Thrift Sale to Benefit Brooklyn Church Restoration

Brooklyn's New Utrecht Reformed Church

-Since 1677-

THRIFT SALE TO BENEFIT BROOKLYN CHURCH RESTORATION
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BROOKLYN - Thrift sales are nothing new to the New Utrecht Reformed Church in Bensonhurst, founded in 1677. Rose Giannini Lood, 90, remembers her mother putting items aside all year long for a sale. But this year, proceeds from the clothes, costume jewelry, electronics, picture frames, CDs, glassware, dishes, books and toys sold Saturday, April 21, will have a special benefit.

The church's sanctuary, dating back to 1828, has been closed since December 2003 and Mrs. Lood, a New Utrecht member for more than 70 years, says "the restoration needs every penny I can muster." The price tag for repair of the Brooklyn landmark, which is well under way, totals $2 million.

Asked if there will be good bargains, Mrs. Lood replied: "Of course! We're 330 years old, and we'll have bargains galore." Hot dogs and egg salad with coffee, tea and soft drinks will be available for lunch.

With the sanctuary building closed and covered with scaffolding, the thrift sale will be held, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the adjacent Parish House, which also has a long history in the borough and is noted for its architecture and stained-glass windows.

The church, with a famous, last-of-its-kind "Liberty Pole" on the front lawn, is on 18^th Ave. and 84^th St. Parking is in the church lot, near bus and subway lines.

Persons interested in learning more about the early history of Brooklyn and buildings in the New Utrecht historic complex are invited to call (718) 256-7173 or (718) 234-9268. They also may log onto www.historicnewutrecht.org and www.newutrechtchurch.org. Information also can be obtained by sending an e-mail to mail@historicnewutrecht.org.

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April 2007