For quite some time town ambassador J.C. Knowles has been interested in placing an American and state flag in front of the Apex Chamber of Commerce.

But that plan seemed on the verge of falling victim to the current economic crisis.

Knowles was hoping the chamber could help with the cost of the two flags and the metal fixtures needed to hold them in place.

The chamber’s executive director Brenda Steen told him that money was tight this year and the chamber didn’t have the funds.

“He came to me with this idea and I told him that we just couldn’t afford it,” said Steen.

Fortunately, that’s when a local businessman got involved.

Anna’s Pizzeria owner Yury Rojas donated the money needed to bring Knowles’ plan to fruition.

Both flags were placed in front of the chamber Saturday morning during a brief ceremony. Mayor Keith Weatherly, Knowles, Steen and businessman Bob Crowley all spoke at the event and thanked Rojas for his generosity.

“This is a momentous occasion to show our patriotism,” said Steen. “It wouldn’t have happened without the impetus of J.C.”

It also wouldn’t have happened without Rojas’ donation.

“Yury stepped forward and we thank him for his generosity.”

Knowles said he felt it was important to have the flags proudly displayed for everyone to see. He also said he wasn’t surprised by the generosity of an Apex business owner.

“We have many amazing people in Apex when you call on them for help,” said Knowles. “One of those is the owner of Anna’s Pizzeria. He immediately gave us a grant so we could have the flags.”