All of us who choose to endure the hardships necessary to live in Stehekin fiercely love it. We love it not only for the natural beauty but for the sense of community that exists. I do not know that there is a typical Stehekinite. But the community formed from a wide range of backgrounds is truly a national treasure, just as Ron said. From the descendants of the original homesteaders to Park employees to travelers that have found a home, we all have the love of Stehekin in common. This love ties us together no matter what our background or beliefs. We know our neighbor will be there for us if needed, just as we will be there for them. That in itself is a treasure nowadays.
Beyond that, the Stehekin community serves the people of this country. When Representative Schrier asked if we would just move on, it speaks to a cost benefit analysis that I would like to address. That test may not be politically correct, but we all know it exists. I would ask what would Stehekin be without the community. The answer would be just another inaccessible valley in the North Cascades.
The community provides the barge service, the passenger ferry service, bus tours, lodging, food, and more. The Park simply could not function in the valley if it had to provide its own barge and transportation. They could not even afford to keep the visitor center open. The community sharing these costs makes it possible for the Park to provide any services at all. I doubt it would last five years, and Stehekin would be closed to the public. The congressional intent for the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area would be lost to the wind. The people of this country would truly lose a national treasure, and Chelan County would lose a valuable attraction.
-Joe Kitchell
Stehekin Resident
