SPRING CREEK SUN

Vol. 49, No.4 Serving The Spring Creek Community Since 1974 February 26, 2021

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See Centerfold for the NYFW Black in Fashion Showcase

Page 2 SPRING CREEK SUN February 26, 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.
CLICK HERE to Register
If you are interested in having your child participate in the 2020/21
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?
2021
The Spring Creek Sun will be running these announce-

Index
ments in the paper. For more information call Pamela
Stern at 718-240-4554 or email pstern@springcreek
towers.com 5:00PM - 7:00PM

Sun

Page 4 Celebrating Purim

Page 9 Respect for All

Daily Debates, PS5 Gaming, Teen Talk Live/Pod Casting, Virtual games,
Financial Literacy workshops, Digital Scrap booking, Anime Club,

Centerspread
Swimming, 4:4 Basketball in the gym, & more…

Black in Fashion
“TC After-Dark” Alumni program 18-20 coming soon…

Page 21
Sign up via On-line application link

Recipe for
https://forms.gle/rkdNoBLCVzfp6Aog9

Hamentaschen
February 26, 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.

MANAG
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ONLINE
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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 February 26, 2021

send food to those in need, and enjoy a delicious feast with family. Since
the pandemic has many of us separated, you can dress up and join virtual
chats with family and friends where you recite the story of Purim and enjoy
sweet treats.
Here is a list of a few delicious foods to enjoy during Purim:
• Hamantaschen (sweet pastry)
• Kreplach (Russian dumpling)
• Challah (sweet bread)
• Creamy Coleslaw and Pickles
• Butternut Apple Soup
• Vegan Thai Coconut Soup

Purim Traditions See page 21 for a recipe to make your own Hamentaschen .
If you would like to learn more about Purim dishes and traditions, visit:
BY AMANDA MOSES https://www.chabad.org/recipes/recipe_cdo/aid/1365/jewish/Purim-
Foods.htm
Purim is a joyous Jewish holiday that begins Thursday, February 25th at
sundown and ends Friday evening, February 26th. Similar to Halloween, it
is customary for those who celebrate Purim to don fun costumes and enjoy
sweets, such as pastries like hamantaschen.
Purim pays tribute to the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia,
where they escaped extermination. The story takes place in 4th century
BCE when King Ahasuerus fell in love and married a beautiful young
woman named Esther; however, she never revealed that she was Jewish to
him. Many Jewish people wear costumes and masks to symbolize Esther
concealing her heritage.
Under the king was an advisor named Haman, who plotted to eradicate
all Jews, however, Queen Esther stepped in to save them. She fasted for
three days so that God would recognize her plea for help. She confessed her
secret to the King, who then made a decree that Jews may fight against any
anti-Semitic Persian. On the 13th day of Adar (This is the month in the
Jewish Calendar.), the Jews mobilized to kill their enemies, and the next
day they celebrated. Since then, the holiday has been known as Purim.
This religious occasion is also celebrated by hosting a retelling of the
scroll of Esther in the megillah (this is done on the eve of Purim and the
next day). Other ways to observe this holiday is to give money to the poor,

Meat Kreplach
A recipe for traditional meat dumplings. Monday – Sunday, 9am-7pm
BY JOAN NATHAN
CO
V
ID
-1
9
TE
ST

Protect Your Health,

Family and Community
All New Yorkers can and should get a COVID-19 test today –
even if you don’t have symptoms or pre-existing conditions.

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
NYC is offering free testing in your neighborhood.

3/4 teaspoon salt

2 Tablespoons water
Spring Creek Towers (Starrett City)
3 eggs 1279 Pennsylvania Ave
Salt and white pepper to taste
1 egg
Brooklyn, NY 11239
1 small onion, chopped
3/4 lb ground meat (at least half cooked) or leftover brisket,
Testing available 7 days a week
chopped
No appointment needed. It’s free, confidential and safe.

Directions
You will not be asked about your immigration status.

To Make Filling
Saute the onion with the ground meat. Remove excess fat.
Combine with the egg and salt and pepper to taste. Did you know? We also have mobile units in different locations each week!

To Make Dough
Learn more at www.nychealthandhospitals.org/covid-19-testing-sites

Beat the eggs slightly. Add salt, water, and enough flour to make a
medium-soft dough. Knead well by hand or in the food processor.
Divide the dough into 2 balls. Cover with a moist towel.
Working quickly, roll out 1 ball of dough very thin with a rolling pin
For more information call

and cut into 6 strips, each 1-1/2 inches wide. Then cut into pieces
212-COVID19 (212-268-4319)

1-1/2 inches square.

or visit testandtrace.nyc

SEPTEMBER 2020
February 26, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 5

Sale Implants $699

Page 6 SPRING CREEK SUN February 26, 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.
February 26, 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 February 27th 9AM-10AM
- TECHNICAL ISSUES
- 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 February 26, 2021

Education Matters
Top Tips for College
Entrance Exam Success Starrett Early Learning Center
125 Schroeders Avenue - Brooklyn, New York 11239
(718) 642-8724 Fax: (718) 642-3019

Great News!

If you have a child or know of someone with a child born in 2017 or 2018,
he or she is now eligible to attend 3K or 4K in September 2021!

Starrett Early Learning Center offers a free, high quality, safe, nurturing
4-K and 3-K program from 9am-3:20pm at two locations:

125 Schroeders Avenue and 1325 Pennsylvania Avenue

There are limited slots for early arrival (7:45am-9am) or extended day
(3:20pm-5pm). Both are fee for service.

Follow the steps below to register today:

1. Log into MySchools.nyc

2. Create a profile.
3. Select Starrett Early Learning Center (KBPJ or KBPL) as the 1st school of
choice.
4. Submit your application.

Beginning early May/June, The Department of Education will send you an

(StatePoint) College entrance exams remain important, even in these

offer letter for the school they have assigned your child to attend. Upon
unusual times. Fortunately, there are many ways you can help ensure
receiving the offer letter/notice, you will call the school to accept.
you’re ready for test day. Here are a few tips to consider:
Once you have accepted the offer for your child to attend Starrett Early
• Know the test format: Be sure you understand the basic format of the
Learning Center, the enrollment process will begin.
test and the types of questions that will be included so you don’t waste
precious time on test day managing surprises. By using an up-to-date If you have any questions, feel free to email or call.
study guide, you won’t encounter any curve balls.
Stay safe and well!
• Get comfortable with your calculator: During your preparations and
practice tests, be sure to use the same calculator you’ll be bringing with Ms. Moore, MS. Ed
you on test day. Getting familiarized with the tool’s full functionality will Executive Director
help you be speedy and accurate when it matters most. When the clock is t.moore@starrettelc.org
ticking, it’s best to be holding a calculator with an easy-to-use interface,
intuitive icon-based menu and natural textbook display, such as the
scientific and graphic calculators available from Casio.

To ace the science and math portions of the test, your pre-test
preparations can also include checking out the webinars and resources
available on the Casio education site: casioeducation.com.

