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Many puppies including Gia will be up for adoption at the fundraiser on Feb. 14. Photo courtesy of Dori Scofield
Many puppies including Bunny will be up for adoption at the fundraiser on Feb. 14. Photo courtesy of Dori Scofield
Many puppies will be up for adoption at the fundraiser on Feb. 14. Photo courtesy of Dori Scofield
Many puppies will be up for adoption at the fundraiser on Feb. 14. Photo courtesy of Dori Scofield
Many puppies will be up for adoption at the fundraiser on Feb. 14. Photo courtesy of Dori Scofield

By Julianne Mosher

Who needs a box of chocolates when you can adopt a puppy this Valentine’s Day?

Save-A-Pet Animal Shelter will be hosting its first annual Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour on Feb. 14 from 5 to 7 p.m. at its Port Jefferson Station location for a special holiday fundraiser.

According to Dori Scofield, president of Save a Pet, the Yappy Hour will feature wine, charcuterie boards and desserts inside the adoption center, which they are transforming into a romantic setting for a purr-fect night out. 

“We’ll have tables set up with candlelight and roses for the women,” she said. “It’s going to be a really fun night.”

Proceeds from the event will go towards helping dogs who need orthopedic surgeries, including Teddy, above. Photo courtesy of Dori Scofield

Just this month, the shelter, which is already home to several dozen cats and dogs up for adoption, received 30 puppies from Georgia and Puerto Rico. 

“The shelters there are just too overcrowded,” said Scofield.

Those little loves, who will be joining you for your date night roaming the room, are up for adoption and the $25 ticket price will come off the adoption fee, Scofield added.

Proceeds from the event will go to continue support for the adoption center and also help care for three special cases; dogs who need orthopedic surgeries. One dog, Teddy, who is not for adoption, was unfortunately hit by a car and thanks to his latest procedure will be at Yappy Hour sporting his new cast and overseeing the night’s schedule.

If you’re looking for a lovable cat or dog who might be a little older, all the other animals available will be adoptable, too.

Those animals come from all different situations, Scofield said. “We have strays, animals who were abandoned, left in the woods, left in the streets… abandoned, abused and neglected.”

And you won’t need Cupid to shoot an arrow through your heart to fall in love with one of them.

Save-A-Pet, 608 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station will hold a Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour on Feb. 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person. For reservations, visit www.saveapetusa.org. 631-473-6333.

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PURE JOY The Reboli Center for the Arts in Stony Brook will present a special concert featuring Paige Patterson on Valentine’s Day at 7 p.m.
Thursday Feb. 13

Self Love Yoga Night

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents a Self-Love Yoga Class at 7 p.m. Join instructor Francesca Love for a night dedicated to self-affirmations and inner harmony.  $15 per person, $10 members. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Friday Feb. 14 

Night Sky Love

Looking for an unusual date night with your Valentine? The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road Centerport will present a special Valentine’s Day show, “Night Sky Love,” at 2 p.m. and again at 8 p.m. This live presentation celebrates Valentine’s Day and all of its lovers in outer space. With its Valentine/love emphasis, this show will explore how civilizations told stories about the constellations that included tales of heroism and love, and how they are depicted in the night sky.  Tickets to the afternoon show are $20 adults, $18 students (with ID) and seniors (62-plus), $16 children 12 and under. Tickets to the evening show are $12 adults, $10 students (with ID) and seniors (62-plus), $8 children 12 and under. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour

And for the animal lover …. Save A Pet, 608 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station will hold a Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour fundraiser from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Join them for a special pregame treat. Enjoy wine, charcuterie, sweets, raffle baskets and a rose, all while supporting the animals at the shelter — and yes, adorable puppies will be in attendance to make your evening even more delightful! Your $25 ticket can be used toward an adoption fee. For reservations, visit www.saveapetusa.org.

