Happy Flying Phil Day, Parksville.
The day was first declared in 2008 by then-councillor Chris Burger as a way for the community to celebrate the birthday of Mister Parksville, Phil St. Luke.
Known for his big smile, cheery demeanor and boundless enthusiasm, St. Luke has been a welcome guest at coffee shops and businesses throughout the downtown core as he does his rounds as part of the downtown Clean Team.
Burger said the city has no official plans to celebrate Flying Phil Day this year, but he urged people to give St. Luc an extra special shout-out on March 7 — his 61st birthday.
“Flying Phil remains our unofficial ambassador,” Burger said. “He may have slowed a little bit since we made the declaration, but he’s greeting people on a day-to-day basis and I’m still his biggest fan — along with thousands of other Parksville residents. He’s a walking landmark.”
With no official ceremony or declaration to mark the occasion, Burger said there’s a very easy way to wish the iconic resident a happy birthday.
“It’s not an infraction of our noise bylaw to honk as you pass Flying Phil on the road,” he said.
For his part, St. Luke said he is looking forward to his big day.
“I get the day off work because it’s my birthday,” he said, grinning. “I’m looking forward to that — and cake!”