Examines the history and culture of the western United States. Describes what makes San Francisco a unique city. Explains how the La Brea tar pits formed and their importance to geologic research. Identifies ways of creating special effects for movies. Explains the importance of gold mining to the development of the West. Relates the Klamath story of Crater Lake and connects the folklore to a real location. Describes how smoke jumpers extinguish forest fires.