Valentine’s Day Paint & Sip

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Northport Historical Society and Museum, 215 Main St., Northport with a fun, creative twist! Join curator Elizabeth Abrahams Riordan for a Paint and Sip event at 6 p.m. inspired by the iconic Still in Love graffiti on Northport’s Bayview Avenue. Participants will paint their own homage to this unique piece of local street art and enjoy adult beverages. For ages 21 and over. Tickets are $35 per person, $30 members. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org. 631-757-9859

An evening of jazz

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook presents “Here’s to the Ladies!” a special Valentine’s Day concert featuring The Jazz Loft All Stars playing tunes honoring the women of Jazz at 7 p.m. The venue will supply the live jazz music, a glass of champagne and chocolate. You supply the romance. Tickets are $50. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

WinterTide concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson hosts a special Valentine’s Day concert with musical storyteller Gerald Bair from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series. Free. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and Greater Port Jeff-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council. Call 473-5220 or visit www.gpjac.org.

Valentine’s Day Tribute Concert

Join the Reboli Center for Art & History 604 Main St., Stony Brook for Pure Joy, a Valentine’s Day tribute to African American singers and composers with Paige Patterson and her band from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy music from Stevie Wonder, Nancy Wilson, The Drifters, Corinne Bailey Rae and more. $45 per person includes champagne and refreshments. Call 631-751-7707 to reserve your seat.

Grounds and Sounds concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe, UUFSB, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts a concert featuring The Claudia Jacobs Band who will serve up tunes that will honor a wide range of feelings that are sure to touch hearts no matter where they might be residing at the moment. The show begins with an Open Mic at 7:30 (signup at 7 p.m.); the main act goes on at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, available in advance at www.groundsandsounds.org or at the door. For more information, call 631-751-0297.

Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center  for the Art, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra concert on the Main Stage at 8 p.m. Conducted by Xian Zhang, the program will include Bellini’s Overture “I Capuleti e Montecchi”; Bartók’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with a piano solo by Owen Dodds; and Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5. Join emeritus professor Peter Winkler in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. for a free pre-concert lecture. A Valentine’s Night dessert reception will follow in the lobby. Tickets are $25 adults, $20 seniors and $10 students (with SBU ID). To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Saturday Feb. 15

Toy Train Display

Middle Country Public LIbrary, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach presents a Toy Train Display by the Railroad Museum of Long Island today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Feb. 16 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 631-585-9393 for more information.

Superheroes of the Sky

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents Superheroes of the Sky from 11 a.m. to noon. Take a walking tour with Jim while he feeds the Center’s birds of prey and learn about their incredible adaptations that help them survive in the wild. You’ll be seeing a bald eagle, turkey Vultures, owls, hawks and many more. Fee is $10 adults, $5 children. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 

Poetry & Mocktail Night

Rescheduled from Feb. 8. Join Walt Whitman Birthplace Association, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station for Love in Verse: Poetry & Mocktail Night, a special Valentine’s Day Open Poetry Mic Night filled with heartfelt expressions, delicious mocktails, and the timeless beauty of poetry at 7 p.m. $15 admission, $10 members. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Amber Ferrari Band in Concert

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson welcomes the Amber Ferrari Band live at Griswold’s Cafe at 8 p.m. Amber’s Joplin’s Pearl Woodstock Show made its 2006 debut at Griswold’s, and the band returns to the intimate venue to perform their favorites of the 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond. Also featured in this celebration of song will be originals, highlights from The Great American Song Book, and more. Enjoy table seating and bar during the performance. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Voice and the Violin!’

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents “Voice and the Violin!” with Grammy®-winning Joshua Bell and soprano Larisa Martinez on the Main Stage at 8 p.m. The husband and wife duo pair up to showcase repertoire from classical art songs and operas to musical theater and selections by Puerto Rican and Spanish composers. Accompanied on piano by Peter Dugan. Tickets range from $53 to $86. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Lovers of Comedy Night

Join the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown for a Lovers of Comedy Night at 8 p.m. In partnership with Governer’s Comedy Clubs, the evening will headline comedian John Ziegler and feature Bryan McKenna, Debbie D’Amore and emcee Michele Fox. Tickets are $40 per person. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Sunday Feb. 16

Toy Train Display

See Feb. 15 listing.

