Discussion of the community of Palmer

Once in a while, social media offers up some very thoughtful material, sourced from authentic folks, without any real agenda. That is the case with a very lengthy posting this week on Facebook’s Palmer Alaska Buzz. Here is a condensation of a conversation regarding Palmer, Alaska.

“I’m thinking I may want to move to Palmer…”—This was the innocent opener from an unknown woman in North Carolina. She asked the question of pros and cons of relocation and especially wanted to know the safety angle, from a woman’s point of view.

Over 235 Responses later…—The North Carolinian was offered substantial advice. Women responded, in the compassionate way women do, with multiple suggestions, offers to help and recommendations:

Demographics—Many of the respondents moved to Palmer accidentally, some were born in Palmer and others moved deliberately. The overreaching consensus was that Palmer is both friendly and helpful. One fresh Atlanta newcomer loves Palmer; she says people are helpful all the time and strangers have even given her free plants!

Nature in Your Face—Admiration for the natural surroundings and scenery were repeated over and over again as reasons to live in Palmer. “Beauty is “jaw-dropping.” “Moose are plentiful.” The proximity to the wilderness is astonishing.

Safety was a Mixed Bag— The majority of women said they felt very safe, however many also said more caution was needed during these times. More than a few women said they now carry sidearms. A number of folks mentioned that the Palmer Police were very good.

Direct Quote— “I love raising my family here and feel safe in this community. The friendliest people in the world live in greater Palmer. It has a unique small-town feel and access to big city amenities, not too far away.”

Women—There were discussions about the many opportunities for women in the greater Palmer area. There are many successful women business owners, leaders, politicians, female camaraderie, role models, and champions in Palmer.

Community Events were touted repeatedly. Over and over folks talked about how community minded this town is and heavily involved and invested it is in its future. There were threads on cross country skiing, yoga, biking, art opportunities, hiking, ice skating, winter walks in the woods, baseball, churches,

bookclubs and running groups. There was more discussion about the prices and what to expect for rent and wages and childcare and good schools. And of course there was the ongoing commentary on Palmer’s great bookstore, coffeehouses, restaurants, shops, community events, community gardens, museum, water-tower and amazing harvest.

Weather advice—was abundant along with discussion about the dark and how to survive it. There was multiple threads on the need for good winter gear and admonitions to stay active, even in the winter. “Don’t forget to take large doses of vitamin d3.” And, “You will need many additional lights in the winter.” Several folks mentioned the cold but also explained that Palmer cold is dry and easier to bear than a wet cold. One commenter mentioned the frequency of earthquakes.

The Wind—There were MANY, MANY comments about the Wind. Perhaps this was the most common comment. It was notable and repeated multiple times. No one had a solution for it, except to perhaps move near the Butte where there is a wind-free pocket. One commenter talked about how she had lost three trampolines to the wind.

Commute—No Problem—There wasn’t much discussion about the commute to Anchorage. Although Anchorage was touted as a good destination for big city stuff and airport. A number of women discussed the “strategic location” of the Palmer area and convenience is easy.

Keep your Eyes Wide Open—This is what more than a few women advised. Respondents were trying to offer both the good and the bad info, so a wise relocation decision could be made. It was smart to suggest that one should do their research they will have an idea of what to expect when they move to Palmer.

One thing is for sure—Our new North Carolina Facebook friend already has hundreds of contacts and potential friends in the greater Palmer area.

Summary—All in all, the gorgeous mountains, livable and walkable town with sidewalks all contribute to the community pride. This Facebook flurry of unsolicited commenting is just a terrific and truthful glimpse into the world of greater Palmer, Alaska. No one was paid to make these endorsements. And neither did the Palmer Chamber of Commerce nor the City Hall have anything to do with this very spontaneous and complimentary commentary on our town!

Barbara Hunt is both Palmer writer and artist. She works hard to keep the robust pulse of Palmer, Alaska. She shares the good stuff on the weekly Palmer Alaska Buzz in the Mat Su Valley Frontiersman and daily on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Facebook Group.