• Find study buddies: You don’t need to feel alone during test
preparations. Remember, your friends are going through the same thing as
you. Consider getting some pals together for a series of remote study
sessions. Your group can work together to address lingering questions and
concerns, share test-taking strategies and more. You may also want to
REMOTE LEARNING
consider signing up for a virtual test prep courses or getting paired with a
remote tutor. DEVICE REQUEST
• Read as much as possible: While memorizing vocabulary lists is one
strategy for pulling out all the stops on the humanities portions of the test,
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 Respect For All
February 26, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 9

BY: PAMELA STERN

Abe Stark Primary School’s (PS 346) students participated in a school-

wide initiative called Respect For All. New York City designated February
1st through 5th as Respect For All week. During the school day students
in all grades attended the online assembly on different days designated by
their grade.
School Counselors, Ms. Greene and Mr. Vertus presented this assembly
to the students. The emphasis of this was to explain to the students how
they could show respect to each other. After the slide presentation,
students were sent to breakout rooms where they were able to socialize
with students from other classes.
The series of slides that the students viewed and discussed were:
What is Bullying?
How to Stop the Bullying
What is Discrimination?
What is Prejudice?
Acceptance of Others
The school counselors discussed each of these topics with the students
and asked the students if they understood the meanings. Students were
asked if they ever experienced any of this kind of behavior and what did
they do to bring it to an end. During the session of third, fourth, and fifth
graders, one student, Theresa said, “Bullying is when someone does
something mean to someone.” Alissa said that she was bullied while
playing Roblox, and she told the person to stop and they said a bad word
to her.
When the remote learning students were asked what do they miss about
school, they said a number of things:
School at home has distractions
They miss doing projects
The work is more difficult
They feel left out
They miss their friends
They miss the Spring Creek After School Program
After the active discussion on each of those topics, the students were
placed into breakout rooms where they were able to see some of their
friends and meet new ones too. While in the breakout rooms, the students
were asked, “If you could change the world what would it look like?” One
student answered, “I would get rid of racism, and make it so the world
would be kind,” said Aiden.
Even Spring Creek After School Program staff members agree about the
success of the program. Randi Ray, Assistant Site Supervisor of Spring
Creek After School Program enjoyed being a part of the Respect For All
assembly. “I loved it. I believe it is a great idea for the school to hold these
types of assemblies with the children, it gives them a chance to explore
positive characteristics and how to use certain techniques online and in
school. Also, I love how it is encouraged for the children to mix and mingle
with other children and teachers they probably don’t get to meet often,”
said Ray.
Screenshots by: Pamela Stern

What You Can Do

to Fight COVID-19
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ID
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TE
ST

Know your Answer the Safely

status. call of our separate
Get a Free Contact to protect
COVID-19 Tracers to others and
test. help stop take care
the spread at a hotel or
of COVID-19 home.
in your
community.

The NYC Test & Trace Corps is committed to protecting

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.
Style
Page 10 SPRING CREEK SUN February 26, 2021

dressing for warmth and casual

comfort. For that reason, respon-
dents identified a rise in more
natural makeup looks as a key
trend of 2021.
Leveraging makeup with
benefits: A flawless look always

Finding Confidence in
starts with healthy-looking radiant
skin, no matter how much we’re
Quarantine: Survey shows social distancing. And that’s why

how COVID-19 Influences

Makeup Usage
(BPT) - As being in quarantine
and weathering the COVID-19 pan-
demic continues to put a damper
on things, American women are
turning to their makeup routines to
feel a sense of control and comfort,
according to new research.
In September, marketing firm
OnePoll asked 2,000 American
women about how they’re staying
positive and confident as their time
in quarantine and social distancing
drags on. According to the findings,
51% said wearing makeup and
changing up their looks turned out
to be a small way to help them
escape the stress of current affairs.
If you’re feeling the need to switch
things up, you’re not alone. Read on
to discover more survey findings to
inspire ideas to help you feel your
best.
Going for natural beauty: Since
the onset of the pandemic, we’ve
seen a palpable shift in mood to a
more low-key, understated aesthe-
tic. After all, when video meetings
and intimate (but open-air) gather-
ings continue to define our inter-
actions, we may be less focused on
going for glam and more on
for a majority of respondents (60%),
products that multi-task get top
billing. For example, products that
contain vitamin E in the ingredients
or improve the skin’s appearance,
such as skin smoothing or eliminat-
ing the appearance of fine lines and
wrinkles are always a win, quaran-
tine or not. To help you achieve that
naturally beautiful look you’re after,
try Neutrogena Makeup - it’s
“makeup fueled by skincare,” and
delivers lasting makeup benefits,
packed with skin healthy ingre-
dients.
The eyes have it: For now, going
out means masking up, whether
we’re hanging out with friends
(while social distancing), eating at a
restaurant outdoors, running er-
rands or going on a social-distanc-
ing compliant date. Not surprising-
ly, nearly half of respondents (48%)
admit that face masks have trans-
formed their makeup routine. That
means the eyes are now pulling
focus. (Raise your hand if you’ve
attempted smiling with your eyes,
or “smizing.”) Sixty percent say they
want their eyes to be a standout
feature while wearing a face cover-
ing. In 2021, watch for the rise of
dramatic eye makeup to give the
peepers some serious pop.
Ready for your screening: Being
in quarantine and staying home
doesn’t necessarily mean makeup
falls by the wayside. When it’s time
to make an appearance, say, right
before a video meeting, many found
a reason to pick up their makeup
looks. During our time in, mascara,
eyeliner and foundation were the
top three products respondents
found they couldn’t live without -
especially when they were due for a
video call for class or work.
Getting a mood boost: Being in
quarantine and missing out on the
things we love doing most can be a
downer. While nearly half of re-
spondents (49%) admit to ditching
their normal makeup routine, just
over a third (36%) say that wearing
at least some makeup actually gives
their mood a lift. One in four (24%)
have gone as far as trying new
cosmetics, while just over half
(51%) say that using makeup to
change up their appearance -
perhaps to compensate for the face-
covering - lets them feel a sense of
control and comfort during a
stressful time.
During quarantine, making small
changes has the power to give you a
sense of control and boost your
mood. For inspiration, visit neutro-
gena.com
This online survey of 2,000
American women was commis-
sioned by Neutrogena and con-
ducted by market research com-
pany OnePoll, in accordance with
the Market Research Society’s code
of conduct. Data was collected in
Sept. 2020. All participants are
paid an amount depending on the
length and complexity of the
survey. This survey was overseen
and edited by the OnePoll research
team, who are members of the MRS
and have corporate membership to
ESOMAR and AAPOR.

Couch Theater/ “Crazy Rich Asians” — This all-out fantasy rom-com features a regular
gal, Rachel Chu (Constance Wu), whose seemingly normal longtime
boyfriend takes her East to his best friend’s wedding — and to meet his
Movies Coming Soon To DVD and Blu Ray family. The boyfriend is considerate, elegant and, well, crazy rich. Fierce
backstabbing females and handsome playboys flank a disapproving
mother all set in a backdrop of elaborate ostentatiousness!

BY AMY ANDERSON
There are a lot of happy hearts out there after February 14th. After all,
it’s one of the most popular days for popping the question, and millions of
couples worldwide get engaged on Valentine’s Day. And so, Feb. 15 begins
the event planning season for many brides and grooms to be. Need
inspiration? Look no further than the following films:
“Muriel’s Wedding” — Muriel (Toni Collette) just wants to get married. But
she’s hindered by an overbearing dad and so much awkwardness. But
when she makes friends with a kindred spirit, they move to the big city to
live their dream — but will those wedding bells make her heart ring?
“Father of the Bride” — Steve Martin plays George Banks, a shoe
manufacturer whose daughter, Annie (Kimberly Williams-Paisley) is getting
married. Simple story, but so sweetly delivered. From Annie’s engagement
to an over-the-top wedding planner, a mild midlife crisis and more, George
learns to let go of his little girl.

