July 2010

Hello OBC Members,

Our July bird walk will be this Sunday, July 18th. Meet at 8:30AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. for carpooling.
Our trip will start at Pt. Lobos near the Cliff House in San Francisco around 9:15AM. After that we will drive to the Presidio to take in the outdoor art exhibit "Presidio Habitats" while we do more birding.
Directions:
From the Bay Bridge follow 80 south to 101N. Exit Octavia, right on Fell, right on Stanyan at GG Park. Left on Fulton all the way to HWY 1 at the ocean. Right on #1 to Point Lobos. Turn right & park in lot on your left near Merrie Way.
Around 10:30 we will drive to the Presidio. We will meet about 11:00AM at the Exhibition Pavilion at the corner of Storey & Ralston Ave.
Wear layers & bring water , a snack & a bag lunch for those who can stay until 1:00PM.
Book Group:
This month our book selection is "A Parrot Without a Name" by Don Stap. It is the tale of an adventurous search for the last unknown birds in the rain forests of Peru.
We will meet on Friday, July 30th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. Please join us and bring a friend for a pleasant evening of discussion, a sip of wine & dessert.

August Bird Walk and picnic:
Reserve Sunday, August 22nd for a bird walk and our annual picnic at Tilden Park.
This year, instead of a potluck, OBC will provide the food!

Hope to see you all soon,
Dolores Butkus 510-444-0355

PAST EVENTS:

June 2010

Hello OBC Members,

Tomorrow, June 27th, we will bird Redwood Regional Park, and depending on how the birds cooperate, we will probably than go to Sibley Regional Park.
For carpooling meet at 8:00AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park. Or meet at Redwood Park between 8:20 & 8:30AM. A parking fee may be required. Directions;
From HWY 13 exit at Redwood Rd.. Turn left and follow Redwood Rd. east to the park entrance on the left - about 3 miles. From HWY 580 drive south and exit at 35th Ave. turn left and drive east. At HWY 13, 35th turns into Redwood Rd. Continue east as above.

Also:
On Monday, July 5th, at 7:30PM Close to Home is presenting Mike Moran of EBRPD who will give an informative & humorous talk on the much maligned turkey vulture. Cost $7. Directions: Montclair Presbyterian Chruch on Thornhill Rd. in Montclair east of HWY 13.

Enjoy summer!
Dolores Butkus 510-444-0355

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Hello OBC Members,

Due to my overly busy schedule, our June bird walk will have to be rather impromtu. I hope some of you will be able to join us for a walk next Sunday, June 27th at 8:00AM.
Good June birding locations are rather scarce. Some suggestions are: Tilden Park, Sibley (if it's not foggy), Lake Lagunitas in Marin, and Point Lobos, GG Park or Glen Canyon in San Francisco. Please RSVP if you are able to attend, and let me know your preference of a birding location.
For carpooling: Meet at 8:00AM at the old fire station next to Montclair Park on Moraga Rd. in Oakland. Our July walk will be on Sunday, July 18th and on Sunday, August 22nd we will have our annual picnic, probably at Tilden Park.
This year our picnic will be from our club fund, so you don't have to worry about a potluck dish.
Book Group: Our book group will meet this Friday, June 25th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. We are reading "Pastures of Heaven" by John Steinbeck. A few of us attended this play at Cal Shakespeare Theater, so it will be interesting to compare the book & the production. We are always looking for new members, so please join us for a pleasnat evening of discussion, wine & dessert.

Have a relaxing summer,
Dolores Butkus 510-444-0355

May 2010

Hello OBC Members,

Our little GGAS Birdathon team ( Pansy Kwong, Kathy Jarrrett, and I) spent 2 mornings counting birds at Garin Park, Winton Ave., and Coyote Hills. We totaled 63 species while enjoying some pleasant spring birding.
Thanks to those who have made a pledge, and if there is anyone else who would like to support our efforts for GGAS, you may send a $5 donation to me. Make a check payable to Golden Gate Audubon.
See you this Sunday at 8:00AM at Mitchell Canyon for our May walk led by Denise Wight.

Thanks so much,

Dolores Butkus
959 Hillcroft Circle
Oakland, CA 94610

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Hello OBC Members,

Our May bird walk will be at Mitchell Canyon led by Denise Wight. Practice indentifying those bird calls!
Our walk is scheduled for Sunday, May 23rd at 8:00AM. For carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station next to Montclair Park on Moraga Rd. at 7:15AM.
Wear layers & bring sunscreen, water and a snack. Parking fee!
Directions: Take HWY 24 east to 680 north. Exit immediately at Ygnacio Valley Rd. & turn right at the signal. Follow Ygnacio about 8 miles to Clayton Blvd. Turn right and go about 1 mile to Mitchell Canyon Rd. Follow it to the end at the entrance gate to the park.

Our book group is seeking new members. We meet once a month, and Friday, May 21st at 7:00PM we will be discussing "Silence of the Songbirds" by Bridget Stutchbury. Bring a friend and join us for lively discussion, fine wine and dessert.
959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland 94610. From Lakeshore Ave. turn right on Trestle Glen, left on Sunnyhills Rd., and right on Hillcroft.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

March 2010

Hi OBC Members,

I have signed up for the first ever Golden Gate Audubon Birdathon. It is a fund raiser that runs for up to any 48 hour consecutive hours between April 17 - May 16.
Would any of you intrepid birders like to join me & form an Oakland Bird Club team?
Check out: www.goldengateaudubon.org/birdathon for more details.
I hope some of you will join me,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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Hello OBC Members,

Our March bird walk will be on Sunday, March 28th to Las Gallinas Sewer Ponds. Meet at old Montclair fire station at 8:00AM for carpooling or at Las Gallinas at 8:45AM.
Directions:
Cross Richmond-San Rafael & take 101 North to Lucas Valley Dr. exit. Go east on Smith Ranch Rd. to the end. Take a sharp left to the sewage treatment ponds just before the county park. Drive past the headquarters to the parking lot on the left.

April 2010

Our April bird walk will be on Sunday, April 25th to Garin Regional Park in Hayward led by
Jerry Steenhoven.
Meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd at 7:30AM or at Garin Park at 8:00AM
Directions:
Take 580 east to Hayward exit. Follow Foothill Blvd to Mission Blvd. all the way south to the Garin Park sign. Turn left & go all the way up the hill which ends at Garin. Park in the right hand lot.
Enjoy some spring birding,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

February 2010

Hello OBC Members,

Six members are able to go on a bird walk to Pacheco Valley this Sunday, Feb. 21st.
If it doesn't rain ( and at this time rain is predicted) we will meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. in Montclair at 7:30AM to carpool to the Pacheco Valley area.
We will return by late afternoon.
Bring water, a lunch & wear layers.
Five members are able to attend a bird walk on Sunday, Feb. 28th. If it doesn't rain, we will again try to bird at Pacheco Valley. We will follow the same procedures as above.

Read On:

Hans Peeters, a talented nature artist has invited us to attend his latest art exhibit. It will be held at the Bone Room on Solano Ave. in Berkeley throughout March. It will feature paintings from his latest book, "Owls of California and the West", and other works featuring the natural world. Hans spoke to OBC 5 years ago!

Book Group:
We are now reading "Wesley the Owl" by Stacey O'Brien. It is a short enjoyable tale of an injured barn owl who is raised by a young woman.
We will meet on Friday, March 5th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland to discuss this book.
All are invited to join us for an evening of lively discussion, wine & dessert.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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Hello OBC Members,

I would like your input before choosing our February bird walk.
Please let me know if you prefer Sunday, Feb. 21st or 28th.
As to where we bird, would you like a trip to the Las Galinas sewer treatment ponds in Marin for a half day trip.
Or would you like a full day outing to Panoche Valley near Hollister. Recently a Palo Alto Adult School birding class had great results there including Ferrugenus Hawks, Mt. Bluebirds & Mt. Plovers.
Our book group is reading "Wesley the Owl" by Stacey O'Brien for February. Meeting date & time to follow.
Hoping to hear from you,

Dolores Butkus

January 2010

Hi Birders,

I was unable to reach our leader, Lisa Hug, about tomorrow's bird walk, Sunday, January 23rd.
The weather report has changed and now rain is predicted for Sunday. Unless it is pouring tomorrow morning, I still plan on going.
However, we will probably have to switch to another area because the Ellis Creek sewage treatment facility has so much water that the waterfowl have gone elsewhere.
If you still want to brave it, meet in Montclair for carpooling or at the Ellis Creek parking lot at 8:30AM.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

Hi OBC Members,
I hope you are all surviving the onslot of storms. It looks like the weather might cooperate on Sunday, so we will try to have our bird walk. Meet in Montclair at 7:30 to carpool or arrive at Ellis Creek by 8:30AM where we will join our expert leader, Lisa Hug.
Dress warmly & wear waterproof foot gear.
Thanks to Kathy Jarrett for the information on Ellis Creek.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

Ellis Creek Extension

3890 Cypress Creek, Petaluma, Petaluma, CA (adjacent to Shollenberger Park)

Directions: From 101 N, turn east onLakeville Hwy (CA 116) Pass turn-off to Shollenberger Park -Cader Ln- and turn right on Pine View Way, left on Cypress Dr.

Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility

from City of Petaluma website
cityofpetaluma.net/wrcd/ellis-creek.html

map at
cityofpetaluma.net/wrcd/pdf/ellis_creek_invite_map.pdf

Grand Opening Celebration – Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility

The City of Petaluma will celebrate the grand opening of the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility with a ceremony on Friday, July 31st (2009)at 10:00 AM. The ceremony is open to the public and will take place at the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility located at 3890 Cypress Drive Ave in Petaluma. Please RSVP to Denise Hill at 778-4584 by July 28th, or dhill@ci.petaluma.ca.us.

Please see the map for directions to the facility.

The Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility, constructed by Kiewit Pacific, designed by Carollo Engineers, with construction management provided by the Covello Group, increases the City’s average dry weather wastewater treatment capacity from 5.2 to 6.7 million gallons per day, and replaces the Hopper Street Wastewater Treatment Facility which was originally constructed in 1938. The $115 million wastewater treatment plant construction project represents a partnership between natural wastewater treatment processes and state-of-the art technology. The most visible part of the process is the 30-acres of constructed polishing wetlands. They provide a low-cost way to treat the community’s wastewater, while simultaneously functioning as a quality wildlife habitat with public access.

Project funding was provided by $2 million in grant funding each from the California Coastal Conservancy and the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District, and a low interest State Revolving Fund loan from the State of California.

Wastewater started flowing into the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility in January 2009. Following nearly six months of intensive start-up and testing, substantial completion was achieved on June 15, 2009, as scheduled. The Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility will help the City achieve increasingly stringent environmental regulations which could not be met by the Hopper Street facility. In addition, the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility will produce recycled water which has received advanced treatment, filtration and ultraviolet disinfection, and meets the highest level of treatment as defined by the State of California. About 500,000 gallons of recycled water is used on-site each day for process water, landscape irrigation (including the Operations Building’s living roof), fire protection, and toilet flushing.

Since 1984, the City has reused secondary recycled water for irrigation of agricultural lands and golf courses. Tertiary recycled water produced by the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility will be used to expand the City’s recycled water program to include irrigation of parks and athletic fields, and help preserve Petaluma’s water supply.

PETALUMA WETLANDS - A BIRDER’S DREAM

from
saveshollenberger.com/2009/06/help-protect-petalumas-ecotourism.html

At the end of July, the new Ellis Creek trail will be opened to the public, adding over two miles to an existing trail system in the Petaluma wetlands that includes strolls through Alman Marsh, and around Shollenberger Park. One will be able to walk almost eight miles (roundtrip) starting at the Sheraton Hotel located at the Petaluma Marina. This will only enhance what many (Greenbelt Alliance, S.F. Chronicle, etc.) have already described as a top destination for nature lovers.

The 500-acre contiguous wetlands, left unspoiled, have much to offer - 200 species of birds, 25 species of mammals, reptiles and amphibians, over 100 types of plants, with trails that meander through or are adjacent to a variety of habitats ranging from seasonal ponds, uplands, to salt marshes. At points in the trail one walks alongside the Petaluma River. The headquarters of the Point Reyes Bird Observatory (PRBO) is also located next to Shollenberger. PRBO is world famous for its research efforts and provides educational services to the public on-site. Additionally, the Petaluma Wetlands Alliance (PWA) conducts wetland tours. Its website features hundreds of wildlife photos
www.petalumawetlands.org.

