Detert cuts ribbon at Selby Gardens

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens welcomed state Sen. Nancy Detert to a ribbon-cutting ceremony on this afternoon to thank her for her support and advocacy.

Detert was instrumental in helping secure a $500,000 appropriation to the Gardens from the Florida Department of Education last year.

“This critical funding has enabled us to provide a great experience for our guests, and the Gardens’ mission of education, research and conservation,” said Emily Walsh, chairwoman of the Gardens’ board of trustees.

Updates and improvements aided by the funds include raised edible planting beds and enhancements to the Anne Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden, as well as improved signage and handicap accessibility and a renovated welcome center.

Detert praised the Gardens for its educational work and for teaching kids to care about plants and the environment. She said issues that affect business and economics have their roots in education.  

“When we talk about jobs,” Detert said, “we can’t recruit businesses unless we have an educated workforce — so you keep peeling that onion and it always comes back to education.”

Detert called the Gardens a jewel in Sarasota’s crown.

“I am your salesman in Tallahassee,” Detert said, “and, as I told the board members, it’s not a hard sell.”