I support tourism in the Chilkat Valley as long as it does not compromise the integrity of the community and the environment.

Paying visitors to come here is a sad state of affairs, which lowers our community’s value.

Many years ago, I was at a child’s birthday party with my 8-year-old daughter. As we were leaving, the father of the birthday girl saw us out, thanked us and put a $20 bill in my daughter’s hand, saying, “thank you for coming to our daughter’s party.” 

My daughter’s reaction was complete confusion. I was shocked. It was a bribe that minimized and disrespected his daughter and us.

In their decision to pay the Freeride World Tour to come to Haines, our elected officials minimized both the residents and the value of the Chilkat Valley. We have much to be proud of and thankful for — a vibrant community full of diverse people, a fine director of tourism and a valley of rich resources and stunning scenery.

In the future, I hope Haines continues to just be itself. We are a welcoming and geographically magnificent place. 

We don’t need to pay people to come. Budget talks will start soon at the assembly level. I hope the $75,000 given to the Freeride organization can be redirected to support services and activities to maintain a quality of life for residents in the new fiscal year.

Suzanne Vuillet Smith