SPRING CREEK SUN

Happy
Vol. 49, No.2 Serving The Spring Creek Community Since 1974 January 29, 2021

Groundhog Day
Feb. 2

See Centerfold for the Spring Creek Sun’s Year in Review

Page 2 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

2020-2021
SCCC After School
Fall Online Registration

Scan Here to Register:

SCCC After School offers your child a

variety of hybrid activities:
Homework Help
Arts & Crafts
Online Chess Club/ Science is Real
Sports & Fitness
Virtual Educational Games
Roblox
Young Entrepreneurs
Virtual Inventors

PS 346 STUDENTS—GRADES K-5

PROGRAM HOURS: Monday—Friday 3pm-6pm
PS 346 students will receive special rates. Please RSVP for Parent
Orientation via link below for more information.
NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT OF $50.00 TO START
MONEY ORDERS ONLY MADE PAYABLE TO: SCCC, Inc.

Happy Holidays,
CLICK HERE to Register
If you are interested in having your child participate in the 2020/21

Twin Pines Management

SCCC After School Program

Contact Mr. Jeremy Williams

S
@ (718) 593-0590

Email: Rray@springcreektowers.com

HURRY SPACE IS LIMITED!

pring Creek Towers’ residents, do you have an

upcoming special birthday, anniversary, engage-
ment, wedding, birth, special occasion or a death
announcement that you would like to let the community
know about? WINTER 2020
The Spring Creek Sun will be running these announce-
ments in the paper. For more information call Pamela

Index
Stern at 718-240-4554 or email pstern@springcreek
towers.com
5:00PM - 7:00PM

Sun
Page 4 SCT Virtual Holiday
Celebration

Pages 11-14 Year in Review

Page 16 Judokas Learn About

Daily Debates, PS4 Gaming, Teen Talk Live/Podcast, Trivia, Family Feud,
Cooking with Curiosity, Financial Literacy workshops, 1 on 1 Basketball,

Nutrition and Gardening

Anime Club, & more…

Page 21
Sign up via On-line application link

Recipe for Creamy

https://forms.gle/rkdNoBLCVzfp6Aog9 Scan Here
For inquiries contact: Teencentral@springcreektowers.com

Chicken Wild Rice Soup

January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 3

FAQs Around Spring Creek Towers

COVID Rent Relief Program Reopens Q: Where can I get tested for COVID-19?

A: Spring Creek Towers (SCT) has a free COVID-19 testing site on

with Expanded Eligibility
the premises. Testing is operated by the New York City Health
The COVID Rent Relief Program has reopened for application with expanded eligibility criteria in

and Hospitals Corporation at the following address:

an effort to serve New Yorkers who may have not had the opportunity to initially apply and to
serve those who may have been previously ineligible due to the program’s restrictive criteria set
by the Legislature.

Spring Creek Towers

1279 Pennsylvania Ave (The former Management Office)
The application period will remain open through February 1, 2021. Previous

Brooklyn, NY 11239
applicants do not need to reapply to be considered. HCR will re-evaluate all applications that were
denied according to the new criteria and issue revised determination letters to applicants.

The Program’s eligibility has been changed to no longer require households to have been Monday – Sunday, 9am-7pm
considered “rent burdened” prior to the pandemic in order to qualify. Rent burden is defined as
paying more than 30 percent of monthly gross income towards rent.

NYC Free Face Covering Distribution

To qualify for this one-time subsidy, low-income renters impacted by the pandemic must meet all
of the following criteria:
• Must be a renter and have a primary residence in New York State;
• Applicants must have lost income during the period of April 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020;

New York City will continue distributing free face coverings in

• Before March 7, 2020, household income must have been at or below 80 percent of

parks, Department of Education (DOE) Grab & Go meal sites, grocery

the Area Median Income, adjusted for household size; and
stores, and during social distancing enforcement.
• Households must be “rent burdened” during the months they are applying for

Additional distribution
assistance between April 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020.
dates, lo-cations, and times,
For the purposes of assessing applicant income, cash benefits and unemployment benefits are
will be coming soon, visit
both included in the calculation.
https://maps.nyc.gov/ face-
coverings/ for more infor-
The subsidy for eligible applicants will be calculated as: the difference between the household’s

mation. (Please note that the

rent burden on March 1, 2020 and the household’s rent burden during the months of April, May,

face coverings being

June and July of 2020. For applicants who were not considered rent burdened on March 1, 2020,

distributed are washable

the subsidy will be calculated to bring them to the 30 percent rent burden threshold.

The Program’s online application is available in both English and Spanish. And will soon be cloth.)
available in six foreign languages – Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Haitian-Creole, Korean, and All New Yorkers are required
Bengali. We are working with local Not-For-Profit organizations to ensure New Yorkers receive to wear a mask or face
the assistance they need to apply. covering when out in public.
People with disabilities and
seniors who are unable to go
Throughout the application period, residents who need help or have questions about their
out can request face coverings
application can contact HCR’s COVID Rent Relief Program Call Center for assistance at 1-833-
by emailing
499-0318 or covidrentrelief@hcr.ny.gov. Call Center representatives are available Monday-
PPERequest@mopd.nyc.gov
Friday 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Photo by Dean Moses

HCR will also allow applicants who are unable or uncomfortable applying online to do so over the
phone rather than by mail. More information on this assistance and expanded language support
on the hotline will be available on HCR’s website in the coming days.

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Pay Online via ClickPay PAY VIA MONEYGRAM at CVS or CITYFRESH

• Did you know that we offer ClickPay, an online • If you do not have a checking account you may make
payment method, for you to make your rent a payment via MoneyGram.
• The nearest MoneyGram location to SCT is City Fresh
payments? Market. You can check out other locations by going
• Check out ClickPay by going to to:
https://www.moneygram.com/mgo/us/en/locations
www.clickpay.com/SpringCreek. It is FREE if you pay • To make a MoneyGram payment you will need to
from your checking account (ACH). Fees apply if you present the following:
use your credit or debit card. • Acct # from your monthly statement
• Receive Code 16459
• Click register and then create your online profile • Company Name: BSC Owner LLC
• You will be charged a $3.95 payment fee
• Connect your unit by using the account number
found on your monthly statement
• Set up Automatic Payments or click Pay Now to make
one-time payments
• Questions or help please call ClickPay at 800-533-
7901 or www.ClickPay.com/Help
Page 4 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

Celebrating the holidays at Spring Creek Towers

BY AMANDA MOSES

Spring Creek Towers’ youth programs joined to-

gether on December 17th to hold their annual holiday
performance; however, this year it was all showcased
virtually through Zoom.
Dozens of parents, children, instructors, and staff
signed onto the Zoom platform, many dressed in their
favorite holiday clothes, excited to watch the pre-
recorded performances.
Spring Creek Towers’ Youth Development and
Community Outreach Director, Eurydice Robinson
opened the digital holiday extravaganza by thanking
everyone in attendance for their continued love and
support. She credited the staff’s steadfast work for
helping create a cohesive and productive environment Members of Spring Creek Youth Symphony recorded
for the children to learn and grow. themselves playing "Rock Ye Merry Gentlemen."
The Spring Creek Youth Orchestra was the first
group to share videos of their steady progress
throughout the fall programing. With the help of
digital editing, Spring Creek Youth Orchestra’s
conductor, Mark Thrasher stitched together a video of
his students performing “Rock Ye Merry Gentlemen.”
After the orchestra’s stellar opening performance,
the Spring Creek After School Program’s Group
Leader, Ms. Alicia took a moment to explain various
stay-at-home activities students in the Spring Creek
After School Program have completed during their
Fun Zone Fridays.
“Fun Zone Fridays are an opportunity for each
grade level to mix and mingle while participating in
fun and engaging activities,” said one student in their
video showcase.
Crafting doesn’t end with Fun Zone, members of the
Spring Creek After School program also work with
Garden Educator, Jacqui Roytman to explore science Santa came to visit the students virtually from the North Pole.
experiments, along with arts and crafts. Their virtual
class, Seeds to Grow, teaches science through
literature.
“We have been exploring genre, themes, non-fiction,
and plant biology, so that they can learn the im-
portance of gardening and plants in our everyday
lives,” Roytman wrote on her slideshow.
Roytman showed images of the students learning
about seeds from the story, “A seed is sleepy,” and
then together they created 3-D models of a pollinated
flower using construction paper, Play-dough, and Q-
tips.
Following Roytman’s beautiful slideshow, Spring
Creek Teen Central exhibited a short video high-
lighting all of the festive fun the members had during
their virtual sessions. From Christmas themed trivia
games to Anime Club where the children learned how
to say holiday words in Japanese. Teen Central’s staff
also filmed their students having a blast playing
Ballers Express in-person sessions. Spring Creek Teen Central's Anime Club learned Japanese
In between these segments, the Spring Creek Youth holiday words for the festive season.
Orchestra played videos of the students performing
Jingle Bells using violins and one student played the
bells.
The Starrett Judo Club online was next to show off
their holiday spirit, who filmed their rigorous training
sessions. Dressed in their Judo Gi, the students
began their virtual class with swooping kicks and
powerful punches.
After that display of vibrant energy, the Spring
Creek Youth Orchestra’s instructors ended the event
with a rendition of “Santa Claus is coming to town.”
As a final treat for all of the families, Santa paid a
special visit from the North Pole to the virtual
extravaganza thanking the staff and even had custo-
mized messages for all of the children in attendance.
Spring Creek After School students learned all about
Screenshots by Amanda Moses seeds and how they are pollinated through literature
and creating a 3-D flower model with Garden Educator
Jacqui Roytman.
January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 5

