For members with e-mail capability,  we have started a new program in late 1997 called HGA Cyberspace Connections.   Taking advantage of today's computer technology,  we have found a way to put fellow HGA members in touch with each other in nanoseconds - in Cyberspace!  Participants are voluntary and register with the HGA Cyberspace Coordinator by providing name, e-mail address, City, State, and Topic of greatest interest.   The Coordinator maintains a master Directory (currently around 150 people) and sends the Directory (by e-mail of course) to the other participants based on three regional areas of the country so they can pick and choose those people with similar topics of interest or geographical area in which to communicate by e-mail to share experiences and knowledge with each other.  This program is also used to facilitate  special "Help and Advice" requests from members where other participants can voluntarily respond to posted questions.  Common e-mail courtesy is of course requested.  The Directory is "refreshed" annually so participants must reregister via their Membership Renewal Application,  another good reason to join HGA.
 
 

In order to assist our members with any greenhouse construction or maintenance problems, or any other horticulturally related question, HGA maintains a staff of volunteer subject experts to answer questions either by snail mail, e-mail, or by phone.  One way or another, HGA will help our members get help and advice from reliable and experienced sources.   This assistance is particularly helpful to new greenhouse owners.   Here's another good reason to   join HGA.
 
 

HGA is a discount source for many excellent books on all phases of greenhouse and indoor plant growing.  A few are reviewed in each issue of Hobby Greenhouse Magazine.  Many excellent video tapes and books are available to members of HGA on loan for the cost of shipping plus a small amount to help maintain the library.  A list of available books in the library to HGA members is now available on-line, and other lists of resources will be provided when you  join HGA.

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HGA encourages members to get together and form Chapters in their areas with the assistance of the HGA Chapter Coordinator.  There are currently three local chapters and one affiliate.  Membership in a chapter adds to the enjoyment of having a hobby greenhouse by providing personal contact with other greenhouse gardeners in the same area.  Meetings provide the opportunity to share information, experiences, and fellowhip and to draw quality guest speakers. The Virginia Greenhouse Society is an Affiliate of HGA.  Similar local greenhouse or related organizations are invited to also become HGA Affiliates.   For more information on chapters and affiliations,  contact Tom Eckert,  HGA's Chapter Coordinator. and don't forget to join HGA.

The Hobby Greenhouse Association holds special events occasionally to bring together our members in a social and educational environment.  In 2000,  HGA held a National Convention in St. Louis, MO in October.  The agenda included a tour of Missouri Botanical Gardens, Breakaway sessions on topics of special interest to hobby greenhouse growers,  social interaction opportunities among Officers and members, etc.  Another convention was held at Longwood Gardens in Kennett's Square PA in late 2002.   Conventions are planned at irregular intervals.  The only caviat is YOU NEED TO BE A MEMBER TO ENJOY THIS GREAT EVENT, another good reason to join HGA.