Le Petit Salon de Musique Concert

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket presents a Le Petit Salon de Musique concert, Hidden Threads: Love In All Its Keys,  featuring Eric Tsai on violin, and Calvin Hu on piano at 2 p.m. Tickets in advance and at the door are $20 adults, $15 students with valid I.D./$10 for ages 12 and under at www.lepetitsalon.org. Questions? Call 631-751-0297

LITMA Contradance 

Smithtown Historical Society’s Frank Brush Barn, 211 East Main St., Smithtown will host a LITMA Contradance at 2 p.m. with basic instruction at 1:45 p.m. Jim Gregory will call and the band will be Dance All Night. Bring a friend or two and a snack to share with the group. Fee is $15 general admission, $10 LITMA members, $7.50 students, children under 16 free with paid adult.  631-369-7854

Robert Bruey in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Robert Bruey from 3 to 4 p.m.  Known for his unique fingerstyle guitar playing and earthy soulful voice, Bruey paints with words, imbuing his songs with imagery that enables listeners to visualize his stories as he sings them. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

‘Days to Remember’ reception

The Port Jefferson Conservancy invites the community to the opening reception of ‘Days to Remember’ at the Port Jefferson Village Center, Second Floor, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson from 3:30 p.m. to 6 pm. The photo exhibit  is curated by Port Jefferson Village historian Chris Ryon and will be on view through Feb. 28. For more information, call 631-802-2160.

Ridotto Concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington presents a Ridotto concert, Mozart in Italy, at 4 pm. The Bayberry String Quartet returns with a celebration of the ensemble’s Early Mozart CD. Their program: two Mozart Milanese Quartets, Beethoven Quartet in C Minor Op.18 and more. Margaretha Maimone narrates. Tickets are $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 members, $12 students with ID. To order, call 631-385-0373 or email [email protected].

Monday Feb. 17

TVHS Lecture

Three Village Historical Society in Setauket continues their lecture series with “Sprang into Visibility”: Glenda Dickerson, Eel Catching in Setauket, and Oral History as Community Theatre via Zoom at 7 p.m.  Khalid Y. Long, Ph.D of Howard University will examine the life and theatrical works of Black feminist theatre artist Glenda Dickerson (1945-2012) with a special focus on her project, Eel Catching in Setauket: A Living Portrait of the Christian Avenue Community (1988). Free. Registration required by visiting www.tvhs.org.

Country Line Dancing w/Natalie

Celebrate St. James presents Country Line Dance lessons with Natalie at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 2nd St. St. James from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come learn the hottest dances! $15 per person at the door. Please RSVP at  www.celebratestjames.org.

Tuesday Feb. 18

Divas Of Soul

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with a Divas of Soul concert at 8 p.m.  ​Take a ride on the “Midnight Train to Georgia” over “River Deep, Mountain High” while award-winning vocalist CeCe Teneal delivers you the “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” you deserve.  This celebration of fifty years of chart-topping music from artists like Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and more has wowed audiences worldwide. Tickets are $45. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

Wednesday Feb. 19

Hard Luck Cafe Concert

Take 2 and Sandy & Steve Edwards, a pair of Long Island-based musical duos, will share the stage during the monthly Hard Luck Cafe concert series co-presented by the Folk Music Society of Huntington and the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington in the Cinema’s Sky Room from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.  An open mic, for which sign-up begins at 6:30 p.m,. precedes the concert.  Tickets are $20, $15 for CAC/FMSH member and can be purchased online at cinemaartscentre.org or at the box office.

Thursday Feb. 20

Reduce Your Energy Bill

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a Reduce Your Energy Bill event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PSEG’s Residential Energy Affordability Partnership (REAP) program is free for income-eligible customers. Drop in and speak with a PSEG representative to learn how REAP can help you save energy and reduce your electric bills. No registration required. 631-928-1212.