Sale Implants $699

Page 6 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

OFFICE LOCATED AT 1390 PENNSYLVANIA

718-642-7000 AVENUE, 2ND FLOOR

s h a ve
o u r
RECERTIFICATION DEPARTMENT * RESIDENT PHOTO ID'S TAKEN

m e n t h
MONDAY 9 am - 4:pm

e to
THURSDAY 9 am - 11:30 am 2:15 pm - 4 pm

n a g u e
TUESDAY 9 am - 4 pm

a d
FRIDAY 9 am - 12 pm

SCT M suspended
WEDNESDAY 9 am - 7:20 pm
THURSDAY CLOSED

r
GARAGES*

n r t h e
FRIDAY CLOSED

e
MONDAY 9 am - 12 pm 1 pm - 4 pm

be F o r fu 0
TUESDAY 9 am - 12 pm 1 pm - 4 pm

-1 9 . -7 0 0
HUD FORMS SIGNED WEDNESDAY 11 am - 12 pm 1 pm - 7 pm

COVID 8 -6 4 2
MONDAY 9 am - 4 pm THURSDAY 10 am - 12 pm 1 pm - 4 pm

l l 7 1
FRIDAY 9 am - 12 pm

a
TUESDAY 9 am - 4 pm

i o n c
WEDNESDAY 9 am - 7:20 pm

m a t 6 4 6
BILLING

r -4
THURSDAY 9 am - 4 pm

inf o -2 4 0
FRIDAY 9 am - 4 pm MONDAY 9 am - 1 pm 2 pm - 4 pm

or 7 1 8
TUESDAY CLOSED
PROPERTY MANANGEMENT WEDNESDAY 11 am - 1 pm 2 pm - 4 pm
THURSDAY 9 am - 1 pm 2 pm - 4 pm
MONDAY 9 am - 4:30 pm
FRIDAY 9 am - 12 pm
TUESDAY 9 am - 4:30 pm
WEDNESDAY 9 am - 7 pm For all maintenance concerns, please call 718-240-4646
THURSDAY 9 am - 12 pm Monday - Friday (8:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
FRIDAY 9 am - 12 pm
* Appointments for Recertification/Billing/Garages can
COLLECTIONS be made at www.springcreektowers.com
or call 718-240-4682
MONDAY 9 am - 1 pm 2 pm - 4 pm
TUESDAY 9 am - 1 pm 2 pm - 4 pm PUBLIC SAFETY–718-642-7550
WEDNESDAY 11 am - 1 pm 2 pm - 7 pm
For Project Based Section 8 tenants only:
THURSDAY CLOSED
If you have concerns that cannot be addressed by
FRIDAY 9 am - 12 pm
your onsite manager, please contact:
CGI Contact Center
LOCKSMITH
866-641-7901 (toll free)
MONDAY - FRIDAY 4 pm - 4:30 pm 800-662-1220 (TTY Service)
155 Elmira Loop info@pbcany.com
Spring Creek ID required
If you have cable service, the Lobby Channel
[building security camera] is now 591

Laundry Room Renovations

S PRING CREEK SUN

1540 Van Siclen Avenue • Brooklyn • NY 11239-2429
Tel 718-642-2718 • Fax 718-642-7301

AMANDA MOSES ALEX SMITH, JR DEVORAH L. FONG

PAMELA STERN
Editor-in-Chief Copy Editor/Reporter
n DEADLINES: All material for publication must be
submitted no later than Friday, 3 p.m. the week prior to
publication, except with prior consent of the editor. All
items must be doubled spaced and the name and
telephone number of the writer must be included.
l Annual Subscription Rates: $60.00
n All Rights Reserved: Material in this newspaper,
including all copy advertising and artwork is the property
of the SPRING CREEK SUN and may not be
reproduced, in whole or part, without written permission
of the publisher. The SPRING CREEK SUN is not
responsible for any unsolicited items and cannot
Graphic Publisher
Designer
Upgrades to the laundry rooms are underway and will continue until
September 2021. The upgrades consist of the installation of new
guarantee the return of any photographs or machines, new seating, laundry carts, freshly painted rooms, and a new
manuscripts.
The views expressed in columns, articles, letters
digital pay option. Upon completion of the new laundry room each unit
to the editor and op-ed pieces do not necessarily in the building will be issued a complimentary new laundry card with $5
reflect the newspaper’s point of view.
We reserve the right to edit, or omit any advertising
on it.
and/or subject matter without reason. All material
published is subject to publisher’s approval.
Existing old card balances may be transferred to your new card by
The use of the Spring Creek Towers (Starrett City)
name, which may appear from time to time in our calling 844-272-9675.
newspaper ads, does not constitute an endorsement of
the merchant, or his or her product.
January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 7

Spring Creek Towers Activities
Community Organizations
Starrett City Tenants
Association
The next SCTA meeting is to be
determined. If you are a SCT
Spring Creek Senior Par tners News
Although the Spring Creek Senior Partners office is currently
Teen Central closed for the safety of the staff and residents because of the
Coronavirus (COVID-19), seniors are encouraged to call 718-348-
Open to Spring Creek Towers
residents only, ages 12 to 18, 7620 if they have any concerns, or problems the staff is able to
assist you.
Monday through Friday from 3 pm
Spring Creek Senior Partners will be having three virtual

c t
to 9 p.m. in the lower level of the

a
resident who has any questions or

t
workshops online which you may take part in via the ZOOM

n
Brooklyn Sports Club. No member-

o
comments, please call and leave a

c
application that you will need to download from your smart phone,

e
ship fees. For more information

s
message with your name and iPad, tablet or computer (This is necessary for participation in the

Pl e a
phone number at 718-642-3892. contact Ms. Mosley at 718-642- workshop.)

a l
7168.

u
Your call will be returned. Join your The three virtual workshops are: Age Perfect with Pilates, which

i v i d
tenants asso-ciation, “In Unity will run on Wednesdays from 10am to 11am, and Stronger Longer,

d
Islamic Circle

i n
There Is Strength.” which will also run on Wednesdays from 11am to 12 noon, and

the
Islamic Educational Dawah Pro-

r
Health & Nutrition, which will take place on Fridays from 3pm to

f o
AA and NA gram is held weekly at Spring Creek

n
4pm. These workshops allow the participants to watch the

i o
Towers and Canarsie Islamic Cen-

a t
St. Laurence Roman Catholic workshops from their electronic devices in the comfort of their

i z
ter on weekends. Call Syed Ahmad

organ her
Church, Flatlands and Van Siclen
Avenues, host Alcoholics and Nar-
cotics Anonymous meetings. The
home. For more information about these workshops call 718-348-
347-529-1662 for more information
7620.
and free literature on the Islamic
religion.

fu r t
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings
are Fridays at 8 pm and Narcotics Boxing Club

.
Anonymous meetings are on

n
The Starrett Boxing Club is open to

t i o
Thursdays at 7:30 pm

a
males and females, 8 and up. Ses-

o r m
sions are open Monday-Friday

inf
Spring Creek Youth Federation
Located at 1430 Freeport Loop, Apt.
1A, the office hours are Monday,
Wednesday, & Friday from 6 - 8:30
pm and on Saturday 10 am to 1 pm
For information, call 718-642-
1663.
Starrett City-Spring Creek Lions
Club, Inc.
This volunteer community based
organization meets the 1st and 3rd
Tuesdays of the month @ 7 pm,
Brooklyn Sports Club (1540 Van
Siclen Avenue, Lower Level). If you
are community minded, willing to
help others – join us, feel free to
visit our meetings. For more
information contact Evetter Pilgrim
at 718-642-1820
8am-9pm; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2
pm; closed Sunday. The Boxing
Club is now located in the
Brooklyn Sports Club. For more
information, ask reception for the
boxing club or contact 347-661-
6911, 917-686-1670, or 917-723-
0544.
Sisters with Purpose
Join the conversation. A support/
ministry group created by women
living in Spring Creek Towers. Non-
judgmental and non-demonina-
tional based. Meets every Thurs-
day evening @ 7 p.m. For more
information: Susie Williams 646-
460-4101.

Free Online Tech Support

Spring Creek Towers Community Center
&

FOOD PANTRY Online Support can be offered in the Following Areas

Brooklyn Sports Club
1540 Van Siclen Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11239
- ZOOM PLATFORM
- GOOGLE MEETS
To be distributed OUTSIDE the Community Center - MICROSOFT TEAM
Lower Level on the following dates & times:
FRESH - GOOGLE SUITE
- GOOGLE CLASSROOM
P
- TECHNICAL ISSUES
January 30th 9AM-10AM - EMAIL
- MICROSOFT WORD, EXCEL, POWERPOINT
- OTHERS AS NEEDED
DUE TO THE CURRENT GUIDELINES ISSUED BY
THE CDC AND LOCAL HEALTH OFFICIALS OUR
PANTRY OPERATION WILL CHANGE. WE WILL
DISTRIBUTE PRE-PACKED PANTRY BAGS.

UPON ARRIVAL PUBLIC SAFETY WILL GIVE

EACH PARTICIPANT A TICKET NUMBER. ONCE
YOUR TICKET NUMBER IS CALLED YOU WILL BE
HANDED YOUR PANTRY BAG.

CANNED Please be advised there is no entry into the facility. For Online support will be available using the Zoom Platform
more info & special inquiries:
G Mondays – 10a – 3:30pm , Tuesday – Friday – 1:30pm – 7pm
Please register for a 30 minute time slot
www.sisterswithpurpose.net
by using the link or QR Code below:

https://forms.gle/YP3Kexnp1escXDrQ6 -
@sisterswithpurposeinc

@sisterswithpurposeinc

@siswithpurpose For additional Info please reach out to Jatava Sevorwell

DRY GOODS
718.348.7763 or jatava@igotitotoo.org
_____________________________________________________________________
646.460.4101
Page 8 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

Education Matters
PS 346’s Spirit Week Celebration
BY: PAMELA STERN

Abe Stark Primary School (PS) 346 celebrated Spirit Week from
December 14th-18th. Each day had a different focus ranging from
illustrations of holiday decorations to Ugly Sweater/Holiday Shirt Day,
Holiday Hat/Headwear Day, Polar Express/Pajamas Day and finishing
off the week with a Gingerbread House Contest.
Each theme was held in conjunction with entertaining activities for
children in the pre-k program up to fifth grade students. In addition,
the Gingerbread House Contest proved to be so much fun that it was
held throughout the entire month of December. (Some families
purchased gingerbread kits, and others used household items to make
DIY houses.)
Parents photographed their children playing in the snow; a creating
holiday decorations while dressed in “ugly” festive sweaters and shirts,
holiday headwear, and Polar Express pajamas. Some children posed in
front of their Christmas Tree and stockings, while others showed off
their projects by their Menorah or Kinara.
Holiday photographs and videos were share with teachers and were
incorporated into a wonderful video by Ms. Karleen Baumann
showcasing the week’s events.
This student showed off her creativity in her design of her
Gingerbread House.
Screenshots by Pamela Stern

This Gingerbread
House was created
for the Gingerbread
House Contest.