Properly promoted, the wetlands will attract thousands of birders and other eco-tourists to Petaluma. That has been the City of Petaluma and PWA’s goal for several years, awaiting the opening of the Ellis Creek segment of the trail. The success of this effort will greatly depend, however, upon maintaining the purity of the wetlands from harmful development, such as the Dutra asphalt and recycling facility proposed across the river from Shollenberger. Not only would the plant destroy scenic vistas along the Petaluma River but also create excessive noise and pollutants potentially harmful to the park animals, and even human visitors.

Visits from regional and national birders could enliven the local economy, creating jobs as well as producing sales and tax revenues, for birding is one of the most popular hobbies in this country. A 2001 study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service produced amazing numbers. There are 46 million birders who travel to locations like the Petaluma wetlands, annually. They create 32 billion dollars in retail sales, 13 billion in federal and state taxes, and are responsible for over 800,000 jobs! Even the small town of Arcata, California, draws 150,000 visitors a year for its 150 acres of wetlands.

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Hello OBC Members,

Our January bird walk will be at Ellis Creek near Petaluma on Sunday, January 24th.
At 8:30AM we will meet our leader, Lisa Hug, who will guide us through this new area.
For carpooling:
Meet at 7:30AM at the old Montclair fire station next to Montclair Park on Moraga Rd. in Oakland.
Wear layers and bring water & a snack. Heavy rain cancels.

Directions to follow.
Great birding in the new year,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

Hello OBC Members,

Our January bird walk will be at Ellis Creek near Petaluma on Sunday, January 24th.
At 8:30AM we will meet our leader, Lisa Hug, who will guide us through this new area.
For carpooling:
Meet at 7:30AM at the old Montclair fire station next to Montclair Park on Moraga Rd. in Oakland.
Wear layers and bring water & a snack. Heavy rain cancels.

Directions to follow.
Great birding in the new year,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

December 2009

Hello OBC Members,

We don't have an official December bird walk, but I would like to invite you to join me for the high tide at Arrowhead Marsh on Wednesday, Dec 30th. The high tide is about 11:00AM so we should be t here about 10:00AM.
We will be joining many other birders who will be hoping to see lots of Clapper Rails.
Afterwards I would like to invite you to my house for hot coffee cocoa, pastries & snacks.
We could also use this time to plan next year's bird walks.

Directions:
Take I-880 south and exit at Hegenberger Rd. Continue to Doolittle Drive and turn right. After a short distance turn right onto Swan Way. Shortly turn left into MLK Regional Shoreling Park & drive all the way to the last parking lot near the viewing platform.

To my house:
Return to I-880 & head north. Take HWY 980 north & keep in the righthand lanes. Exit onto HWY 580 east (Hayward). Exit right at Lakeshore/Grand Ave. Continue to the 2nd signal & turn left under the freeway onto Lakeshore Ave. Continue through the shopping district to the 3rd signal & turn right on Trestle Glen. Continue to Sunnyhills Rd. & turn left. At Hillcroft Circle turn right. I'm near the top of the hill at 959 Hillcroft.

For carpooling meet at 9:30AM at the old fire station on Morage Rd. next to Montclair Park.

Happy Holidays & great winter birding,

Dolores Butkus

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November 2009

Hello OBC Members,

We have 2 bird walks scheduled this month, both with just a few participants. The holidays must be near!
In case some of your plans have changed & you are now able to join us:
Sunday, Nov. 22nd, 9:00AM, Hayward Shoreline at the Winton Ave. entrance.
If you wish to carpool, meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Ave. at 8:30AM.

Sunday, Nov. 29th, Merced Wildlife Refuge in the Central Valley.
For carpooling meet at Moraga Rd., Oakland, at 8:00AM or Merced Wildlife Refuge at 9:30AM.
Wear layers, bring water, snacks & lunch.
See Google Maps for directions to
7430 W Sandy Mush Rd., Merced, CA 95341-8772

Happy Thanksgiving (poor turkeys)!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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Hello OBC Members,

Polling the membership seemed to work well last month. Eleven members attended our walk at Martinez Shoreline.
For November would you prefer Sunday, Nov. 22 or 29th?
Where would you like to go to check the newly arrived ducks & shorebirds?
Seal Rock & Sutro Park, Coyote Point, Hayward Shoreline, or please offer suggestions

Of note: Close to Home has a timely talk scheduled:
"Conserving California Birds in a Changing Climate"
Monday, Nov. 9th, 7:30PM, Cost: 5$
Montclair Presbyterian Church,
Thornhill Drive, Oakland
I have attended many of their presentations, and they are excellent.

Our book group will meet on Friday, Nov. 27th to continue our discussion of Wallace Stegner's classic "Angle of Repose".
Please join us!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

October 2009

Hello OBC Members,

Someone is watching over me! At the last minute I was able to get Hugh Harvey to lead our walk this Sunday morning.
Carpooling: Meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd, in Oakland next to Montclair Park at 8:30AM. Wear layers,& bring water & a snack.
Directions: Take HWY 24 to HWY 680N.. Exit at HWY 4 & turn left or west. Continue to Alhambra exit. Turn right on Alhambra, right on Escobar St., left on Ferry St., right on Joe Dimaggio Dr. & left on N Court St. Drive to the end & park in the lot on your left.
From Berkeley take 80E to HWY 4. Exit at Alhambra, turn left & follow above directions.

Please join our book group Friday, Oct. 30th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle to discuss Wallace Stegner's Pulitzer Prize- winning novel "Angle of Repose".

Dave Steffen researched this synopsis: Confined to a wheelchair, retired historian Lyman Ward sets out to write his grandparents' remarkable story, chronicling their days spent carving civilization into the surface of America's western frontier. Through the prism of one family, this book illuminates the American present against the fascinating background of its past.
Stegner's novel has been selected by the board of the Modern Library as one of the best 100 novels of the 20th century.
Since the book is 554 pages long we will focus on the first 4 parts, & finish in November.

More; I would like to get a group together to attend 2 wonderful bird festivals:

Morro Bay, January 15 - 18th
www.morrobayfestival.org

San Diego, March 4 - 7th
www.sandiegoaudubon.org/birdfest.htm

Please contact me if you are interested.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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Hello OBC Members,

Ten members responded regarding our October bird walk. The vast majority chose the Martinez/Carquinez Shoreline on Sunday, Oct. 25th. We'll gather for carpooling at the old Montclair fire station at 8:30AM.
More details will follow.
Our book group is meeting on Friday, Oct. 30th at 7:00PM to discuss Wallace Stegner's "Angle of Repose". More info to follow.

The shorebirds are returning!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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Hello OBC members,

Trying to accommodate the schedules of as many members as possible, could you respond to these dates & places.

Would you be available for a bird walk on:
Sunday, October 18th at 9:00AM
or
Sunday, Oct. 25th at 9:00AM?

Would you like to go birding at:
Martinez, Carquinez Shorelines
or
Golden Gate Park & Lands End?

Our book group is reading "Angle of Repose" by Wallace Stegner.
We will meet on Friday, October 30th at 7:00PM.
We are looking for new members to join our group for an enjoyable evening of conversation accompanied by wine & dessert.

Please respond at your earliest convenience,
doloresbutkus@sbcglobal.net

Dolores Butkus

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September 2009

Hello OBC Members,

I apologize for the late notice, but family matters have occupied me for the last month.
I don't want to pass up a great month for birding, so we are planning a walk to the Half Moon Bay area this Sunday, Sept. 20th. We will bird first at Pilar Point Marsh and then join Seuqoia Audubon for a stroll around Pescadero Marsh.
For Carpooling: Meet at the old Montclair Fire Station on Moraga Rd. in Oakland next to Montclair Park at 8:30AM
We will meet at Pillar Point Marsh on HWY 1 at 9:30AM.
Lunch around noon. Bring your own lunch & water.
1:00 - 3:00PM Pescadero Marsh nature walk. From half Moon Bay drive south 12 miles to the south parking lot just over Pescadero Creek Bridge. We will meet our guide there.
Wear layers & sunscreen.

This Saturday, Sept. 19th is Coastal Clean-up Day. There are many volunteer opportuities throughout the Bay Area: http://www.oaklandcreektoday.orgP840.aspx
jrobinson@goldengateaudubon.org

Enjoy the start of autumn birding. If you haven't seen the American Redstart at Emeryville Marina, give it a try. He is Spectacular.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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August 2009

Hello OBC Members,

Our August bird walk will be to Abbott's Lagoon at Point Reyes Nat'l Seashore, led by Rusty Scalf, on Sunday, Aug. 23rd.
We will meet for carpooling at 7:00AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd., Oakland next to Montclair Park.
This will be an all day trip, but you can leave at any time to suit your schedule.
Bring a lunch, sunscreen, water, and wear layers & good walking shoes.
Directions:
Cross the Richmond-San Raphael Bridge & take 101north. Exit Lucas Valley Road and turn left (west) towards Nicasio. Bear right on Nicasio Valley Road, then turn left on Point Reyes - Petaluma Road toward Point Reyes Station. Turn left at Hwy 1 intersection, then right onto Sir Francis Drake Blvd which will bend to the right. Continue past Inverness and take the right-hand road at the Y intersection (Pierce Point Road). The turnoff into Abbott's Lagoon parking lot is on the left.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

Hello OBC Members,

Our August bird walk will be on Sunday, August 23rd.
Rusty Scalf has planned a very special day for us. He would like to lead a walk at Abbott's Lagoon at Point Reyes, and explore other places if time allows.
This would be an all day trip.
Let me know if this works for you. If most members can't make an all day trip, Rusty will plan a half day bird walk some where else.
More details to follow.

Our next book group will meet on Friday, September 25th. Details to follow.

Dolores Butkus

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July 2009

Hello OBC Members,

As many of you already know, our OBC member and dear friend, Avis Cherepy, passed away this Wednesday. Her charm, wit & positive outlook will be missed.
I will make a donation from OBC to Golden Gate Audubon in her memory.

I talked to Nerine, Avis' daughter, this morning and have the information for Avis' memorial service:

Thursday, July 30, 2009
Church Service 10:00 - 11:00 AM,
Church of the Assumption, 1100 Fulton Ave., San Leandro
Celebration of Avis' Life 11:00 AM - 1:00PM,
Church of the Assumption Parish Hall

If anyone cannot make it to the church service, please just come for the celebration of Avis' life.
You are encouraged to share any happy memories you have of Avis.

Nerine would appreciate anyone who has electronic photos of Avis to e-mail them to her at:
cherepy@hotmail.com

Help will also be needed setting up the hall & clean-up after the celebration.
If you have the time & would enjoy showing your care for Avis by bringing a pot luck dish,this would also be appreciated. Remember how famous we are for our pot lucks!

An announcement from Nerine will also be sent to those who have responded to her first e-mail.
To simplify things for Nerine, RSVP to me if you are able to help in any way.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

June 2009

Hello OBC Members,

bird walk time change

Jeff Fairclough would like to start our Sunday, June 14th bird walk at 8:00AM. So let's plan to meet for carpooling at 7:15AM. (groan)
It looks like it will be cool so wear layers, and remember there is a $5/car parking fee.
Jeff recommends checking out the Sequoia Audubon website to familiarise yourself with the San Bruno Mt. area.
From the Bay Bridge take 101 south and exit Serra Point. Head for Bayshore, then bear right, second traffic light to the left for Guadalupe Canyon Parkway. Make a sharp right turn into SBM parking lot at the summit of the road.

Hope to see you there!

Dolores Butkus

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Sunday, June 14th at 8:30AM, Jeff Fairclough & his wife Laurie will be leading us on a walk around San Bruno Mountain. This is a new area for us to explore, & Jeff & Laurie live nearby and are active in the efforts to save San Bruno Mt.
There is a $5/car fee so carpooling is advised. Meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park at 7:30AM.
Directions:
Cross the Bay Bridge & head south on HWY 101. Exit at Oyster Point, turn north on Bayshore Blvd., then left on to Guadalupe Canyon Parkway. The park entrance is is on the right at the top of the hill.
Weather can be foggy & windy so wear layers.

Book Group
This month our book group is reading "Rosalind Franklin, The Dark Lady of DNA" by Brenda Maddox. We will meet to discuss this interesting book on Friday, June 26th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. Refreshments will be served.

