Amanda Douville

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Time capsule Cuba: The decline and decay of Castro's island

In 1962, the United States set an embargo against Cuba effectively cutting off trade between the two countries. Since then, Cuba has been faced with an economic crisis leaving the country stuck in a time capsule of the mid 1900's. In the wake of President Obama's attempt to normalize relations between the U.S.

Historic UFO sightings caught on camera

On June 24, 2016, aviator Kenneth Arnold reported what is generally considered to be the first unidentified flying object sighting in the United States, later dubbed World UFO Day. To mark the occasion, check out some of the most historic UFO sightings caught on camera.

Inside the Chernobyl exclusion zone 30 years later

After his first visit to the Chernobyl exclusion zone, photographer Ronnie Bassbar became fascinated with the abandoned city of Pripyat and the eerie atmosphere left behind. On the 30th anniversary of the nuclear accident, take an inside look at the once bustling city turned ghost town overnight.

The most bizarre New Year's Eve drops around the country

While the tradition in New York City is to drop a massive ball in Times Square, other parts of the country have quite different rituals. From acorns to drag queens, here's a look at some of the most bizarre New Year's Eve drops from around the country.

American-style upside down house on display in Taiwan

Hundreds flocked to the Huashan Creative Park in Taipei, Taiwan for the unveiling of the upside down house. The three-story American-style home features bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen and even a garage all adorned with real furniture (and a car!) for visitors to snap photos with.

Leonardo DiCaprio's top movie roles

Six nominations later, Leonardo DiCaprio finally broke his longstanding Oscar curse, taking home the Academy Award for Best Actor in 'The Revenant,' more than 22 years after his first Oscar nod. In honor of his well-deserved win, take a look a back at the actor's top 15 movie roles through the years ...

The life and times of Bob Dylan

With a prolific career spanning more than 50 years, it's safe to say that Bob Dylan is one of the most iconic and memorable musicians of the decades. To honor his 75th birthday, take a look back at the life and career of Dylan from a budding folk singer to a chart-topping, award-winning legend.

'The Simpsons' 25th Anniversary: The faces behind the iconic cartoon

In the 25 years 'The Simpsons' has been on the air, Hollywood's biggest stars have guest starred on the primetime cartoon. While some appear as themselves, others take on an entirely new character. To celebrate its first quarter-century, take a look back at some of the most memorable guest appearances on the show.

'Back to the Future:' Then and Now

It's finally 'Back to the Future' Day! In the infamous film trilogy, Marty McFly travels to Oct. 21, 2015 in order to save his children, a date that seemed so far away back in 1985. To mark the occasion, take a look at what the original cast members are up to today.

15 things you might not know about 'Rocky'

It's hard to believe that it's been 40 years since Sylvester Stallone made his acting breakthrough in 'Rocky' in 1976. On the anniversary of the iconic boxing film, here's 15 things you might not have known about the movie.

Billboard Music Awards 2016: Best and worst from the red carpet and the show

Hollywood's hottest stars hit the red carpet at the 2016 Billboard Music Awards in Las Vegas on May 22, 2016.

Siblings participating together in the 2016 Rio Olympics

Talent sure runs in these families! There are more than 30 sets of siblings competing in this year's Summer Olympic games in Rio, including the first set of triplets! While most are competing on the same team, some are even going head-to-head against each other in the ultimate sibling rivalry!

Hollywood's 'Golden Girl': The life and career of Betty White

With a career spanning more than 70 years, it's safe to say that Betty White is one of the most adored and respected actresses in Hollywood. In honor of her 95th birthday, take a look back at her incredible life and career.

Christmas movie child stars: Where are they now?

Remember the child stars from those classic Christmas movies like 'Home Alone' and 'A Christmas Story?' See what they look like and what they are up to now.

Remembering the life of Bob Marley

On May 11, 1981, iconic Jamaican singer Bob Marley lost his battle with melanoma cancer. 35 years later, take a look back at the reggae legend's life and career.

50 dead in mass shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando

Early Sunday morning, suspected gunman Omar Mateen, 29, opened fire at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, a popular gay club that was hosting Latin night. At least 50 people have been killed and another 53 wounded in what is being called the deadliest mass shooting in American history.

Death toll continues to rise after massive 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Ecuador

On April 17, 2016, a massive 7.8-magnitude earthquake off the Pacific coast struck Ecuador killing more than 270 and leaving behind a trail of destruction. More than 2,500 have been injured in the earthquake as rescue personnel work tirelessly to recover victims.

Fears mount as Zika virus is declared global emergency

The Zika virus is 'spreading explosively' according to World Health Organization officials, who declared the outbreak a global emergency. As thousands continue to be affected by the virus, especially newborns, countries all over the Americas scramble to contain and fight the cause.