HHS Lunch and Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues their Lunch and Learn series with a lecture on Black Whalers by Nomi Dayan at Red Restaurant, 417 New York Ave., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. Did you know whaling was our nation’s first integrated industry, and that between one-quarter and one-third of crews were people of color? Join our fascinating presentation spotlighting the roles African American mariners played in our whaling history. Explore their triumphs, challenges, perseverance, and connections to sea-including ties to the Underground Railroad. ​Tickets are $55, $45 members and includes a two-course gourmet meal and dessert. Cash bar available. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Gallery North Art Reception

Join Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket for an opening reception for Contours & Currents: Recent Works by Edward Acosta from 6 to 8 p.m. The exhibition, which features a selection of large and medium-scale acrylic paintings inspired by views of sunrises and sunsets on Long Island, runs through March 30. 631-751-2676

SBU Faculty Recital

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook hosts a joint Faculty Recital featuring Gina Cuffari, Christina Dahl and Nina Bernat in the Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m. The trio will present an eclectic program of virtuosic masterworks reimagined and new works exploring the creative possibilities of the bassoon, bass, and piano. Program will include works by Roussel, Prokofiev, Harberg, August and Vivaldi. Free admission.

Film

‘It Ends with Us’

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of  It Ends with Us starring Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, and Jenny Slate on Feb. 13 from 2 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

‘Wicked’

East Northport Public Library, 185 Larkfield Road, East Northport will screen Wicked on Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. Elphaba, a young woman who is misunderstood because of her green skin, and Galinda, a popular girl, become friends at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. After an encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads. Rated PG. 631-261-2313

‘Casablanca’ at the CAC

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington invites all lovebirds and lonelyhearts to spend Valentine’s Day with them revisiting a classic, Casablanca, on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, $15 members and includes complimentary sweets. To order tickets in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

David Lynch Tribute

In memory of legendary director David Lynch, who passed away on Jan. 15 at the age of 78, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will be screening a selection of his most iconic films including Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me on Feb. 15 at 7 p.m., Wild at Heart on Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m.; Mulholland Drive on Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m.; Inland Empire on Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m., Lost Highway on March 1 at 7 p.m, and A Straight Story on March 29 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Made in England: The Films of Powell & Pressburger’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents a special screening of Made in England: The Films of Powell & Pressburger on Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. with introduction by film historian Philip Harwood.In this captivating documentary, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese takes us on a personal journey through the films of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, the visionary British duo behind classics such as The Red Shoes and Black Narcissus. This program will be immediately followed by a screening of Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s The Red Shoes at 5  p.m. Tickets to  each screening are $16, $10 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Our Gang’ Shorts

Cinema Arts Center, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Anything But Silent series with Our Gang Shorts featuring Ernie Morrison with live score performed by Ben Model on Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m. The “Our Gang” comedy shorts — better known today as “The Little Rascals” — began during the silent era in 1922. The series was originally conceived by Hal Roach to showcase child star Ernie Morrison. Although the films’ plots gradually broadened to include an ensemble of kids, the earliest entries in the series are centered more around Morrison, whose charm and comedy chops are evident in the 1922-1923 films on this program. Tickets are $18, $12 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Theater

‘Heartbreak Hotel’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Heartbreak Hotel from Jan. 16 to March 2. The tribute to Elvis takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll as well as popular culture following him from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll.” Featuring over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs.  To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 14 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. See what more than 15 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Ring of Fire’

Theatre Three, 412 Msin St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show from March 1 to March 30. From the heart of the songs of singer-songwriter Johnny Cash  comes a unique musical show about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, home and family. RING OF FIRE captures America’s legendary Man in Black in an exhilarating, tuneful, foot-stomping celebration. His life story is told through the songs he composed, recorded, and shared with the world. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Waitress The Musical’

Up next at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop — until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 12 to the end of April. 631-802-216