Good Birding,

Dolores Butkus

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May 2009

Hello OBC Members,

This Sunday, May 31st, we will be participating in an urban bird awareness event at the farmer's market at Jack London Square.
This event is sponsored by Cornell University & includes decorating birdhouses. seed plant ing & short bird walks at 11:00, 12:00 & 1:00.
We need a few more participants, so bring your binocs & scopes & join us for an hour of fun.
It's a good opportunity for a little publicity for OBC

MAY BIRD WALK:
Denise Wight will lead our walk at Mitchell Canyon, one of her favorite birding spots, on Sunday, May 24th at 8:30AM. (This is Memorial Day weekend.)
Denise is an expert at birding by ear & she will want to be in front of our group. She would like us to stay together & talk quietly.
For carpooling meet at 7:30AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park in Oakland.
Our walk will begin at 8:30AM and will last until near noon. Then we will have one of our famous picnics. Please bring a potluck dish of your choice. OBC will provide all picnic supplies.

Directions:
Take HWY 24 through the Caldecott Tunnel to Walnut Creek. Exit at Ygnacio Valley Rd. Go east about 8 miles then turn right on Clayton Valley Rd.
After 1 mile turn right onto Mitchell Canyon Rd. and continue to the entrance of the park where you will have to pay for parking.

SPECIAL EVENT:
ON SUNDAY, MAY 31ST WE HAVE BEEN INVITED BY THE JACK LONDON FARMER'S MARKET TO PARTICIPATE IN A NATIONAL URBAN BIRD AWARENESS DAY ORGANIZED BY CORNELL UNIVERSITY. THERE WILL BE BIRD RELATED FAMILY ACTIVITIES, AND WE AND GGAS WILL BE THERE TO ANSWER QUESTIONS AND LEAD SHORT BIRD WALKS AT 11:00, 12:00 and 1:00. SO BRING YOUR BINOCS, SCOPES AND FIELD GUIDES. THE FUN BEGINS AT 10:00AM!

BOOK GROUP:
For the month of May we are reading "Birding on Borrowed Time" by Phoebe Snetsinger who set a world record for seeing over 8000 species of birds.
The book is hard to locate, but American Birding Association has it on sale on-line for $11.97.
Time & place to follow, which means I've forgotten & will let you know later!

Enjoy spring if it ever arrives,

Dolores Butkus

April 2009

Hello OBC Members,

With luck I have been able to plan an exciting spring schedule!

APRIL BIRD WALK:
Expert birder, Rusty Scalf, will lead our walk at Sunol Regional Park on Sunday, April 26th at 8:30AM.
For carpooling meet at 7:30AM at the Old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park in Oakland.
DIRECTIONS:
Take 580 east to 680 south. Take 680 about 6 miles to Calaveras Rd. turn left on Calaveras. Take Geary Rd. to the park entrance. Parking fee.

MAY BIRD WALK:
Denise Wight will lead our walk at Mitchell Canyon, one of her favorite birding spots, on Sunday, May 24th. (This is Memorial Day weekend).
Denise is an expert at birding by ear & she will want to be in front of our group. She would like us to stay together & talk quietly.
For carpooling meet at 7:30 AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park in Oakland.
Our walk will begin at 8:30AM & will be followed by a picnic. Please bring a potluck dish. OBC will provide all picnic supplies.

DIRECTIONS:
Take HWY 24 through the Caldecott Tunnel to Walnut Creek. Exit at Ygnacio Valley Rd. Go east about 8 miles then turn right onto Clayton Valley Rd.
After 1 mile turn right onto Mitchell Canyon Rd. and continue to the entrance of the park where you will have to pay for parking.

SPECIAL EVENT:
ON SUNDAY, MAY 31ST, WE HAVE BEEN INVITED BY THE JACK LONDON FARMERS" MARKET TO PARTICIPATE IN A NATIONAL URBAN BIRD AWARENESS DAY ORGANIZED BY CORNELL UNIVERSITY. THERE WILL BE BIRD RELATED FAMILY ACTIVITIES, AND WE WILL BE THERE TO HELP PARTICIPANTS LOCATE & IDENTIFY LOCAL BIRDS. SO BRING YOUR BINOCS, SCOPES & FIELD GUIDES & JOIN THE FUN. FOR OUR EFFORTS, WE MAY BE REWARDED WITH AN ARMFUL OF FRESH VEGGIES!

BOOK GROUP:
Our intrepid but dwindling group is reading "The Life of the Skies" by Jonathan Rosen. We will meet to discuss the book on Friday, April 17th at 7:00PM at the home of Avis Cherepy, 3164 Phoenix Lane, on Bay Farm Island in Alameda. For carpooling from Oakland, Meet at 959 Hillcroft Circle at 6:30PM.

Spring is a wonderful time for birding!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

March 2009

Hello OBC Members,

Our bird walk this month is On Saturday, March 21st at 8:30AM. Lisa Hug will lead us around Shollenberger Marsh in Petaluma. If time allows we could also stop at Rush Creek on the way home.
Wear layers & bring water.
For carpooling meet at 7:30AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park.
Directions: Take 580 west across the Richmond San Rafael Bridge and exit onto HWY 101 north. Continue to HWY 116 (Lakeville HWY). turn off in Petaluma and go east 1 mile. Turn right on S McDowell Blvd. Go 0.3 mi. & take a right at the small City Park sign.

Book Group
Our next meeting is on Friday, April 17th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. We will be discussing "The Life of the Skies - Birding at the End of Nature" by Jonathan Rosen.
Our little group has dwindled in numbers, so join us in reading an interesting book each month, followed by a lively discussion, wine & dessert.

Happy spring birding,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

February 2009

Hello OBC Members,

Checked the weather forecast & found that there is a 30% chance of rain on Saturday and rain expected on Sunday.
For those of you planning on attending this week's bird walk, would you be interested in and able to change to Saturday, Feb. 21st? Let me know.

Also I have better directions from Kathy Jarrett:
Driving: CA-24 toward Walnut Creek, I-680 N. Take CA HWY 4 east toward Stockton/Pittsburg. (Do not take the Brentwood By-Pass). Take the HWY4 exit toward Brentwood/Stockton. (Don't go over the Antioch Bridge).
Turn right onto HWY4/Main St., go 1.1 mi., turn left at Big Break Rd. Go 0.2 mi. & turn right at Vintage Pkwy, go 0.8 mi. then left at Walnut Meadows Dr. Go 0.6 mi. to end, then right at Fetzer Ln., one block to Jordan Ln.
Park on street near entrance to trail at Fetzer Ln. & Jordan Ln., Oakley, CA 94561
For either Saturday or Sunday, meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. at 8:30AM for carpooling.
Heavy rain cancels.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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Hello OBC Members,

Our monthly bird walk will be to Big Break & Iron Horse Sanitary District on Sunday, Feb. 22nd at 9:00AM. At this point it will be leaderless.
For carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. at 8:30AM.
Directions:
From Oakland take HWY 24 east through the Caldecott Tunnel. Take HWY 680 north to HWY 242. Follow 242 to HWY 4 east to Antioch/Oakley. From HWY 4 take a right on Main St. & a left on Jordan Rd.
Wear layers & bring water. Heavy rain cancels.

Book Group:

We will meet on Friday, March 6th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. We will continue to discuss "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell.
All are welcome.

Our March bird walk will be on Saturday, March 21st at 8:30AM. Lisa Hug will lead us around the Petaluma Marsh.

Please join us for some great winter birding,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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Hello OBC Members,

I would like your input regarding a date for our February walk.
Would you prefer, Sunday, Feb.15th (President's Day weekend) or Sat. Feb. 21st or Sun., Feb. 22nd?
A possible site for our walk could be Big Break near Oakley, or any suggestions you may have.

Also, I apologize for the late notice this month. I sent out the OBC update on January 3rd, but I was not aware that my provider had changed the blind copy format, so I was the only one that got my message!

Plan ahead - our March walk will be at Petaluma Marsh led by Lisa Hug on Saturday, March 21st at 8:30AM.

Hope to hear from you,

Dolores Butkus

January 2009

Hi OBC,

This month's walk is on Sunday, January 11th at 9:30AM.
We will meet Kathy Jarrett at Garretson Point, and then either walk or drive to Arrowhead Marsh for the high tide at 10:30AM.
There should be lots of birds, birders & hopefully rails! For carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. at 9:00AM. Directions: From HWY 880 exit right on Hegenberger Rd.
Turn right on Edgewater Dr. & proceed to the end to the parking lot on the left.

Book Group: We'll meet on Friday, January 23rd at 7:00PM to discuss "The Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell.
All are welcome for a friendly evening of lively discussion, wine & dessert at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oalkand.

I need your input! Where would you like to go for our 2009 bird walks? A few ideas are Petaluma Marsh, San Bruno Mt., Sunol, Garin, & Half Moon Bay.

Happy New Year & Great Birding in 2009

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

December 2008

Hi OBC,

The Navy is up to its old tricks & has called a last minute meeting regarding the least tern colony on the Alameda Naval Air Station.
The meeting is this Thursday at 6:00PM on the USS Hornet. Please try to make it! If you want to carpool meet at my house by 5:30PM - 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland

Thanks,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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Hello OBC Members,

December Bird Walk:

This Sunday, Dec. 7th at 8:00AM, Alan Kaplan will lead our bird walk around the Berkeley Pier. Alan will share his expertise about gulls with us. And who knows what else might show up!
Directions: Exit HWY 80 at University Ave. Follow signs to the Berkeley Marina at the west end of University Ave. Park along the waterfront or in the lots near Skate's Restaurant.

Book Group:

For a change of pace we are going to view the video "The Theory of Evolution - A History of Controversy". We'll focus on 2 of the 12 lectures: Darwin's Inspiration & Missing Links.
Please join us on Friday, December 19th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland.

Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, Dec. 14th. For info contact: www.goldengateaudubon.org.

Big Year Celebration: Join the fun on January 13th from 7:00 - 9:00PM at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda, Berkeley

OBC January Walk:
Sunday, January 11, 2009 led by Kathy Jarrett. Meet at Garretson Point & we'll work our way over to Arrowhead Marsh to see what the high tide brings out.

Enjoy a wonderful holiday season,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

November 2008

A Reminder!

Our November bird walk is this Sunday, Nov 23rd from NOON - 3:00PM.

Maury Stern will be our leader. Meet him at the first viewing platform overlooking Albany Bulb at the bottom of Buchanan St. in Albany.
If time allows we will also check out Point Isabell & Ceasar Chavez Park for unusual birds that have been seen there.

Our December walk will be on Dec. 7th at 8:00AM at the Berkeley Pier.
Alan Kaplan will be sharing his knowledge of gulls & other Bay birds.

Have a joyful holiday season & some good winter birding!

Dolores Butkus

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Hell OBC Members,

Our next walk will be on Sunday, November 23rd at The Albany Bulb led by Maury Stern.
Note time: Noon to 3:00PM - This is to take advantage of the outgoing, low tide. Meet at the bottom of Buchanan St. at the first 2 viewing platforms overlooking the marsh.
For carpooling meet at 11:30AM at the old Montclair fire station next to Montclair Park on Moraga Rd.
HEAVY RAIN CANCELS.

Book Group:

This month we are reading an enjoyable book by Peter Mayle - "A Dog's Life".
We will meet on Firday, Nov. 21st at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. All are welcome!

Future Dates:
Alan Kaplan will lead our walk at the Berkeley Pier on Sunday, Dec. 21st at 8:00AM. If anyone can teach us how to identify those troublesome gulls, it's Alan!

January 11th Kathy Jarrett will lead us around Garrettson Point & Arrowhead Marsh. It's a high tide day so the chances of spotting rails & soras will be good.

Christmas Bird Count - Sunday, Dec. 14th. Sign up at:
www.goldengateaudubon.org

Please send in any ideas for 2009 bird walks.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

October 2008

Hi OBC Members,

Our October bird walk will be to Hayward Shoreline on Sunday, Oct. 19th at 8:00AM. Meet at Winton Ave. parking lot, or for carpooling meet at 7:30AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd., Oakland.
After checking out the Winton Ave. area we will carpool to the Hayward Shoreline Visitor's Center.
Directions:
From HWY 80 south, exit at Winton Ave. & drive all the way west to the end where you keep left into the parking area.

MEETING AND SLIDE PRESENTATION:

JEFF ROBINSON WILL SHARE HIS KNOWLEDGE & BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS OF "THE BIRDS OF ASIA" ON THURSDAY, OCT. 23RD AT 7:30PM AT THE ROCKRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY, 5366 COLLEGE AVE.
SPREAD THE WORD & INVITE A FRIEND. REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED.