Kevin Bailey Kevin

posed by his
Christmas tree.

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January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 9

DO MORE
FOR YOURSELF
THIS YEAR.
Between everything you do for everyone
else, make this the year you do more for
you. Let’s work together on a plan that
gets you closer to your ideal career.

Wide variety of associate and

bachelor’s degree programs
Multiple locations throughout
the metro area
More exibility through
convenient class times
Personalized one-on-one
advising

JOIN US! Visit NYSCAS.Touro.edu | 718.642.6562 x31102

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Other sites in Brooklyn:
Neptune Ave, Kings Highway, Flatbush | 718.885.8501
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Style
Page 10 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

design styles, they are “the new

neutral.” For those on-the-go, athle-
tic shoes such as the Nike Swift 2
and the Nike Court Vision are selec-
tions that offer a touch of silver,
gold, or platinum detailing.
Joyful Pastels and Playful Pat-
terns: This season’s footwear fea-
Make a Statement: tures a palette of cotton candy-

Three Comfortable
inspired shades (think lavender,
mint green, and bubblegum pink).
Yet Stylish Shoe The possibilities to incorporate
these colors into this season’s
Trends to Try in outfits are limitless. While you may

2021
(StatePoint) While comfort will
continue to reign supreme for
clothing and accessories in 2021,
when it comes to footwear, there are
a variety of fun fashion trends that
make a statement. The good news
is that there’s no need to overhaul
your entire closet. And it’s easier
than ever to incorporate on-trend
pieces into a comfortable and
casual outfit.
According to Alyson Stanley, buy-
er for national retailer Rack Room
Shoes, simple clothing choices
paired with shoes featuring leopard
print detailing, pops of pastel, or
silver accents make getting dressed
easy and fun. Whether walking
around the neighborhood, enjoying
a socially-distanced event, or
Try on-trend looks like the Nike Court Vision in metallic accents and fun
colors.
leading a Zoom meeting, here are
some tips on how to stay cozy and
on-trend this year.
Animal Prints: In the past, mixing
patterns was taboo, but according
to Stanley, it’s now encouraged.
Sneakers, clogs, and casual shoes
with animal print accents serve as a
neutral accessory that can be
mixed and paired with any item in
the closet. Nike’s Court Vision Low
Sneaker puts a fun twist on
cheetah print accents, while the
Adidas Puremotion Adapt is a
stylish slip-on sneaker with a
crisscross leopard print pattern.
Metallic Accents: Athletic shoes
featuring a hint of shine or
iridescent details provide a versatile
option for those getting their steps
in or committing to fitness goals.
Because metallics such as rose
gold, silver, and gold can mesh with
a broad range of color palettes and
know Crocs’ classic clogs are sur-
prisingly comfortable and func-
tional, you may not be aware that
they now come in many pastel-
colored options such as mint, lilac,
and a pattern featuring a baby blue
shade swirled with cloud forms.
For all your family’s footwear
needs, visit rackroomshoes.com for
online shopping or curbside pickup
options.
“Though many of us are still
spending the majority of the day
working, exercising, and taking
classes online from home, clothing
and accessories still afford us the
opportunity to express our unique
style,” says Stanley. “The patterns
and color trends for shoes in 2021
can bring joy to everyday outfits for
the entire family.”

Couch Theater/
and optimistic single mother (Scarlett Johansson) with a secret. Its
discovery leads Jojo to reflect on his own nationalistic beliefs and racism
while the makeshift family confronts the final days of World War II.

Movies Coming Soon To DVD and Blu Ray
BY AMY ANDERSON
Many jokes have been made at the year 2020’s expense. We could all
have done without the fear and anxiety of a global pandemic that’s still all
too real today but being homebound has had some benefits. Maybe you
learned to bake bread or tend a potted garden, mastered homeschooling or
finally fixed that leaky toilet. It wasn’t all bad. Here are five films that were
released for home viewing in 2020 that prove my point.
“Parasite” (R) South Korea’s sleeper hit is a black comedy that effortlessly
tackles social aspirations and class conflict. The Kim family lives in a
squalid basement of a basement, with no prospects and no resources. Son
Ki-woo fakes some credentials and takes a job as a tutor to the daughter
of the filthy rich Park family, living the good life by association. Getting
there was only part of the battle, though. The ends inevitably begin to
unravel, with macabre consequences. Written and directed by acclaimed
director Bong Joon Ho.
“Just Mercy” (PG-13) Michael B. Jordan plays a young, morally ambitious
Harvard law graduate who goes to Alabama to seek justice on behalf of
poverty- and racism-stricken death row inmates. He starts with Walter
McMillian (Jamie Foxx), wrongfully convicted of murder and overcome by
hopelessness. It’s uplifting and tugs at your heartstrings, plus it’s filled
with top-notch actors and is based on a true story.

“Jumanji: The Next Level” (PG-13) Spencer Gilpin, home on a college

break, jumps right back into Jumanji — forcing his gang (Bethany, Fridge
and Martha) to follow suit. For good measure, Spencer’s grandpa Eddie
(Danny DeVito) and Eddie’s estranged business partner Milo (Danny
Glover) are sucked into the game, too. With mixed-up avatars and some
fun new additions (Awkwafina joins as a new avatar, Ming Fleetfoot), this
fantasy comedy delivers a racing pace, some rollicking good laughs and a
surprisingly sweet ending.
“Jojo Rabbit” (PG-13) Young Jojo is a Hitler Youth believer. He believes so
hard that Adolf Hitler is his imaginary friend (played hilariously by Taika
Waititi, who also writes and directs), the one who gives him a bucking up
when the boys at camp come down on him. He has a perennially positive
“1917” (R) A riveting first-person war story by celebrated director Sam
Mendes, “1917” centers around two British lance corporals, Blake (Dean-
Charles Chapman) and Schofield (George MacKay), who are sent across
enemy territory to stop a division of British soldiers from advancing into a
deadly German ambush. In the thick of war, through the dead of night and
with almost no time in which to complete this impossible feat, the two
soldiers set out with singular, unwavering focus.
(c) 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.
January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 11

Zfb s Jo
Sfwjfx
SPRING CREEK SUN 3131 SPRING CREEK SUN
SPRING CREEK SUN
Eid al-Adha

Happy
Vol. 48, No.15 Serving The Spring Creek Community Since 1974 July 24, 2020

Vol. 48, No.18 Serving The Spring Creek Community Since 1974 September 4, 2020

Ways to Beat the Quarantine Blues

Vol. 48, No.17 Serving The Spring Creek Community Since 1974 August 21, 2020

LaborDay

See the Centerfold for the Spring Creek After School Program's Virtual Performance

See the Centerfold for a List of Back to School Supply Tips

See the Centerfold for Fun Activities to Do at Home During the Pandemic

SPRING CREEK SUN

SPRING CREEK SUN

B
Vol. 48, No.24 Serving The Spring Creek Community Since 1974 Novembefr 27, 2020

SPRING CREEK SUN Happy

Happy
Vol. 48, No.25 Serving The Spring Creek Community Since 1974 December 11, 2020

Thanksgiving
reast
Vol. 48, No.21 Serving The Spring Creek Community Since 1974 October 16, 2020

October Is Holidays
CANCER
Awareness Month

See the Centerfold for Starrett Judo Club’s Online Voyage

See Centerfold for Spring Creek Youth Symphony’s Virtual Classes

See the Centerfold for Fashion Staples Honoring National Hispanic Heritage Month
Page 12 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

In Memory of Tyrick Rakim Smith-Carter

kvmz Tyrick Rakim Smith-Carter was born on September 3, 1992 at Mount Sinai
Hospital in New York City. Tyrick departed this life on June 23, 2020. He entered the public-school
system after moving to Brooklyn, New York where he attended IS 364, after graduating Tyrick attended
Clara Barton High School where he received his High School Diploma. Tyrick was determined and
motivated to continue his education, so he enrolled in Kingsborough Community College where he
received his Associate in Arts Degree. Tyrick was enthusiastic, driven and on a mission, so he took his
education even further, he enrolled in John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where he received his
Bachelor of Science Degree and a Master of Public Administration. Tyrick was the first one in the family
to graduate from college, he also attended the NYS Chaplin Task Force, State of NY, where he received
the Ministerial Title of Chaplin. Photo courtesy of Starrett Judo Club

Spring Creek Youth BY: PAMELA STERN

The Starrett City Judo Club students and
Coach Parnel Legros (Center) adored
Symphony Ends The Sensei Tyrick Rakim Smith-Carter (left).
Year On A High Note Youth Symphony
The Spring Creek

