‘Flyin’ Phil’ St. Luke will be remembered at a city-hosted community celebration on June 9 at the Parksville Outdoor Theatre.
Parksville City Council voted unanimously to set aside up to $7,500 from council contingency for a community celebration for St. Luke.
During its Feb. 22 regular meeting, council heard an update by manager of communications, Deb Tardiff, about the free event, set for 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the outdoor theatre, located in Parksville Community Park.
“Our goal is to provide a professional event the city will be proud to host and that the community will be satisfied that the city has done what is needed to recognize the late Phil St. Luke,” Tardiff said.
The celebration of life, still in its early planning stage, will be open to everybody and is planned to include music by the Apollos and will be hosted by well-known retired radio personality Dave Graham, Tardiff said.
The Mount Arrowsmith Pipe Band members would like to play at the event, she added.
The Parksville Beach Festival Society has indicated it will provide audio services for the event and Quality Foods will contribute with a donation of 500 snacks of some kind, such as Popsicles or ice cream sandwiches.
READ MORE: Parksville icon ‘Flyin’ Phil’ St. Luke dies
“This is an important event for our community and I appreciate all the hard work you’ve put in,” said Coun. Amit Gaur.
Councillor Joel Grenz asked if there will be a way for people to sign up and offer their services as volunteers.
Tardiff said there will soon be a tile on Lets Talk Parksville, the city’s public engagement forum, which will include a place for volunteer sign-up.
She added the evening is planned to also include speakers and involvement by community groups.
St. Luke passed away Jan. 13 at the age of 70.
Council passed a resolution during its Feb. 6 meeting, which supports in principle a statue of St. Luke in the city, contingent upon funds being raised by the community.
A final decision on location, design and city’s role will be made after consideration of proposals from community groups. Councillors Adam Fras and Mary Beil are members of a standing committee appointed by Mayor O’Brien to look at further recognition of St. Luke, according to a news release by the city. Anyone who wishes to contribute or be involved, can email CouncillorFras@parksville.ca.
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