NOVEMBER WALK: MAURY STERN WILL LEAD US AROUND THE ALBANY BULB AREA ON SUNDAY, NOV. 23RD. DETAILS TO FOLLOW.

DECEMBER WALK: JOIN ALAN KAPLAN AT THE BERKELEY PIER ON SUNDAY, DEC. 7TH AT 8:OOAM TO LEARN ABOUT THOSE CHALLENGING GULLS & WHATEVER ELSE MIGHT TURN UP.

CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT: JOIN GGAS ON SUNDAY, DEC. 14TH FOR THIS IMPORTANT DAYLONG COUNT. CONTACT: www.goldengateaudubon.org for details.

JANUARY WALK: JOIN KATHY JARRETT AND MANY OTHER BIRDERS AT ARROWHEAD MARSH ON SUNDAY, JAN.11TH TO SEE WHAT THE HIGH TIDE FLUSHES OUT. HOPEFULLY WE WILL SEE MANY CLAPPER RAILS & SORAS.

BOOK GROUP: Our selection for October is "Darwin's Dangerous Idea" by Daniel Dennett. We will read through Chapter 9, p.261.
Meet on Friday, Oct. 17th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland for discussion & dessert.

Thanks for all your support,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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September 2008

Hi OBC Members,

Our September bird walk is this Sunday, Sept. 21st. We should be finished by noon.
For carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station at 7:15AM or meet at the gravel parking area on Olema-Bolinas Rd. at 8:30AM.

Our book group is reading "Darwin's Dangerous Idea" by Daniel Dennett. We will meet on Friday, Oct. 17th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland.
All are welcome to join us!

COASTAL CLEANUP DAY THIS SATURDAY
SEPT 20TH FROM 9:00AM - NOON.

Many Bay Area Locations:
GGAS - Pier 24 in the Bayview/Hunters Point area.
City of Berkeley - Shoreline clean-up. Meet behind the Seabreeze Market

Oakland - many sites including Dimond Park & Sausal Creek
Oaklandpw.com/creeks

OBC MEETING & SLIDE PRESENTATION
THURSDAY, OCT. 23RD AT 7:30PM UPSTAIRS AT THE ROCKRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY ON COLLEGE AVE.
JEFF ROBINSON WILL GIVE AN INFORMATION PRESENTATION ON THE FASCINATING BIRDS OF ASIA.
SAVE THE DATE & BRING A FRIEND. REFRESHMENTS WIL BE SERVED.

HAPPY AUTUMN BIRDING!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

Hello OBC Members,

September is here & all those wonderful fall migrants are returning to the Bay Area. Join us at Bolinas Lagoon on Sunday, Sept 21st at 8:30AM. Lisa Hug, one of our most informative leaders, will help us identify the new arrivals at this great birding spot.
Directions:
For carpooling meet at the old Montclair Fire Station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair park at 7:15AM. Or meet at Bolinas Lagoon at 8:30AM.

Take 80 to 580 & cross the San Rafael Bridge. Follow signs to Sir Francis Drake Blvd. From Kentfield campus drive west on Sir Francis Drake HWY until it ends at a traffic light in Olema. Turn south (left) on HWY 1 until reaching Olema - Bolinas Rd. As you are driving on this road, the lagoon should be on your left side. Drive about 1 mile until you see a large gravel pullout area. Park in this area.
Please wear shoes that may get slightly wet. No restrooms available.
Stop at Five Brooks Trailhead or Bolinas Community Center for nearest restrooms.

OBC MEETING & SLIDE PRESENTATION

Our next meeting will be on Thursday, Oct. 23rd at 7:30PM at the Rockridge Public Library on College Ave.
Birder, photographer & world traveler, Jeff Robinson will give a slide presentation with some bird calls on the birds of Asia.
So if your travel plans don't include Asia, and you're curious to find out what an indian roller, black rumped flameback & himalayan griffon are, join us for an enjoyable & informative evening.
Bring a friend. Refreshments will be served.

Our website, www.oaklandbirdclub.org is back on-line. We need some new photos to update our photo gallery.

Our book group is meeting tonight to discuss Michael Pollan's "Omnivore's Dilemma". I'll keep you informed of our next selection & book discussion date. With our member, Barbara Armstrong, moving, we would love to have a few new members join our little group!

Enjoy great fall birding,

Dolores Butkus
510-44-0355

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July and August 2008

Hi OBC Members,

CHANGE FOR AUGUST BIRD WALK!

By popular demand we will be going to the Davis area to search for Swainson's Hawks & whatever else may show up. Our leader is Bob Power.

Sunday, Aug. 17th
Carpooling is a must! Meet at 7:30AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park.
Meet at 9:00 AM in Davis, CA at:

Nugget Market
409 Mace Blvd.
Davis, Ca 95616

Directions:
24 east, 680 north, 80 east. Take last Davis exit, Mace Blvd.
Turn left on Chiles, & right on Mace. Turn right into Nugget Market parking lot. Restrooms available.Coffee, snacks available. Bring your own lunch for a stop in Dixon.
OBC has a set of walkie-talkies & Bob will bring some.

Wear layers & bring water, sunscreen, insect repellant.

We plan to be back in Oakland around 5:00PM

Book Group:
We are reading Michael Pollan's " Omnivore's Dilemma"
Meet on Friday, Sept. 5th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland
All are welcome to enjoy refreshments & lively discussion!

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Just a Reminder!

Our annual picnic is this Sunday, July 27th at 11:30AM at the Indian Camp picnic area in Tilden Regional Park. Indian Camp is located on the right just as you enter the parking area to the Tilden Nature Center & Little Farm.

At 9:00AM we will have a bird walk along the Pack Rat Trail to Jewel Lake & back to the Indian Camp picnic area.

OBC will provide picnic supplies, sausages, hamburgers, & rolls.
For potluck: A - M salads N - Z desserts

Join the fun & bring a friend!

RSVP to Dolores at 510-444-0355 or doloresbutkus@sbcglobal.net

August Bird Walk:

Sunday, August 17th at Hayward Shoreline Winton Ave. parking lot.
To take advantage of a favorable tide, we will meet between 11:00AM and 3:00PM. We are fortunate to have Bob Power, birder extraordinnaire, as our leader!

Migrants are beginning to return to the Bay Area!

Dolores Butkus

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Hello OBC Members,

Tomorrow morning there is an EBRPD bird walk at 7:00AM beginning at Tilden Nature Center. The walk will be followed by a slideshow presentation by our member, Jeff Robinson. There will be a reception to celebrate the opening of Jeff's photography exhibition. For carpooling meet at the old Montclair Fire Station on Moraga Rd. at 6:30AM.

OBC ANNUAL PICNIC SUNDAY, JULY 27th

9:00AM bird walk along the Pack Rat Trail to Jewel Lake.
11:30AM annual picnic near parking area in front of the Tilden Nature Center. OBC will provide hamburgers, sausages & rolls & all picnic supplies.
Potluck dishes:
A - M salads
N - Z desserts
Please RSVP to Dolores at 444-0355 or e-mail doloresbutkus@sbcglobal.net

Please join in the fun & bring a friend!

AUGUST BIRD WALK

We are lucky to have Bob Power lead our August walk on Sunday, Aug. 17th. Details to follow. Book Group This month's selection is "This Incomparable Lande" by Thomas Lyons. We will meet on Friday, July 25th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle in Oakland. This is a good excuse to get in some summer reading! Please join us for an enjoyable of discussion & dessert. Dolores Butkus 510-444-0355

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June 2008

Hi OBC Members,

We are fortunate to have Alan Kaplan, retired EBRPD naturalist, lead our June bird walk to Inspiration Point in Tilden Park at 8:30AM next Sunday, June 8th. Meet at the parking lot.

Directions:
From Oakland take HWY 13 to HWY 24 through the tunnel & immediately exit right onto Fish Ranch Rd. At the top turn right onto Grizzly Peak & follow this to the South Park Dr. entrance to Tilden. At the Botanic Garden turn right on Wildcat Canyon Rd. & continue to the Inspiration Parking lot on your left.
From Berkeley: Take Grizzly Peak Blvd. to the Shasta Rd. entrance to Tilden. Follow Shasta & turn right onto Wildcat Rd. & follow it to Inspiration Point.
For carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. at 8:00AM.

PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW

Friend & photographer par excellance Jeff Robinson is having a show of his work at the Tilden Nature Center from July 1 - August 31.
Sales from the show will benefit the Regional Park Foundation.
On Tuesday, July 1st, there will be a bird walk at 7:00AM followed by a reception, refreshments, and a brief slide show.
On Saturday, Aug. 2nd at 2:00PM there will be a reception, refreshments, and a different slide show.
LET'S GET A GROUP TOGETHER FOR EITHER EVENT!

CENSUS WALKERS NEEDED

I have been participating in the year long Golden Gate Audubon bird census of the North Richmond Shoreline. I am leading 3 walks in June & need some additional team members. A scope would be especially helpful.
The dates are:
Saturday, June 7th at 10:30AM at the Landfill Loop
Thursday, June 19th at 3:30PM at the Landfill Loop
Saturday, June 28th at 9:30AM at the mouth of Wildcat Creek.

The census lasts for 2 hours. I will provide directions & any other info.

BOOK GROUP

This month we are reading "Bird Song" by Don Stap. Join us on Friday, June 20th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland for a lively discussion of this informative book accompanied by wine & dessert.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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May 2008

Hi OBC Members,

MAY BIRD WALK: On Sunday, May 18th at 8:30AM, Lisa Hug will lead us on a walk around Mt. Burdell in Marin. This is a great place to observe spring birds! For carpooling meet at 7:30AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd
Directions:
Meet at Mt. Burdell. Take 101 north through Novato to the San Marin Drive/Atherton Ave. exit. At the end of the exit ramp turn left (west) on San Marin Drive. Go roughly 2 miles down the road & turn right on San Andreas Drive. Drive nearly to the end of the road & park on the street.
No restrooms available - check in Novato.

MIGRATORY BIRD DAY IS THIS SATURDAY, MAY 10th.
Golden Gate Audubon is having 2 events; one at Pt. Pinole & the other at the Presidio.
Check www.goldengateaudubon.org for details.

Our book group is reading "Birdsong" by Don Stap for our next meeting on Friday, June 20th at 7:00PM. Join us at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland for an enjoyable evening of discussion & comraderie. Planning ahead - we will be reading "This Incomparable Lande" by Thomas Lyon for July.

I hope you are enjoying a beautiful spring & the birds that accompany the season,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

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April 2008

Hello Again,

The weather report has improved, so we will have our monthly bird walk this Sunday, April 6th. We will meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. at 8:00AM for carpooling to Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont.

Directions:
Take I-880 south to RT. 84/Dumbarton Bridge exit. Turn right & continue west. Exit on Paseo Padre Pkwy. Turn right & continue north 1 mile, left on Patterson Ranch Rd. to Coyote Hills. Parking fee. Wear layers & bring water & a snack.

I am sorry that there has been short notice for some of our bird walks. To try to make up for that, here are some future dates:

Sunday, May 18th - Mt. Burdell in Marin County with Lisa Hug
Sunday, June 8th - Inspiration Point area in Tilden Park with Alan Kaplan.

Hope to see you soon,

Dolores Butkus

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Hello OBC Members,

Our April bird walk will be on Sunday, April 6th to Coyote Hills led by Kathy Jarrett. We will visit the CA native plant garden & then drive back to the Quarry Trail and walk out to the Bay.
There is an entrance fee so try to carpool. Meet at the old fire station next to Montclair Park on Moraga Rd. at 8:00AM or meet at the Coyote Hills visitor's center at 9:00.
There is a long range weather forecast for rain next weekend. If needed we will reschedule the trip for Sunday, April 20th.

FUTURE EVENTS:

Our book group is reading "Present at the Future" by Ira Flatow. Please join us on Friday, May 2nd at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. Lively discussion, excellent wine & delicious desserts - what more can you ask for?

Future OBC walks will be to Mt. Burdell in May led by LISA HUG, and on June8th, ALAN KAPLAN will lead our walk at Inspiration Point in Tilden Park.

EARTH DAY: GOLDEN GATE AUDUBON WILL BE CELEBRATING ON SATURDAY, APRIL 19TH WITH A WORKDAY AT PIER 94 ON SAN FRANCISCO'S SOUTHERN WATERFRONT.
OR CHECK YOUR LOCAL PAPER FOR EVENTS IN OAKLAND & BERKELEY.

