Many thanks to the Chilkat Guides for donating their time, equipment, and unparalleled enthusiasm for taking six rafts of locals and present and former state parks officials through the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve to commemorate the preserve’s 30th anniversary. Guides Ben Feldman, Steve Ritzinger, Brittany Price, Nels Niemi, John Binger and Tyler Ehrlich taught us what we needed to know to stay safe and to see all there was to see on the river. Thank you Meghan Condon for driving the bus and Andrew Cardella for transporting all the needed gear. And an extra special thanks to the Guides for extending our time when it turned out that we needed to stay longer than planned to enjoy the hospitality of the Klukwan village Hospitality House.
A very special thanks to Chilkat Indian Village tribal council president Jones Hotch Jr. for meeting us on the banks of the Klukwan Culture Center, welcoming us to the village, and teaching us how to properly appreciate the terrific performance of the Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Dancers. A thunderous pounding of boots to one and all!
Stephanie Scott
Mayor, Haines Borough