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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'Lasting Love' pre-Valentine's dinner 2025. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law
'Lasting Love' pre-Valentine's dinner 2025. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law
'Lasting Love' pre-Valentine's dinner 2025. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law
'Lasting Love' pre-Valentine's dinner 2025. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law
'Lasting Love' pre-Valentine's dinner 2025. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law
'Lasting Love' pre-Valentine's dinner 2025. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law
'Lasting Love' pre-Valentine's dinner 2025. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law
'Lasting Love' pre-Valentine's dinner 2025. Photo courtesy of Cona Elder Law

Third Annual Event Hosted by Cona Elder Law honors couples and their secrets to relationship success

 Long Island couples who have been married 50 years or more gathered for a pre-Valentine’s celebration at the 3rd Annual “Lasting Love” Valentine’s Dinner on Feb. 11 to toast their successful relationships.

“This room is full of beautiful people who got it right,” said Jennifer Cona, Founder and Managing Partner of Cona Elder Law. “There are a lot of things older adults can teach us, including the secrets of staying together. Lessons of patience, of compromise. All those things that it takes to stay together for so long.”

Held at Verona Ristorante in Farmingdale, each participating couple feasted on a complimentary traditional Italian dinner including appetizers, dinner and dessert plus a glass of wine or a cocktail.

Couples also had the opportunity to share their stories about how they met and how they have been successful in their marriages and offer advice to younger couples on their own path to relationship success.

“We got married very young and we grew up together,” said Shelley Rudes of Woodbury. She and her husband Jonathan have been together for 51 years. “We never go to bed angry.”

“I think it takes a lot of patience and a sense of humor,” said Diane Powell, of Roslyn. She and her husband Tom have been married 52 years. “You need to keep your relationships with friends and family and be ready to face things you don’t expect. You have to stick together in good times and bad.”

The event was sponsored by Melville-based Cona Elder Law, which concentrates in the areas of elder law, estate planning, estate administration and litigation, and health care law. Cona Elder Law takes a holistic approach to elder law, providing support and resources for older adults and caregivers, and maintains long-term, partnering relationships with clients to provide the best solutions for multiple generations.

 

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Long Island’s most popular amusement park adds more value through the new ‘Wave Twister’ ride, new games, and additional amenities—at last year’s prices 

Adventureland, 2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale has announced it will be freezing its prices— without freezing the fun! Long Island’s most popular amusement park, offering family fun for everyone since 1962, is offering more value this year, and for the same ticket prices as last year. The park is freezing its admission rates, group rates, season pass rates, and birthday party rates at the same prices from the 2024 season. 

“At a time when everything around us is going up, we are proud and excited to be able to provide our guests this price freeze on admission,” said Jeanine Gentile, Adventureland Park Manager. “We are still making additions to the park, so you will definitely see some great changes for this upcoming season. But one thing that will not be changing is the admission prices for the 2025 season!”

The price freeze is not the only exciting news from Adventureland. For the first time, the amusement park is offering payment plans through FlexPay for online orders of $100 or more. This brand-new option will allow visitors to book tickets and purchase season passes online—now—and conveniently pay over time. Daily tickets and season passes are currently available for purchase online. For full details please visit https://adventureland.us/?keyword=Tickets

Last year, Adventureland announced plans for a multi-year, five-phase $15 million redevelopment. Now currently in phase 2, the amusement park promises a ‘Bigger and Better’ 2025 season, which includes two new outdoor games: ‘Wave Blaster’ and ‘Jungle Run.’  Additionally, plans are in place to install three new concession stands and a third restroom facility. Especially exciting is the highly-anticipated new family ride, ‘Wave Twister,’ scheduled to open this spring.

The opening weekend of the 2025 season will be March 22 and March 23. For further information, call 631-694-6868 or visit Adventureland.us. 

 

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Stony Brook Medicine participates in the American Heart Association's "Go Red for Women" campaign to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease.(2/7/25)

On Friday, February 7,  National Wear Red Day®, staff from Stony Brook University Hospital wore red to help raise awareness of women’s No. 1 killer – cardiovascular disease. The annual #WearRedDay during American Heart Month honors those we have lost to heart disease and aims to raise awareness of the actions we can all take to prevent it.