(SCYS) and the Abe Stark Primary School (PS) 346’s

Enter the TC Zone
Online!
in school band culminated the school year with a
virtual End of the Year Performance on Wednesday,
June 24th via ZOOM. Orchestra lessons were offered
virtually when NYC schools switched to distance
learning because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Spring Creek March opened up the End of
Screenshot by Amanda Moses
the Year performance.
BY: AMANDA MOSES
Starrett Early Learning Center’s Virtual Stepping Up Ceremony
BY: AMANDA MOSES Spring Creek Towers’ (SCT) Teen
Central (TC) has always been a safe
“Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” is and educational social hub for
not only a beautiful book written middle schoolers and high school
by Dr. Seuss, but it’s wise prose students in the community. With the help of Spring Creek Towers
is the perfect salute to the Throughout the year, the teens were Teen Central's (TC) coaching, Elias
graduates of 2020. This has been able to unwind after school within was able to host his very first
a tumultuous school year for the TC office in the lower level of the journalistic interview.
students, teachers, parents, and Brooklyn Sports Club (BSC) to play
educational administrators. They games, learn arts and crafts, and participate in sports. In March, everyone’s
The third and fourth graders
worked tirelessly to prepare criti- world was turned upside down when the city was put on pause due to the
discovered cool fads while
cal thinking lessons both in researching the 1980s. COVID-19 pandemic. Schools, gyms, and many other locations were closed
person at the beginning of school as individuals were asked to shelter-in-place. For children and teens, it was
year and virtually at the end of it. Screenshot by: Amanda Moses almost like being in the Twilight Zone.

bvhvtu After School Media Club: “See What We Can Do!” FDA VIII Celebrates the
Class of 2020
BY AMANDA MOSES
Judokas Sizzling
Summer Lessons Spring Creek Towers’ (SCT)
youth programs offer a wide
array of educational opportu-
nities for children in elemen-
tary school, middle school, and
high school. On June 24th,
each of these programs were
able to virtually exhibit their
achievements throughout the The Spring Creek After School
school year during their End of Media Club created a cool music
video for their End of Year Virtual
Year Performance.
Performance.
Screenshot by Amanda Moses
Jermaine Marmolejos
was happy about his
Activities to Help Beat the Quarantine Blues graduation from FDA VIII
and its shows in his
BY AMANDA MOSES smile.

The COVID-19 pandemic has The administration of FDA VIII

Coaching Virtually Sensei
Parnel Legros is ready for his
summer Judo Lessons.
BY PAMELA STERN
The Starrett Judo Club
students are virtually
practicing and strengthening
their Judo moves this summer.
Additionally, they are having
lessons about nutrition and
how to prepare simple meals
with their parents. Virtual
Judo Summer Sessions are
held on Zoom (a video/audio
platform) three times a week
for two hours each day.
Screenshot by Pamela Stern
put a huge pause on life in New celebrated their graduating stu-
York City for over six months. Our dents with a Drive In Gradua-
daily routines and social activities tion on June 19th and a virtual
have been halted, and we were graduation on June 22nd.
catapulted into a “new normal,” Highlights of the virtual cere-
including social distancing from mony included: Kiesha Kemp’s
family and friends while also recitation of the FDA VIII’s
working remotely. Scholar’s Creed, Paris Monder-
Many have lost their jobs, with an unemployment rate hitting 20.4% son, a member of the class of
(about 1,472,600 people in June), according to the New York 2020 showcased her beautiful
Department of Labor. The constant fear for safety and the inability to voice by singing “Lift Every
socialize like before has been hovering over many. Although Governor
Voice,” Assistant Principal Ms.
Andrew Cuomo implemented various phases to help us regain a
Green shard her thoughts and
semblance of normalcy, our individual emotional states are a lot harder
welcomed everyone attending
to repair. Experts have found that the pandemic has exacerbated
mental illness issues and developed cases of uneasiness and depression the virtual graduation.
across the United States. Photo courtesy of Karin
Screenshot by Amanda Moses Montage
January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 13

tfqufncfs The Brooklyn Sports Club Re-opens

Spring Creek Towers’
2020 Scholarship
Program Winners
BY: PAMELA STERN
This year’s high school seniors had a
very different experience in the last
four months of the school term.
Schools closed and remote learning
became the norm because of the pan-
demic. The senior year activities were
cancelled. Although some high schools
held virtual proms and virtual gradua-
tions online, it just wasn’t the same.
On September 2nd, the Brooklyn
Sports Club (BSC) reopened its doors to
new and returning members at only
33% capacity throughout the facility.
The grand reopening was a site for sore
eyes for BSC staff and avid health buffs
who missed their daily exercise
routines in the fitness center. In the
morning, a line began to trickle along
the entranceway of the BSC, where
visitors waited six-feet-apart to go
through the mandatory health check
and to complete a membership
acknowledgement form.
Photo by: Brooklyn Sports Club

Virtually Celebrating International Literacy

BY AMANDA MOSES

September 8th marked the 54th anniversary of International Literacy Day, which was founded in 1966 by the United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to remind society of the importance of being able to read.
At Spring Creek Towers’, this event is usually ushered in with the first days of school when the Brooklyn Reading Council sets up tables
covered in hundreds of books for all to take home, free of charge.

Spring Creek Senior Partners Hosts Mask and

pdupcfs Farmer’s Market Voucher Distribution
BY AMANDA MOSES

On September 30th, Spring Creek Senior Partners (SCSP) hosted a mask and Farmer’s Market Voucher distribution outside of their office at
160 Schroeders Ave. Both the coupons and masks were donated by the Department for the Aging (DFTA).

COVID-19 Testing Site at SCT Department of Public

Spring Creek Towers!
BY AMANDA MOSES
Earlier this month, a COVID-19 testing site
has opened in Spring Creek Towers to help
protect your health, family, and community.
Testing and tracking is a necessary part in
responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, and
this resource is free and is operated by the New
York City Health and Hospitals Corporation.
This valuable resource was supported with the
help of Twin Pines Management and Starrett
City Tenants Association.
Safety Welcomes New Youth
Officer Charles Royster
BY AMANDA MOSES
During these tumultuous times, it is pivotal
that community relationships and trust are
strengthened between all facets of policing.
One of the many roles of the Spring Creek
Towers (SCT) Department of Public Safety
(DPS) is to enhance the quality of life and
provide security for residents. With this in
mind, DPS hired a new Youth Officer, Mr.
Charles Royster, to establish a strong bond
between adolescents in the community and
local officers. Department of Public Safety
Youth Officer Charles Royster
Photo courtesy of: Office Charles Royster

FDA VIII Distributes Chromebooks to Students

BY: AMANDA MOSES

On October 1st and 2nd, Frederick Douglass Academy (FDA) VIII hosted On October 1st and 2nd,
a Chromebook giveaway for Blended Learning and Remote students within Frederick Douglass
the school’s playground. Academy VIII distributed
With the help from the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools (VILS) over 215 Chromebooks to
program, FDA VIII received a grant and was able to distribute 215 students with the help of a
Chromebooks. FDA VIII’s staff shared their excitement with the Spring grant from the Verizon
Creek Sun, stating that they are appreciative for the grant and to be Innovative Learning
working with the Verizon Company. Schools (VILS) program
Photo courtesy of: FDA VIII
Page 14 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

Fall into Virtual Fun with the Spring Creek After School Program
BY:AMANDA MOSES The Spring Creek
After School
The Spring Creek After School program began virtual sessions via ZOOM on October 16th Program offers an
for kindergarteners to fifth graders from 3:30 pm to 6 pm. This fall, many students are hour of homework
getting accustomed to the “new normal” of remote learning, whether that is through fully for their students.
digital lessons or blended classes. In anticipation of this difficult transition, the Spring Creek Jeremiah received
After School Program has created an experience that further instills the lessons from the assistance from
school day as well as providing homework help, STEAM based activities, gardening sessions, Ms. LaShonda on
chess club, sports and fitness, and more. Screenshot by: Amanda Moses how he should
structure his
description of a
rainforest.

oPWFNCFS SCT Residents Celebrate at the Pumpkin Patch

BY: PAMELA STERN
The Starrett City Tenant Association’s (SCTA) Annual Fall Festival was scaled back The Starrett City
this year due to the pandemic. However, the SCTA still provided a fall celebration for Tenant Association
children between the ages of two years to eleven with a community pumpkin patch on (SCTA) hosted a
October 31st. All of the children who participated were accompanied by their parents fun, socially distant,
or guardians and everyone had facemasks or face coverings on. This socially distant pumpkin patch for
festivity invited children to enter the pumpkin patch set up on the basketball courts children in the
on Van Siclen and Schroeders Avenues. Children selected the pumpkin of their choice community.
to take home. Photo by: DPS

Lights on After School’s First-
Ever Virtual Extravaganza
BY: AMANDA MOSES
Two decades ago, the nationwide campaign, “Lights On,”
was created by the Afterschool Alliance Network, a
nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that all
children have access to quality, affordable afterschool
programs. Now, more than ever, after school programs are
in danger of being halted and closed outright due to the
COVID-19 pandemic. To combat this, efforts are being
made to continue the programming virtually, allowing
families to remotely participate in STEAM-based learning
activities. Even virtually, these endeavors help to highlight
the important role that afterschool programs play in the
lives of children, families, and the community.
Spring Creek Teen Central Launches Anime Club
BY: AMANDA MOSES
Spring Creek Teen Central (TC) is a versatile hub for the Spring
Creek Towers’ 12 to 18-year-olds to socialize, receive homework
help, and express their creativity. Since the pandemic began in
March, the program has run virtually, providing the
opportunities participate in daily debates, PS4 gaming, teen talk
live/podcasting, trivia, and more. The virtual
During one Anime Club session, component also paved way for the creation of
Julien Level filmed a speed paint an Anime Club, where teens can share their
video of his drawing and coloring love for Manga and Anime cartoons and
of the character Giorno from comic books (Anime is a televised/film
JoJos Bizarre Adventure and version of a Manga comic).
members were able to share their Screenshot by: Amanda Moses
feedback.