“My Big Fat Greek Wedding” — At 30, Toula worries she’s missing her
window. She works at her family’s restaurant, the Dancing Zorba, and not
much else. But as she begins to break out of her shell, she meets a man
and falls in love: He’s not Greek. The resulting journey of Toula’s family
accepting him and eventually embracing him is pure comedy gold.

“Bride Wars” — Two best friends (played by Kate Hudson and Anne
Hathaway) share a common dream: to be married at New York’s Plaza
Hotel. Who could have guessed that they’d get engaged at just the same
moment? The bigger problem is that there’s only one opening! Who will get
the day?

“Mamma Mia!” — On the eve of Sophie’s (Amanda Seyfried) wedding, she

interacts with three special guests — the three men who could potentially
be her father. All were lovers of her free-spirited single mom Donna (Meryl
Streep), who runs a bed and breakfast on a gorgeous Greek island. It’s a
musical, using only the songs of the Swedish super pop group ABBA.
“Four Weddings and a Funeral” — The British charmer that launched the
career of Hugh Grant (himself a British charmer), this untarnished gem (c) 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.
features a group of 20- to 30-something friends attending the weddings of
friends, looking for love, sometimes finding it and always being humbled by
its power. The weddings include a Scottish castle affair, and the funeral will
tear the heartstrings from your body.
M
February 26, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 11

oney Matters enough to cover income loss or

debt? If you’re your household’s
primary earner, you’ll want to
Louis Colaizzo, senior vice presi- ensure you have enough money to
dent of Erie Family Life. “It also maintain your family’s lifestyle.

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curricular activities, partners can groceries? If not, your spouse or
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families can stay in the home they
dependents might find themselves
struggling, putting them at risk for
Insurance know and love.”
So, how do you know if you have
foreclosure or other financial
hardships
enough? During February, which 6. What if your circumstances
(StatePoint) If we’ve learned is “Insure Your Love Month,” an 3. Do you have dependents? A
change (again)? Some life in-
anything from 2020, it’s that life annual reminder to financially dependent is someone who relies
surance companies, including
can be unpredictable. Having suf- protect loved ones, here are six on your income to make ends
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teed Insurability Option rider to
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help with the quickly changing
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certainty. 1. Do you have enough to cover age 17 is $233,610, not including
to purchase additional insurance
Forty-one million Americans say final expenses? Make sure you the cost of a college education.
later, even if circumstances deem
they need life insurance but don’t can accommodate funeral or That’s a big strain.
you “uninsurable.” This means
have it, according to LIMRA’s 2020 burial expenses, end-of-life costs the death benefit can be increased
Insurance Barometer Study. or unpaid medical bills. Other- 4. What kind of retirement do
as your needs change but you
Others are insured but don’t have wise, your family may be responsi- you want? How do you guarantee
won’t have to answer medical
enough coverage. If this describes ble for paying these. According to you’ll have enough for the future
underwriting questions — a relief
you, your spouse or children could the National Funeral Directors and won’t need a second career
for many.
find themselves in a financial Association, the national median late in life to cover living ex-
To revisit your life insurance
lurch, expected to pay off debts, cost of a funeral with viewing and penses? One way is to tap into the
policy, contact an independent
loans and final expenses when burial for 2019 was $7,640 – a cash value of a permanent life
Erie Insurance agent who can
you die, especially if you’re the steep sum many can’t pay out of insurance plan and use it as
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main source of income. pocket without notice. supplemental income during
visiting erieinsurance.com.
“Having insurance isn’t just retirement.
According to experts, one of the
about financial protection,” says 2. Will your family receive easiest ways to protect loved ones
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and their financial futures is to
considerations? Do you own a
Three Tips to Own Your Financial Outcome in 2021
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business or want to leave a legacy
when you’re gone? Having an
PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Alessandro
insurance plan will protect these
(StatePoint) 2020 was more than just a health crisis, it had ripple Biascioli / iStock via Getty Images
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 Black in Fashion
Page 12 SPRING CREEK SUN February 26, 2021

BY AMANDA MOSES
February is Black History Month (February 1st to March House of Aama:
1st), a commemorative period when we pay tribute to the This ethereal
many contributions Black and Brown Americans who have clothing is flowy,
broken through barriers and overcome obstacles to achieve and bright,
greatness. giving off a
In honor of Black History Month and the Black Lives Matter peaceful aura to
movement, the Black in Fashion Council was founded by the wearer.
Lindsay Peoples Wagner, the Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue.
Over the past few months, several companies signed a three-
year commitment pledge to help empower Black artists,
models, and all employees. Representation and equal op-
portunities have always been an issue within the fashion
industry. Black and Brown individuals are often overlooked,
and Black in Fashion Council looks to create inclusivity and
develop an overall equal playing field for this in the world of
fashion.
During the 2021 New York Fashion Week (NYFW) shows, the
Black in Fashion Council partnered with IMG and Spring Studios to
showcase 16 designers from February 14th to February 17th for an in-
person and digital runway show. Also, during NYFW, the Black in Fashion
Council Hosted a series of town halls to discuss these emerging designers.
In honor of these featured artists, the Spring Creek Sun will highlight
some of their designs and innovations for Black History Month and Fashion
Week. Black in Fashion chose: House of Aama, Beads Byaree, Come Back
as a Flower, Chuks Collins, Chelsea Paris, Edas, Kendra DuPlantier, Lola
Ade, Label by Three, Local European, Marrisa Wilson, Michel Men, Nicole
Benfield, Nicole Shante, Third Crown, and Whensmokeclears.

Chuks Collins: This international brand displayed

glamorous dresses fit for Hollywood’s red carpet.

Lola Ade: “Jewelry is poetry—the color, lines, the texture—each

piece sends a message,” said Lola Ade in her NYFW video,
displaying beautiful pink bangles, chain link bracelets and simple
gold chains. Each piece resonates strength, beauty, and truly
highlights the importance of Ade’s Nigerian culture.

Marrisa Wilson: This ready to wear brand

displayed structured outfits that simply
popped from their speakeasy background.
Beads Byaree: Designer Areeayl
Good created intricate jewelry,
featuring dangling chain link
earrings embedded with childhood
photographs, large hoop earring
covering in seashells, and a
necklace in with 3-D golden chairs.
February 26, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 13

Chelsea Paris: A
bold luxurious Nicole Shante: A women’s
shoe brand, wear brand whose style
showcased their emanates poise with its
latest designs, luxurious fabrics and tailored
such as a bright designs.
orange, thinly
strapped shoes
with rounded low-
heels and a pair of
leather penny
loafer with a thick
silver buckle.

Come Back as a Flower:

Hosted an online fashion
video, filmed like a
classic home video with
models adorning
comfortable, oversized
shirts and pants
featuring abstract
designs.

