It was a beautiful September day when the MGC returned to The Preserve in Tamworth, NH for our new season of programs.  Everyone had their temperature checked, wore a mask and socially distanced. Hospitality was different this time as we were unable to have our regular format due to the CDC guidelines and we asked everyone to bring their own beverage and snacks. We had 34 members and guests in attendance.

President, Laurie McAleer, reviewed our current status since last we met in March. This was our first official meeting of our new fiscal year and was a perfect time to start planning for all the interesting programs and projects to come.

Treasurer, Kathy Koziell reviewed our financials followed by Wendy McVey and new member, Melinda Marsello, who presented a new fundraiser based on sales of Amaryllis bulbs.

Laurie announced the upcoming events that members could sign up for including the October Lunch and Learn. It was noted that signups for the Holiday Boutique workshops would be done at the November meeting.

After the break, the meeting was followed by an educational presentation by Art Scarpa. Art spoke to us about his favorite winter growing plants and brought along 100 live plants, many of which will be passed around for viewing by the audience. Through the years, Art has researched and discovered many plants that extend the growing season to year-round indoors. When most plants in the garden are beginning to settle down for the winter, the plants that grow during the short days are awakening, bringing color and fragrance indoors to brighten the darkest days of the year. Art delights in growing and sharing his knowledge of these fascinating plants. He shared with us his tips for growing many of these plants and where to find them.