INTERNATIONAL MIGRATORY BIRD DAY WILL BE CELEBRATED ON
MAY 10TH.

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March 2008

Hello OBC Members,

This is a busy week for our club. I hope to see you tonight at 7:30PM at the Rockridge Public Library for our meeting featuring speaker, Bill Bousman, who will give an informative presentation on his book, "The Breeding Bird Atlas of Santa Clara County".

Saturday is our bird walk to Rodeo Lagoon with Lisa Hug. Meet at 7:30AM at the old Montclair fire station for carpooling. Meet Lisa at Rodeo Lagoon at 8:30AM.
Directions: Take the Richmond - San Rafael bridge west & follow the signs to HWY 101 south. From HWY 101 south take the last exit before the Golden Gate Bridge. Follow Conzalman Rd. west until reaching McCullough Rd. Turn right on McCullough Rd. At the bottom of the hill, turn left at the T junction on Bunker Rd. Follow this road until it ends. This will take you to the Rodeo Lagoon parking lot. Meet Lisa near the footbridge.

Join our book group this Friday night, March 21st at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland for a friendly discussion of Scott Weidensaul's book, "Of a Feather: A Brief History of Birding".

I hope to see you at these events,

Dolores Butkus

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Hello OBC Members,

Our March walk will be to Rodeo Lagoon led by Lisa Hug on Saturday, March 22nd at 8:30AM. Meet Lisa at the bridge over the Lagoon.
For carpooling meet at 7:30AM at the old fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park. Driving directions to follow.

OBC SPEAKER AND MEETING
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19TH AT 7:30PM

UPSTAIRS AT THE ROCKRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY ON COLLEGE AVE.
BILL BOUSMAN WILL GIVE A PRESENTATION ON HIS COMPREHENSIVE BOOK "BREEDING BIRD ATLAS OF SANTA CLARA
COUNTY".
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED.
Chris Merlo had done some excellent publicity, but we need your help. Please attend & bring a friend. Also help with publicity by copying Chris' flyer that she previously sent to you; post it in local places.

BOOK GROUP
Our next selection is " Of a Feather: A Brief History of Birding" by Scott Weidensaul.
Join us on Friday, March 21st at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland.

Good Birding,

Dolores Butkus

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Hello OBC Members,

Because the weather forecast is so bad for this wekend, I'm changing the Grizzly Island bird trip to Sunday, March 2nd, 8:00AM Several members said that they couldn't make this weekend trip, so I hope the new
date is convenient for you.

For carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Road at 8:00AM. Wear layers & bring water & a bag lunch. Heavy rain cancels.
DIRECTIONS: Take I80 east to Fairfield. Take the HWY 12 exit and grive east on HWY 12 to the stoplight at Grizzly Island Road. Turn right and drive 9.5 miles to the DFG check-in station. $2.50 day-use fee. We will take the wildlife driving tour.

MARCH SPEAKER AND MEETING:
Thanks to the efforts of Bob Power we will have the opportunity to hear Bill Bousman give a presentation on his book, "The Breeding Bird Atlas of Santa Clara County, California". This is a comprehensive review of the birds of central California, and is a valuable resource for birders.
Please join us and invite a friend; Wednesday, March 19th at 7:30PM at the Rockridge Public Library on College Ave.
A short meeting will be held and refreshments will be served.

Our book group is reading "Of a Feather - A Brief History of American Birding" by Scott Weidensaul. It's a delightful informative book so join us on Friday, March 14th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland for a lively discussion and delicious refreshments.

Would anyone like to join me & form an OBC team to compete in the Alameda County Big Year Count? I need all the help I can get! It's a fun way to enjoy birding and the beauty of the Bay Area. And who knows - we might be able to show up all those hot shot birders who daily race throughout Alameda County looking for those elusive Mountain Blue Birds!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

January 2008

Hi OBC Members,

Most members can make the trip to Cosumnes on Saturday, Jan 19th. We will plan to meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. at noon. We will then carpool to the Cosumnes River preserve Visitor Center.
We will take the river walk & head out to Woodbridge Rd. or Staten Island to see the crane fly-in at sunset.
Dress in layers & bring snacks. Heavy rain cancels.
I'm sorry that some of you can't make this date. We could have a smaller group drive up on Sat., Jan. 26th if there is interest. Let me know.

Book group will meet on Friday, Jan. 25th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle to discuss Ken Alder's book, "The Measure of All Things".

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

Hi OBC Members,

The New Year is upon us, and we look forward to a rewarding year of birding. I would like your input before setting the date for our January trip to Woodbridge Road & Cosumnes Preserve to view especially the sandhill crane fly-in at dusk.
Would you prefer Saturday, Jan. 19th or Sunday, Jan 20th? Or since this is the MLK weekend, would the following wekend, Jan 26th or 27th work better for you? Please respond ASAP.

Our book group is reading "The Measure of All Things" by Ken Alder. Please join us on Friday, Jan. 25th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland.

Two "Big Year" events we could join individually or as a group are:

1. Golden Gate National Recreation Area's contest to locate the 33 endangered species within its boundaries.
Kick-off party Sunday, Jan. 6th at the San Francisco Zoo.
www.ggnrabigyear.org

2. Alameda County Big Year Count organized by Bob Power.
How many species can we locate in 2008 in Alameda County? rcpower@sbcglobal.net

12th ANNUAL SAN FRANCISCO FLYWAY FESTIVAL
FEBRUARY 1-3, 2008, Mare Island, Vallejo, CA
www.sfbayflywayfestival.com

I look forward to a great year of birding with good friends,
Dolores Butkus 510-444-0355

---

Hi OBC Members,

The New Year is upon us, and we look forward to a rewarding year of birding. I would like your input before setting the date for our January trip to Woodbridge Road & Cosumnes Preserve to view especially the sandhill crane fly-in at dusk.
Would you prefer Saturday, Jan. 19th or Sunday, Jan 20th? Or since this is the MLK weekend, would the following wekend, Jan 26th or 27th work better for you? Please respond ASAP.

Our book group is reading "The Measure of All Things" by Ken Alder. Please join us on Friday, Jan. 25th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland.

Two "Big Year" events we could join individually or as a group are:

1. Golden Gate National Recreation Area's contest to locate the 33 endangered species within its boundaries.
Kick-off party Sunday, Jan. 6th at the San Francisco Zoo.
www.ggnrabigyear.org

2. Alameda County Big Year Count organized by Bob Power.
How many species can we locate in 2008 in Alameda County? rcpower@sbcglobal.net

12th ANNUAL SAN FRANCISCO FLYWAY FESTIVAL
FEBRUARY 1-3, 2008, Mare Island, Vallejo, CA
www.sfbayflywayfestival.com

I look forward to a great year of birding with good friends,
Dolores Butkus 510-444-0355

November 2007

Hi OBC Members,

Our trip to Bodega Bay is on for tomorrow Sunday 17. Rain cancels.
Meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. for carpooling at 7:30AM. We will meet our leader, Lisa Hug, at 9:00AM.
Plan on a warm bowl of clam chowder after our walk. We should be home by mid-afternoon.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

----

Hello OBC Members,

Our November bird walk will be at Rodeo Lagoon at the Marin Headlands on Sunday, Nov. 18th at 8:30 AM. Lisa Hug willl again be our leader. Lucky us! Directions will follow.
For carpooling please meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. at 7:45AM.

Our book group has chosen Carl Safina's "Voyage of the Turtle: In Pursuit of the World's Last Dinosaur" for our November selection. We will meet on Friday, Nov.30th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. From Lakeshore turn right on Trestle Glen, left on Sunnyhills & right on Hillcroft.

On December 16th the annual Christmas Bird Count will be held in the East Bay. Contact www.goldengateaudubon.org for details.

Would any of you like to get together in early December for a leaderless walk with some of your OBC friends. Contact me with available dates if you are interested.

Our presentation on bird anatomy by Allan Ridley & Helen McKenna was outstanding. If you have ideas for other speakers, let me know.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

-----

October 2007

On Oct 23rd, Tuesday afternoon, Golden Gate Raptor Observatory volunteer banders trapped, banded, and released a juvenile Eurasian Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) in the late afternoon in the Marin Headlands. This may be the first documented
appearance of this species in California, although a Eurasian Kestrel
was banded in the Skagit Flats, Wash., in autumn 1999.

Photos of the bird are viewable on the website of GGRO volunteer Michael Armer, who trapped and banded the bird:
http://aworldofbirds.com/thumbnails.php?album=103
Although none of us knows if the bird is still in the area (has not been seen again since 5pm 10/24), we at the GGRO request that kestrel-watchers stay on paved roads and atop Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands, to minimize potential disturbance to our banding and monitoring operations. Hawk Hill affords the best view of the Headlands skies.
This Eurasian Kestrel looks nearly like a female American Kes, though is smudgy in the face markings, and shows only one moustache mark. The size is about halfway between an American Kestrel and a White-tailed Kite. Weighing in at about 208 grams, this bird was twice the weight of an average male American Kestrel.

Good birds --

Allen Fish
GGRO Director
Golden Gate Raptor Observatory
Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
Bldg 1064 Ft Cronkhite
Sausalito, CA 94965
afish@parksconservancy.org
www.ggro.org
415-331-0730
GGRO,inspiring the preservation of California's raptors

------

Hi OBC Members,

The fall migration is in full swing & more shorebirds & ducks will be arriving soon.
Our October bird walk wil be to Rush Creek in Marin County, and Lisa Hug will again share her expertise with us.
Sunday, Oct. 21st at 8:30AM.
For carpooling meet at the old fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park ready to leave by 7:45AM.
Directions. Cross the Richmond -San Rafael Bridge & take HWY 101 north to Novato. Exit at the last Novato exit, Atherton. Follow the signs to the airport. When you get on the frontage road on the east side of the highway, you will see a Marin County open space area
on your right. Park nearby.

GENERAL MEETING AND SPEAKER!

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25th, at 7:30PM at the Rockridge Public Library on College Ave., Allan Ridley & Helen McKenna will present "The Anatomy of Flight" with both images & artifacts.
They are well known to us for leading the monthly Audubon walk at the San Francisco Botanical Gardens. Open to the public & refreshments will be served. Our membership has decreased, so please make an effort to attend and bring some friends.

BOOK GROUP

This month we are challenging ourselves by reading from Charles Darwin's "Descent of Man" specifically Chapters X111 - XV1 on birds. Meet at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland on Friday, Oct.
19th at 7:00PM. I'm actually understanding & enjoying the readings & so will you! Join us for a relaxing evening & tasty
treats.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

September 2007

Hi OBC Members,

There are still three openings for our Napa River boat trip on Sunday, Sept. 16th from 5:00 - 7:00PM. The cost is only $20/person thanks to your OBC dues! We will potluck wine & hors d'oeuvres.
For carpooling meet at our usual spot at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. If you wish to bird around the Napa area first, we could leave at 3:00PM.
Directions will follow as soon as I receive them from the excursion company. Please RSVP ASAP, and send a check to:

Dolores Butkus
959 Hillcroft Circle
Oakland, CA 94610

Our book group is meeting this Friday, Sept. 7th at 7:00PM at my home. We will be discussing Roger Tory Peterson's "All Things Reconsidered".

Creek to Bay Day needs your help! Sept. 15th from 9:00 - 12:00
Check Golden Gate Audubon for clean-up sites or oaklandpw.com/creeks.

Hope to see you all soon!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

August & September 2007

Hi OBC Members,

There are still 3 spots available for our planned boat trip on the Napa River on Sunday, Sept. 16th from 5:00 - 7:00PM. Cost is $30/person. If you are interested, please let me know as soon as possible.

I hope you are planning to come on our August bird walk this Sunday at 8:30AM at Las Gallinas in Marin.
Meet at the old fire station on Moraga Rd. at 7:30AM for carpooling.

Dolores Burkus
444-0355

---

Hi OBC Members,

I just finalized plans for our next bird walk on Sunday, August 19th.
Our leader will be Lisa Hug and we will meet her at Los Gallinas Sewage Treatment Ponds at 8:30 AM. We will bird until about 11:30AM.
For carpooling meet at 7:30 AM at the old Montclair Fire Station next to Montclair Park on Moraga Road.
Directions: From the East Bay, take 580 west & cross the Richmond San Rafael Bridge. Take 101 north past San Rafael & exit right on Lucas Valley/Smith Ranch Rd. Go east on Smith Ranch Rd. and follow it to the left just before you reach the McInnis Park entrance.
Follow to the end where there is a parking lot.

