Public service announcement
During a Garden Work Party (mowing, weedwhacking and more!) on July 20, 2024, volunteer Kathy West identified the song of a much sought after bird… the rare-ish Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet (Camptostoma imberbe). She states, “This tiny bird, only 4.5 inches, lives full time in Mexico and Central America but during breeding season it migrates to the most southern parts of Arizona. People come from all over the world to see this bird while it’s in the US. Its call is unmistakable, four high-pitched notes that sound like a microwave beeping.”
The Patagonia Community Garden is an important food source for the tyrannulet which feeds on seeds, insects and berries. The PCG is also home to several other kinds of birds and a plethora of brilliant butterflies, which especially enjoy the nectar of the blooming zinnias.
Another kind of rare bird are the people who show up and frequently help in the garden at these work parties: Gisa Krueger, David Sosna, Richard Gambino, Mary Sky Schoolcraft, and Emma Sorenson. Fresh new faces are Bob Brandt, Michelle Rushton, Kathy West, and Jaime (David’s niece visiting from Phoenix.) The unusual thing about these folks is that they are not growing/gardening in the garden!
They come because they enjoy the garden, think it’s a beautiful place, and a wonderful resource to have in our town. If you feel the same way… feel free to come get down and dirty in the garden! Contact: maryskyschoolcraft@gmail.com, text 520-510-2851. We’re always happy to meet you.
Our gardeners are asked to volunteer five hours a month helping maintain the common areas of the garden, and weed around their garden plot or bin. There are so many benefits to being in the garden… the beauty, the birds, the access to organic veggies… and meeting the best kind of people! Or, just come and sit with the Buddha, or play ping-pong in the ramada!
We’re gearing up for our delicious and fun annual garden fundraiser…the beloved PIE AUCTION! Saturday, September 14, from 5-8 pm come enjoy dinner, live music, and the chance to bid on a fabulous piece from one of your favorite neighbors or groups in the community.
If you’d like to help with any aspect of this event, or make and donate a homemade pie please contact maryskyschoolcraft@gmail.com or call or text 520-510-2851.