Walking For A Cure Starrett Judo BY: AMANDA MOSES AND

Club’s Virtual
PAMELA STERN

BY: PAMELA STERN
Abe Stark Primary School’s (PS) 346 wanted to continue
their annual acknowledgment of Breast Cancer Awareness
month, where students, staff and the members of the PTA
participated in a walk to show their support. This year the
walk was different because of Covid-19, not all students are
in the school building on the same days and some students
are distance learners.
Adventures
In March, the
pandemic halted
everyone’s lives. While New York was on pause and
schools shifted to distance learning, Eurydice Judoka, Christopher,
Robinson, the Director of Youth Development & practices his stretches
Community Outreach, found a way to proceed with virtually with Sensei
all afterschool programming continuing virtually Legros.
through Zoom. Starrett Judo Club’s dedicated
judokas (the word for Judo students) are training at home and maintaining
physical activity during a global pandemic under the direction of Sensei,
Parnel Legros. Screenshot by: Pamela Stern

efdfncfs Teen Central is Cooking with Curiosity

Spring Creek Youth

BY AMANDA MOSES

Symphony Prepares for

Cooking takes patience and the ability to use
all of your senses.
Winter Virtual Showcase Garden Educator,
Jacqui Roytman
By AMANDA MOSES developed “Cooking
with Curiosity” for
The Spring Creek Youth Symphony is members of Spring
kicking off the Annual Spring Creek Creek Teen Central
Winter Showcase via Zoom. This year, all Spring Creek Youth Symphony (SCYS) to help them learn
of Spring Creek’s Youth Programs will be instructor, Harry Hassell, and Director, Mark the fundamentals of
participating in a joyful extravaganza Thrasher go over the fundamentals of cooking. She will be
showcasing music, art, and various saxophone music with Fabrice Blanc. instructing them on
activities from this current school year. applying critical Carrots are a versatile
Since the fall, Spring Creek Youth Symphony instructors have hosted individual and thinking and vegetable to cook with.
combined sessions with students through Zoom. On Thursdays, the classes meet virtually analytical skills
to discuss musical theory and then break off into separate virtual rooms, focusing on their when preparing food, which she believes will
specific instrument, whether that is mastering the trumpet, studying the intricate violin help them become better cooks.
melodies, high and low saxophone pitches, or the fast percussion rhythms. Everyone has
a chance to practice and perfect their music. Screenshots by Amanda Moses
Game Play
January 29, 2021
Hitman 3
Review
BY DEAN MOSES
Game: Hitman 3
Platforms: PlayStation 4,
PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch,
Xbox One, Xbox Series X and
Series S, Microsoft Windows
Rating: M for Mature
Cost: $49.99
The Hitman series has now made
its debut for the latest generation of
consoles. While Agent 47’s latest
outing may feel like more of an
expansion pack than a full
standalone game, the experience is
nevertheless an enjoyable one. In
fact, the storyline can be completed
in less than a handful of hours.
New Hit, same man
Hitman 3 follows directly from the
previous outing, meaning that if
you are unfamiliar with the plot
Tech
Talk
How Your Family
Can Adopt
Healthier Digital
Habits in 2021
(StatePoint) As we head into
2021, adults and kids alike may
still be enjoying the excitement of
digital devices received as gifts over
the holidays. However, the new year
is always a great time for a reset, so
alongside those new devices,
consider adopting some new digital
habits.
Here are some great ideas for
helping your family build healthier
relationships with their digital
devices:
• Get healthy: Not all screen time is
wasted time. You can use your
SPRING CREEK SUN
that has been transpiring for a
number of years now, you will find
yourself lost in an ever-expanding
narrative. Still, even if the tales of
betrayal and intrigue find you
scratching your head there is still
plenty to enjoy here regardless of
plotlines. Visiting lavish locations
from all around the world where the
player must assassinate evil crime
lords will be the story that many of
us need.
A Shapeshifter
Hitman 3 can be played in a
variety of ways. The main objective
is to kill one or more individuals
within a sprawling level. How you
achieve this is up to you. You can
run in like an action hero, blasting
everyone and everything in sight, or
you could knock a security guard
unconscious, take his outfit and
shapeshift your way to the target.
This freedom of play is not only
allowed, but also encouraged.
Seeing as the game only provides
players with a handful of levels, you
must replay, replay, and then
device in positive, productive ways
that help your family work toward
improved physical health. For
example, a steps counter might
encourage your family to move
more or even take up running,
while a yoga app can help guide
your family through quick routines
you can practice from the comfort of
home.
• Get smart: Likewise, the members
of your family can use their devices
to exercise their minds. Encourage
replay again in order to unlock new
weapons, outfits, and starting
locations. This is not necessarily a
bad thing—until you come across a
level you dislike, then it can feel like
a chore.
The flip side to this is that Hitman
3 also serves as a base game from
where you can purchase the last
two iterations. While this gives you
even more maps to enjoy, it will also
burn a much larger hole in your
pocket. Almost like you have to buy
more to enjoy a more fuller game.
4k Gaming
Hitman 3 runs at a native 4K on
PS5 and Xbox Series X. While the
everyone to let their smartphones
and tablets double function as e-
readers, and to download apps that
teach new skills and build
knowledge. You can even try setting
a goal as a family, such as learning
a new language using the same
app.
• Schedule digital downtime: Too
much screen time is associated
with poor quality sleep, increased
anxiety and a range of other
physical and mental health con-
Page 15
game does not show off the full
power of the latest consoles, the
environments and lighting effects
truly shine here. The fading sunset,
dimly burning light bulbs, and neon
lights are all beautifully rendered.
The character models—while still
impressive—fall more on the side of
the previous generation. Still,
graphically the game is competent.
Conclusion
Hitman 3 suffers from a shortage
of levels to enjoy. However, it makes
up for that in a boatload of replay
ability and pure entertainment.
cerns, so be sure each day includes
digital downtime. This is especially
important if your family is working
and learning from home right now.
Make the most of these screen-free
blocks by engaging in active play,
moving, getting fresh air or
spending quality time together.
• Get assistance: Making sure every
member of the family is using their
device only in safe and healthy
ways is easier said than done,
however, a parental guidance app
can help. Using OurPact for ex-
ample, the most comprehensive
parental control app, you can re-
motely establish automated
schedules for when internet, apps
and the device itself are unavail-
able. Features include URL white-
listing and blacklisting, daily screen
time allowances and iMessage/SMS
blocking, helping ensure device
usage passes your approval.
Available at the iOS App Store and
Google Play Store, parents can also
sign up for an account at www.
ourpact.com.
For better overall health and
wellness, make 2021 the year your
family adopts great digital habits.
PHOTO SOURCE: (c) nd3000 /
iStock via Getty Images Plus
Page 16
Judo Students Learn About Gardening and Nutrition
BY: AMANDA MOSES
Garden Educator, Jacqui
Roytman and Judo Coach,
Parnel Legros are teaming up
to provide nutritional lessons
to judokas (judo students)
and their families.  Plants need light and
Every Tuesday from 4 pm
to 5 pm, Roytman joins the
Starrett Judo Club online to
provide an in-depth view of
planting and growing food in
order to support healthy
lifestyles.
In Roytman’s first class
with the judokas, she focus- Coach Jetaun Washington and her son, Kevin,
ed on teaching the students created a "seed viewer."
how to preserve fresh fruits and
vegetables. She high-lighted the
benefits of fer-mented foods, to
improve digestive health; probiotic
bacteria are loaded with enzymes
that help the in-testines. It also can
boost the immune system because
fermented food is high in vitamin C,
iron, and zinc.
Roytman provided the class with
a materials list for pickling cucum-
bers:
•Liquid measuring cup
•Measuring spoons knife
•Cutting board
•2 cucumbers (small cucumbers
that have edible skin)
•1 cup of water
•1/3 cup Apple Cider Vinegar or
regular vinegar (except balsamic)
•2-3 tablespoons of honey
Dear EarthTalk: Given the
economic slowdown around the
world due to the coronavirus in
2020, was there a positive
impact on climate change?
-- M. Stiles, Meriden, CT
The coronavirus pandemic has
certainly led to a decrease in
industrial activity and resulting
greenhouse gas emissions during
its reign over the planet in 2020. A
recent study by German research-
ers calculated that global carbon
dioxide emissions fell by about
eight percent over the past year.
While this is no doubt a good result
from an otherwise bad situation,
the researchers warn it represents
nothing but a small drop in the
bucket compared to what we still
need to accomplish—even bigger
annual emissions drops every year
for decades to come—to avert
cataclysmic climate change.
According to study co-author
Ralf Sussmann, we would need to
achieve zero emissions around the
world by 2055 to limit global
warming at 1.5ºC. The declining
rate of greenhouse gas emissions
during the global pandemic would
SPRING CREEK SUN
•1 teaspoon of Celtic Salt or kosher
- Fine ground
•Red pepper flakes or any spice you sprout and introduce them to the
like (optional)
•Spoon for mixing
•Bowl
•Jar or container with a lid
•Preparation: Wash your hands and reused), construction paper,
and wash the produce
Mix all of the ingredients together
and seal the cut cucumbers into a paper into a rectangular strip to fit
jar so that it can marinate in your inside the plastic cup, and then
refrigerator.
For the second half the lesson, inside a plastic cup so that it is in
Roytman explained the water cycle line with the side of the cup,”
and how a seed grows.
The cycle of water—also known
as the Hydrologic cycle—showcases ing a few pieces of paper towels into
the movement of water from below balls before placing them inside the
not only need to be upheld, it would
need to be amplified to achieve zero
emissions. Sussmann and other
study authors stated that to
achieve these reductions “political
measures have to be taken to
directly initiate fundamental tech-
nological changes in the energy and
transport sectors.”
Despite the drop in emissions
over this past year, 2020 will likely
go down in history as the year
things started to really accelerate
with regard to climate change’s
effects. Recent increases in both
the frequency and intensity of
extreme weather events are con-
sequences of global climate change.
“Global warming can contribute to
the intensity of heat waves…
Increasing temperatures mean a
longer wildfire season,” reports the
National Academies of Sciences,
Engineering, and Medicine. “Global
warming also increases water
vapor in the atmosphere, which
can lead to more frequent heavy
rain and snowstorms.” This means
and above the earth.
Roytman taught the class
five key vocabulary words
to help better comprehend
the material: condensa-
tion, precipitation, infil-
tration, runoff, and evapo-
transpiration.
water to grow and ger-
minate. Seeds come in
different shapes and sizes,
but they all have one
thing in common—roots.
Students created a “Seed
Viewer,” so they can
document and ob-serve
its daily growth progress.
“We are planting bean
seeds in clear plastic cups to allow
the youngsters to watch seeds
life cycle of plants,” Roytman said.  germination can be impacted if the
While this may sound compli-
cated, the materials for this project
are simple to find. You simply need:
clear plastic cups (can be washed
paper towels, dried beans, and
water.
“Cut a piece of construction
place a piece of construction paper
Roytman said.
The next steps involved crumbl-
stronger hurricanes and flooding.
In 2020, extreme weather events
plagued people around the world
amid the pandemic. In the U.S.
alone, Americans witnessed orange
skies clouded with smoke and a
number of powerful hurricanes
coming from the Atlantic. Globally,
there have been record high
average temperatures, double the
activity of a normal hurricane
season, the hottest temperature
ever reliably recorded in human
history (54ºC), the most costly
damages from flooding to date in
China, record low Arctic sea ice,
and the strongest tropical cyclone
to hit land that has ever been
recorded (Super Typhoon Goni).
These abnormally extreme weather
events are all indicators of the
accelerating effects of climate
change on our planet.
Even though climate change
continues to worsen, in small ways
all over the world nature has taken
this economic slowdown as a cance
to breathe. For example, the murky
January 29, 2021
cup until it is full. Once all of this
has been prepared, the students
are then asked to pick a few beans
(about 3 to 4) and deposit them into
the cup between the side of the
container and the construction
paper liner.
Over the course of the next few
weeks the judokas are tasked with
caring for the seed and ensuring
that the paper towels are always
saturated so that they can watch
the seed grow.
“First you will notice the seed
coat expanding (wrinkling) as the
seed absorbs water and then the
root will start to grow in 2 to 3 days.
Water as necessary to keep the
paper towel and seeds continually
moist (please note, the viewers will
not grow well outside because they
will dry out too quickly). Seed
temperatures are too cold (if you are
comfortable, most likely your seeds
will be too),” Roytman said.
Finally, roots will emerge followed
by a stem and leaves over the
coming weeks. 
“You can continue to grow your
plant as long as you want for obser-
vation, however, generally seeds
that have been sprouted this way
do not transplant well out into the
garden and they will not be able to
go grow to maturity in the cup,”
Roytman said.
Screenshots by Pamela Stern
waters of Venice’s canals became
clearer than they had been in
decades—and sea life even
returned to the city’s urban water-
ways. While global warming has
not stopped because of the global
pandemic, we have learned that
Mother Nature responds positively
to our improved behavior (even
when not intended), which gives
environmental advocates hope to
keep on working. It’s now up to
every one of us to make significant
changes in our own orbits—per-
haps by keeping up our slower and
more stationary existences even
after we have a grip on corona-
virus—if we hope to mitigate and
reverse the effects of climate
change.
CONTACTS: “Can We Measure a
COVID-19-Related Slowdown in
Atmospheric CO2 Growth?”
mdpi.com/2072-
4292/12/15/2387; “Global
warming is contributing to
extreme weather events,”
nationalacademies.org/based-on-
science/climate-change-global-
warming-is-contributing-to-
extreme-weather-events.
EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy
Scheer & Doug Moss for the
501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See
more at https://emagazine.com.
To donate, visit
https//earthtalk.org. Send
questions to:
question@earthtalk.org.
M
January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 17