Natalie Cole dead at 65: Look back at the singer's impressive career and famous friends

Chart-topping R&B singer Natalie Cole sadly passed away reportedly from congestive heart failure on New Year's Eve at the age of 65. The Grammy Award-winning singer and daughter to Nat King Cole made quite the name for herself in the industry with hits like 'This Will Be' and 'Unforgettable.'

Traditional Lantern Festival celebrations in Asia

To mark the 15th and final day of the Chinese Lunar New Year, the traditional Lantern Festival takes place across Asia where thousands of people release lanterns that symbolize the beginning of a new year.

Thousands around the world take part in International Pillow Fight Day 2016

Feathers went flying as thousands of people from cities around the world participated in the annual International Pillow Fight Day.

Memorable Carnegie Hall performances through the years

In honor of the 125th anniversary of Carnegie Hall, take a look back at the history and some of the most memorable performances of the iconic New York City music hall.

The crime-fueled love story of Bonnie and Clyde

On May 23, 1934, infamous criminals Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were ambushed and killed while on the run in Louisiana. On the anniversary of their death, take a look back at the crime-fueled love story of one of America's most famous couples.

LIFE Magazine photographer captured life at Pearl Harbor a year before attack

Back in October of 1940, a year before the attack on Pearl Harbor, LIFE Magazine sent a team of reporters and photographers to Hawaii to capture what life was like on the Navy base. Before the harbor would become synonymous with death and destruction, it was a beacon of hope and prime example of American naval power on the rise.

Mount Rushmore: The making of one of America's most iconic monuments

On Oct. 4, 1927, construction on Mount Rushmore began in the Black Hills National Forest of South Dakota. Over the course of 12 years, the faces of former presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt would be carved into the granite mountainside and dedicated as a national memorial.

The pioneering women of NASA

Up until the 1970s, women working for NASA merely served as 'human computers' and scientists in the background, key to the development of space travel but often unrecognized. From Pearl Young, the first female NASA engineer, to Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, look back at the often forgotten women who helped pioneer space travel.

Remembering the Kent State University massacre

On May 4, 1970, Ohio National Guardsmen opened fire on a group of students at Kent State University protesting the Vietnam War. Four students were killed and more were injured in the chaotic incident that played out in the heart of the campus. On the anniversary of the massacre, look back at scenes from the tragic day.

The First Transcontinental Railroad

On May 10, 1869, the First Transcontinental Railroad was completed after nearly six years of construction, making travel and trade between the east and west coast easier than ever before. On the 147th anniversary, take a look back at the construction of the iconic railway.

World Red Cross Day: Aiding the world since 1881

Every year on May 8, the world celebrates the heroes of the Red Cross that have come to the aid of millions over the years in situations ranging from earthquakes to wars. On World Red Cross Day, take a look back at some of the most crucial times the Red Cross has come to aid.

The Amityville murders

Today in history, on Oct. 14, 1975, the trial began for Ronald DeFeo Jr. after he committed the horrific killing of his six family members, which became known as the Amityville murders. Look back at the grisly murders that shook the nation and spawned a pop cultural phenomenon ...

Opening Day at Resorts Casino Hotel in 1978

On May 26, 1978, Resorts Casino Hotel became the not only the first casino on the East Coast but also the initial one in Atlantic City, New Jersey. To mark the anniversary, take a look back at the construction and opening day of the landmark casino.

US soldiers in battle during the Vietnam War by photographer Henri Huet

In honor of National Vietnam Veterans Day, take a look back at photos of the brave soldiers that fought for our country as shot by celebrated Associated Press photographer Henri Huet. Huet photographed the controversial war from 1966 until his death during the war in 1971.

'Looking for Alaska' is just as engaging as ever

Ten years ago I picked up this book as a 15-year-old high school student and remember loving it. I was curious to read the special 10 th anniversary edition as it features deleted scenes from the original draft, an introduction by author John Green and an extensive Q&A with readers.

'The Murder That Never Was': Grisly thriller comes to life

In "The Murder That Never Was," Andrea Kane tells a riveting story about Lisa Barnes, a former foster child struggling to find her place in the world as an adult. Her life is forever changed when she meets Julie Forman, a personal trainer who gives her a job and a room, before a grisly murder takes place on their doorstep.

'The Outliers' book review: Web of lies and betrayal

Kimberly McCreight's YA debut, "The Outliers," tells the thrilling story of Wylie, a 16-year-old girl who is pushed to her limits and quickly learns that in order to stay alive, she must face her deepest fears. Still crippled with anxiety after the sudden death of her mother, Wylie hasn't talked to her best friend Cassie in weeks, not after their last fight.

'Intrusion' book review: Old friend shakes up couple's world

While there were many way this story could have played out, the outcome was certainly unexpected and left me shocked.

