Hi there. First of all I want to say kudos to you for doing some research before getting a dog, not everyone does.

I'll post some links that may help you with your decision.
First of all is the Alaskan Malamute Club of America
http://www.alaskanmalamute.org/

From that site is a great bunch of articles on whether the alaskan malamute is the right dog for you or not.
http://www.alaskanmalamute.org/thinking.htm

Next is a list of breeders in the Midwest area. It would be a good idea to contact some and ask them for their opinions on the breed, after all they live with them!
http://www.alaskanmalamute.org/breeders.htm#mw

And finally a link to Alaskan Malamute rescue.
http://www.malamuterescue.org/

Good luck in all of your research!!