After being abandoned on a Uniondale street, Goldie has begun to blossom and is now ready for a calm, understanding home.

NORTHPORT, NY — Goldie may look like a tiny black panther, but beneath her sleek coat is a gentle, cautious kitten still learning that the world can be kind.

Goldie, approximately 8 months old, has been at the shelter for the past four months. She has a glossy black coat with a small patch of white on her chest and belly, and according to Debbie Larkin, president of the shelter, while she may not rush to greet visitors, "her quiet presence leaves a lasting impression on those who take the time to notice her."

According to the shelter, Goldie’s journey began on a busy street in Uniondale, where she was left behind inside a carrier. How long she waited there is unknown. What is known is that when she arrived at the shelter, transported by John Debacker, she was terrified and unsure, clearly shaken by the experience.

With patience and care, Goldie was partially vetted before being transferred to the shelter’s in-house veterinary hospital to complete her medical exams. After several days of cage rest, she was ready to take her next brave step and was introduced to the kitten room.

"At first, Goldie kept to herself, understandably shy after everything she had already endured," Larkin said. "Over time, she has begun to blossom in her own quiet way. She has started making friends with the other kittens and will occasionally join in when springs bounce across the floor, toy mice scurry by, or a kitten races through the tunnel."

More often, however, Goldie prefers calm moments. She enjoys lounging in sunny spots, relaxing, and watching the room from a comfortable distance.

Goldie enjoys gentle brushing and completely melts under soft head and chin scratches once she feels safe. She is not a kitten who runs up to greet people, and if approached too quickly, she will usually retreat. Goldie needs to make the first move — and when she does, it is something special.

Because of her personality, Goldie would do best in a quiet home with a patient and understanding family willing to give her the time and space she needs to fully come out of her shell. She would likely thrive with another calm, confident cat who could help show her that the world isn’t such a scary place.

Goldie is fully vetted. She has tested negative for FELV and FIV, tested negative for parasites, had her eyes, ears, and heart checked, is fully vaccinated, microchipped, litter box-trained, and spayed.

Despite being ready in every way, Goldie is still waiting — and part of that may be due to outdated superstitions surrounding black cats. In ancient Egypt, black cats were associated with the goddess Bastet. In Britain, they are said to bring luck in love, and in Japan, prosperity. Goldie doesn’t bring bad luck. She brings quiet companionship, soft purrs, and the chance to watch a once-frightened kitten finally feel safe and loved.

Black cats are often described as the “yin” to the extrovert’s “yang” — mysterious, independent, loyal, and deeply affectionate once trust is earned. They balance reserved moments with playful bursts and often form strong bonds with their people.

If you are interested in meeting Goldie, you can call the shelter at 631-757-4517, email cats@laphuntington.org, browse the shelter’s Facebook page, or stop by in person and ask to see the shy black beauty in the kitten room.

The shelter is located at 3 Verleye Avenue, East Northport, and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 12–4 p.m. The shelter also offers Thursday evening hours from 7–9 p.m. by appointment.

Goldie is waiting — patiently — for someone to look past superstition and see the gentle companion she is ready to become.

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

As important as exercise is, performing it safely and effectively is equally vital.

By Dr. Adam Bitterman, Orthopedic Surgeon

Every year, individuals set resolutions to get in better shape and prioritize their health. This is a fantastic goal, and patients are often reminded that the human body is truly designed for movement. Consistent physical exercise isn't just a recommendation; it's a cornerstone of overall health and well-being, with its profound benefits frequently underscored by medical professionals.

When providing advice on preventing running injuries, it is consistently highlighted that running is a wonderful way to stay active, both physically and mentally. This sentiment extends to nearly every form of exercise. Exercise is often cited for its benefits to cardiovascular health, bone strengthening, and significant mood improvement. The advantages are far-reaching, contributing to a robust cardiovascular system, mitigating the risk of chronic diseases, and bolstering mental resilience against stress and anxiety. Even for expectant mothers, staying active during pregnancy is hugely beneficial for both the mother and the baby, helping to improve mood, reduce back pain, and aid sleep.

However, as important as exercise is, performing it safely and effectively is equally vital. A frequent caution is against overdoing it. In fact, a common mistake observed in runners is doing too much, too soon. This principle of gradual progression is vital, whether one is just starting a new routine or returning to activity after a break. As is often advised, avoid attempting to go from zero to 100 on day one. Even when exercising in challenging conditions, like hot weather, staying active is important year-round. However, exercise during hot weather requires extra precautions. The consistent message is to be consistent, but also to be mindful.

