I am a student and employee at Iowa State University, as well as a proud visitor to Reiman Gardens. I would like to express another side of the story in regard to the decision made to charge admission to Reiman Gardens. I have taken the time to read a number of articles and letters to the editor of a number of newspapers and the common theme has been one of disappointment and dissatisfaction with the decision that has been made. I would like to state the need for a positive look at this decision.On the one hand, no one wants to pay for something that was free the day before, but visitors need to realize that the people involved with the development of the gardens have put forth great efforts to raise money to make the gardens what the public wants: a beautiful environment that can be enjoyed by all. The problem arises when people will be willing to pay once the additions are finished as shown by all the grand gardens that have charged fees for a number of years. It should also be realized that these fees are donations that show your support and love of the gardens. It saddens me to hear people call it “money grubbing” when large sums of money have been raised to make that fee $5 rather than $10. After all the hard work that has been done there is regrettably still a need for help to continue to maintain the additions and growth of the gardens. You don’t get to eat the delicious candy bar and then have to pay for it. You have to pay prior.You may show some concern for those people who can not afford to pay but the people of Reiman Gardens do also. They have developed what they feel are reasonable prices as well as alternative options including possible free days, free admittance for University courses and reduced rates for community school groups. Those who enjoy the gardens but cannot or are not willing to pay also have the option of volunteering. There is always a need for help and this would be a way for them to enjoy the gardens while contributing their time instead of their money to make Reiman Gardens great. I just ask that everyone look at it as a time of improvement and a time of moving forward. It is the choice to contribute to the development of the gardens, which will make it possible to be enjoyed for many years to come. Shannon Bielicke

Junior

Horticulture