oney Matters
creditors if money is tight right
now.
2. Create an emergency fund
If your bills are caught up, but
you don’t have a fund set aside to
PayPal and Venmo are helping handle emergencies such as

Expecting a Paper
people receive their stimulus pay- unexpected car repairs or a medical
ment as swiftly as possible without bill, it may be a good idea to reserve
Stimulus Check?
compromising their health and as much as you can afford for a
safety - no trips to the bank or
Here’s What To Do
rainy day - your future self will
check-cashing locations required. thank you.

With It
(BPT) - Are you expecting a paper
government stimulus check? If you
received one over the summer, it’s
likely you may have another on the
way. But what is an easy and
efficient way to cash it so you can
quickly put those funds to good
use?
While depositing a check usually
takes time to process and there are
typically fees involved when trying
to access funds more quickly,
All recipients have to do is take a 3. Pay down debt
picture of the check in the PayPal or If one of your goals is reducing
Venmo app using the Cash a Check debt, consider paying more than
feature, select “in minutes,” and the minimum due on a credit card
receive their funds into their PayPal or two. This not only helps you
or Venmo balance to use them for lower your monthly payments, but
everyday essentials, pay bills and it could also boost your credit score,
more. Plus, for a limited time, especially if you make it a regular
PayPal and Venmo are waiving the habit.
Cash a Check fees so you can Whether you’re planning to pay
receive 100% of your stimulus bills, looking to hang on to your
funds (Terms Apply). funds for future use, or even using
So when you have your check the funds for contactless online
cashed, what’s next? Here are three purchases, cashing your stimulus
tips on how to best allocate your check via PayPal or Venmo allows
stimulus funds.
1.Pay essential bills you to access your funds as quickly
First and foremost, you’ll want to as possible without compromising
your health and wellbeing.

Six Tips To Lower Your Out-Of-Pocket

focus on any important bills that
are due. If you have more bills due Learn more about how to use the
than your check can cover, try Cash a Check features at PayPal

Medication Costs In January

contacting the creditor. Many utility .com/stimulus or Venmo.com/
companies and creditors are stimulus. Each website provides
making allowances for difficult easy step-by-step instructions for
times right now by working out cashing your stimulus check using
alternate payment arrangements the Cash a Check feature in the
(BPT) - January is here and whether or not you stay up to mark the PayPal and Venmo apps. PayPal
based on each customer’s unique
new year, an expensive reality hits many Americans on Jan. 1: medical and Venmo do not provide financial
situation. You can also offer to pay
insurance deductibles reset to zero and out-of-pocket costs go up. advice and this article is provided
a portion of bills that are due to
Along with co-pays and coinsurance, those out-of-pocket costs can for informational purposes only.
show good faith, leaving you more
put essential medications out of reach. Many people are forced to choose Terms apply.
funds to do the same with other
between paying bills, their medications, and putting food on the table.
It’s no wonder Gallup polls consistently find healthcare costs to be one
of this country’s greatest worries.
But there are ways to cut those high out-of-pocket costs. The Patient
Access Network (PAN) Foundation, a national charity that provides
financial assistance to help people pay for their prescription
medications, offers these tips for reducing your out-of-pocket costs for
the lifesaving medications you need. A match made for your wallet.
Talk to your healthcare team. Be honest with your doctor and
pharmacist about the challenge of affording your medications. It may be
difficult for you to talk about your finances, but remember, your
healthcare team is on your side. Let them know what you can afford and
they may be able to tailor a treatment plan that fits within your budget.
Look into ‘Extra Help.’ Medicare beneficiaries may qualify for
programs like, Extra Help, also known as the Low-Income Subsidy
program. This program can significantly reduce your prescription costs.
Ask for generics. Many name-brand drugs now have generic
+
equivalents, especially if the drugs you’re taking have been on the
market for a while. Generics are significantly cheaper than their name-
brand versions. And don’t worry. Generics are run through the same
safety and efficacy tests by the FDA to ensure their quality and
effectiveness.
Sign up for FundFinder. FundFinder is a free web-based app
developed by the PAN Foundation that connects you with a charitable
patient assistance foundation that could help pay the out-of-pocket
Save up to 25%
costs for your prescription medications. Rather than having to monitor
multiple foundations to see if they’re offering funding, FundFinder
checks for you and alerts you through email or text when the financial
help that you need is available at PAN or another charitable foundation.
Shop around. You’d be surprised how much drug costs can vary from
With Allstate, you can save up to 25%
pharmacy to pharmacy. Make a few calls to make sure you’re not paying
when you bundle home and auto
more than you have to for the medications you need. And ask about insurance. Plus, you get our local
discounts and coupons, like the NeedyMeds discount card, which could expertise and trusted advice at no extra
help you save up to 80% off prescription drug prices. charge. Call today for a free quote.
Check your state’s assistance programs. Many states have assistance
programs for residents who are having trouble paying for their
medications. The first place to start is with your state’s department of
health. They can tell you about the programs that are available and
whether you qualify. They also may have information about other Coyco Agency Inc.
programs in your area that are designed to help people afford their 718-927-0200
medication. 9613 Flatlands Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11236
Looking ahead to the new year should be full of hope, not worries ecoy@allstate.com
about affording prescription medications. You can learn more about
patient assistance charities like PAN and the ways you can get help
Call or stop by to see how much you can save.
paying for your prescription medical treatments at panfoundation.org.
9423317

Based on coverage selected. Savings vary. Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty
Insurance Co., Northbrook, IL © 2018 Allstate Insurance Co.
Page 18 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

Speaking of Health as effective, there are many other

therapies that have been tried,
while away at college, when she
had grown up eating every type

No Cure, Just
including: the medication tacro- of nut there is. She had such a
limus, which decreases the im- reaction that she had to be taken

Treatment for
mune response; ultraviolet light A; to the emergency room, tested
skin disorder, usually but not antimalarial drugs (also used for and was given an EpiPen, which
she will have to carry with her

Rare Skin
always associated with diabetes. It autoimmune diseases); and others.
occurs mostly in young adults (the The disease normally progresses everywhere. Is this a common
occurrence? Is it possible that