FOR SEPTEMBER WE ARE PLANNING A BOAT TRIP ON THE NAPA
RIVER ON SUNDAY, SEPT. 16th FROM 5:00 - 7:00PM.
THERE IS ROOM FOR 11 PEOPLE ON THE BOAT & IT WILL BE
FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED.
THE COST IS $40, BUT OBC WILL CHIP IN $10/MEMBER SO
YOUR FINAL FEE WILL BE $30!
PLEASE LET ME KNOW ASAP IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO GO ON THIS EXCURSION. I HAVE TO LET THE TOUR GUIDE KNOW HOW MANY ARE GOING, BECAUSE THE TOURS FILL UP FAR IN ADVANCE.
We can bird before in Napa County Park, share wine & hors d'oeuvres, & enjoy a warm Napa autumn evening which is a great time to look for shorebirds!

Our book group has chosen " All Things Reconsidered" by Roger Tory Peterson. We will meet to discuss this lively book on Friday, Sept. 7th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. We're always looking for new faces to join us!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

July 2007

Hello OBC Members,

A reminder that our annual picnic & bird walk is Sunday, July 22nd at 9:00AM at the Presidio Visitor's Center in San Francisco.
Our leader will be Barbara Corff a docent at the Presidio.
I will be away for a week starting Monday, so if you still need to RSVP please e-mail Ina Lockwood at iloakland@sbcglobal.net after Sunday.
For carpoolling meet at the old Montclair fire station at 8:00AM.
A - L salads, M - Z desserts. We will supply all the other picnic necessities.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

---

Hello OBC Members,

Our annual picnic & bird walk will be on Sunday, July 22nd at the Presidio in San Francisco. We will explore various habitats & have our picnic at the El Polin Spring area. For carpooling meet at 8:00AM at our usual spot on Moraga Rd. next to the old fire station
& Montclair Park.
We will first gather in the Presidio parking lot near the Visitor's Center off of Presidio Drive at 9:00AM.
If your last name begins with A - K bring a salad; L - Z bring a dessert. OBC will provide sausages, hamburgers, veggie burgers
& buns. We will also have drinks and all picnic supplies on hand.
Please RSVP to me before July 15th so we know how much
food to buy.
Bring a friend, or someone who might be interested in
joining our group!

Our book group will meet on Friday August 3rd at 7:00PM. We are reading "Songbird Journeys" by Miyoko Chui. All are welcome to join us for an enjoyable evening at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland.

Hope to see you all soon,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

---

June 2007

Hi OBC Members,

Thanks to many of you who reminded me about the date error that I made in the last e-mail.
Our June walk is this Saturday, June 16th at 8:00AM at the Bear Creek entrance to Briones Park.
If you wish to carpool, meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park by
7:30AM.
Directions:
Take HWY 24 through the Caldecott Tunnel & take the Orinda exit. Turn left & continue on San Pablo Dam Rd. until you come to Bear Creek Rd. where you will turn right.
Drive a ways to the entrance to Briones Park on your right. Fee $5
Bring water & sun screen.

Dolores Butkus
444-0355

Hi OBC Members,

Our June walk will be to Briones Regional Park on
Saturday, June 18th at 8:00AM. We should finish by
11:00AM.
Try to carpool as there is a parking fee. Meet at the
old Montclair fire station next to Montclair Park on
Moraga Rd. at 7:30AM.
Be warned that Brenda Bailey's car was broken into the
last time we used this spot for carpooling.
Dress in layers & bring water.

This month our book group will meet on Friday, June
29th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. This
month's selection is "Pigeons - The Fascinating Saga
of the World's Most Revered & Reviled Bird" by Andrew
Blechman. Summer is a good time to catch up on some
reading! Please join us. Refreshments are always
served.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

---

May 2007

Hello OBC Members,

Our May outing is to Mines Road on Sunday, May 20th.
Directions: Meet at 8:00AM at Murietta Wells Winery. Take 580 east past Livermore to Vasco Road; exit right. Follow Vasco to Tesla Road and turn right. Turn left on Mines Road at the stop light. We will meet our leader, Leslie Flint, at the small parking area alongside Mines Road. Carpooling is a must!
Meet at 7:15AM at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park.

Have a full tank of gas, water, snacks & a bag lunch since facilities are scarce. There are only 2 reliable restroom facilities, one at the lunch time stop and another at mid-afternoon at a county park.
Weather is unpredictable from cold & windy to hot hot hot & dry.
Heavy rain cancels. Plan to spend the entire day. We should be back at the winery by 5:00PM.
If you can't spend the whole day, I'm sure there will be one car that can take people who need to leave earlier.

Book Group:
This month we are reading "Life Itself" by Francis Crick. We plan to meet on Friday, May 25th at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. We are always looking for new members. It's an enjoyable evening & we always have fine wines & other treats to share.

We have tentatively reserved the Rockridge Library for a club meeting on Thursday evening May 24th at 7:30PM. BUT - do you have any ideas for a speaker? All suggestions are welcome.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

---------

April 2007

Hello OBC Members,

I'm sorry to be late with this notice, but our leader
was on a hiking trip in Mexico for two weeks, and I
was unable to confirm our trip with him.
I hope you have saved this Sunday, April 15th for our
bird walk at Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge.
The refuge is rarely open to the public, but thanks to
Kathy Jarrett, we will be able to tour the area with
John Bradley.
Fro carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station
on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park at 8:00AM this
Sunday. Our walk will begin at 9:00AM in Antioch.
Directions:
Take HWY 24 through the Caldecott Tunnel to HWY 680
north. Exit right to HWY4 east & exit at A Street/
Lone Tree Way. Turn north onto A St. Turn right (east)
onto Wilbur Ave. Turn left (north) onto Fulton
Shipyard Rd. Cross over the railroad tracks & turn
righ t into the second gravel driveway. The refuge is
on the right.
Wear layers & bring water & a bag lunch. John says
that there is a nice picnic spot along the river.
Anyone wanting to bring cookies or brownies to share
will not be discouraged!

EARTH DAY SATURDAY, APRIL 21st:

Check www.goldengateaudubon. org for their activities.
Friends of Sausal Creek are having volunteer work
parties at both Dimond Park & their Joaquin Miller
native Plant Nursery starting at 9:00AM.

Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour (free) Sunday
May 6, 2007, 10AM - 5PM. Register at
www.BringingBackTheNatives.net

Our book group will meet on Friday, April 27th at
7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. We will be
discussing "The Folklore of Birds" by Laura Martin.
All are welcome to join us!

Happy spring!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

------------

March 2007

Hello OBC Members,

Please let me know if you plan to attend the Elk Horn Slough, Big Sur trip on March 16th, 17th & 18th. So far 8 of us are going.
Schedule: Friday birding in Santa Cruz & Red Roof Inn Motel in Watsonville. Saturday: birding at Moss Landing & boat trip at Elk Horn Slough & camping or motel in Big Sur. Sunday birding at Andrew Molera State Park & search for condors.
If you are planning on the boat trip, I need to confirm reservations by tomorrow, Sat., March 10th.

Dolores Butkus
444-0355

-----

Hello OBC Members,

Our March outing will be to Elkhorn Slough & Big Sur in hopes of seeing many shorebirds & CA Condors.
Date: Sat. & Sunday, March 17 & 18th

We are offering different options to meet your desires:
Leave Friday morning for birding along the coast, staying Fri. night at the Red Roof Inn, Watsonville.
1-800-733-7663, $50/night

Or carpool from the Bay Area Saturday morning & meet at Elkhorn Slough Visitor's Center at 9:00AM.

Saturday night camping at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park at campsite # 35 or Big Sur Campground & Cabins - 2 cabins still available. One for 4 people at $75 each or one for 6 people at $45/person.
831-667-2322 reservations or bigsurcamp.com
Also Riverside Campground & Cabins - 831-667-2414 or www.riversidecampground.com
For more information on the Big Sur Area check:
www.bigsurcalifornia.org

We'll work out more details in the next few weeks as soon as we know who is attending.

Our book group is meeting on Friday, March 30th at 7:00PM at
959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland.
We will be discussing "Migrating Raptors of the World" by Keith
L. Bildstein. All are welcome for an enjoyable evening of lively discussion & delicious treats.

I'd like to thank Ina Lockwood for all her help in gathering information for our March bird walk.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

February 2007

Hi OBC Members,

Jerry Connell sent along this reminder - not to be missed: PBS program "Nature" this Sunday, Feb. 18th at 8:00PM is featuring the premiere of "Raptor Force"

Also our book group is reading "The Panda's Thumb" by Stephen J Gould and will meet on Friday, Feb. 23rd at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. All are welcome.

The weather looks great for our outing tomorrow to Stone Lakes. Our guide, Ann, is anxious to meet our group & promises a great walk.

Dolores Butkus

------

Hello OBC Members,

Our February bird walk will be on Saturday,
Feb. 17th at 9:00AM at Stone Lakes in the Sacramento
Valley.
For carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station
on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park at 7:30AM
Directions: Take HWY 13 to 24 to 680N to 80E.
Or from 580 to 80E. (Bridge toll $4).
From 80E take 5S. Drive passed Elk Grove. Exit right
at Hood-Franklin Rd. Go about 1 mile & look for a
white building surrounded by trees.
Address: 1624 Hood-Franklin Rd.
The naturalist is scheduling a private walk for us so
please make a special effort to join us. She promises
to "go where the birds are".
As many of you know, the Central Valley is a fabulous
winter birding area.
Wear layers & bring water & a bag lunch.

Our book group is reading "The Panda's Thumb" by
Stephen J. Gould, and we will meet on Friday, Feb.
23rd, at 7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland.

Dolores Butkus

January 2007

Hi Birders,

Our January trip is this Sunday at 9:00AM at East
Shore State Park at the base of University Ave. in
Berkeley.
For carpooling meet at the Old Montclair Fire Station
on Moraga Rd. in time to leave at 8:45AM, or meet in
the parking lot of the Sea Breeze Market at 9:00AM.
Our book group is Reading "The Panda's Thumb" by
Stephen Gould. All are welcome to join us at 7:00PM on
Friday, Feb. 23rd for a lively discussion & tasty
treats.

Dolores Butkus
444-0355

------

Happy New Year OBC Members,

Our January bird walk will be to various spots along
Eastshore State Park on Sunday, January 21st. Our
leader will be Pamela Llewellyn.
Meet at Berkeley Meadow at the foot of University Ave.
at 9:00AM. Park in the Seaview Market parking lot &
cross the street to meet at the entrance sign to the
Meadow.
From there we will carpool to Buchanan St. & Albany
Bulb, & then to the Meeker Slough area at the Bayview
St . exit to 51st St. where we will park.
We will return to the Berkeley Meadow area around
noon.

Book Group:

Our latest selection is "The Pleasure of Finding
Things Out" by Richard Feynman.
We will meet on Friday, Jan. 12th at 7:00PM at
959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. From Lakeshore turn
right on Trestle Glen, left on Sunnyhills Rd., & right
on Hillcroft.
Start the New Year off right by resolving to exercise
your mind by joining our great little book group!

Tentative 2007 OBC Schedule:
We will try to schedule walks on the 3rd Sat. or Sun.
of each month, unless our leader's schedule dictates
otherwise.
Feb. - Sacramento Valley
March - weekend trip to Elkhorn Slough & Big Sur
hoping to see CA Condors
April - Antioch Dunes (a very unique opportunity)
May - Mines Road
June - weekend trip to Yuba Pass & Lake Tahoe
July - Presidio in San Francisco
Aug. - OBC Annual Picnic & Bird Walk
Sept. - Napa River or Russian River boat trip

Any suggestions are most welcome.
We hope to see many of you on these great walks!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355
Oct. Don Edwards, SF Bay NWR

NOVEMBER 2006

Hello OBC Members,

A reminder that our November bird walk is this
Saturday at 9:00AM at the Mountain View
Shoreline led by Leslie Flint.

SLIGHT CHANGE IN DIRECTIONS:

From 880S exit at the San Mateo Bridge, Cross bridge &
go south on 101 to San Antonio NORTH.
(You will actually will be going east).
Drive to end of San Antonio to the parking lot. Meet
Leslie near the restrooms in the north end of the
parking area.

For carpooling meet at 8:00AM at the old Montclair
fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park.