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Arianna Maffei in her lab viewing a slice of brain that shows the mark of the infusion in the gustatory cortex (identified by the red and yellow). This is one of the images which helped the researchers confirm their study data. Photo courtesy of Stony Brook University

Study findings reveal a specific signal in one brain region that may hold the key

Researchers at Stony Brook University used genetic manipulation in a laboratory brain model to demonstrate that neurosteroids, signals involved in mood regulation and stress, can reduce the sensitivity and preference for sweet tastes when elevated within the gustatory cortex – a region in the brain most involved with taste. Their findings are published in Current Biology.

According to senior author Arianna Maffei, PhD, Professor in the Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, studies in humans suggest that the preference for certain foods influences how much we eat and that decreased sensitivity to taste is often associated with overconsumption, which may lead to obesity. Currently there is limited knowledge of how brain activity contributes to the differences in taste preference.

Determining the relationship between brain activity, taste and eating habits is difficult in humans because available technology for measuring changes in brain activity does not have sufficient resolution to identify biological mechanisms. However, scientists can accurately monitor brain activity in lab mice while measuring their taste preferences.

As the biology of taste is very similar in all mammals, this approach can shed light on the human brain and taste.

In their murine model, the research team investigated neural circuits regulating the preference for sweet taste in adult brains. Their work focused on the effect of the neurosteroid allopregnanolone, which is known to be elevated in people affected by obesity.

This neurosteroid modulates brain activity by increasing tonic inhibitory circuits mediated by a specific type of GABA receptor. The team demonstrated that these GABA receptors are present in excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the gustatory cortex.

They infused allopregnanolone locally into the gustatory cortex of the mice to activate neurosteroid-sensitive GABA receptors. This manipulation reduced the model’s sensitivity and preference for sweet taste. Then they used genetic tools to remove neurosteroid sensitive GABA receptors locally, only in the gustatory cortex. This manipulation eliminated the preference for sweet taste over water.

“This reduced sensitivity and preference for sweet taste was even more prominent if the receptors were selectively removed only from inhibitory gustatory cortex neurons. Indeed, in this case mice were practically unable to distinguish sugared water from water,” explains Maffei.

Their approach confirmed that a specific type of GABA receptor is the target of neurosteroid activity and is essential for fine-tuning sensitivity and preference for sweet taste.

Maffei says their findings illustrate the fascinating ways the mammalian brain contributes to the taste experience and reveals a specific signal in a specific brain region that is essential for sensitivity to sweet taste.

Ongoing research with the models is exploring whether neurosteroids only regulate sweet taste sensation or contribute to the perception of other tastes, and/or how changes in taste sensitivity influences eating.

The research was supported by several grants from the National Institute for Deafness and Communication Disorder (NIDCD) branch of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and was supported by NIH grants R01DC019827, R01DC013770, R01DC015234, F31 DC019518 and UF1NS115779.

The authors are members of Stony Brook University’s College of Arts and Science (Yevoo and Maffei) and of the Renaissance School of Medicine (Fontanini).

 

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Image courtesy of Sweetbriar Nature Center

Every year Hoover the Goat at Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown picks the winner of the Super Bowl and for the last 7 years, he’s been on a roll, correctly predicting the champion 5 times by munching on the team. This year, Hoover, pictured with volunteer Dan Defeo, has taken a bite out of the Philadelphia Eagles! Will he be right again? Only time will tell. Stay tuned and let’s see if Hoover has the magic touch!

SEE VIDEO HERE.

*This video has been reposted with permission from Sweetbriar Nature Center.

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Great news for all Harry Potter fans! Fathom Events and Warner Bros. Discovery are partnering to bring back the first four films of the quintessential fan favorite Harry Potter film series to select theatres nationwide this February.

