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Chester County Attraction Celebrates One Millionth Visitor

By John McDevitt

KENNETT SQUARE, PA (CBS) - The one millionth visitor to Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square was greeted by a roaring group of staff members Friday.

"Longwood is one of our favorite places so I'm overjoyed," said Melissa Laurentius of Bel Air, Md., who is now one in a million.

In addition to receiving a warm welcome by about 100 Longwood Gardens staffers, Laurentius received a bouquet of flowers, a life long membership and a $300 gift certificate.

one mil visitor 2 with director
Longwood Gardens Director Paul Redman (right) with the attractions one millionth visitor Melissa Laurentius (left). (Credit: John McDevitt)

"I had no idea!" Laurentius said. "I'm originally from Massachusetts. My husband is from Missouri.  We just recently had two back-to-back trips.  We just got back from Missouri this week and I though this would be a good last hurrah before the kids go back to school next week. So it worked out well.  I had No idea."

Longwood Gardens Director Paul Redman says he is happy for Laurentius and her family and hopes they will be returning in the future.

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