Business founders, community leaders and former mayors were among fifty names showcased on a new sculpture unveiled at the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber Tuesday.

The 8’x6’ two dimensional metal tree sculpture resides at the Barber House to commemorate the Chamber’s Centennial Tree Project, which will plant 100 trees in Valdosta. Trees are sponsored by individuals and businesses, some honoring founding partners or elected officials, while others honor parents or spouses.

Each leaf on the sculpture displays an honoree or sponsor and the trunk reminds onlookers of the volunteers who led the Chamber over the last 100 years, listing former Chairmen of the Board from 1912-2012.

One can already see the fruits of this project while driving down St. Augustine Road. The once barren median is now home to 65, 12’ live oak trees. The second stage of the project, to be completed in 2013, will create a canopy drive in the Woodrow Wilson Extension planned for construction in early 2013, and a more beautiful entrance to Valdosta Regional Airport.

“One hundred years from now, we hope our successors will see these trees and this sculpture and say, ‘These people had a vision for Valdosta,’” stated Kevin McCraney, VP of External Affairs for Georgia Power Company. Georgia Power kicked-off this effort by sponsoring 20 trees. “When prospective new businesses and residents visit our community, they’ll see the pride and confidence we feel for our city.”

Kevin Conrad with the Valdosta Tree Commission provided his support of the effort which serves to beautify Valdosta. “This project is creating 100 living monuments to our community’s proud past. I’m proud of the Chamber’s commitment to our city’s urban canopy.”

The monument was created by Valdosta State University’s Hollis Barnett. A video, photos and full list of participants can be viewed online at www.ValdostaChamber.com/CentennialTreeProject. “It’s not too late to take part in this historic effort,” said Centennial Committee Chair Carla Penny. Contact the Chamber at 229-247-8100 to learn more.