Our book group is reading "How Birds Migrate" by
Paul Kerlinger. Join our lively discussion on Friday,
Dec. 7th at 7:00PM at 959 Hilcroft Circle, Oakland.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

---

Hello Oakland Bird Club Members,

November Bird Walk:

Leslie Flint will share her expertise as she leads us
around the Mountain View Shoreline.
Time: Saturday, Nov. 18th, 9:00AM

Directions: From the East Bay take 880 south to the
San Mateo Bridge exit. Cross the San Mateo Bridge & go
south on HWY 101 to San Antonio East. Drive to the end
of San Antonio & meet in the large parking area.

Carpooling: Meet at the old Montclair Fire Station
on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park at 8:00AM.

Book Group:
Time: Friday, Dec. 8th at 7:00PM
Place: 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland
Go east on Lakeshore Ave. Turn right on
Trestle Glen. Turn left on Sunnyhills Rd. & right on
Hillcroft.
Selection: "How Birds Migrate" by Paul Kerlinger
We need & welcome more members to our book group!

There is no scheduled bird walk in December, but you
are encouraged to join the Oakland Christmas Bird
Count, Sunday, Dec. 17th. Check The Gull for details
or e-mail: www.goldengateaudubon.org

December is such a great month for birding! Why not
pick a day & place for a spontaneous bird walk with
some of our OBC members.

Tentative January OBC outing:
Sunday, January 21st at East Shore State Park

Enjoy those Trick-or-Treaters tomorrow!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

OCTOBER 2006

October Birding Trip:

Hayward Shoreline, Saturday, Oct. 21st, 9:00AM
Meet at the Winton Ave. parking lot.
Leaders: Bruce Mast & Pamela Llewellyn
(We are doubly blessed!)
Directions: Take HWY 80 south to Winton Ave exit.
Turn right & head all the way
west towards the Bay. Keep left on West Winton & where
it deadends, turn right into the parking lot.
Carpooling: Meet at the old Montclair fire station on
Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park at 8:15AM.

OCTOBER GENERAL MEETING & SPEAKER!

ALAN KAPLAN will make a presentation on "The History
of Bird Field Guides".
Thursday, Oct. 26th, 7:30 PM
Rockridge Public LIbrary, 5366 College Ave., Upstairs
meeting room.
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED!
How fortunate we are that Alan continues to share his
knowledge of birds & his love of nature with us.
Bring a friend! Open to the public!

November Walk: Mountain View Shoreline, led by Leslie
Flint, Saturday, Nov. 18th.

Hope to see you all at these events,

Dolores Butkus
444-0355

AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2006

Hello OBC Members,

Our next bird walk is scheduled this Saturday, Sept.
9th. If it is fogged out, we'll try again on Sunday,
Sept. 10th. If that doesn't work, the trip is
cancelled. Hawk expert, Robbie Fischer, will meet us
at 11:00AM at Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands.
E-mail or call Ribbie on both days after 9:30AM to see
if the trip is a go.
E-mail: robbie22@ pacbell .net
home: 650-359-2068
cell: 949-235-7173
Directions: From the East Bay cross the Richmond-San
Rafael Bridge & take 101 south. Go through the Waldo
Tunnel & take the GGNRA/Sausalito exit just before the
Golden Gate Bridge. Stay to the left. Turn left at the
stop sign, then right up the hill on to Conzelman Rd.
Go 1.8 miles to parking area for Hawk Hill. Look for
Robbie who will be wearing a green San Diego Bird
Atlas cap.
Wear layers, sunscreen, & a hat. Bring a chair & a
lunch. We will stay until 2:00PM.
Carpooling: Meet at the old Montclair Fire Station
next to Montclair Park on Moraga Rd. at 10:00AM.

October Walk:
Saturday, Oct. 21st. at Hayward Shoreline lead by
Bruce Mast. More info to follow.

Creek to Bay Day is Saturday, Sept. 16th from 9:00 to
Noon. Volunteers are needed at Sausal Creek, Arrowhead
Marsh, & East Shore State Park & many other sites
throughout the Bay Area.
Lend a helping hand!

Book Group:
All are welcome! Join us on Friday, Sept. 15th at
7:00PM at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland. We will be
discussing Scott Weidensaul's new book Return to Wild
America.

Several regulars can't go on the Hawk Hill trip, so
make a special effort to support our leader, & join
your fellow OBC members for an informative bird trip.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

----

Hello OBC Members,

September Bird Walk: (NOTE THE EARLY DATE!)

Saturday, Sept. 9th at 11:00AM meet Robbie Fischer at
Hawk Hill in Marin.
If it is too foggy, we will reschedule for Sunday,
Sept. 10th. If both days are fogged in, we will
cancel.
On both days, if necessary, call or e-mail Robbie to
see if the trip is a go: 650-359-2068 or robbie22@
pacbell.net
Directions: Traffic wise it is probably best to take
880 north to 580 west & cross the Richmond - San
Rafael Bridge. Take 101 south towards SF. Exit right
at the last exit before the GG Bridge. Turn left at
the stop sign, then right into the GGNRA on Conzelman
Rd. Go all the way up the hill & look for Robbie in
the parking area. She'll be wearing a green San Diego
Bird Atlas cap.
Bring water, a lunch & a chair if you like. Wear
layers & sunscreen.
For carpoolling meet at the old Montclair fire station
on Moraga Rd., Oakland at 10:00AM.
It's the height of the hawk migration season!

Hope to see you on our outings,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

--

Hello OBC Members,

A reminder that our August bird walk is this Sunday
at Limantour Beach in Point Reyes led by Lisa Hug.
For carpooling meet at the old Montclair fire station
at 7:45 AM in order to meet Lisa at Limantour at
9:00PM.
Directions: Take 880 north to 580 west; cross the
Richmond - San Rafael Bridge and take Sir Francis
Drake all the way to Olema. Turn right on HWY 1 for 1
block, and then turn left on Bear Valley Rd. Past the
visitor center, turn left on Limantour Rd. and follow
it to the end, & meet Lisa in the parking lot.
Wear layers & bring water and a bag lunch.
It should be a great outing.

-----

Hello OBC Members,

Our August bird walk will be to Limantour Beach in
Point Reyes. We are lucky to have Lisa Hug as our
leader again.

Sunday, August 20th meet at the Limantour Beach
parking lot at 9:00AM.
For carpooling meet at 7:45AM at the old Montclair
fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park.

Bring water, sunscreen, and a lunch.

Book Group:

Our next meeting will be on Friday, Sept. 15th,
at 7:00PM. Our next selection will be "Return to Wild
America" by Scott Weidensaul. It will be interesting
to comapre his experience with that of Roger Tory
Peterson's "Wild America".
As usual we will meet at 959 Hillcroft Circle,
Oakland. From Lakeshore Ave. turn right on Trestle
Glen, left on Sunnyhills Rd., & right on Hillcroft.
All are welcome & refreshmenst wil be served.

Final directions & info about our Limantour trip will
follow.

Dolores Butkus
444-0355

JULY 2006

Hello OBC Members,

A reminder that our picnic is this Sunday the 16th at noon
at Tilden Park.
Indian Camp picnic site on the right as you enter the
parking lot of the Visitor's Center.
A - M - salad
N - Z - dessert

OBC will provide barbecued meats & veggie burgers,
picnic supplies, & lemonade, iced tea &
soft drinks.

Please RSVP if you have not already done so. We need
to know how much food to buy.

I've never known an OBC member who could pass up a
delicious picnic!

Hope to see you Sunday & bring a friend.

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

------

Hello OBC Members,

Since summer is here & most of the birds have departed, we've decided to have a Potluck Picnic for our July activity:

When? Sunday, July 16th, Noon

Where? Tilden Park (exact picnic site to follow)

What? OBC will provide barbecued sausages & chicken, tofu burgers, & picnic supplies. You provide the salads & desserts:
A - M - salads
N - Z - desserts

Please join us to enjoy the friendship of fellow birders, & bring a friend. ( And bring your binoculars just in case we decide to check out our avian friends.)

Book Group:

Every respectable birder should refer to the "Old Master", Roger Tory Peterson, from time to time; so this month we are reading his classic, " Wild America".
Join us for an enjoyable evening of lively discussion & tempting refreshments:

When: Friday, July 28th, 7:00PM

Where: 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland

From Lakeshore Ave. turn right on Trestle Glen, left on Sunnyhills Rd, & right on Hillcroft.

We look forward to seeing all of you,

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

JUNE 2006 BIRD WALK:

A NEW AREA & A NEW LEADER!

Please support and welcome Robbie Fischer who will
lead us through her hawk study area at Lynch Canyon.

Saturday, June 10th, 8:30AM

Directions:
Lynch Canyon is northwest of I80 between American
Canyon Rd. & HWY 12.
From I 80 exit at American Canyon Rd. & go left,
followin highway access road north to Lynch Rd. Go
under highway & meet at the parking area.

Carpooling: Meet at the old Montclair fire station on
Moraga Rd. next to Montcalir Park at 7:30 AM.
Bring water, sunscreen & snack.
Remember to share bridge & gas costs!

Book Group:
Friday, June 16th at 7:00PM, 959 Hillcroft Circle,
Oakland.
We will be discussing "Unearthing the Dragon"
by Mark Norell.
Plan ahead! For July we will be reading " Wild
America" by Roger Tory Peterson followed by "Return to
Wild America" by Scott Weidensaul.

Would you be interested in three day weekend trips to
Morro Bay or Kern River Preserve?
I would like to ask Dave Wimpfheimer if he would be
able to lead one of these trips for us. He is an
outstanding naturalist & birder.
I am thinking of this fall or next spring.
Let me know if you are interested.

Birding & the great outdoors - what a winning
combination!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

APRIL 2006

Hello OBC Members,

April Field Trip:
Saturday, April 22nd, 8:30AM, Sunol Regional Park led
by Bruce Mast
Carpooling; Old Montclair Fire Station, Moraga Rd.
7:45AM
Enjoy a beautiful spring day birding in one of our
most spectacular EBRparks!

Birding & Gourmet Luncheon, Sunday, April 30th
9:30AM bird watching around Mare Island
Carpooling: Old Montclair Fire Station on Moraga Rd.
at 8:45AM
Luncheon prepared by Ruth Walx in her lovely home:
258 W J Street, Benicia
Ruth has planned a feast of barbecued sausage &
chicken, her gourmet mac & cheese, green salad, &
three selections of her famous homemade pies.
Space still available. Suggested donation $5
RSVP to: doloresbutkus@sbcglobal.net or
iloakland@sbcglobal.net

Tomorrow ,Thursday, April 20th, 12:15PM
Main entrance of Oakland Museum for lecture on bird
song & to view the exhibit, Art of Seeing: Nature
Revealed Through Illustrations

April 22nd Earth Day Activities:
Lake Merritt Boat House, 9:00AM
Dimond Park or the Joaquin Miller Nursery, 9:00AM
GGAS: plant native species at Pier 94, Noon
RSVP: jwiniecki@goldengateaudubon.org

Book Group:
Friday, May 5th, 7:00PM, 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland
We are taking a break from books & will be viewing
a DVD. Come join the fun. Beer & popcorn served!

----

Hello OBC Members,

Let's not let all this rain keep us from having a
great month of birding!

April trip: Saturday, April 22nd, 8:30AM, Sunol
Regional Park, led by Bruce Mast.

Meet at the ranger station parking lot inside park
near green barn.
We'll explore the creekside habitat & Litle Yosemite
looking for migrants, sparrows, raptors, & local
breeding birds. Bring lunch & water.
Directions:
Meet at old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. at
7:45AM for carpooling.
Take I 680 south to about 8 miles beyond intersection
of I 580. Exit at Calaveras Rd., go left, south, &
follow signs to park about 5 miles.

MEMBERS ONLY!
BIRD WALK & GOURMET FEAST PREPARED BY RUTH WALZ!
Long-time members will remember the delicious
luncheons prepared for us by Ruth in her lovely home.
Thanks to her friend and our member, Brig Fitzsimmons,
Ruth has generously offered to host the OBC for
another of her spectacular gourmet meals.
SUNDAY, APRIL 30TH, 9:30AM, BIRDING AT MARE ISLAND
FOLLOWED BY LUNCH AROUND NOON
AT RUTH'S HOME 258 WEST J ST., BENICIA.
DONATIONS FOR THE COST OF FOOD WELCOME!
Number of guests limited, so RSVP early to Dolores @
444-0355 or doloresbutkus@sbcglobal.net
Meet at 8:45 at old Montclair fire station on Moraga
Rd. for carpooling.
More details about birding at Mare Island to follow.