Nicole Benfield: For a chic

down to business look,
Nicole Benfield showcases
this season sheer tops with
wide-legged pants,
oversized trench coats
wrapped with a leather belt,
and black throw over dress
with black leather top and
sheer gloves.
Page 14
DIY Herb Garden in a Carton
Judokas planted parsley and cilantro into their homemade plant pots.
BY AMANDA MOSES
Every Tuesday, Garden Educator,
Jacqui Roytman hosts a garden-
based, nutritional session with
students in the Starrett Judo Club
online. From 4 pm to 5 pm, Royt-
man joins Sensei Parnel Legros and
the Starrett Judo Club online to
provide an in-depth view of healthy
cooking, along with planting and
growing food to support a balanced
lifestyle.
The judokas (judo students)
recently learned how to create their
Dear EarthTalk: Should rivers be
given the same legal rights as
people in order to protect them?
-- Phyllis T., New Haven, CT
“The river flows from the mountain to
the sea. I am the river. The river is
me.”
—Māori proverb from the
Whanganui iwi (tribe)
Native groups, environmental
organizations, local residents, and
all those who rely on a river’s health
know the importance of protecting
them. One idea that has been
proposed in order to address this is
giving rivers the same legal rights as
people in courts. This idea came to
fruition because of the concept of
‘environmental personhood’ and its
past applications on other non-
human elements of nature.
Environmental personhood is a
legal concept that endows different
environmental entities with the
same status as a person in court,
and is being used by many groups
to protect natural resources in the
modern world. Indigenous groups
have long recognized nature as a
“subject with personhood deserving
of protection and respect, rather
than ... as a merchandise or
SPRING CREEK SUN
very own herb garden at home
using a carton to plant cilantro and
parsley.
Cilantro and Parsley are some of
the most used herbs when cooking.
They pair well with meats, fish,
produce, pastas, and a wide array of
dishes.  In addition, Sensei Legros
shared that cilantro rids the body of
heavy metals, works great for
managing diabetes, has anti-
inflammatory properties, protects
against cardiovascular disease,
prevents urinary track infections,
and helps settle upset stomachs.
Parsley also has nutritional
commodity over which property
rights should be exercised,” says
Monti Aguirre of International
Rivers. Because of this, many native
groups have been at the forefront of
global efforts to petition courts and
governments for environmental
personhood for rivers.
In New Zealand, the Te Awa
Tupua River on the North Island
was given the status of legal
personhood in 2017 after nine years
of negotiations between the former
New Zealand attorney general and
the Whanganui iwi, or tribe, and
other indigenous Māori groups. The
law outlines that both the New
Zealand court and the Whanganui
iwi have joint guardianship over the
river. This connects the river legally
to the indigenous people who have
depended upon and cared for it for
over 700 years. The change has
impacted both people’s behaviors in
the ways that they treat the river
and their individual perceptions of
the river.
In 2019, Bangladesh became the
first country to grant every one of its
rivers environmental personhood.
Meanwhile, California’s Yurok Tribe
passed a resolution to declare legal
personhood for the Klamath River,
and a court in India’s Uttarakhand
state bestowed the Ganges and
Yamuna rivers with legal person-
hood, too.
One of the issues that arises in
giving rivers similar rights as
people, aside from its unpopularity
with some local companies and
agricultural plots, is the question of
who takes responsibility. Suing
groups for harming a river is costly
benefits, Legros said that this herb
is rich in antioxidants, supports
bone-health, has nutrients that
helps to protect your eyes, and it
contains cancer-fighting sub-
stances.
Roytman wanted her students to
understand how these herbs grow
in a garden setting, so she showed
them how to create their very own
miniature garden bed using a 1-
gallon box/plastic container (which
should be emptied and washed out)
of milk or juice.  the two seeds together. The second
The next set of materials needed
were:  simply remove the seeds from water
• Potting soil
• Seeds (cilantro and parsley)
• Scissors
• 2 pieces of Construction paper or
printing paper
• Tape or glue
• Markers, crayons or colored
pencils
• 2 popsicle sticks  with their fingers, placing the
The children were then asked to
cut the carton rectangularly (on its
side), creating a frame. The children
could decorate two sheets of paper
with the labels of what they are
growing, for example a colorful
picture of a parsley leaf, and then
tape it to the side of your carton.
Roytman asked the students to
and there has been much debate
over who should cover the costs. In
Ecuador, a number of green groups
successfully sued a construction
firm to stop it from building a road
over the Vilcabamba River, but
when the company continued with
the project anyway, the groups were
unable to afford a second case.
Another issue is that some rivers
extend across national borders.
These concerns have stirred
doubts about the efficacy of envi-
ronmental personhood in courts,
but there’s no doubt that con-
versations arising because of the
idea are changing the way they view
the natural world. Granting rivers
the legal rights of humans in court
would create a more concrete
foundation for the their protection
and it would prompt conversation
around the conservation of these
veins of the Earth.
February 26, 2021
fill the carton with potting soil.
“There are three steps to do before
we plant in class,” Roytman said.
“The “seeds” are actually two
cilantro seeds encased in a husk.
The husk is hard, round and is light
brown or grey in color.  Before we
plant them in the ground, we need
to prepare the cilantro seeds to
increase the chances that they will
germinate,” Roytman explained. 
First, she asked the judokas to
gently crush the seed husk holding
step was to soak the cilantro seeds
in water for 24 to 48 hours. Finally,
and allow them to dry.
“Now the seeds are ready to plant!
Parsley seeds are a little easier:
simply soak the parsley seeds in
lukewarm water overnight. That’s
it,” Roytman told the class.
Roytman then broke down how to
gently make small holes in the soil
cilantro seeds on one side and
parsley on the other side. 
“Cilantro germinates faster than
parsley that’s why it’s important to
label with name and date of
planting,” Roytman said.
Screenshot by Pamela Stern
CONTACTS: “Should Rivers Have
Same Legal Rights As Humans?,”
npr.org/2019/08/03/740604142/
should-rivers-have-same-legal-
rights-as-humans-a-growing-
number-of-voices-say-ye; “The
Klamath River now has the legal
rights of a person,”
hcn.org/issues/51.18/tribal-
affairs-the-klamath-river-now-has-
the-legal-rights-of-a-person; “A
Voice for Nature,”
nationalgeographic.com/culture/2
019/04/maori-river-in-new-
zealand-is-a-legal-person/.
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.
Game Play
February 26, 2021
Facing Your
Fears: Little
Nightmares 2
Review
BY DEAN MOSES
Game: Little Nightmares 2
Platform: PlayStation 4, Nintendo
Switch, and Xbox One
Rating: T for Teen
Cost: $29.99 ($39.99 for the
Nintendo Switch)
Nightmares have fascinated hu-
mans throughout our history.
Many of us still Google what
dreams could mean in terms of our
subconscious while others believe
they could be messages sent to
provide us with insight. Whatever
you choose to believe, there is no
doubt that nightmares are fascinat-
ing albeit rather terrifying, often
preying on our deep-rooted fears. It
is these fears developers Tarsier
Studios and Supermassive Games
have utilized to bring us Little
Nightmares 2.
Little characters, big nightmares
The narrative of Little Nightmares
Tech
Talk
Why Getting
Tech Savvy
Doesn’t Have
to be Hard
(StatePoint) More than 12 million
people are currently employed in
tech-related occupations in the U.S.,
either as information technology (IT)
professionals or employees of tech-
nology companies. Yet employer de-
mand for tech workers is still strong
in many markets and industries,
including technology, financial ser-
vices, manufacturing, retail, health-
care, government,
and education.
Unfortunately, misperceptions
about tech occupations persist.
People assume that in such jobs,
you’re relegated to working alone
writing software code or that you
need to be a math genius or have an
advanced academic degree to even
get your foot in the door. These
misperceptions can discourage qua-
lified candidates from exploring
career options in the IT field.
“Today’s IT professional plays a
SPRING CREEK SUN
2 is rather covert. We take control of
a small child-like being who
traverses worlds much larger than
the character and often quite
warped. There is no dialogue or
voice acting, instead the subjective
plot unfolds through the sensations
we feel as we progress. The game
does a superb job of placing the
player in tense situations that creep
us out and unnerve us without
being overly gruesome or bloody.
Instead it makes us feel as if these
are nightmares we may actually
have had at one point or another in
our lives.     A Vivid Nightmare
Fast feet and fast mind
You will spend much of your time
throughout Little Nightmares 2
solving puzzles and swiftly fleeing
from dangerous situations. We
always see our tiny protagonist
from a side angle, much like old 2D
leading role in virtually every busi-
ness and industry, identifying in-
novation and technologies that can
determine the future of an organi-
zation,” says John McGlinchey,
executive vice president for global
certification with CompTIA, a non-
profit association for the IT industry.
“Companies are eager to hire people
who communicate effectively, are
comfortable working as part of a
team and are creative in identifying
how to use technology to make a
business more efficient and profi-
table.”
In fact, 62% of executives
surveyed for CompTIA’s “Workforce
and Learning Trends 2020” report
ranked soft skills such as rela-
tionship building, persuasion, in-
tegrity and confidence with equal
importance to hard technical skills
side scrollers from the 1990s, but
that does not mean this is a 2D
game. You can walk your figure
back and forth in a 3D plain. In fact
you will be required to, in order to
solve puzzles, such as restoring
power to an elevator or setting off
traps to prevent your demise.  fit all the pieces in place to create a
There is also a fair amount of
platforming you will need to per-
form in order to progress. From
jumping over large gaps to running
from large, hulking monsters who
will chase you through vents and
push over obstacles to capture you.
There are also team-based puzzles
that you will need to determine the
answers to with the help of a CPU
ally.
Perhaps the most impressive
aspect of the game is the visuals
and the way in which it makes you
feel as the player. Something about
being so tiny in an oversized
landscape taking place in a dis-
torted school, a haunting hospital,
when it came to hiring for their tech
workforce.
For anyone thinking about a
career in tech, the best first step is
to learn more about the technologies
of today and tomorrow, and the
occupations associated with these
innovations. Many free resources
are available. Here are three exam-
ples:
The Future of Tech (www.future
oftech.org) is a growing library of
resources on what’s new and what’s
next in the world of technology.
Topics such as artificial intelligence,
augmented and virtual reality, big
data and the internet of things are
highlighted on the site, which is
designed for anyone interested in
learning more about technologies
that are shaping the way we live and
work.
Page 15
and more. Running from a teacher
whose head elongates from the
neck and slithers after you akin to
a snake can bring true terror
without ever feeling macabre. This
combined with the creepy, yet
charming graphical style works to
horror experience that just works.
Conclusion
Little Nightmares 2 stirs some-
thing within our nature that, a
horror that we want to look away
from yet are still oddly attracted to.
It makes us feel as though we may
have dreamed these dreams long
ago when we were children, shaking
beneath the covers but as time
went by and adulthood took us,
those nightmares became married
with puberty yet are still deep
within us, somewhere. It is fun,
haunting yet altogether a short
adventure well worth experiencing.
Read The
Sun For
News &
Information
The IT Career Roadmap (www.
comptia.org/content/it-careers-
path-roadmap) offers insights into a
variety of career paths, including
tech support, networking, cyber-
security, data and software and web
development.
The IT Salary Calculator (https://
www.comptia.org/content/it-
salary-calculator) allows you to
explore salary estimates for different
tech occupations at different levels
of expertise. The calculator includes
salary data from 400 different
metropolitan areas covering 85% of
the U.S. population, from an IT
support specialist in Portland,
Maine ($52,750) to a cybersecurity
analyst in Portland, Ore. ($101,530).
“If you don’t believe technology is
a viable career choice, consider all of
the things you’ve done today that
are made possible by technology —
from the car you drive and the
streaming entertainment channels
you enjoy to a telehealth visit with
your doctor and the ease and
efficiency of online banking,” says
McGlinchey.
The IT field is no longer a world of
pocket protectors and mother-
boards. With more people using
more devices than ever before to
stay connected to one another,
industry experts say that today’s IT
workforce is open for business for
anyone with great curiosity, crea-
tivity, personality and versatility.
PHOTO SOURCE: (c)
EvgeniyShkolenko / iStock via
Getty Images Plus
Page 16 SPRING CREEK SUN February 26, 2021

