Well here we are, almost to the end of 2021. Who would have thought in 2019 we would be on such a roller-coaster. First of all I want to thank the members of the Garden Group Steering Committee for their innovative ideas and support in making this a premiere club for Sun City Lincoln Hills. 

In January we had high hopes that General Meetings could be held, but it was September and October before this came about. To keep in touch and to carry on the duties of the Steering Committee we had Zoom meeting and then some in-person at one of our members home with zoom going to those who chose that way to participate. We also used our web site and e-mails to keep our members informed. If you haven’t used the web site, please do so. (lhgardengroup.org) Besides general information, it contains pictures of our events and a marketplace. At the market you can purchase visors, shirts, aprons and hats all with our logo. Two lucky people received visors at our October meeting. 

The first breakthrough came in May with the biggest Plant Sale ever. We raised $3000 to continue our community programs. This was followed by a home Bonsai tour with about 100 people touring six yards. This gave people an opportunity to see what was possible with Bonsai. The group has increased in membership and again we are meeting monthly. 

Field trips were also resumed . These were the Georgetown Cemetery, Martha’s Garden and then in November to Thundering Herd Mandarin Farm in Penryn. We were able to reserve the Sports Pavilion for the ever popular Table Talk in September. It quickly filled and had a wait list. Four topics were presented and the Social Committee did an outstanding job in organization as well as light refreshments . 

For the past 20 years our group has supported the Library and taken care of the indoor plants. It was necessary to replace some of these and you can see them in the lobby on your visit to the Lincoln Library. We were so pleased to see it open again and is an integral part of the new Twelve Bridges High School. Several SC members had been in contact with the school Principal and the need for benches at the bus wait area was suggested. We had built up a nice balance in our treasury and we purchased four benches. The school has installed them and we plan on adding a plaque from our Group. Phoenix Continuation School has also been our project. They have a good student gardening group and we gave them $500 to help with expenses. 

We continue to work with Fruitvale School. It is now administered by Placer County and they have told us our services are still needed for rose care. It is on hold until we hear more from them. 

We have one more member event this year on December 2, 2021 in Orchard Creek Ballroom. Go to the web site to get all the information. There is limited seating so get your reservation and money in early. We are following the guidelines of the CDC in the hopes of keeping everyone safe. 

It has been my pleasure to serve as your President for the past four years. With great joy I welcome your new officers for 2022/2024. President Robin Juhasz, Vice-President Melaney Baker, Recording Secretary Ursula Neil, Treasurer Penny Grmolyes Our Steering Committee Chairpersons have a great speakers and events lined up for you in the coming year. Enjoy, stay safe and do what you can to protect others.

Best Wishes~

Marian Reeder, President