February 13, 2006

Who knew that the area in which we live is highly populated by Golden Eagles? Well if you had the opportunity to attend Hans Peeters lecture at the Pleasanton Library on February 5 you would have learned plenty about the raptors who comfortably reside among us.

Hans, along with wife, Pam Peeters co-authored a natural history guide titled "Raptors of California" and were well received by the large group of bird enthusiasts. The lecture was attended by well over 100 people from small children to seniors and members of the Ohlone Audubon Society. Hans has an impressive knowledge of all raptors, which he described as" Any bird that catches prey". Hans and Pam's book is a field guide to help identify raptors, includes information on endangered species, conservation, reproduction, where to find raptors for observation and human interaction. The book also features 104 full color photos and drawings.

Hans began the lecture by amusing us with some interesting stories of several raptor encounters he has experienced in the area then he explained the different types of raptors such as hawks, falcons and eagles and we were also treated to a very special slide show.

A former biology professor, Hans is also a distinguished wildlife artist and his vast knowledge as an orthinologist has led him around the world; he has illustrated eagles that were commissioned by the Mexican Postal Service for use on their postage stamps and he painted an educational poster to encourage the protection of Panama's national bird the Harpy Eagle.

His work has appeared in several publications such as the Audubon Magazine, Architectural Digest, Wildlife Art, All the Birds of North America, Wildlife Art Magazine, Falconry and Art, Mammals of California, American Hawking and Peregrine Falcon Populations. His paintings have been exhibited at the Oakland Museum of California and he was commissioned by the Smithsonian Institute to illustrate a book of birds in India.

And yes, I was surprised to learn that our area has the high density of golden eagles and according to Hans, more than anywhere else in the world.

One of Sunol's oldest horse boarding facilities, T-Bear Ranch is holding an auction on Saturday. Located at 3000 Andrade Road, the ranch is auctioning nine lesson horses, one stock trailer and several pieces of tack including saddles, bridles, and blankets. You can preview the items beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the live auction will began at noon and continue until everything is sold. Please contact owner, Roy Tovani at 925-862-2340 for more information.

The Glass Family is holding an estate sale on March 5 at 11989 Foothill Road from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The family's parents have both passed and their children are inviting the public to purchase their family's much loved and rare treasures. The sale will include several pieces of antique furniture, clocks, kitchen items, tools, china and Avon collectables such as steins, jewelry and glass bottles; they also have free stuff to offer as well.

Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum presents: Mid-Winter Comedy Film Festival for a fun 3 days beginning Friday night from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The film fest is the perfect way to spend a little time in the past enjoying classic comedy artists such as Laurel and Hardy, Buster Keaton, The Three Stooges, W.C. Fields, Koko The Clown, Felix the Cat, Our Gang and, of course, Charlie Chaplin.

Several sessions will run throughout the day and evening, with meal breaks. You may purchase individual session tickets for $5.00 or all session pass for $40. Call 510-494-1411 for more information.

Don't forget Tuesday is the day you honor your special someone and Bosco's Bones and Brew is preparing to help make your day even sweeter with a special Valentines Day dinner menu. Call the restaurant at 925-862-0821 for reservations.