Pilgrim Cathedral of East New York Temple Emanu-el of Canarsie

Bishop George M. Shorts: senior pastor 1880 Rockaway Parkway, Brooklyn, NY

Religious Listings 590 New Lots Avenue, Brooklyn, NY

11207
(718) 927-3354
(718) 251-0450

True Worship Church Worldwide

Andrews United Methodist Church
Rev. Avilo de Leon,
91 Richmond Street, Brooklyn
(718) 235-4621
Bethelite Institutional Baptist Church,
Inc.
Rev. Dr. Robert Linden, Pastor
447 Elton Street, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11208
718-827-0700
Bethlehem Baptist Church
Rev. Larry Camp Pastor
1962 Linden Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY
11207
(718) 257-8300
Canarsie Community Reformed
Church Since 1876
1155 East 93rd Street, Brooklyn, NY
11239
718-649-3759
Changing Lives Christian Center
Pastor & Founder Paul B. Mitchell
1848 Linden Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY
11207
The Church of the Holy Redeemer
(Congregation of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America)
Rev. Stephen G. Marsh, Pastor
2424 Linden Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY
(718) 272-9300
Christian Cultural Center of New York
Pastor and founders: Dr. A.R. Bernard,
Rev. Karen Bernard
12020 Flatlands Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
11207
(718) 306-1000 Fax: (718) 306-1091
www.clc.org
East End Baptist Church
Pastor Woody Proffitt
263 Van Siclen Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
(718) 385-0811
Greater New Beginning Baptist
Church
Pastor Earl B. Chester
303 East 98th Street
Brooklyn, NY 11212
718-342-0100
GNBBC303.com
Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church
Ministries
Bishop Clarence Keaton
Sephardic Jewish Center of Canarsie 872-874 Crescent Street, Brooklyn, NY
Rabbi Myron Rakowitz, 11208
9320 Flatlands Avenue, Brooklyn, NY www.trueworshipchurch.org
(718) 257-0400 Phone: (718) 485-9703
Southern Baptist Church
Reverend Clarence E. Williams, Pastor
820 Stanley Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
11207
(718) 272-4848
St. Laurence Roman Catholic Church
Very Rev. Edward R.P. Kane, VF-
Administrator
1020 Van Siclen Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
(718) 649-0545
St. Paul Community Baptist Church
Rev. David K. Brawley, Lead Pastor
859 Hendrix Street, Brooklyn, NY
(718)-257-1300
Starrett at Spring Creek Jewish Center
Congregation B’nai Israel
Rabbi Mordechai German
671 Louisiana Avenue Brooklyn, NY
(718) 642-8804

RECYCLE THIS!
(718) 272-8277 Father Chunov, presiding
www.CLCCMinistries.com 400 Glenmore Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
(718) 498-0518
 Virtual Entertainment
February 26, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 17

BY PAMELA STERN

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM): The 35th Annual Brooklyn Tribute

to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. BAM will be celebrating Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr’s life and his legacy all month long through February 28th. This
digital adaption will allow an audience from around the world to celebrate
Dr. King’s legacy.   
Visit: https://www.bam.org/mlktribute

Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Mindfulness Meditation: Embody Nature

