Update on the Neil Peart fundraising plans

Were he still with us, Neil Peart would be celebrating his 69th birthday on Sunday (September 12). Just ahead of that, the City of St. Catharines–that’s where Neil was raised–is launching a fundraising program to support the construction of a Neil Peart memorial at Lakeside Park. Seven artists have been shortlisted for the project.

• A Day On The Bridge Inc.
• IDS Integrative Design Strategies Inc.
• Morgan Sculpture Inc.
• R.J. Burnside & Associates Ltd.
• Ruth Abernethy
• Ted Fullerton
• The Planning Partnership

I quote from the press release:

“We’re excited to reach another milestone, and finally provide supporters of this project a way to contribute to Neil’s memorial,” said Neil Peart Commemorative Task Force Chair David DeRocco. “We know how important this project is to the international community of fans of both Neil and Rush, but it’s also going to be an important artistic showpiece for the local community who flock to Lakeside Park year-round.”

DeRocco added that the sooner the task force can achieve its fundraising objectives through the generosity of Peart’s fans, the sooner the community and his fans will be able to see the results.

The commemorative work of art will contribute to the identity and character of the area and recognize the contributions of Peart to Canadian and world music, making it a beacon for Rush fans to visit for years to come.

“The Neil Peart Commemorative Task Force has done a fantastic job of making this project a reality,” said Manager of Business Planning and Strategic Services Eric Lamothe. “I look forward to celebrating the installation of the public work of art at Lakeside Park with our community in the future.”

For more information, go here.