AMES, Iowa -- A gift from Roy and Bobbi Reiman to Iowa State University will keep the Reiman Gardens' Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing open until Dec. 31. The gift also will allow the Gardens to install its annual holiday show.
On Sept. 26, the Gardens announced that the butterfly wing would be closed from Nov. 1 to April 1, 2008 to help balance the operating budget.
Roy Reiman said during ISU's homecoming activities Oct. 19-21, "hundreds of people" talked to him and his wife about the Gardens' finances.
"Because ISU and Reiman Gardens are very dear to us, we thought this is one of the best holiday presents we could gift," Reiman said.
He challenged others to support the attraction at ISU, describing it as "a unique and beautiful asset" in Ames that all Iowans can enjoy.
"This gift will touch many people who have made it a tradition to visit the Gardens during the holidays and enjoy a serene environment with their family," Reiman said. "We also hope people realize how important their gifts are in operating the Gardens and allowing this award-winning facility to thrive."
Reiman Gardens will be open daily, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through Dec. 31. Beginning Jan. 2, the facilities will continue to be available seven days a week to rent for private programming and events. Volunteer projects, Botany Lunch, Brown Bag Lunch and Arrangement of the Month will continue uninterrupted through the entire winter season.
For more information, call (515) 294-2710, or go to http:// www.reimangardens.com.
