The Adventures of Dave & Becky: In Search of the Haunted Gold Mine

Dave and Becky, stars of the "There Goes A..." series, have a new program, in which they experience various adventures while getting the "scoop" as reporters for a children's newspaper. This episode, which is supposed to teach safe camping, has the excitable Becky and the bumbling Dave hiking to a supposedly haunted gold mine, all the while being stalked by something that could be a bear. On the way, they get lost, fall in a lake, endure collapsing tents, and have a host of other misadventures while unraveling the mystery. Unfortunately, for a video that is supposed to teach safe camping, this seems to communicate just the opposite. When the pair build a fire, it bursts into flame (obviously helped with lighter fluid); Dave swings across a river (even though we're told it's a no-no), Becky dangles off a rock for dramatic effect; and the two explore an abandoned mine shaft despite a clearly visible sign that says "Danger! Do Not Enter!" Although some camping tips are given (don't leave food in your tent, carry lots of water, have a spare map handy, etc.), a lot of basic instruction and advice that could easily have been incorporated is overlooked, sacrificing the practical for the dramatic. An optional purchase. Aud: E, I, P. (E. Gieschen)