Franklin, Mass. - 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- 8:30 p.m. An informal social get-together will take place from 6 - 6:30 p.m. followed by the program, open to the public.

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 several publications. Barbara is a member of United Plant Savers, Native Plant Trust, International Association of Reiki Practitioners, and the Flower Essence Society.