680a The Last Cowboys; Perfect Day California; American Bald Eagle

The American bald eagle, once on the brink of extinction twice in the 20th century, has made a miraculous recovery—now numbering around 500,000 across North America, matching pre-colonial population levels. Historian Jack E. Davis reveals how this national symbol, once hunted by settlers and nearly wiped out by DDT and habitat loss, became a beacon of conservation success. The eagle’s resurgence is not just ecological—it’s a testament to America’s capacity for redemption, with cleaner rivers, restored habitats, and public awareness turning the tide. Meanwhile, in the American West, the Wright family of saddle bronc riders embodies a fading cowboy culture, balancing tradition with the economic pressures of modern tourism. Their story, chronicled by journalist John Branch in *The Last Cowboys*, captures the bittersweet reality of preserving heritage in a changing world. And for travelers seeking California’s soul beyond the cities, Christopher P. Baker’s *Perfect Day California* offers 29 meticulously curated one-day itineraries—from the Avenue of the Giants to Mendocino’s pygmy forests and the art-filled Hess Collection winery—proving that adventure lies in the details, not just the landmarks.