Everywhere (ONLINE), March 3, 2021 from 8am to 9am
Whether indoors, outdoors, in the city, or in the country, instructor,
Valerie Stiar will take you on a guided meditation practice will support the
opening of our senses and our imaginations, connecting to nature and the
elements as sources of grounding and resilience. In this online class, we
will practice sitting and walking meditation, bringing awareness of the
reciprocity between Earth’s support and our gratitude.
The fee for this course is $19 for members and $20 for nonmembers.
You will be emailed the Zoom link for this class on Monday, March 1st. If
you have not received the link by 6pm on March 1st, please reach out to:
continuinged@bbq.org
Visit: https://classes.bbg.org/CourseStatus.awp?&course
Muslims in Brooklyn: a three-year, multi-faceted public history project
=21WAEHHCMME
designed to amplify the stories of Brooklyn’s Muslim communities and
contextualize those stories in the broader history of the borough, the city,
Coney Island Luna Park: Are you craving the thrills and chills of going to
and beyond.
an amusement park this summer? Well you can virtually go on the
Visit: https://muslims.brooklynhistory.org
Cyclone or the Thunderbolt and a few other rides from the comfort of your
own home. You can still feel the excitement and you don’t even have to wait
NYC’s Saint Patrick’s Day Parade: VIRTUAL PARADE
on the long lines while you experience the twists and turns of the roller
Honoring First Responders & Essential Workers on the occasion of the
coasters.
260th New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Wednesday, March 17,
Visit: https://lunaparknyc.com/experience-coney-island-iconic-rides-in-
2021
360/
You are invited to virtually join the many First Responders and Essential
Workers that march because of the heroic work they have done since the
On Stage At Kingsborough: Rhythm of the Dance
pandemic started, and they are worthy of the title  “Honoree” for the
STREAMING ON DEMAND from March 15th through 21, 2021   Pay
260th N.Y.C. St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
What You Can (Suggested: $15)
This year we invite you to honor these brave men and women by taking
This is a new production that was filmed in the Ukraine.This is one of the
part in this year’s virtual Parade’s Journal and joining live on Twitter and
most popular Irish step dance shows worldwide. Rhythm of the Dance
Facebook on March 17, 2021, for the virtual celebrations of St Patrick’s
features a wealth of Irish talent, featuring World and Irish champion
Day in the greatest city in the world, New York City. 
dancers, and some of the finest Traditional musicians and singers.
Visit: https://www.nycstpatricksparade.org/parade/2020-nyc-st-
This performance captures traditional dance and music with the most
patricks-day-parade/2021-virtual-parade-journal-advertising
up to date stage technology. The music and dancing extravaganza will take
you on an exhilarating, high energy journey.
Visit: https://www.onstageatkingsborough.org/rhythm-of-the-dance
Page 18
Speaking of Health
Childhood
Vaccinations Still
Mostly Effective
BY KEITH ROACH, M.D.
I am in my mid-50s and in good
health (I don’t take any medica-
tions). I rarely get sick with colds
or flu. I have been vaccinated
with all the common vaccina-
tions for our childhood. With all
the immigrants coming into our
country, I am wondering if any
have been given childhood vac-
cinations in their countries. I
fear that chickenpox, measles,
etc., could re-enter this country.
If so, do our childhood vac-
cinations still protect us from
these diseases? Should seniors
be re-vaccinated or is that harm-
ful at our age?
Dr. Roach says: Legal immigrants
into the U.S. are required to have
all vaccinations as recommended
by the Advisory Committee for
Immunization Practices.
Undocumented immigrants are
How to Choose
the Best Face
Mask
(BPT) - Since the beginning of the
COVID-19 pandemic, you have
probably wondered what kind of
face mask provides the most ef-
fective protection but is also easy
and comfortable. You have
probably also heard that double
masking provides better protection
against the more easily trans-
missible variants of COVID-19 that
have been spreading recently. So
how can you know what kind of
mask to use?
The main purpose of masks is to
help prevent the spread of res-
piratory droplets from you to
others, in case you might be
infected with COVID-19 but not
exhibiting any symptoms (asymp-
tomatic) or if you are not yet
exhibiting symptoms (pre-symp-
tomatic).
What can help reduce your risk
(and risk for others) is keeping
physically distant (the CDC recom-
mending 6 feet or more), and
wearing a tightly woven mask that
has multiple layers, and fits tightly
around the face.
Here is a quick guide to masks
available today, and the level of
protection and comfort they offer.
Homemade masks
Many people have relied on
homemade cloth masks, as well as
face covers such as bandanas and
neck gaiters. But how effective are
they?
Because respiratory droplets and
the airborne coronavirus particles
they might contain are extremely
small, it is still possible for
someone wearing a cloth mask to
be exposed to COVID-19 if they are
close to someone who is infected.
Loose-fitting cloth masks, single-
SPRING CREEK SUN
more difficult to study, but what
data there is suggests that vac-
cination rates are roughly the same
in the countries of origin of many
undocumented immigrants as in
the United States. In fact, several
Central American countries have
higher vaccination rates than the
U.S. currently.
Analysis of outbreaks of vaccine-
preventable diseases have sug-
gested that most of these out-
breaks have come from visitors
(Americans or foreign visitors) from
countries with high levels of
ongoing transmission who spread
the disease to others during their
infectious period. Because there
are some communities where there
are enough unvaccinated people
due to medical reasons, personal
choice or ineffective vaccination to
allow spread of the disease, there
continues to be ongoing infection
in the U.S. This is especially true of
measles.
People born before 1957 are
generally considered to be immune
to measles, and the vast majority
have had chickenpox. People born
between 1963 and 1967 (that
layer masks, or wearing them
incorrectly (such as exposing your
nose) are far less effective in
offering any protection from
COVID-19 or other viruses. For
these reasons, bandanas and neck
gaiters are examples of some of the
least protective cloth masks.
If you prefer homemade cloth
masks, creating masks with several
layers (including insertable filters,
such as from a HEPA vacuum
cleaner bag) offers better protection
than a makeshift bandana or other
cloth. You should also wash masks
frequently in soap and water to
keep them as clean as possible.
Surgical masks
Surgical masks are meant to be
single-use only and are disposable,
and they are not tight-fitting. While
they offer some protection for those
people around the wearer, surgical
masks are of limited use for pro-
tecting the wearer from airborne
particles. They can be most ef-
fective when they are worn under-
neath an additional, tighter-fitting
cloth mask.
might be you) are at risk for having
had ineffective measles vaccina-
tion, and those at risk should
check their immunization status
and may need revaccination, es-
pecially those in an area near an
outbreak.
***
I read your recent column on
vaginal estrogen. Based on
plants such as soy, bioidentical
hormones are a safe solution for
older people that provide sexual
rejuvenation. You should spread
the word!
Dr. Roach says: I appreciate your
passion, but there are several
problems with your statement.
First, the bioidentical female hor-
mone in humans is estradiol,
which is available only by a
prescription. It remains my choice
for women who need hormone
replacement, such as women with
severe symptoms of menopause
(replacement is given by mouth or
patch), or for women with atrophic
vaginitis (given vaginally, by cream,
tablets or ring). It is certainly the
most natural option.
Second, phytoestrogens (the soy-
based hormones, such as iso-
flavones and lignans) have chemi-
cal structures similar to estradiol,
N95 respiratory masks
Worn by healthcare professionals
in contact with infected patients,
N95 respiratory masks are
designed to catch particles as small
as 0.3 microns when properly fitted
to form an airtight seal covering the
wearer’s nose and mouth. While
many assume (incorrectly) that N95
masks operate like strainers,
allowing only particles small
enough to pass through, these
masks actually operate more like a
spider’s web, using electrostatic
force to “trap” particles.
While N95 masks prevent coro-
navirus particles from being in-
haled, these particles then remain
on the mask itself - and can be
transferred to the wearer’s mouth
and nose if not careful. It is crucial
that wearers know how to correctly
use them. These masks are
primarily needed by first respon-
ders and healthcare providers and
the general public should avoid
wearing them to prevent shortages.
Medicevo Graphene Masks
After months of research, the
February 26, 2021
but absolutely are not bioidentical.
They have both estrogen and anti-
estrogen properties. They may
slightly reduce breast cancer risk,
probably have no effect on endo-
metrial cancer risk and probably
do not increase clotting risk.
However, for women with a history
of breast cancer, many oncologists
recommend against soy protein
due to its estrogen activity. Some
hematologists warn against these
in people with history of abnormal
blood clots.
The effect of phytoestrogens on
sexual function has been studied,
and a 2018 review showed that soy
“had no promising effect” on sexual
function. Of course, some women
will have better effects than others.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual questions but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu.
(c) 2021 North America Synd., Inc.;
All Rights Reserved
medical manufacturer Medicevo
has created a reusable face mask
using graphene technology, making
masks that combine cutting-edge
technology with comfort. The
Medicevo Graphene Mask features
an internal graphene netting, along
with three other layers. The
graphene netting inside the mask
creates microscopic sharp edges
that slice through the cellular walls
of viruses like COVID-19 and
H1N1. This netting can be com-
pared to a thorny rosebush through
which the coronavirus, in the form
of water balloons, are thrown.
The mask’s outer layer is made of
high-quality antibacterial, non-
woven fabric that has strong air
permeability but isolates droplets
and large particles. Next is the
graphene layer and patented plat-
ing technology. Because Medicevo
Graphene Masks feature 4 layers of
protection for the wearer, including
the inner graphene netting, you
would not need to wear an ad-
ditional mask. The mask fits tightly
but comfortably, with adjustable
ear loops. It is reusable for up to 15
days, which means you do not have
to wash the mask or use a new one
after every single use.
Want to learn more? Visit
Medicevo.com.
Exercise
for Good
Health
February 26, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 19

