The country is modernizing rapidly, sometimes too fast, but this spectacular old region still endures.

The country is modernizing rapidly, sometimes too fast, but this spectacular old region still endures.

In Alaska, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley is home to a 27-mile glacier, an old gold-mining camp and a New Deal farming project.

In Alaska, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley is home to a 27-mile glacier, an old gold-mining camp and a New Deal farming project.

Seattle is alive with artistic energy. While the city’s musical voices thrive, stage productions are on the rebound after the loss of prized playhouses.

Seattle is alive with artistic energy. While the city’s musical voices thrive, stage productions are on the rebound after the loss of prized playhouses.