Juneau, Alaska

Living in Juneau was one of my best childhood memories. After a twenty-seven year absence, I moved back to Juneau in 1997. As a child, I was fortunate to live at the corner of Goldbelt and Calhoun. Now I live in the Mendenhall Valley, near the school where I teach.

Juneau is located on the mainland in the heart of the Inside Passage 900 air miles northwest of Seattle and 600 air miles southeast of Anchorage. It was established in 1880 after the local discovery of gold.

Juneau is Alaska's capital and third largest city with a population of about 30,000. The state, city, and federal governments provide nearly half of the employment. The median family income is above $54,000.

The legislature meets in Juneau between January and May. Tourism is a significant contributor to the private sector economy during the summer months when about 300,000 visitors arrive on large cruise ships.

Support services for logging and fish processing contribute to the Juneau economy. Nearly 600 residents hold commercial fishing permits.

Juneau has daily jet service and numerous air taxis operators. The state ferry and barge lines provide year-round service. There are five radio stations, two over the air TV stations, cable TV service, and a daily newspaper.

Average summer temperatures range from 44 to 65 degrees; winter temperatures range from 25 to 35 degrees.

(source:http://www.jun.alaska.edu/uas/se-facts/Community_profile.shtml#juneau)