Armbrust said many people have questioned why the location would be named St. Luke’s Commons & Plaza. He said the mistake is in thinking the name originates from the fact that the location used to be a thrift store.

“While that was one of its former uses that is indeed not the reason it’s being named St. Luke’s,” he said. “St. Luke’s principal attribute is as patron saint of artists and secondarily as patron saint of doctors. Among the general public his association with physicians has superseded their knowledge of his association with the former. It is meant to recognize and celebrate St. Luke’s Hospital’s longstanding commitment to the healthcare of Polk County and Tryon citizens.”

Related to associating names with the plaza, Armbrust said there would be naming opportunities for citizens when the town begins selling engraved bricks for the plaza, as well as memorial benches and tables. Armbrust said about eight to 10 benches would likely be available based on landscaping plans. People can also purchase lighting memorials similar to those seen throughout downtown Tryon, as well as sponsorships of the pergola.

These memorial items will be available for sale beginning March 1. If interested in purchasing a paver or other memorial, contact Cry Armbrust  at carmbrust@windstream.net or Meg Rogers at mer@tryon-nc.com.