Harry with his pet owl Hedwig in a scene from ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.’ Photo courtesy of Fathom Events

The Harry Potter film series will be the first series highlighted in Fathom Fan Favorites, a new theatrical series that will feature films from iconic franchises.

For more than 20 years, the world has been captivated by the magic of the Harry Potter stories from J.K. Rowling and starting February 13, moviegoers will be able to relive, or experience for the first time, the first four films in the wizarding saga on the big screen.

Additionally, starting February 27, fans will be able to experience the films from the series in 4DX motion seats to get the feeling they are in attendance at Hogwarts alongside the Golden Trio.

Also for the first time in the United States, the UK version of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, named Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will be presented in 3D and will give fans the chance to see some never-before-seen moments.

Each screening will also include an exclusive introduction by cinema legend Leonard Maltin, sharing unique insights for each film. The complete schedule for the “Fathom Fan Favorites: Harry Potter” series is as follows:

— Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone on Feb. 13 , Feb. 20 and Feb. 27

— Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (UK version) on Feb. 13, Feb. 20 and Feb. 27 in 3D

— Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets on Feb. 14, Feb. 21 and Feb. 28

— Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on Feb. 15, Feb. 22 and March 1

— Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire 20th Anniversary on Feb.16, Feb. 23 and March 2.

Locally, the films will be screened at AMC Loews Stony Brook 17, Island 16 Cinema de lux in Holtsville, AMC Huntington Square 12 in East Northport, Showcase Cinema de lux in Farmingdale, and Regal Cinemas in Deer Park. Tickets are available at www.fathomevents.com or at participating theatre box offices. 

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Examining heredity vs. dietary impact

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Your heart disease risk is influenced by your family’s history. Can you overcome these genetic issues by making lifestyle changes that improve your health trajectory? It’s the classic heredity vs. environment dilemma. Let’s look at the evidence.

A study involving the Paleo-type diet and other ancient diets suggests that cardiovascular disease is influenced by genetics, while another study considering the Mediterranean-type diet suggests that we might be able to reduce our risk factors with lifestyle adjustments. Most of the risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, smoking and obesity are modifiable (1). 

How do our genes affect our heart disease risk?

Researchers used computed tomography scans to look at 137 mummies from Egypt, Peru, the Aleutian Islands, Southwestern America, and others (2). The represented cultures included hunter-gatherers (consumers of a Paleo-type diet), farmer-gatherers and solely farmers. All the diets included significant amounts of animal protein, such as fish and cattle.

Researchers found that one-third of these mummies had atherosclerosis, or plaques in their arteries, which is a precursor to heart disease. This is a familiar ratio; it’s what we still see in modern times.

The authors concluded that atherosclerosis could be part of the human aging process. In other words, it may be embedded in our genes. We all have genetic propensity toward atherosclerosis and heart disease, some more than others.

However, other studies demonstrate that we can reduce our heart disease risk with lifestyle changes, such as with a plant-rich diet, like the Mediterranean-type diet.

How does diet affect our genetic response?

A study of 7,000+ participants in Spain who were at high risk for cardiovascular disease examined the impacts of a Mediterranean-type diet and a low-fat diet on cardiovascular disease risk (3). Two variations on the Mediterranean-type diet were compared to a low-fat diet, with participants randomly assigned to three different groups. The two Mediterranean-type diet groups indicated about a 30 percent reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease, compared to the low-fat diet. Risk indicators they studied included heart attacks, strokes and mortality. Interestingly, risk improvement in the Mediterranean-type diets occurred without significant weight loss.

The study included three groups: a Mediterranean diet supplemented with mixed nuts (almonds, hazelnuts or walnuts), a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil (at least four tablespoons a day), and a low-fat control diet.

The Mediterranean-type diet arms both included significant amounts of fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, fish, olive oil and wine. Both groups consuming this diet had either significant amounts of nuts or olive oil and/or wine. If the participants in the Mediterranean diet groups were wine drinkers, they were encouraged to drink at least one glass a day.

