To the Editor:

The South Berne Congregational Christian Church at 101 Church Road in South Berne will be opening a thrift shop to support the community and surrounding area. It started with a vision by long-time member Wendy Carl.

Since Pastor Dorian Wells and his family do not live in the church’s parsonage, the congregation felt it was a perfect venue for the shop. Work to transform the lovely old cottage into a welcoming retail space is now in full swing and we hope to be open for business on June 1.

Perfect Angel Thrift Shop (PATS) was named to honor Patricia Rapp who recently passed away. She was a beloved member and longtime matriarch of South Berne Congregational Christian Church and the congregation felt it would be a great way to honor Pat by naming the shop after her.

Initially, her family humbly declined stating Pat wasn’t one to want attention brought to herself but the family did, however, agree that using an acronym would be a suitable and subtle way to honor her.

PATS will be open each Wednesday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Thursday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m.

We are currently taking donations by appointment only, but cannot accept some items (including, but not limited to, TVs, computers, mattresses, cribs, and car seats.)  Please call 518-872-9239 or email and leave a message. Someone will get back to you to arrange a mutually convenient time to bring donations to the shop.

Visit the church’s website at SouthBerneCCC.org and click on the Thrift Store tab for more information. Pictures will also be posted on Facebook. See you soon!

Melanie Bunzey

Hilltowns