SENATOR COLLINS TAKES PART IN GRAND OPENING OF CHILDREN'S GARDEN IN BOOTHBAY

The beautiful grounds of the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (CMBG) in Boothbay were filled with visitors this week for the grand opening ceremony of the Bibby and Harold Alfond Children's Garden. U.S. Senator Susan Collins addressed the crowd and participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the garden, which was built with the support of a $1.5 million matching grant from The Harold Alfond Foundation. CMBG President John Giles thanked Senator Collins for her strong support of the Gardens and for her successful efforts to secure federal funding for the visitor's center and educational facilities.

The text of Senator Collins' remarks follows, as prepared for delivery:

"Distinguished guests and friends, gardeners and children, I am delighted to be here for this wonderful celebration. Like Miss Rumphius, I have always loved lupines. The gardens here, inspired by our favorite children's books, make this a special place indeed.

"You must do something to make the world more beautiful." We often take this statement by Miss Rumphius as kindly advice to her grand-niece, as wise guidance, or even as a stern command. Perhaps, however, it really is an observation about the human spirit, formed through a lifetime of travel and adventure. Perhaps Miss Rumphius is saying that the desire to create beauty is part of who we are.

"Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens embodies that spirit and that commitment to "make the world more beautiful." The staff, board, volunteers, donors and designers have created a place where exceptional natural beauty combines with the artful work of human hands. The many generous donors and supporters help bring that spirit to life. Certainly Bibby and Harold Alfond devoted their lives to making the world more beautiful, more caring, more fulfilling. The Alfond family and the Foundation continue their commitment.

"Since its inception, I have been a strong supporter of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. I was pleased to help secure a U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development grant and to obtain additional federal funding through the appropriations process for the visitor's center and educational facilities.

"This new addition, especially for children, brings together two of my favorite things, and two of our greatest teachers - books and gardens. During my service in the Senate, I have had the opportunity to read to children at more than 170 Maine schools. Whether we share the adventures of Alice Rumphius, Sal and her blueberries, the lighthouse keeper's child, or the adventures of Mr. Magee, the wonder and imagination these stories inspire is truly amazing. To combine Maine's natural beauty with our great storytelling tradition truly is a stroke of genius.

"Gardens teach us so much. It is said that the best way to learn the difference between a weed and a plant you want is to pull on it. If it comes out of the ground easily, roots and all, it's a plant you want.

"Gardens teach us patience and care. They teach us the workings of nature and the interconnectedness of all living things. They teach us that environmental stewardship is our obligation to the future.

"The children who visit here will learn these lessons. They will develop a greater understanding of science and a deeper appreciation of the arts. They will learn that the beauty of nature is theirs to enjoy, to protect, and to enhance. This garden will help them cultivate the gardens of their minds and their spirits. You have created a beautiful place of fun, imagination, and learning, and I congratulate you all for "making the world more beautiful." Miss Rumphius would be pleased indeed."