Recently, my wife Bonnie and I were fortunate enough to visit Haines as your guests. I was interviewing for the borough manager position. I did not get the job, and naturally we are disappointed, but we wanted to reach out and thank you for the hospitality you showed us during our time in Haines.
We were very grateful for the gracious welcome we received from everyone and really enjoyed spending time with many of you during our visit.
We are very impressed with the cultural vibrancy of Haines. We have visited larger communities with much less civic spirit and public participation. While we heard from many folks that the divisions in your community were a source of anxiety, we saw a community that is strong and resilient. We were also impressed with the resources and attention paid to youth development and the care of your elderly.
Haines has a lot to be proud of. We wish you and your new borough manager, Bill Seward, way more than luck.
Mark and Bonnie Karet