A truly comprehensive exercise regimen should incorporate several key elements. First, proper footwear is incredibly important for preventing injuries. Cross-training – integrating activities like cycling, swimming, or strength training – is also stressed. This is crucial because it helps strengthen muscles that aren't primarily used in one's main activity. Strength training, in particular, is strongly advocated for; it builds stronger muscles and bones that can better withstand the impact of higher-impact activities. Furthermore, listening to one's body is non-negotiable. If something hurts, the advice is always not to push through it. Finally, a proper warm-up to prepare muscles and a cool-down with static stretching to improve flexibility are absolutely essential components of any safe exercise session.

In summary, physical activity isn't just an option; it is a vital component of a healthy, fulfilling life. By embracing a balanced approach that prioritizes consistency, proper technique, and bodily awareness, individuals can unlock a myriad of benefits that extend well beyond just physical prowess.

Key Principles for Physical Exercise:

Here are some important points regarding physical exercise:

Holistic Health Benefits: Exercise significantly improves cardiovascular health, strengthens bones, and genuinely boosts mental well-being and mood, leading to a higher quality of life and potentially a longer lifespan.

Gradual Progression is Key: It cannot be stressed enough: avoid doing "too much, too soon." Start slowly and gradually increase intensity and duration to prevent injury and ensure adherence, as rapid increases often lead to burnout or injury sidelining participation entirely.

Comprehensive Approach: Incorporating cross-training and strength training is always advised, along with ensuring proper footwear to support all muscle groups and reduce injury risk. This ensures a well-rounded fitness that supports all daily activities.

Listen to Your Body: This is non-negotiable: pay attention to pain signals. Rest when needed, rather than pushing through discomfort, to prevent more serious injuries; ignoring pain can turn a minor ache into a chronic problem.

Preparation and Recovery: Always include dynamic warm-ups before activity and static stretching cool-downs afterward for optimal performance and flexibility – it's crucial for injury prevention and maximizing the benefits of each exercise session.

Dr. Adam Bitterman is an orthopedic surgeon in Huntington for Northwell Health.

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Our uppermost layer of skin doesn't retain as much moisture - and that can lead to health issues.

by Raman Madan

Winter isn't necessarily a wonderland for the skin.

That’s because our skin barrier, the uppermost layer of skin, doesn’t retain as much moisture during colder months. Dry, winter air can disrupt the barrier. And some patients truly feel it! For some, dryness means not only irritations, but flare-ups of certain common conditions, including rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.

We can support and protect the skin barrier with some thoughtful planning and carefully selected products that help counteract and retain lost moisture.

Moisturize. If your skin becomes dry or flaky during winter, you may need to change your moisturizer to a slightly heavier one. Look for gentle products that replace moisture and don’t inadvertently further dry skin, such as those that contain ceramides or hyaluronic acid.

Both ingredients can help balance and restore skin moisture, counteract dryness in the environment, and keep skin soft. These products should come in jars; those that come in pumps typically contain more alcohol in them that can further dry your skin.

To protect your scalp from dryness and cold, wear a hat that covers your head and ears. Try using a gentle shampoo that contains argan oil or avocado oil to help moisturize and hydrate your scalp. Conditioners that contain glycerin also can help retain moisture.

Hydrate—from the outside. Though we’re often told to drink water as part of our skincare routines, more research needs to be conducted into whether that benefit truly exists. We do know, however, that hydrating our environments can help combat seasonal dryness.

Home and office heating systems dry the air, so our skin can need relief. Try using a cool-water humidifier, especially where you sleep. Be sure to keep the humidifier clean and change the water frequently to avoid the buildup of harmful dirt or mold.

Hot showers do not help. They may feel like a good way to warm our bodies in winter, however, hot water further dries the skin. Try something gentler: short, warm showers; pat dry skin afterwards instead of rubbing it; and immediately massage moisturizer into your skin while it’s still damp.Use sun protection. Yes, even in winter. Just as you would during sunnier months, your skin needs protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.

Wear (polarized) sunglasses consistently to protect your eyes, especially if you have light eyes and fair skin. Sunlight reflects off snow and ice, increasing exposure to UV radiation and increasing the risk of developing eye problems. It can also damage the eyelids, the skin around the eyes, cornea, and lens.