Disorder
BY KEITH ROACH, M.D.
My girlfriend has necrobiosis
lipoidica. She suffers from this
on her shins, as did her mother.
She is not diabetic. We cannot
find good information on how to
rid her of this. The information
we find is not about cures, but
treatments that mask the
symptom, such as steroids. We
cannot even find a doctor that
specifically treats this condition.
Can you help?
Dr. Roach says: Periodically I get
letters referencing a condition like
this one that I know absolutely
nothing about. Fortunately, I have
the time to do a lot of reading, and
I talked to several people with the
condition. Here is what I found.
Necrobiosis lipoidica is a rare
average is 25 years old when
associated with diabetes, 46 years
if not), and is more common in
women. It may also be associated
with thyroid disorders and celiac
disease. The cause is unknown.
The diagnosis is made by skin
biopsy. The appearance is usually
of a large, variably colored and
elevated patch of skin, most
commonly on the shins, as your
girlfriend’s is, but it can spread to
other parts of the body, especially
skin that has been scraped or
damaged. Because necrobiosis
lipoidica can occasionally trans-
form to skin cancer, it needs careful
surveillance.
There is no cure for necrobiosis
lipoidica. However, there are treat-
ments that can reduce the inflam-
mation. Steroids, either topical or
injected, are the usual first choice.
Topical steroids are more effective if
they are given as ointment and
covered with an air- and water-tight
dressing. If topical steroids are not
slowly, then stabilizes, but it can
spontaneously resolve in some
people.
Necrobiosis lipoidica may also
ulcerate, at which point a wound
care specialist may be of tremen-
dous value.
It may not be easy to find an
expert dermatologist for this con-
dition. I would start with a support
group, as you can get expertise
from others who have been living
with this condition. I found one
large group on Facebook. I read
some tips on makeup and tem-
porary tattoos for cosmetic im-
provement.
I found two clinical trials re-
cruiting subjects, one in Boston
and one in Pennsylvania. You can
find clinical trial information at
clinicaltrials.gov. More good infor-
mation is available at https://
tinyurl.com/NLskin.
***
My granddaughter, age 21,
suddenly developed a nut allergy
she can grow out of this in the
future?
Dr. Roach says: Although food
allergies most often start in adult-
hood, they may develop at any time
of life. Peanuts and tree nuts are
among the most common food
allergies that develop in adults.
Outgrowing a peanut allergy is
uncommon, but when it does
happen, it usually happens at a
young age. I would not expect her
to grow out of it.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is
unable to answer individual ques-
tions, but will incorporate them in
the column whenever possible.
Readers may email questions to
ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.ed
u.
(c) 2021 North America Synd., Inc.;
All Rights Reserved

Experiencing Constipation? Get the Help You Need

options that may provide relief,”
says Howard Franklin, MD, MBA,
chief medical officer, Salix Phar-
maceuticals. He suggests asking
your doctor the following ques-
tions:
• What are my options if lifestyle
changes and over-the-counter
medications haven’t worked?
• How many bowel movements
should I be having each week?
• What consistency should they
be?
Dr. Franklin also recommends
coming to your appointment pre-
pared to share what symptoms
you’re experiencing and how long
you’ve been trying to manage
them. You might also be asked to
identify what type of stool you
most frequently experience when
you are not taking medication
using the Bristol Stool Form Scale.
types of BMs that you can have.
“While it might seem awkward to
talk about, telling your doctor
which type or types of stool you
typically have can help you both
create a treatment plan that works
for you and your body,” says Dr.
Franklin. “The good news is that
now more than ever, it is possible
for a doctor to evaluate your
symptoms and diagnose IBS-C
and CIC during a virtual visit, so
take advantage of telehealth
appointments.”
To learn more about the dif-
ference between IBS-C and CIC
and for additional resources, visit
ConfrontConstipation.com.
“If you are experiencing consti-
pation, you are not alone,” says
Dr. Franklin. “Constipation is not
only common, it’s treatable.”
PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Ridofranz /

(StatePoint) Constipation is
something that most people have
likely experienced at one time or
another. For some people however,
symptoms can occur over the long
term.
Symptomatic individuals and
patients should learn more about
two types of long-term consti-
pation: Chronic Idiopathic Consti-
pation (CIC) and Irritable Bowel
Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-
C). While CIC and IBS-C share
many of the same symptoms,
there are important differences
between the two.
One in seven U.S. adults have
CIC and those with this condition
may experience:
• Infrequent bowel movements
(BMs)
• Hard-to-pass BMs
• Straining
• Discomfort
• Not feeling empty after a BM
In addition to symptoms of CIC,
patients with IBS-C also expe-
rience abdominal pain related to
changes in bowel movements, and
one in 20 U.S. adults are living
with this chronic condition.
The causes of CIC and IBS-C are
not known. That said, for some,
the cause could be linked to
changes in the connections be-
tween the brain and the gut.
If you’re experiencing consti-
pation, you should consider
speaking to your doctor who may
help address your symptoms.
“Your physician can diagnose
your condition and offer treatment
V
The Bristol Stool Form Scale is a iStock via Getty Images Plus
visual representation of the seven
alentine’s Day is just around the corner! In
celebration, the Spring Creek Sun is welcoming the
Spring Creek Towers community to send a message for
the special person in their life. This could be for your
boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse, child, grandchild, parents, or
teachers. Readers are encouraged to send a message or
poem (no more than 150 words), which may be printed in the
Spring Creek Sun’s Valentine’s Day issue on February 12th
for free. Messages may be edited for content, spelling, and
grammar. If you'd like, you can also submit a photo to be
paired your message.
Don’t let Ol’ Man Winter ice over one of the most passionate
and loving days of the year. Email
pstern@springcreektowers.com by Monday, February 3rd.
January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 19

Speaking of Health
Tips to Make this the Year
You Quit Smoking for
(StatePoint) Is “quitting
smoking” on the top of your
list of goals for the year?
Was it last year too? Here
are some insights from
those in the know into
kicking this habit to the
curb for good.
“They say old habits are
hard to break, and when it
comes to my dad’s ad-
dictive smoking habits, I
couldn’t agree more,” says
Linh Nguyen, the Houston
style, fitness and mom
blogger behind A Beautiful
RAWR. “He knows smoking
is detrimental to his health,
but the thought of not
having it be part of his daily
routine has been a
challenging, intimidating,
and in some ways, scary
idea for him to grasp.”
Nguyen’s family has re-
solved to help her father
make this the year he quits
smoking for good. For those 18 and older, consider these tips and insights
she is sharing into the process.

• Identify your motivations: Quitting a smoking habit can be very

difficult, but knowing why you want to quit can help you stick with it when
things get tough.

“I think the biggest motivator for my dad to quit this year is our growing
family. His grandkids are his world and I know he wants to be around to
watch them grow up. To do that, we’re all making better choices for a
healthier, longer life,” says Nguyen.

• Get Help: Quitting is often associated with challenging physical

symptoms. However, products that deliver controlled, therapeutic doses of You good?
nicotine can relieve cravings and help with difficult physical withdrawal
symptoms.

“One of the biggest ways I’m supporting my dad is stocking him up on

effective, pharmacist-recommended smoking cessation products from
Walgreens, which are much more affordable compared to similar
products,” says Nguyen.

Before getting started, anticipate which products might work best for your
needs. While patches are a great choice for many people who like to “set it
and forget it,” those who prefer to keep their mouth busy might prefer using
a product like Walgreens Nicotine Gum. Available in 2 mg or 4 mg
strengths, each piece lasts about 30 minutes and you can chew up to 20
pieces per day. Similarly, Walgreens Lozenges also come in 2 mg and 4 mg
strengths and are a good choice for people who may avoid gum due to TMJ
problems.

• Build a plan: Quitting is highly personal. For a greater chance of success,

look for resources that help you build a personalized plan. For example, the
Walgreens team offers free live support and healthcare clinics in your area,
as well as expert advice, treatment and tools available at walgreens.com.
“If they can help my dad quit after 50-plus years, they can definitely help
you or a loved one,” says Nguyen.

For additional support and information, visit cancer.org or call the

American Cancer Society 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-227-
2345.

When you quit smoking, you can lower your risk for a number of health
problems including lung disease, lung cancer and heart disease. If you are
attempting to go smoke-free, be sure you have all the support and tools you
need. Reach out to a friend about
PHOTO SOURCE: Courtesy of “A Beautiful RAWR” their mental health.

Exercise for Good Health

Find more ways to help at SeizeTheAwkward.org
 fUn
Un f
Page 20 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

