 June 2026

PRATTSVILLE - HAPPY 4th of JULY. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. We thank those who served in our military to attain, retain and maintain our freedoms.

To our town and the other Mountaintop towns holding celebrations now and later in the summer, thank you for providing us with these events.

There seems to be a lack of response for naming the remains, now just some hair and bones, of the Kings’ or at least Jim’s, found on their property. Fluffy and King Tut are submissions and I want to enter “Henry the 9th”, Not sure what first prize will be but the Kings will think of something. Maybe a fur hat?

The Annual Gurley Reunion, made up of four generations – one year to 8? - was another weekend to be remembered. Yes, I would like to brag about our patriotism. At the beginning of our kickball game, everyone stood and came to attention, with hats removed and hearts crossed, while the National Anthem was played on the PA system and everyone sang along. The youngest might not have known the words but they too showed respect by standing and remaining quiet. Then it was “Play Ball”. We can’t say there were any outstanding players but it was fun even if it did cause the demise of four chair cushions. There was also a 100 foot race with the oldest (40) winning the race against younger contestants. Just an aside there were two female contestants in the foot race who have won medals in foot races during their high school days. There were no reports on the results of the bean bag toss. Food and drink and gifts and love were in abundance. We have been asked if we are accepting applications for possible adoptions? Cousins from Michigan, Indiana and New Jersey traveled to meet up with relatives from Rochester, Cooperstown, Coxsackie and Prattsville. A large family gathering is also a way to get rid of those unwanted items – at least by 50%. You might want to try it – just put out those boxes of unwanted items and lots of those questionable things are gone.

Stephan and Lisa Birnbaum reported that the Zadock Pratt Museum Honor our Veterans exhibit was a great success. The exhibit opened with twelve submissions of veterans and increased to thirty-two at the close on July 4th weekend. There are plans for this exhibit to be featured annually on certain military/patriotic holidays. There is an upcoming event where a picture with Prattsville as the featured topic will be unveiled. So look on the Museum’s site for more information. Thank you to all members of the Zadock Pratt Museum for keeping the Museum active and relevant with news and programs. Lisa and Stephan will have an informational table set up at the Cairo 4th of July observation this weekend to let people know about the Museum and Prattsville history. Thank you Lisa and Stephan.

Speedy recovery wishes are sent to David Rikard on his recent knee surgery. We hope to see you out and about Dave and thank you for your service.

The American Legion Virgil E. Deyo Post 1327 and Unit 1327 will hold their annual dinner on Thursday, July 9, Prime in Windham. Legionnaires and Auxiliary members please call Shelly Brainard, 518 299 3362, for particulars – choice of dinner entree and cost.

Ginny Kennedy and Carol Landers were exchanging information in all places - Jim’s Great American parking lot. Their monthly ladies Friday luncheon had to be canceled due to loss of power in the Windham area. Ginny also wanted to share the news that former Prattsville resident Sonia Plankenhorn Coyle had visited her and Sonia had brought her daughter and granddaughter along to see her hometown. Sonia is an alumna of Gilboa Conesville CS Class of ‘57.

Amy Pindar Thompson from the north country stopped by to visit with friend Ursula Gurley Lindley, who was in the area for the yearly Gurley reunion. This is their annual face to face visit and Amy brought carrot cupcakes. Thanks Amy, you are always welcome. Jim and Peggy Young also dropped in on Friday afternoon, after the soccer game, ISA won, to see for themselves some of Peggy’s Deyo cousins, about 5 or 6 times removed. But if you are relatives, no matter how many generations removed, you are family. You are always welcome.

Happy Birthday on July 5 to Jim Huggins. On July 6 it is Happy Birthday to Donnie Lane. Nicholas Cross is wished Happy Birthday on July 9. It is Happy Birthday to Josie Hull and Blayke Monroe Lindley on July 10. A very Happy Anniversary is sent to Chrissie and Jim Thorington on July 9. They will have new titles in the near future. More to follow.

Please send your news to gurleyrv@gmail.com or call 518 299 3219.