The people of Alaska

A striking difference in this state is the depth of knowledge about, and the pride in their state by those who live here.  We have not yet encountered one person who doesn't love this state.  If I asked a kid in Wisconsin what they think about our state, my question would likely be met with something like "I can't wait to get the heck out of here."  In Alaska, they might go away but they know they are coming back.  And so many others have moved there from elsewhere, speaking reverently of their desire to live in Alaska.  To be in a country where the people take such pride in their being is the best advertising I can think of.  The people we have met also know details about the state.. history, culture and wildlife.  True, we also hear that alcoholism is a big problem and perhaps those people have a different outlook, but the folks we encountered, working three jobs in order to stay here and loving it, are all very self reliant people who work hard for what they have.  I admire that.