By Genevieve Jinson, Community Reporter
Northborough – The Board of Selectmen unanimously voted at its May 21 meeting to accept a donation from Northborough resident Michael Beyranevand to purchase shade umbrellas for Assabet Park.
Beyranevand is employed by Northborough Property Management, which is located across from Assabet Park. He told the board that he noticed last summer visitors to the park were huddled under the park's only tree that provided shade. (That tree was actually destroyed in the Oct. 29, 2011 snowstorm; as a result there is now no shade at the park.) Beyranevand contacted Allison Lane, the town's recreation director, and proposed an idea for an event to raise money to purchase shade umbrellas for the park.
On May 6, Beyranevand held a fundraising walk from Northborough to Fenway Park in Boston, raising $1007 for the cause.
The funds will be used to purchase four table umbrellas designed for the park's picnic tables, and two standing umbrellas for individuals who bring beach chairs to the park. The additional funds will be held in the account to replace or repair the umbrellas, if need be.
Selectman Aaron Hutchins noted his approval.
“I think this is fabulous,” he said. “I think we should make an example of it to agree that it might inspire somebody else.”