HUNTINGTON, NY – April 10, 2026
Huntington Matters has launched a new weekly series on YouTube Live to keep residents informed about what’s happening across the Town of Huntington, New York.
Hosted by June Margolin, Dana Richter, and Diane Schaber, the Huntington Matters Weekly Update highlights local events, community discussions, safety tips, and resources for residents from Cold Spring Harbor to Commack, Asharoken to Melville, and every hamlet in between.
👇 Watch the full episode below and please subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Dog Park Incident Raises Concern in West Hills
One of the most talked-about topics this week in Huntington Matters Community Forum was a disturbing incident at the West Hills County Park dog park.
According to reports, a man stabbed a dog and later told police he “did what he had to do.”
For many local residents, this park is more than just a place to walk dogs. Diane and Dana both shared that they regularly bring their dogs there and are part of a supportive, familiar community of dog owners who look out for one another.
They noted that in their experience, there have not been issues like this, and that dog parks can be safe, positive environments when used appropriately. For those new to dog parks, it’s recommended to visit during less crowded times or slowly acclimate dogs on leash over multiple visits before allowing full group interaction.
Missing Person Update and Ongoing Search
There was encouraging news this week regarding Justin Rodriguez, who has been found safe in Manhattan and referred for medical attention.
However, the community is still being asked to stay alert for Joseph Competiello of Elwood, age 55, approximately 5’8” tall, 160 pounds, with brown eyes and a shaved head.
As always, residents are encouraged to report any information to Suffolk County Police Department at 1-800-220-TIPS and to continue sharing updates when possible.
A Busy Week of Events Across Huntington
It was a big weekend across Huntington, with thousands of families attending Easter events throughout the town.
The Town of Huntington hosted an egg hunt with 4,000 eggs, while the United Lutheran Church event welcomed nearly 800 children.
Looking ahead, there are many opportunities to get involved.
The Historic Cemetery Restoration Project continues this weekend, and volunteers are being sought to help clean and maintain Revolutionary War burial sites ahead of the upcoming Liberty 250 commemoration.
On Sunday, the Hope and Healing Statue Blessing Ceremony will take place at Heckscher Park, bringing together community members, local leaders, and families for a meaningful event.
Residents can also begin registering for the Town of Huntington’s Project Play and St. John’s summer camp programs, which open this week for income-qualified families.
Additional meetings and events include:
Public Information Session on Broadway Safety Improvements in Greenlawn
Town Board Meeting at Town Hall
Mobile American Flag Drop-Off Program at East Northport Public Library for proper retirement of worn flags
There are many more events happening throughout the week. Be sure to visit the Huntington Matters Community Calendar for full details and to submit your own events.
Huntington Station DRI Meeting Draws Community Attention
Discussion this week also centered around the Huntington Station Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) streetscape meeting.
Residents continue to follow plans that include improvements to sidewalks, crosswalks, lighting, and public spaces throughout the area. As we covered in last week’s episode, these changes are expected to impact the look and feel of Huntington Station in the coming years.
Community feedback remains an important part of the process, and meetings like this provide residents with an opportunity to stay informed and engaged.
Neighborhood Watch: Updates from the 2nd Precinct
This week’s Neighborhood Watch update included both positive news and important changes.
In addition to the update on Justin Rodriguez, residents learned that Captain Dennis McKeefery has returned to the 2nd Precinct. He previously served as a COPE officer and worked as a Detective alongside Inspector Rivera.
Captain Kyle Simcox was also recognized as he moves into a new county-wide position.
Residents are encouraged to stay connected through Huntington Matters for ongoing Neighborhood Watch updates.
Warmer Weather and Seasonal Preparedness Tips
With temperatures expected to reach the 70s this week, it’s a good time to check both tree and bush maintenance around your property.
A simple but important tip shared this week focuses on removing the “3 Ds” — dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Residents should also clear branches away from power lines and rooftops, and thin interior growth to reduce wind resistance during storms.
Taking these steps now can help prevent damage later.
Charity Spotlight: American Legion Posts Across Huntington
This week’s spotlight focused on the American Legion, with three active posts serving the Huntington community in Huntington, Greenlawn, and Northport.
Founded in 1919, the American Legion has spent more than a century supporting veterans, servicemembers, and local communities.
Their work continues locally through advocacy, programs, and outreach, while also supporting national efforts that have shaped benefits for generations of veterans.
Huntington Matters also continues its Huntington Matters Gives Back efforts, honoring and remembering Al Statton, creator of the Operation Enduring Care program supporting homeless veterans. These ongoing contributions help continue his mission and support veterans in need within our community.
Stay Connected with Huntington Matters
For more than 11 years, Huntington Matters has helped connect neighbors across the Town of Huntington.
Visit HuntingtonMatters.com to explore the Community Calendar, read The Common Thread, and discover local businesses in our Directory.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel, sign up for our newsletter, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. If you live, work or grew up in the Town of Huntington, join 52K of your neighbors in Huntington Matters Community Forum to stay informed and be part of what’s happening in our town.
Events are removed from the calendar approximately three months after the event date, so some older links may no longer be active.
The Huntington Matters Weekly Update is now live streamed on YouTube, continuing to bring real-time community conversations directly to residents each week.