Speaking of Health
How and Why to Improve the Fit
of Your Mask

(StatePoint) As more Americans get vaccinated against COVID-19, you

may find yourself out and about more. Whether you’re returning to the
workplace or just getting a haircut, mask requirements may be in place
in certain venues you frequent.
New Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
recommendations highlight the importance of snugly fitting masks. The
good news is that innovations are helping people secure the fit of their
masks, and, at the same time, solve some of the most common
complaints they have when wearing them.
“As we began to wear masks in 2020, we found ourselves frustrated
by things like fogging glasses and slipping masks. Our team has
extensive experience solving health-related challenges and thought there
had to be a way to address this,” says Dave Franchino, co-founder at
MaskTite, a company that makes a medical-grade, double-sided tape
designed to adhere to the inside of a mask for a more secure fit.
Franchino, with his background in medical product design, set to
work with his team to design a way to give people of all face sizes and
shapes a fast and easy way to make every mask fit better. Made of skin-
safe, medical-grade, adhesive tape, MaskTite strips eliminate common
mask problems like gaps, fogging glasses and slipping, and are sized for
adults and children.
Here Franchino explains how to solve some of most common mask
woes, some of which you’ve likely experienced:
• Loose fit and slipping masks: Readjusting your mask when it starts
You good?
to slip is not always possible, whether it’s because you have your hands
full of groceries or work tools or you simply want to avoid touching your
face. Keeping the mask affixed to your face with tape can eliminate
slipping when it matters most, and achieve a tighter fit, supporting the
latest CDC recommendations.
• Foggy glasses: The warm air of your breath escaping from the top of
your mask can quickly make glasses foggy, causing a new hazard — an
inability to see. While it can be tough to find a mask that fits securely
enough to eliminate fog, applying a solution like MaskTite to the inside
of your mask means you can get a proper fit and better visibility, no
matter what mask you’re using.
• Irritating straps: A tight-fitting mask is great in many respects, but
the straps can put a strain on the backs of one’s ears. Plus, there are
times when mask straps can simply be in the way, such as when you’re
getting a haircut. Securing your mask to your face with tape means you
can go strap-free.

Waterproof and hypoallergenic, MaskTite strips can improve mask fit

in a variety of environments, including healthcare, schools, retail and
restaurant settings, salons, offices, manufacturing and more. Packaged
in a resealable, plastic pouch that’s easy to throw into a pocket, purse,
backpack or briefcase, they are currently available for sale through
Amazon. MaskTite is made in the U.S. from U.S. materials. Learn more
at MaskTite.com.
“From fogging glasses to slipping, nearly every issue that stems from
wearing a mask is related to the mask’s fit. For those spending a lot of
time in a mask, at school, work or elsewhere, a good mask-wearing
experience can make all the difference,” says Franchino.

ReUse, Reduce Reach out to a friend about

and
their mental health.

ReCycle
Find more ways to help at SeizeTheAwkward.org
 fUn
Un f
features
Page 20 SPRING CREEK SUN February 26, 2021

eatures
Diva
February 26, 2021 SPRING CREEK SUN Page 21

The Kitchen when it was discovered that cooking

food slowly in a tightly covered clay
vessel softened fibrous meats and
blended succulent juices. With the
addition or subtractions of leftovers
or inexpensive cuts of meat, the
casserole is flexible and economical
in terms of both ingredients and

Casseroles Are
effort. The classic casserole, a
French dish, was originally made

One-Dish
Wonders
BY ANGELA SHELF MEDEARIS
I was looking for a baking pan in
the back of a cupboard and
inadvertently discovered I have
quite a collection of casserole
dishes. I started thinking about all
the casserole recipes I’ve collected
over the years. When I was a
newlywed and novice cook almost
46 years ago, preparing a casserole
was my “go-to” dinner recipe.
I decided to do some research on
the origin of the casserole, and I
discovered a photo of an ancient
casserole dish in a museum in
Athens, Greece. Casseroles, both
the dish and various recipes, have
had a long and interesting culinary
history.
There’s some debate about the
origin of the term “casserole” but
most culinary historians think it’s
from the French word for “sauce-
pan.” Casseroles come in a variety
of styles, but what they all have in
common is that they are typically a
large, deep dish used both in the
oven and as a serving vessel. The
word casserole also is used for the
food cooked and served in the dish.
The Oxford Encyclopedia of Food
and Drink in America provides
detailed infor-mation about
casseroles:
“Casserole cookery has been
around since prehistoric times,
with a mound of cooked rice.
Fannie Meritt Farmer’s Boston
Cooking School Cook Book (1896)
had one casserole recipe, for
Casserole of Rice and Meat, to be
steamed for 45 minutes and served
with tomato sauce.
“In the 20th century, casseroles
took on a distinctive American
identity. During the depression of
the 1890s, the economic casserole
provided a welcome way to stretch
meat, fish and poultry. Certain
items also were scarce during World
War I, and leftovers were turned
into casserole meals. The same was
true during the Great Depression of
the 1930s.”
The casseroles we know today
became popular in the 1930s dur-
ing the Great Depression. Typically,
casseroles are composed of a meat,
starch, creamy sauce (after 1934, it
was usually a creamed soup from a
can) and a vegetable. Casseroles are
an economical, one-pot meal, and
can be prepared in advance for
breakfast, lunch or dinner. During
the 1950s-’70s, casseroles became
an easy way for a busy cook, and a
modern workforce composed of
women, to prepare the family meal
ahead of time.
Today, casseroles have been
updated to include a variety of
ingredients from lobster and tofu to
made-from-scratch sauces and
locally grown vegetables. The
shape, size and construction ma-
terials of casserole dishes have also
changed over its centuries-old
history. However, the purpose of the
casserole is still the same, to bring
a familiar container of comfort food
to the ones we love.
Bring a little comfort to your
family and friends with this Sau-
sage and Gumbo Casserole With
Garlic Toast Topping, and enjoy a
little history with each bite!
SAUSAGE AND GUMBO
CASSEROLE WITH GARLIC
TOAST TOPPING
1-pound smoked sausage, cut into
1/4-inch-thick slices
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium-size green bell pepper,
chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 cup instant roux mix, like Tony
Chachere’s Creole Instant Roux Mix
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes
and green chiles, like Rotel’s
1 (32-ounce) container chicken
broth
1 (16-ounce) package frozen okra
1 cup quick-cooking rice, uncooked
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
3 tablespoons butter, melted
2 garlic cloves, minced
into 1/2-inch-thick slices
Fresh parsley, finely chopped for
garnish
1. Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over
high heat, 1-2 minutes. Add the
sausage, green bell pepper and
onion. Sauté the sausage mixture
for 8 minutes or until browned; stir
in roux mix. Cook, stirring
constantly, 2 minutes.
2. Stir in tomatoes, chicken broth,
okra, rice, Cajun seasoning and
thyme. Bring mixture to a boil.
Remove from heat. Pour into a 13-
by 9-inch baking dish.
3. Stir together butter and garlic;
brush on one side of bread slices.
Top sausage mixture evenly with
bread slices, buttered side up.
4. Bake, covered, at 425 F for 10
minutes. Then, uncover casserole
dish and bake 10 minutes. Let
stand 10 minutes before serving.
Sprinkle with parsley, if desired.
Makes 8 to 10 servings.
PHOTO CREDIT: Depositphotos
(c) 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.,
and Angela Shelf Medearis