'Black Hills': Unraveling a crime in grimy South Dakota oil town

Brother and sister duo Franklin and Jennifer Schneider take readers into the badlands of South Dakota where a once run-down town has come to life thanks to an oil boom. Their debut novel "Black Hills" tells the story of Alice Riley, a former New York City reporter turned private eye who heads out west to investigate a potentially wrongful conviction, but ends up unearthing much more.

'Fractured' review: Writer haunted by stalker in shock thriller

After publishing her first novel "The Murder Game," Julie Prentice's life completely shifts. Not only does the success from the book bring in endless money, but also an unwanted stalker from her past. Loosely based off of her own experiences while at law school in Montreal, "The Murder Game" follows a group of law students who plan and commit the perfect murder.

'We Could Be Beautiful': New love leads to buried secrets

How far will Catherine go to uncover a past her mother tried to bury so deep?

'The People of the Broken Neck': Chilling story of PTSD

Ever wondered what the effects of PTSD could do to a person? Silas Dent Zobal tells the chilling story of Dominick Sawyer, an ex-Army Ranger who will stop at nothing to protect his children. Upon returning from war, Dominick has been hiding out in his cabin nestled in the woods of Pennsylvania.

'Midair' book review: Troubled teen plans suicide in Paris

Paris: The City of Light and romance for some - or the perfect place to end one's life for a troubled teenager. Eighteen-year-old Nessa Baxter has thought up an elaborate plan for her first trip to Paris - end her life by leaping off the Eiffel Tower.

'Outward Blonde' review: Spoiled teen gets reality check

Lizzie might seem to have it all: a Manhattan penthouse with her mom, an endless supply of money and an equally wealthy best friend to share the fun with. What more could a 16-year-old girl ask for? Oh yeah, a date with James Franco (yes, that James Franco).

Dog's funeral inspires blessing of pets

Laura Koss-Feder sat with her family and their dog Chester, a 7-year-old Shetland sheepdog, as they recited a prayer of thanks. The Oceanside family wasn't praying for themselves, this time it was for Chester. More than a dozen dogs, a few stuffed animals and a tortoise were brought to the Oceanside Jewish Center on Sunday for the third annual service for the blessing of the pets.

Festival celebrates fall, harvest season

The Captree State Park boardwalk was buzzing with excitement as hundreds gathered for the ninth annual Fall Harvest and Seafood Festival. The two-day event, held on Saturday and Sunday, attracted residents from all over Long Island to celebrate the beginning of fall and the harvest season.

Hundreds run 50-miles for charity

The sun had barely crawled above the horizon Sunday morning when runners began to arrive at Jones Beach State Park for the 27th Bethpage Ocean to Sound Relay. Runners participating in the annual 50-mile race, organized by the Greater Long Island Running Club, crossed 15 Long Island towns, including Seaford, Massapequa, Farmingdale and Old Bethpage.

Longboarders turn passion into business

Last summer, Matteo Pino was sitting in his parent's car coming home from Longboard Loft, a skate shop in Manhattan. Discouraged by the long drive from the city, Matteo jokingly began talking to his parents about an idea. "Wouldn't it be cool if we opened a longboard shop by us?"

Sandy makes Port Jefferson a ghost town

Sandbags are still lined up in front of downtown Port Jefferson doorways, and tape still protects store windows. Signs are still up from earlier in the week that read, "Closed due to Sandy. Be Safe!" like the one at Pindar Wine Store.

Animal shelter tries to recover from Sandy

It was only a few hours into superstorm Sandy when volunteers at Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center in Huntington heard the crash. A large oak tree had snapped in the middle and fell directly on the roof of one of the dog kennels at the shelter.

Blessing of the pets

ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISE HERE (Credit: Amanda Douville) Rabbi Mark B. Greenspan sits with Maryn Ascher, 8, of Long Beach, as he signs a certificate officially blessing her pink stuffed toy cat. Anyone in the community was welcome to come to the annual blessing of the pets service at the Oceanside Jewish Center and bring either a pet or stuffed toy animal.

Captree Harvest and Seafood Festival

(Credit: Amanda Douville) A crowd gathers around the crab racing ring waiting to see which crab would make it to the edge first at the 9th annual Captree Fall Harvest and Seafood Festival in West Islip. (Sept.

27th annual Bethpage Ocean to Sound Relay

(Credit: Amanda Douville) Runners of the first heat, which began at 7:00 a.m., line up at the starting line to begin the 27th annual Bethpage Ocean to Sound Relay, a race that benefits the Long Island Chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. (Sept.

Animal Assisted Therapy

Animal Assisted Therapy: Screening

Animal Assisted Therapy: Obedience Training

Utilizing the Sun

Free Falling

A Day of Maple Sugaring at Benner's Farm