Photo by Shawn Daley The Apex Downtown Business Association recently donated $3,600 toward the purchase of a bench for the Service Memorial. Apex Mayor Keith Weatherly, left, accepts a ceremonial check from ADBA members Blaine East, J.C. Knowles and Ed Majkowski.

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Photo by Shawn Daley American Legion Post 124 members Mike Sayers, middle, and J.C. Knowles, right, present a check for $4,000 to Mayor Keith Weatherly.

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Two more non-profit organizations have made donations for the town’s Service Memorial.

Both the Apex Downtown Business Association and American Legion Post 124 participated in a brief check presentation ceremony during last week’s town council meeting.

The ADBA donated $3,600 for a bench while Post 124 donated $4,000 earmarked for six decorative illuminated bollards. These organizations join the Apex Festival Commission, which recently donated $18,000 that will be used to purchase a 10-foot clock.

Post 124 Commander Mike Sayers said supporting the memorial was an easy decision.

“It’s a great project,” said Sayers. “It’s important to remember those who served and sacrificed so much so we could enjoy our freedom today. I think the memorial will become a highlight for the city of Apex.”

ADBA President J.C. Knowles said the donation was a good way to give something back to the people of Apex.

“The town has done so much for us,” said Knowles. “We felt we needed to do this for the community. We are very proud to be a part of something that will be a wonderful addition to the town.”

The memorial, which is planned for the corner of Saunders and Salem streets, will serve as a tribute to veterans, public safety workers and the victims of 9/11. It will include a six-inch piece of steel beam recovered from the debris of the World Trade Center’s South Tower.

The steel cube will sit atop a five-foot high granite monument and each side will include written tributes.

Engraved bricks, complete with a personal message, can be purchased for $200. The bricks will form paths that will radiate from the center of the monument.

The town was hoping to raise between $60,000 and $65,000 for the memorial. With the fundraising deadline set for March 25, a total of $61,035 has already been raised.

Apex Town Manager Bruce Radford wasn’t surprised by the generosity.

“It’s exactly what I expected here in Apex for something like this,” said Radford. “We are very fortunate to live in a generous and caring community that respects the many sacrifices veterans, police, EMS and fire personnel have made. They came through just like I thought they would.”

For more information on how to donate visit www.apexnc.org./memorial.