Book Group meets this Friday, April, 7th at 959
Hillcroft Circle to discuss "Map that Changed the
World" by Simon Winchester.

Visit the Oakland Museum for a lecture on bird song &
to view the exhibit "Art of Seeing: Nature Revealed
Through Illustrations".
Thursday, April 20th - meet at the front entrance of
the museun at 12:15PM

EARTH DAY, SATURDAY, APRIL 22ND, 9:00 - NOON
Many volunteer opportunities are available:
ESSP sponsored by GGAS
Friends of Sausal Creek: Dimond Park or their Joaquin
Miller Native Plant Nursery

PLAN AHEAD:

SATURDAY, MAY 20TH, 8:00AM LED BY BOB POWER:
GARIN PARK/ PIONEER DRY CREEK PIONEER REGIONAL PARK:
meet at the entrance to the park at the end of Garin
Ave. in Hayward.

SATURDAY, JUNE 10TH LED BY ROBBIE FISCHER

WE HOPE TO SEE MANY OF YOU AT THESE GREAT BIRDING
EVENTS.

DOLORES BUTKUS

MARCH 2006

Hello OBC Members,

March Bird Walk:

This Sunday, March 26th, 8:30AM, Chain of Lakes,
Golden Gate Park
Leader: Joe Morlan, Bay Area birding expert

Carpooling: 7:30 AM, Old Montclair Fire Station,
Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park

Weather: Scattered showers - wear rain gear & go for
it!

Directions: Cross SF Bay Bridge, take 101 North,
Golden Gate Bridge Exit; keep to the left and exit
left on Fell St. Continue to Stanyan, Kezar, & Lincoln
Ave. Turn right into Golden Gate Park at 41st Ave.
Cross MLK Dr. & look for south lake on the left &
parking on the right.

I know of 5 regulars who can't make the outing, so I
hope to see some of you who haven't been able to join
us recently. We have an outstanding list of leaders
this year, so let's support them!

Book Group:
Meeting: Friday, April 7th, 7:00PM, 959 Hillcroft
Circle, Oakland
Our current selection is The Map that Changed the
World by Simon Winchester.

Would a group like to get together to see the exhibit
at the Oakland Museum? Contact me: 444-0355 or Kathy
Jarrett: 547-1233

Earth Day 2006! April 22nd. GGAS is having a clean-up
at ESSP & FOSC is having work parties in Dimond Canyon
& their Joaquin Miller nursery.

Dolores Butkus

We hope you can join our March birding events!

Tomorrow Night! General Meeting!

Corinne Greenberg will present a talk and slide show:
Ecological Gardening: Native Plants = Wildlife
Magnets.

7:30 PM Upstaris Meeting Room
Rockridge Public Library
5366 College Ave.

Refreshments will be served & a short business meeting
will be held after the presentation.

Follow-up to Native Plant talk:

Saturday, March 4th, 8:45 - 9:45 AM
Tilden Botanical Garden, South Park Drive & Wildcat
Canyon Rd. Parking lot on the right.

Directions from Oakland: Take HWY 24 through the
Caldecot Tunnel & immediately after exit to the right
on Fish Ranch Rd. Cross back over tunnel & drive
uphill to Grizzly Peak Blvd. Turn Right on Grizzly &
follow all the way to Shasta Rd. (South Park Dr. is
closed to protect migrating newts!)
Turn right on Shasta to Wildcat Canyon Rd. & keep to
your right. Garden on your left, parking on your
right.

Monthly Walk: Sunday, March 26th, 8:30-11:30AM
DON'T MISS THIS!

Bay Area birding expert,Joe Morlan, will lead our walk
around Chain of Lakes in Golden Gate Park.
Directions:
Cross Bay Bridge to San Francisco. Go past 9th St. &
keep to the right to Fell St. exit. (New exit
replacing the old Central Freeway). Turn left on Fell
all the way to Stanyan. Turn left on Stanyan, right on
Kezar & right on Lincoln Way. Continue to 41st Ave.
Turn right into Golden Gate Park on Chain of Lakes Dr.
Cross MLK Drive to South Lake on the left & parking
lot on the right.

Book Group will meet on Friday, March 31st at 7:00PM
at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland,
From Lakeshore turn right on Trestle Glen, left on
Sunnyhills Rd. & right on Hillcroft.
Our selection this month is " The Map That Changed the
World" by one of our favorite authors, Simon
Winchester.
I just felt an earthquake, so geology is always a
relevant topic in California!

Dolores Butkus
444-0355

--------------------

The Oakland Bird Club (OBC) is pleased to invite the public to attend an open meeting on March 2nd to meet Corinne Greenberg as she shares her expertise on Ecological Gardening: Native Plants = Wildlife Magnets.  She is an instructor in this subject area at Albany Adult School, in a class sponsored by the Golden Gate Audubon Society. 
 
Other club business will be addressed after the speaker.  Nonmembers are welcome.  No reservations are required.  Refreshments and socializing after the speaker.  Open to the Public.  FREE.
 
Oakland Public Library, Rockridge Branch, Upstairs Meeting Room, 5366 College Ave., Cross Street = Manila, 7:30pm
510-444-0355 or 510-654-4830 for questions.
Please extend an invitation to any interested members to join the Oakland Bird Club for a walk in the Botanic Garden in Tilden Park, Berkeley, on Saturday March 4th.  This walk will be led by our speaker, from the March 2nd public meeting, on Ecological Gardening, Corinne Greenberg.  She is an instructor at Albany Adult School, of a class sponsored by the Golden Gate Audubon Society.
 
The walk will be one hour in duration, from 8:45a.m. - 9:45a.m.  The Botanic Garden is located near the intersection of South Park Drive and Wildcat Canyon Road in Tilden Park, Berkeley.  FREE.
 
510-444-0355 or 510-654-4830 for questions.

Sincerely,
Chris Merlo, Publicity Chair for OBC

FEBRUARY 2006

Bonus Bird Walk:
Valle Vista with birding expert DENISE WIGHT!
Saturday, Feb. 4th 8:00AM - Noon
Directions: HWY 24 east to Orinda exit. Right on
Moraga Way until it ends at Moraga Rd./
Canyon Rd. in Moraga. Right on
Canyon Rd. Valle vista staging area is approx.
1 mile on your left.
Carpooling: Meet at the old
Montclair Fire Station on Moraga Rd. (Oakland) to
leave by 7:40AM
If you haven't birded with Denise, she is wonderful
and amazing at identifying bird calls.

Saturday, Feb. 25th at Shollenberger Marsh led by our
own Kathy Jarrett!
Directions: Cross Richmond San Rafael Bridge & take
101 north. In Petaluma, go east on
on Lakeville HWY (116 East)
one mile to South McDowell Blvd. Turn right
(south) and go about .25mi. to
park entrance on the right opposite Cader Lane.
Turn right to get to the paved
parking lot.

Another outsanding opportunity!
Birding with Joe Morlan!
Save the Date! Sunday, March26th
A morning bird walk at Chain of Lakes in Golden Gate Park
Further info in March OBC update.

Book Group meets at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland, on
Friday, Feb. 24th at 7:00PM to discuss the
1906 SF Earthquake & Fire. Fun, games and refreshments
included.

JANUARY 2006

Sunday, Jan. 22nd: Woodbridge Rd. & Cosumnes
NWP - meet at old Montclair Fire
Station at 8:00AM to carpool. Lunch
at Cosumnes visitor center.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2005

Hello OBC Members,

The migrants are back! I hope you are enjoying some great autumn birding.

November Bird Walk:
Las Gallinas Sewage Ponds
Leader: Pamela LLewellyn
Sunday, Nov. 20th, 8:30 AM
For carpooling meet at the old fire station next to
Montclair Park on Moraga Rd. at 7:30 AM.
Directions:
Take 580 west & cross the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge.
Take 101 north & exit at Lucas Valley Drive.
Go east on Smith Ranch Rd. to the end. Take a sharp
left to the sewage treatment ponds, just before the
county park. Drive past the headquarters to the
parking lot on your left.
Heavy rain throughout the Bay Area cancels. Scattered
showers - we'll give it a go.
_____________________________________
Book Group is always looking for others to join us.
Dec. 2nd, Friday, 7:00PM
We're reading "Feather Quest" by Pete Dunne
Meet at 959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland
______________________________________
No scheduled walk in December, but call other OBC
members if you would like to get a group together for
a bird walk.
I encourage you to join the GGAS Christmas Bird Count
on Sunday, Dec. 18th. To sign up call GGAS at
510-843-2222 or Bob Lewis at 510-845-5001.
______________________________________
I'm still hoping for some more input as we plan our
OBC 2006 schedule. All ideas are welcome!

Dolores Butkus
510-444-0355

OCTOBER 2005

OBC GENERAL MEETING: Thursday, Oct. 6th, 7:30PM
Special Guest Speakers: Hans & Pam Peeters
will discuss their new book "Raptors of California".
This book is a fabulous new reference by this talented
husband - wife, author - illustrator team.
Please support our efforts to bring you relevant &
interesting speakers & bring a friend!
Upstairs meeting room, Rockridge Public Library
5366 College Ave.
We will also be planning our 2006 bird walks.
Refreshments will be served.
_______________________________________
OCTOBER BIRD WALK:
Palo Alto Baylands
Sunday, Oct. 16th, 9:00AM
Leader: Leslie Flint
Meet at the parking lot nearest the visitor's center.
Bring a bag lunch.
To carpool meet at the old Montclair fire station next
to Montclair Park on Moraga Ave, at 8:00AM.
Directions:
Go south on 880. Cross the San Mateo Bridge. Go south
on Hwy 101 to Embarcadero Road East.
Follow to the end. Take a left and follow to the
Baylands parking area on the right just south of the
visitor's center.
_______________________________________
BOOK GROUP:
"On the Wing" by Alan Tennant
Please join us:
Friday, Oct. 21st, 7:00PM
959 Hillcroft Circle, Oakland
From Lakeshore Ave, turn right on Trestle Glen. Take
first left onto Sunnyhills Rd. Right on Hillcroft.

Dolores Butkus
444-0355

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2005

Yes, there is an August bird walk!
I'm sorry for the delay, but I had difficulty finding a leader. And it turns out that all I had to do was ask our OBC member, Bruce Mast.

Abbott's Lagoon, Point Reyes, Sunday, Aug. 21st at 9:00AM.
Fall migration has started and there is a possibility of seeing a few rarities. To carpool meet at the old Montclair fire station on Moraga Rd. next to Montclair Park at 7:15AM to leave by 7:30.
Directions:
Take 880 north, 580 west and cross the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. Take 101 north and exit on Fourth St. Downtown San Rafael. Fourth St. turns into Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Follow it all the way until it deadends in Olema. Turn right on HWY 1 and then left on Sir Francis Drake Blvd. (again), and through the town of Inverness. At the "Y" keep right up the hill past Tomales Bay State Park onto Pierce Point Rd. After a few miles you will see the parking lot on the left for Abbott's Lagoon. Wear layers, bring water & let's find a place to stop for a bag lunch. The walk is scheduled for the morning, but we may want to do a little more birding after lunch.

Book Group is reading What Evolution Is by Ernst Mayr - a relevant topic given all the discussion about creative design & evolution.
We wil meet on THURSDAY, SEPT. 15th AT 7:00PM AT 959 HILLCROFT CIRCLE, OAKLAND.
Please join us! It's an informative and pleasant way to spend an evening.

Saturday, Sept. 24th we have been invited to join
our member, Kathy Jarrett, as she leads a GGAS bicycle tour around Bodega Bay. We OBC laggards can follow the Lance Armstrong types in our cars.
Meet at Doran Pond just before Doran County Park toll booth at 8:00AM.
Directions:
From HWY 101N, take the E. Washington ST. exit toward central Petaluma, go 0.2 mi. Turn left on Washington St, go 1.5 mi. Continue on Bodega Ave., go 8.0 mi. Continue on Valley Ford Rd., go 10.5 mi. Continue on Valley Ford Cutoff (CA HWY 1), go 2.9 mi. Continue to follow CA 1, go 3.4 mi. Turn left on Doran Park Rd., go 0.1 mi. Bear left on Doran Beach Rd.
Eight of us will be staying in Bodega Saturday night,
and then go on Debi Shearwater's Pelagic trip early Sunday morning. We hope to see many of you as we gear up for fall birding.

Dolores Butkus
444-0355

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