Thinking Green – March Sanctuary Update

Hi Everyone!

It’s been one of the strangest winters I can remember, but now that it’s over, it’s time to look ahead to spring! I know we’re just getting all the snow and ice melted away, but that’s the perfect time to talk about yard work. As you know, this is a big facility with lots going on and lots of moving parts. That is all the more true now with three new buildings nearing completion. We’ve got some ambitious plans in the works, so I’d like to fill you in on some of what’s happening.

The biggest thing to talk about is the three new cottages. As with previous expansions, the choice and placement of shrubs and bushes around the new buildings will be a key part of their successful function. as they provide necessary visual barriers and, especially with the cats, natural entertainment. This year, in addition to our regular team of gardeners, Annie, Michele, and Deb, our own cat relief staffer, Erika, will be helping to plan and coordinate the new plantings as part of her pursuit of a master gardener certificate. And in a moment of perfect timing, we have a record amount of volunteer work groups scheduled to help throughout the spring, now that pandemic concerns have abated. We’re very excited to see this last bit of the expansion take shape.

Of course, while all the new stuff rightfully gets lots of attention, just as important is the routine maintenance of our beautiful facility. There will now be even more to weed, mow, and weed whack than ever before. While we can always count on our regular yard work volunteers, Jeff, Katie, Kyle, and Darius, we could definitely use more help. If you’re interested in joining the team and helping out, or know someone who might be interested, just email me at [email protected]. We’d love to have you!

Lastly, to maintain a spring tradition, I’m going to beg for yard care donations of tools. We lost a couple leaf rakes last fall to years of use, and some shovels would be helpful as well. Also, we could really use some more loppers and manual hedge clippers. Our current arsenal is wearing a bit thin. Let me know at [email protected], what you would like to bring by, or just feel free to leave items by the gardening shed between the cat and dog cottages. Thanks so much!!

Rosie’s Roundup

Hi Everyone!

I’ve been promoted! I am happy to have taken on the responsibilities of Sanctuary Director Office Cat and I look forward to doing big things! One thing I’d like to bring up first is about growing the sanctuary. My new view from the corner office gives me a great vantage point to see all the busy action around this place. And it’s about to get busier! That means we’ll need even more wonderful people here to keep things running smooth. And what better source to find new wonderful people than the wonderful people who are already here. Maybe you have a friend, family member, or coworker who loves animals and would make a great dog or cat volunteer. Maybe you know someone who likes to work outdoors, or a young adult who needs to be kept busy with some yard work this summer. Then spread the word about Our Companions and all the great ways someone can get involved. Let them know they can head to our website, www.ourcompanions.org, and head over to the Get Involved tab to see what’s available and to sign up. Let’s build this community to even greater heights of wonderfullness. I don’t think that’s a word, but my new authority allows me to make it one!

See you soon!

Rosie

And of Course…Adoptions!!

March had some great adoptions for the cat team. Our favorite twins, Meringue and Marshmallow went home, as did fluffy girl Harley. No new cats arrived, but we were able to make some more appropriate space for Ralph, Jett, and Dylan.