Recipes
1 (12-ounce) French baguette, cut

•Transfer dough to a floured surface; roll

to a 3⁄16” thickness.
•Using a 2  1⁄2” round cookie cutter, cut

Hamantaschen
dough into rounds.
•Reroll scraps; repeat.
•Transfer the rounds to 2 parchment
BY: BETSY ANDREWS paper–lined baking eets. Place
about 1⁄2 tsp. apricot preserves in center
Ingredients (makes About 2 dozen) of half the rounds;
4 oz. cream cheese, softened •Place about  1⁄2 tsp. raspberry preserves
8 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened in the center of remaining rounds.
1⁄ cup sugar •Brush egg white around edges. Fold in
4
1 tsp. vanilla extract edges to form a triangular package,
1⁄ tsp. kosher salt leaving a small opening at the top.
4
1 cup flour •Refrigerate filled cookies for 30 minutes.
2 tbsp. apricot preserves •Heat oven to 350°.
2 tbsp. raspberry preserves •Bake cookies, one sheet at a time, until
1 egg white, beaten lightly browned, about 15 minutes.

Instructions
•In a bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, sugar, vanilla,
and salt, and beat with a mixer until fluffy. Add flour;
beat.
•Form dough into a thin disk.
Wrap disk in plastic wrap; chill for 30 minutes.
Page 22 SPRING CREEK SUN
KOVELS ANTIQUES AND
COLLECTING
Pottery Cigar Box
BY TERRY AND KIM KOVEL
Homes of the early 1900s in the
United States had many matched
sets of decorative pieces. There was
a coffee and tea service with
creamer, sugar bowl and tray.
There was usually a desk set with a
pen, blotter ends, inkwell, pen
holder, letter opener, stamp box Recycling is not new. Attractive
and more. And, of course, there was boxes that held products like cigars
a smoking set that had a box for were often reused to hold jewelry or
cigars, cigar cutter, sometimes a sewing equipment. What the
cigar holder, humidor, lighter, hooded figures on this box
ashtray, a cigarette holder and a represent is unknown, but the box
special cigarette case to carry. sold for $875 to be used in a 21st-
When viewed alone, the parts are century way.
often hard to identify.
A recent auction by Rago sold a pottery box with a lid and corners that
featured hooded figures. The size suggests it was originally made to hold
cigars. Cigars were sold in standard size wooden boxes starting in 1865. A
decorative box often held them on a desk or table. This box is marked
Atlantic Terra Cotta Company, an important maker of New Jersey clay tiles
from 1907 to 1949. It sold for $875.
***
Q: I inherited a 1768 German family Bible. What’s the best way to
store it so it doesn’t deteriorate?
A: If your family Bible lists names of family members with birth and death
dates going back over 250 years, you have a treasure! Before you store the
Bible, use your cellphone or digital camera to take pictures of the pages
that have family information so you can share them with other family
members and have copies in case the ink fades.
Don’t try to copy the pages by opening the book flat on a photocopier. It
may break the spine. The public library may have a photocopy machine
with a book mount to hold the book partly open, but the light may fade the
print.
February 26, 2021
Don’t keep the Bible in a plastic bag. Put a piece of archival tissue paper
between handwritten pages to prevent the ink from bleeding through. Store
the Bible flat in an archival box and pad it with archival tissue paper to
keep the Bible in place. Store it in a cool, dry place, not in the attic or
basement. Archival materials can be purchased at sites online. A few
places for archival supplies are www.gaylord.com and
www.lightimpressionsdirect.com.
***
TIP: Rub tartar-control toothpaste on your scratched snow dome
paperweights. It will remove the smaller scratches.
(c) 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.
ARIES (March 21
to April 19) Time
is on your side
in the early part
of the week. But
anything left
undone by midweek
will need to be put into rush
FOR THE WEEK OF FEB. 21, 2021 mode. The weekend offers
choices for you and someone
special.
TAURUS (April 30 to May 20) Finally getting credit for a
contribution is nice for all you idea-generating Ferdinands and
Fernandas. But don’t sit on your laurels under the cork tree.
Use it as a first step to a bigger opportunity.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Despite the progress
made, a hint of doubt might set in. That’s OK. You need to stop
and consider not only what you’re doing but also how
you are doing. Make adjustments where needed.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) The dreamer is dominant in the
Moon Child’s aspect, but a dollop of hardheaded practicality is
coming up fast and jockeying for space. The challenge is to
make room for both modes.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) It’s a good week for Leos
and Leonas to start assessing what they’ve done and what they
plan to do. Moving to a new environment — home or job-related
— is a possibility for some Cats.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) The week calls for
Virgos to make tough decisions, but in a way that leaves the
door open for changes. Ask for advice from someone who has
been in the position you’re in now.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22)
Disappointments are never easy to take, but you have the
ability to learn from them and go on to success. Meanwhile,
continue to build up your contacts. You’ll need them
soon.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Things might still be
going much too slowly to suit you. But you need the
time to make sure they’re going in the right
direction. It’s easier to make a course correction
now rather than later.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Showing
some temperament at the way things are going is
one way of getting your point across. Just don’t
overdo it, or you risk turning away more-moderate
supporters.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Things could
change more quickly this week than you like. But
don’t fret; you’ll most likely find that you’re up to
the challenges. The weekend offers much-needed relaxation.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Big challenge
coming up? Uncross those fingers and believe
that you’re going to do well. And keep in mind
that so many people have faith in your ability to
succeed.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Testing the waters is a
good way of learning about an opportunity before plunging right
in. Ask more questions and be alert to any attempts to avoid giving
complete answers.
BORN THIS WEEK: You have a gift for making people — and animals, too —
feel special and loved.
(c) 2021 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
February 26, 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 February 26, 2021

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