CORNELIUS – The campaign to build a Cornelius Veterans Monument got its biggest single boost to date Monday night, May 2, when representatives of three north Mecklenburg Rotary clubs presented the town board with a ceremonial check for $15,000.

In recognition of the gift, the town will incorporate Rotary’s name into the project, which will be known at the Cornelius Veterans Monument at Rotary Plaza. Appearing on behalf of the clubs Monday were: Karla Combs, Rotary Club of Lake Norman-Huntersville; Denis Bilodeau, Rotary Club of North Mecklenburg; and Natish Rivera-Patrick, Rotary Club of Davidson.

Noting he is proud to be a Rotarian, Assistant Town Manager Andrew Grant, who has spearheaded the campaign to raise $100,000, said the gift brings the fundraising campaign to 88 percent of its goal.

Because the campaign is so close to succeeding, officials with the town and American Legion Post 86 have decided to move the traditional Memorial Day program to the site of the future veterans monument and hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the monument that morning. In previous years, the program took place at Legion Park.

The May 28 program begins at 11 a.m. on the east side parking lot at Cornelius Town Hall, 21445 Catawba Ave. Plans call for installing Rotary Plaza and the monument between the parking lot and N.C. 115.

On Saturday, May 7, any car or motorcycle owner is invited to participate in a poker run to support the veterans monument. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and the ride starts at 9 at the future site of the Cornelius Veterans Monument. The entry fee is $20 per bike/car, which includes the driver; $10 for each passenger; and $10 for each additional hand of poker.