This study was well-designed; however, there was a significant flaw that should temper our enthusiasm. The group assigned to the low-fat diet was not able to maintain this diet throughout the study. As a result, it really became a comparison between variations on the Mediterranean diet and a standard diet.

How have leading cardiovascular and integrative medicine physicians responded to the study? Interestingly, there are two opposing opinions, split by field. You may be surprised by which group liked it and which did not.

Well-known cardiologists hailed the study as a great achievement. They emphasized that we now have a large, randomized diet trial measuring meaningful clinical outcomes. 

On the other hand, leading integrative medicine physicians, including Caldwell Esselstyn, M.D. and Dean Ornish, M.D., expressed disappointment with the results. Both promote plant-rich diets that may be significantly more nutrient-dense than the Mediterranean diet in the study. Both have published their own small, well-designed studies showing significant benefits from plant-based diets (4, 5). Ornish showed a reversal of atherosclerosis in one of his studies (6).

Their objections to the study revolve around their belief that heart disease and its risk factors can be reversed, not just reduced. In other words, the study didn’t go far enough.

Both opinions have merit. The cardiologists’ enthusiasm is warranted, because a Mediterranean diet, even with an abundance of included fats, will appeal to a wide audience. However, those who follow a more focused diet that includes more nutrient-dense foods, could potentially see a more significant reversal of heart disease.

Either way, it is encouraging to know that we can alter our cardiovascular destinies by altering our diet.

References:

(1)www.uptodate.com(2) BMJ 2013;346:f1591. (3) N Engl J Med 2018; 378:e34. (4) J Fam Pract. 1995;41(6):560-568. (5) Am J Cardiol. 2011;108:498-507. (6) JAMA. 1998 Dec 16;280(23):2001-2007.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.

 

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Tiramisu

By Heidi Sutton

Romantic sentiments are expressed in many ways come Valentine’s Day. Gifts may include sparkling jewels or personalized prose, but a homemade dessert from the kitchen can win over hearts as well. Here are two delicious recipes to try on a cozy night for two.

Tiramisu

Recipe courtesy of the American Dairy Association

Tiramisu

YIELD: Makes 9 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

6 egg yolks

1 cup sugar

1 1⁄4 cup mascarpone cheese

1 3⁄4 cup heavy whipping cream

2 12 oz packages Lady Fingers

1⁄2 cup cold espresso or strong coffee

1⁄4 cup coffee flavored liqueur

1 tablespoon cocoa for dusting

DIRECTIONS:

Combine egg yolks and sugar in the top of a double boiler, over boiling water. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly. This is your sabayon. Remove from the heat and whip yolks until thick and lemon colored. Add mascarpone to whipped yolks, and beat until combined.

In a separate bowl, whip cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream in the mascarpone-sabayon mixture and set aside.

Mix the cold espresso with the coffee liquor, and dip the lady fingers into the mixture just long enough to get them wet; do not soak them! Arrange the lady fingers in the bottom of a 8 inch square baking dish (or 6X9). Spoon half the mascarpone cream filling over the lady fingers.

Repeat the process with another layer. Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight. Dust with cocoa before serving.

Dark Chocolate Souffle

Recipe courtesy of Culinary.net

Dark Chocolote Souffle

YIELD: Serves 2

INGREDIENTS: 

1/2 tablespoon extra light olive oil plus additional for coating pan

1/4 cup granulated sugar plus additional for coating pan

4 ounces 70 percent cocoa dark chocolate

1 ounce 30 percent heavy cream

3 egg whites

2 egg yolks

pinch of cream of tartar

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 375° F. Grease two 6-ounce ramekins with olive oil and dust with sugar. In double boiler, melt chocolate, 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and cream; let cool. 

Using electric mixer, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Whisk egg yolks into cooled chocolate mixture; fold in egg whites, 1/4 cup sugar and cream of tartar. Pour into prepared ramekins; bake 15 minutes.

Tips: This recipe can be easily doubled. Garnish with fresh berries, if desired.

 

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