A program on “Bitters, The Missing Ingredient” by Barbara Aspland-Wolf will highlight the opening meeting of the Franklin Garden Club’s 2026-2027 season. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the Franklin Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill Street, from 6:00– 8:30 PM.
An informal social get-together will take place from 6:00 – 6:30 PM. followed by the program. The meeting is open to the public, including those interested in becoming a member.
Club Co-Presidents Eileen Smith and Janice Cederquist stated, “The Garden Club, founded in 1987, offers many educational programs, and one does not have to be a Master Gardener to join. Meetings provide a wonderful opportunity to learn about various aspects of gardening from experts and to exchange information with fellow members. We welcome anyone who is interested to attend the first meeting to learn more about the Club and planned activities and to enjoy the Bitters presentation.
As part of the program, Aspland-Wolf will explain how bitters are important to the health and workings of the liver and gallbladder. Bitters provide digestive health, help with nutrient absorption and are an important part of meals and drinks. Most modern diets do not include this fabulous flavor. Participants will discover a new love for the bitter flavor and how to make it a part of daily health habits. For those who wish, there will be an opportunity to make bitters for a cost of $15 to cover supplies.
Aspland-Wolf is a flower essence practitioner, Reiki Master/Teacher, herbalist, and plant communication educator. Working with plants is a melding of her science background, herbal studies, and energy work. She is the owner/operator of Garden Gate Herbals and a community herbal teacher. She has taught at Sage Mountain, Herbstalk, the Northeast Herbal Association retreats, Plants Speak, and local programs.
In addition to leading nature walks, she has written for United Plant Savers, the Northeast Herbal Association journal, and Aroma Culture e-magazine. She is a co-editor of the Northeast Herbal Association newsletter, and writes a monthly newsletter for her business. Barbara is a member of United Plant Savers, Native Plant Trust, International Association of Reiki Practitioners, and the Flower Essence Society.
A member of the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, the Franklin Garden Club conducts many community service activities, including planting and maintenance of the Town Common and library and Food Pantry planters; sponsoring an annual scholarship for a graduating senior; and distributing pine tree seedlings.