Call your dermatologist. If you’ve consistently tried over-the-counter treatments and still are experiencing itching, flaking or blotchiness, it’s time to call your dermatologist. It’s also important to reach out if discomfort or pain from winter skin conditions keep you up at night. Winter weather certainly can be challenging for your skin, but simple and practical strategies should keep you on track to enjoy the season.

Raman Kevin Madan, MD is a board-certified dermatologist at Northwell Health Physician Partners in Glen Cove and Huntington.

After years of working in restaurants and high-end spas, a Long Island wellness professional has opened her own massage and skincare studio.

HUNTINGTON, NY — Sue Lupia didn’t grow up dreaming of owning a wellness studio.

For years, her life revolved around restaurant shifts and late nights. She bartended, waited tables, hosted, bussed — whatever paid the bills. But as she got older, she wanted a change.

“As I got older, it just wasn’t something I wanted for myself,” Lupia said. “You’re working late nights, dealing with people who aren’t always nice after they’ve been drinking.”

That decision eventually led Lupia to massage therapy — and, years later, to opening 27 East Massage and Skincare, a boutique massage and skincare studio located on Gerard Street in Huntington Village, with its entrance tucked behind the building near the municipal parking lot.

Lupia’s path into wellness wasn’t direct. The Ronkonkoma resident earned a bachelor’s degree from Stony Brook University after initially studying journalism, then spent several years working in restaurants while searching for a more meaningful career.

That changed in 2015, when she enrolled at the New York College of Health Professions in Syosset.

“I was soul-searching — that’s really how I came across it,” she said. “What attracted me was the science. I’m a total science buff — anatomy, chemistry, all of it. It kept me interested. And I liked that I could put something good into the world. I felt like I was actually doing something positive.”

She received her massage therapy license in 2017 and returned to school less than a year later to earn her esthetician license.

Learning the business from the inside

Lupia didn’t just learn technique — she learned the business from the inside.

While still in school, she cold-called Naturopathica, a well-known holistic wellness brand, from a parking lot in Montauk after leaving her restaurant job.

“I said, ‘I’m enrolled in massage school. I’m just looking for a place that will mentor me — front desk, office work, anything,’” she recalled. “They told me, ‘We need someone at the front desk, and once you get licensed, you’ll have a job here.’ And that’s exactly what happened.”

She worked the front desk throughout her schooling, learning how appointments were booked, how clients were handled, and how the business actually functioned — knowledge that would later prove invaluable.

Over the years, Lupia worked at spas and wellness centers in East Hampton and New York City, building a broad client base and refining her hands-on approach, and worked with elite clientele. Eventually, she began providing massage and skincare services independently at Hero Beach Club in Montauk — her first true test of running a business on her own.

“That pop-up showed me I could do this,” she said. “I loved running my own show and creating real connections with clients.”

Why Huntington?

Lupia officially opened 27 East Massage and Skincare on Oct. 1, but Huntington was a deliberate choice.

“I really like Huntington,” said Lupia, 39. “It has energy. It’s active. It feels like a place where wellness fits.”

Her studio is located inside the Gerard Street building near Milky Way Ice Cream and Rust & Gold, just steps from several high-traffic village businesses. While the area sees steady foot traffic, Lupia said the tucked-away entrance creates a quieter, more private experience for clients.

“It’s such a good spot,” she said. “High traffic, but quiet at the same time.”

For now, Lupia is a one-woman operation — by design.

“I had to make something out of nothing,” she said. “I don’t have investors. Everything is online. You book it, you show up, I do the treatment, you pay.”

That independence, she said, allows her to deliver a more personalized experience than larger spa settings.

“I like to really connect with people and understand the whole picture — not just where it hurts.”

Lupia specializes in sports massage and dermaplaning, two services she describes as effective, practical, and accessible.

Dermaplaning, a skincare exfoliation treatment, offers visible results without requiring downtime. Sports massage focuses on deep tissue work, stretching, and improving range of motion, particularly for clients who are active or dealing with stiffness from daily routines.

“A lot of pain comes from being stiff and stagnant,” she said. “People don’t move their bodies enough. When you stretch them out and get things moving again, it makes a huge difference in how they feel day to day.”

Looking ahead

While Lupia is focused on building her client base now, she doesn’t see herself staying small forever.

“I want to expand,” she said. “I’d love a storefront, another treatment room, to hire someone eventually.”

She points to Barbara Close, founder of Naturopathica, as a long-term inspiration.

