Richard Begandy Appointed As New Trustee in Massapequa Park

 This story was posted by Edward Robinson. It was written by Chris Boyle.

Long-time Massapequa Park resident and community leader Richard Begandy was sworn in to fill new Mayor Jeffrey Pravato’s vacant Trustee seat on the Village Board Monday night.

Begandy, a Massapequa Park resident since 1984, is a veteran of the United States Navy who served from 1954-1958. He’s a leader in the community who is currently serving his ninth year as the Commander of the Massapequa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7763, as well as being a member of veteran aid group Massapequa Cares, and the Town of Oyster Bay Veterans Advisory Board.

Mayor Jeffrey Pravato,  saluted Begandy's accomplishments in explaining  the choice.

“We were looking around for a community leader, some who’s established here...I’ve known Rich for a long time. My hat’s off to all that he’s done,” he said. “Rich has the same vision as the rest of us this board...he’s going to do what’s right in the best interests of this village. Rich, congratulations and welcome aboard.”

Mayor Pravato invited Nassau County Legislator Michael Venditto, R-Massapequa, to swear in Begandy.

Venditto, hailed the choice saying Begandy's presence will only make a great community even better. 

“The village is not just a great place to live because of the decisions its government is making, but because of the great people who we have in the village,” he said. “This certainly holds true in the case of Mr. Begandy. Whether it’s in his capacity as a veteran, or as a member of the various community organizations that he’s affiliated with, he’s currently working day in and day out to help us improve our quality of life here in Massapequa Park.”

“I can assure you personally, that he will do the same as a village Trustee,” Venditto added. 

Begandy, who took his new seat on the board after being sworn in, said that he takes his new position as Trustee with the utmost seriousness and dedication.

“It’s very exciting,” he said. “Being appointed as a Trustee is a big step in my life, and I’m looking forward to it and working with the rest of the Board to keepMassapequa Park in the forefront of villages here on Long Island.” 

Begandy will serve out the remainder of Pravato’s unexpired term until March, at which time he is expected to run for election to remain on the board as a Trustee.