WESTBOROUGH – An injury nearly pulled the plug on Westborough’s holiday tree lighting.
Thanks to last-minute assistance, the event went on as scheduled.
According to Reina Rago, president of the Westborough Rotary, which has sponsored the event for more than 40 years, the sound system for the event is handled by Steve Masciarelli from Westborough Public Schools. On Sunday, Dec. 1 – the day of the tree lighting – Masciarelli was setting up a Christmas display at home when he fell off a ladder and broke both feet.
“While he should have been focused on his own serious situation, he was concerned about the tree lighting, which was mere hours away,” said Rago.
From the emergency room, Masciarelli texted Andrew Wickremeratne, someone he’s known for years.
“Yup, I got this,” Wickremeratne responded, and he was soon setting up the AV at the Rotary.
“Andrew never said anything. He just quietly tackled his tasks. It wasn’t until later that night that I discovered he stepped in and truly saved the event,” said Rago.
“Andrew has always stepped up in all the years I have known him,” said Masciarelli.
After first having Wickremeratne as a student at Westborough High School, Masciarelli later worked with him in his position as a student intern and a department employee in the summer, supporting technology projects in the district. Wickremeratne also worked as a member of the maintenance department for several years.
“In all that time I have known Andrew, I could always count on his support no matter what the issue,” said Masciarelli.
Although Wickremeratne has left Westborough Public Schools, Masciarelli said, “We have remained friends and he still steps up in times of need. He is truly an amazing person and one that will go out of his way and volunteer his time for anyone in need.”
“I was happy to step up,” said Wickremeratne. “It’s a very important event for the town, and it would have been a shame to have the event without a sound system…”
Masciarelli, who is recovering from surgery, also wants to thank the Westborough Fire Department for “the amazing professionalism they show each and every day.”
“We know Santa is a busy guy, and rescheduling his annual visit to Westborough would have been difficult. Due to Andrew’s willingness to change his Sunday plans, Santa was able to safely arrive at the Rotary Club of Westborough’s Annual Tree Lighting. So many children were able to talk to Santa and share their thoughts on what they hope to see under the tree on Christmas morning,” said Rago.