feaTures
eaTures
Diva
January 29, 2021
The Kitchen
Soupify Your
Supper
BY ANGELA SHELF MEDEARIS
January is National Soup Month,
and I’ve been busy making home-
made chicken stock in my slow
cooker and using the flavorful broth
as a base for several belly-warming
bowls of soup. I’ve also enjoyed
exploring new soup recipes, start-
ing with a unique new cookbook.
“SOUPified: Soups Inspired by
Your Favorite Dishes” contains 31
cozy, comforting recipes — one for
every day of January. Created by
Michele Di Pietro, it transforms
supper recipes into soups. “SOUP-
ified” was released to coincide and
celebrate National Soup Month, as
well as inspire readers during
another season of sheltering in
place.
Chef, culinary consultant and
rising social media star (50k with a
bullet), Di Pietro didn’t set out to
create the perfect response to
another snowy pandemic winter
season, but that’s precisely what
she did with her new book.
“I once read that every good soup
tells a story,” Michele says. “So
true!
“These soups were born out of
the quarantine period of the
COVID-19 pandemic, when I spent
countless days being cooped up in a
one-bedroom New York City
apartment with no outdoor space
and a lot of extra time on my hands.
I needed to focus on something
positive, challenging and delicious,”
she said. “I began by transforming a
handful of favorite dishes into soup
versions — things that were
nourishing, hearty and spoonable
Recipes
— while still keeping the true
Creamy Chicken Wild Rice
Soup
BY: JENNI K
Cook time: 30 Min
Prep time: 20 Min
Ingredients
1/4-1/2 lb bacon, cut in pieces
2 Tablespoon onion, diced/minced
1 can(s) cream of potato soup
1 can(s) cream of chicken soup
1 1/2 can(s) milk (measured in emptied soup
can)
1 can(s) cooked wild rice, drained
SPRING CREEK SUN
essence of the dishes intact, or, in
my parlance, I SOUPifed them. My
desire soon grew into a full
cookbook of SOUPifed recipes,
which has never been done before.”
Recipes include SOUPified ver-
sions of Eggplant Parm, Lasagna,
Shrimp Scampi, Philly Cheese-
steak, Clams Casino, Chinese Egg
Roll and one of my favorite suppers,
Chicken Marsala in “Soupified”
form. Portions are generous, and
each recipe is scaled to feed either 4
to 6 or 6 to 8 hungry diners,
yielding multiple meals in some
instances, or freezer stashes for the
future. SOUPified is a salute to
National Soup Month, and the
perfect way to spoon up a bowlful of
your favorite comfort foods on a
chilly winter day.
SOUPIFIED CHICKEN MARSALA
You can save time by using a 1
pound chopped, roasted or rotis-
serie chicken, and omitting the
steps in the recipe for preparing
and searing the raw chicken breast.
Follow the recipe as directed for
preparing the vegetables, and add
the chopped roasted or rotisserie
chicken into the pot along with the
mushrooms and continue the
recipe as directed.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken
breasts
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoon ground black
pepper
3/4 cup all-purpose flour, divided
7 tablespoons unsalted butter,
divided
2 cups diced shallots (about 4
shallots), or 1 small yellow onion,
chopped
1 cup diced celery (about 3 to 4
ribs)
1 1/2 cups dry Marsala wine or
grape juice
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 pound white mushrooms,
coarsely chopped
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried
tomatoes, drained
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 cups cooked egg noodles or rice,
optional
Page 21
1. Pat chicken breasts dry with Gradually pour in wine or grape
paper towel and season both sides juice, and whisk mixture quickly to
with 1 teaspoon of the salt and the fully incorporate flour into liquid
pepper. Dredge breasts in 1/2 cup until smooth. Then stir to loosen
flour until coated on both sides. and scrape up any browned bits on
Shake off any excess flour. Set bottom of pot.
chicken aside on a plate. 5. Add broth, mushrooms, sun-
2. Melt 4 tablespoons of the butter dried tomatoes, the remaining salt
in 6-quart pot or Dutch oven over and pepper, and reserved chicken.
medium-high heat. Transfer Mix until all ingredients are well
chicken breasts to pot and sear combined.
until browned on both sides (about 6. Cover pot and bring mixture to a
3 to 4 minutes per side). The simmer, stirring occasionally.
chicken does not need to be fully Simmer, partially covered, until
cooked at this point. Transfer celery is soft and chicken is fully
seared breasts to cutting board and cooked (if using the seared chicken
let them rest for 3 minutes. Then breasts, about 15 minutes).
cut them into bite-sized pieces 7. Reduce heat to low. Then, whisk
(about 3/4-inch dice). Set aside. in cream and cook for another 3
3. Add remaining 3 tablespoons minutes while stirring. Stir in the
butter to pot and melt over medium cooked egg noodles or rice, if
heat. Add shallots or onions and desired. Remove the soup from the
celery, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes heat and serve immediately. Makes
or until vegetables have softened a 6-8 servings.
bit, stirring occasionally.
4. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup flour Photo Credit: Depositphotos
on top of shallot mixture; stir to
coat, and continue stirring for 1 to (c) 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.,
2 minutes while flour cooks. and Angela Shelf Medearis
2 c cooked chicken, cubed (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 bag(s) shredded carrots
4 oz velveeta cheese, cubed
black pepper (to taste)
italian seasoning (to taste)
Directions
1. Brown and crisp bacon in pan with
onion; drain.
2. Boil or steam carrots to soften
them.
3. Add all ingredients to a large pot.
Stir, combine, and heat (don’t boil) to
melt cheese. You can add more or
less cheese to taste.
4. You can also put all ingredients
into a crock pot instead of doing it on
the stovetop. This recipe doubles very
easily.
Last Step: Don’t forget to share!
Page 22 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

KOVELS ANTIQUES AND

body sell for the highest prices. Contact an auction house that specializes
in dolls. Half dolls have sold at auction for $100 to over $1,000. They are
hard to find and a popular collectible. Don’t try to repair the broken doll

COLLECTING
yourself. A poorly done repair significantly lowers value.

TIP: Don’t try to remove dents in silver or pewter. This is a job for an expert.

Looking to declutter, downsize or settle an estate? Kovels’ Antiques &

Movie Clock Collectibles Price Guide 2021 by Terry and Kim Kovel has the resources
you’re looking for.

BY TERRY AND KIM KOVEL (c) 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.

When an unfamiliar, puzzling item

comes up at auction, there is no
previous sale to give a hint of the
value. So, when this Warner Brothers ARIES (March 21
Pictures clock was offered at a to April 19)
William Morford sale, the catalog just Guess what,
said “minimum bid $100.” The cast Lamb? You’re
iron is shaped like an ark. It has a about to
clockface and the “clock” runs for a experience a new
short time when the ark is rocked. perspective on a
The clockface shows scenes from the Ever see a movie clock before? situation you long regarded
1928 movie “Noah’s Ark” — a part This unusual apparatus made in
FOR THE WEEK OF JAN. 25, 2021 quite differently. What you
“talkie” movie. There were several 1928 sold for $855. It was used for learn could open more
collectors who probably wanted movie publicity for the movie “Noah’s opportunities later.
memorabilia who bid until the final Ark,” a Warner Brothers picture
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) The Bold Bovine is tempted to
price was $855. If there had been no with Dolores Costello and George
charge into a new venture. But it might be best to take things
description of how and why it worked, O’Brien — long forgotten movie
stars. one step at a time so that you know just where you are at any
the ark might not have even sold.
given point.
We researched the name of the
maker, Art Metal Works, and learned it was started by Louis Aronson GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) It’s a good time to go on
(1869-1940), an inventor with a company in New York City, then Newark, that fun getaway you’ve been planning. You’ll return refreshed,
New Jersey. The company is famous for the Ronson lighter patented in ready and, yes, even eager to tackle the new challenge that
1910. (No doubt Mr. Aronson inspired the name.) The company was sold awaits you.
to Zippo in 2010.
*** CANCER (June 21 to July 22) The Moon Child loves to
Q: I’m moving into a senior living residence and won’t have room for fantasize about magical happenings in the early part of the
my large collection of half dolls. One of the dolls has her hand broken week. But the sensible Crab gets down to serious business
off, but I don’t know the best way to fasten it back on. Many of the by week’s end.
dolls are from around the world. I bought them when I worked in
Germany and Okinawa. How can I find someone interested in buying LEO (July 23 to August 22) What goes around
them? comes around for those lucky Leos and Leonas whose
A: Half dolls, also known as pincushion dolls, were first made in 1908 and acts of generosity could be repaid with opportunities to expand
were popular until the 1930s. They were made with a porcelain upper body into new and exciting areas of interest.
attached to a large cloth skirt and were used to cover a pincushion, powder VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Your concern about your
box, pot of tea or other items. Most are found today without the skirt. job responsibilities is commendable. But you need to take
Prices depend on size, decoration, condition and style. Closed arm half some quiet time to share with someone who has really missed
dolls sell for the lowest prices. Those with arms extended away from the being with you.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Aspects
favor getting out and meeting new people. And as a bonus,
What You Can Do you could find that some of your newly made friends could
offer important business contacts.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You might
to Fight COVID-19 take pride in wanting to do everything yourself. But now’s a
good time to ask family members to help with a demanding
personal situation.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21)
Pay more attention to the possibilities in that
workplace change. It could show the way to make that long-
TEST TRACE TAKE CARE

sought turn on your career path.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Your
need to succeed might overwhelm obligations to your loved
C
O

ones. Ease up on that workload and into some well-

V
ID
-1
9
TE

deserved time with family and friends.

ST

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Love

rules for amorous Aquarians who can make good use
of their ability to communicate feelings. Don’t be surprised if
they’re reciprocated in kind.
Know your Answer the Safely
status. call of our separate
Get a Free Contact to protect PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Fishing for
compliments? No doubt, you probably earned them. But it’s
best to let others believe they were the ones who uncovered
COVID-19 Tracers to others and

the treasure you really are.

test. help stop take care
the spread at a hotel or

BORN THIS WEEK: Your good works flow from an open,

of COVID-19 home.

generous heart. Nothing makes you happier than to see others happy as well.
in your
community.

The NYC Test & Trace Corps is committed to protecting

(c) 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.
the privacy and security of your personal and health
information. All information we receive is confidential
and protected under the New York City Health Code.
The Test & Trace Corps will not ask about anyone’s
immigration status.
January 29, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 23

THE SPRING CREEK SUN

B usiness Page 718-642-2 718
Fun Features Answers

Dear Spring Creek Towers Community,

I hope you and your staff are staying healthy and managing with this constantly
changing situation. In accordance with the DCA's recommendation, at this point, we are
only providing phone counseling. We will not travel to our part-time sites and provide
services in person.
The DCA has established a new process on its website (nyc.gov/talkmoney) to enable
new and return clients to schedule phone sessions. We are eager to provide services to
all clients in this way, and we know given the financial hardships that have already been
felt, our services will be increasingly important.
We will also be offering webinars on topics like Student Loans, How to Respond to
Market Changes, How to Borrow from Your Retirement Savings.
To schedule a phone session all clients should sign up at the DCA/OFE portal:
nyc.gov/talkmoney

Sincerely,
The Financial Empowerment Center

For more information:

Visit nyc.gov/dca and search “Financial Empowerment Centers.”
Page 24 SPRING CREEK SUN January 29, 2021

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