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: A Public Defender's Life in Alaska

So, I have been getting calls. Again, I have to say that I don't speak for the Agency. I just don't. I am happy to answer questions if I can. Let me explain one of the biggest things I am asked about. I am often told that people want to live in a 'rural' area. Here is the problem. Rural in the lower 48 and 'rural' in Alaska are not the same thing. To be honest, the only office in the State that offers anything close is Palmer. I find myself recommending that office for a number of reasons, including the fact that my friend JR supervises it. Personally, of course, I think Kenai is the place to be. But for people that want to live near Anchorage, and not in it, Palmer is the place to be. Understand that 'rural' in Alaska may mean the Bush. Those things are not the same. The Bush towns are off the road system. They don't have cattle grazing in lush green fields. The cost of living is high. Don't get me wrong: I am not bashing the Bush. In fact, I recommend it. If I was single, I would absolutely live in the Bush. I would rather live in Kotzebue than Anchorage. In fact, the only place in the State I don't care for is Anchorage. Of course, that is my bias. Anchorage is just like any other American city. As I wrote years ago, to me living in Alaska and living in Anchorage is like travelling around the world and eating at only McDonalds. What the hell is the point? For those of you that want to work in Kodiak or Sitka. Forget it. Those places are sewn up tighter than a snare drum. Ketchikan is a great place and sometimes has openings. Juneau is very stable and I think those guys will die at their desks. In terms of places on the road system, that leaves Fairbanks. I think Fairbanks can offer some of the 'rural' lifestyle that I am asked about. Of course it is cold. But it has a lot of amenities without the crushing crowds of Anchorage. Bottom line folks: feel free to call me. Or others. Ask around. But be aware that Alaska will be unlike anything you can find down there. And thank God. A man can carry a gun. Get eaten by a brown bear in his own yard. Catch 'small' fish that are bigger than anything in the lower US. See unparalled natural beauty. Make good law. Live as free as any man anywhere can these days. Where ever you decide to come in Alaska, welcome. It is a hell of a good place.

Full post as published by A Public Defender's Life in Alaska on January 06, 2010 (boomark / email).