“She started out making tinctures in East Hampton, and now it’s this huge company,” Lupia said. “I want to make a difference in my field like that — for people to know me for something I did differently.”

For now, though, Lupia says she is happy doing the work she once searched so hard for — helping people feel better, one session at a time.

“You feel good on the inside,” she said. “You feel good on the outside.”

Business details

27 East Massage and Skincare is located at 50 Gerard St., Suite 222, in Huntington Village. The entrance is at the rear of the building, adjacent to the municipal parking lot off Clinton Avenue.

The studio is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments are booked online. Medical massage appointments are available for NYSHIP insurance holders.

More information is available at www.27eastwellness.com or by calling 631-304-6742.

Once a wary stray, Peekaboo has blossomed into a gentle, affectionate cat who thrives with patience and is still waiting to be chosen.

EAST NORTHPORT, NY — Peekaboo was first noticed in May 2024, moving quietly through hedges in a Farmingdale neighborhood, a sleek shadow learning how to stay unseen, according to Debbi Larkin, president of the Grateful Paw Cat Shelter.

At the time, he was not alone. Peekaboo had two siblings by his side — “three small black figures learning how to survive a world that had already taught them to be careful,” Larkin said.

Life changed quickly after that. Peekaboo and his siblings entered foster care, but by August 2024, it became clear that Peekaboo needed more than food and shelter.

“He needed patience. He needed quiet,” Larkin said.

Peekaboo was placed into a peaceful foster home with a volunteer experienced in caring for cats who “speak softly and trust slowly.”

Now about a year and a half old, Peekaboo is a sleek black cat with expressive yellow eyes. “Eyes that seem to hold questions, memories, and a cautious kind of hope,” Larkin said.

Something in Peekaboo’s early life taught him to be wary. What that was remains unknown. What is known, Larkin said, is that he is “gentle to his core.”

His siblings were adopted first.

“They were braver, quicker to greet the world,” Larkin said. Peekaboo remained behind, watching from the safety of his cubby and learning from a distance.

When approached, Peekaboo may hiss — “but not in anger,” Larkin said. “It’s simply his way of saying, ‘I see you. Please be gentle.’”

And when that gentleness is returned, something changes.

“If you reach in slowly, scratch his chin, or softly pet his head, something magical happens,” Larkin said. “His body relaxes. His eyes soften. His little motor starts to hum.”

Peekaboo melts into touch, revealing what Larkin describes as “the sweet baby boy he’s been all along — one who desperately wants love, even if he’s not quite sure how to ask for it.”

In foster care, once he felt safe, Peekaboo showed his true self. He enjoyed curling up on a lap, snuggling beside his human in bed, or quietly napping nearby.

“He doesn’t need constant excitement; he needs connection,” Larkin said. “He prefers company to solitude and shows affection in the most tender ways, even gently washing his human as a sign of love.”

There is, however, another side to Peekaboo.

“Give him a feather toy, and the shy panther transforms,” Larkin said. He runs, leaps, and chases with joyful abandon, forgetting his worries and simply playing.

Peekaboo is healthy and ready for his next chapter. He has tested negative for FELV, FIV, and parasites. His eyes, ears, and heart have been checked. He is fully vaccinated, litter box trained and neutered.

“What he needs now isn’t medical care — it’s emotional safety,” Larkin said.

Peekaboo’s ideal home would be a quiet one. Older children are welcome, provided they understand that he will be timid at first. A small, enclosed room would help him adjust without feeling overwhelmed.

“Sit with him while he eats. Speak softly. Let him come to you,” Larkin said. “With patience, he will reward you with devotion.”

He may also enjoy living with another calm, older pet who could keep him company while his human is away.

“Peekaboo is a special soul looking for a special human,” Larkin said. “Someone who understands that love doesn’t always arrive loudly.”

“Sometimes,” she added, “it hides in a cubby, hisses hello, and waits for the right heart to listen.”

Peekaboo is available for adoption at the Grateful Paw Cat Shelter, located at 3 Verleye Avenue in East Northport. Visiting hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 12–4 p.m., with Thursday evening hours from 7–9 p.m. by appointment.

Those interested in meeting Peekaboo can call 631-757-4517, email cats@laphuntington.org, visit the shelter’s Facebook page, or stop by during visiting hours. Peekaboo has been waiting for a long time.

“We would love to see him go home in the New Year,” Larkin said. “A new beginning for him. Will you be the one to give this struggling mini black panther his forever home?”