It was the best turnout ever.

The West Columbia Beautification Foundation held its Fourth Annual Tribute for Trees Gala last week.

More than 100 people came out for the foundation fundraiser.

WCBF Chairwoman Melissa Sprouse-Browne presented West Columbia Mayor Bobby Horton with a plaque dedicating a tree in honor of Kay Horton, the mayor’s wife who passed away in August.

The plaque reads: Karen “Kay” Hunter Horton was the beloved wife of Mayor Bobby Horton. She will always be remembered for her extraordinary kindness and will be in our hearts forever. West Columbia Beautification Foundation. The WCBF is planting a tree in the planned Carraway/Enabling Park adorned with the plaque in her memory.

The gala raised more than $31,000, including a $10,000 donation from Soda City Friends. All of the money raised is dedicated to planting trees, shrubbery, and flowers along Sunset Boulevard and Augusta Highway to beautify roadsides in the city.

Foundation Chairwoman Melissa Sprouse Browne said, “We’re excited that this year’s event was so successful with over 100 guests in attendance. The money raised through the Tribute for Trees is important. Without the support of the community, these projects wouldn’t be possible.”

The celebration included Hors d’oeuvres from Café Strudel, entertainment by Bob Michalski, the Sax Man, and wine/beer. The Foundation appreciates the support of all of its sponsors, including Soda City Friends, Lexington Medical Center Foundation, L. Ed Kirkland and Company, Michael J. Mungo Foundation, Moore Taylor Law Firm, Womble Bond Dickinson, and Richard and Elizabeth Jones.

If you are interested in making a donation, all donations are tax-deductible and can be mailed to the West Columbia Beautification Foundation, PO Box 4044, West Columbia, SC 29171.