BISMARCK, N.D. – In light of recent severe summer weather events Bismarck Emergency Manager, Gary Stockert reminds all citizens of the need to plan ahead to identify where they will shelter during a tornado watch and warning. “The City of Bismarck does not own or operate emergency tornado shelters. Those who live in mobile homes or other vulnerable structures should discuss and identify sheltering possibilities with nearby friends, neighbors, relatives, etc.,” said Gary Stockert. Stockert continued, “The best time to relocate to the shelter area that you’ve identified is during a tornado watch. Do not wait until a tornado warning is issued.” Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio to get your tornado watches and warnings as soon as possible. Even if you should happen to be sleeping, you can get the alert.

In a mobile home: Get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.

The best place to shelter is in the center of the basement under a sturdy workbench or under the stairway. If you do not have a basement, go to the lowest level of a sturdy building and put as many walls between you and the outside as possible and avoid areas with exterior windows and doors. In a school or other large building, go to the lowest level and into a bathroom or a hallway near the center of the building. Stay away from large wide open rooms like an auditorium or gymnasium. For more information visit www.bismarck.org or call 701-222-6727.

BISMARCK, ND – The results are in and congratulations are in order to Barry Hilken! Barry is the winner of the 1st ever “Windy City Flyaway” contest sponsored by Bismarck Airport, United Vacations and KFYR AM Radio. Barry receives two free, round-trip tickets on United Airlines direct flight to Chicago as well as a two night hotel stay at the Hotel Blake to see the MN Twins take on the Chicago White Sox on August 12.

In order to qualify, participants had to register online at KFYR AM radio or listen for the cue to call during the PH Factor morning show on KFYR AM Radio. The winner was selected live on the air via a reverse drawing on Friday, July 30. There were 30 finalists, but only one lucky winner was selected.

United Airlines offers daily, nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare from Bismarck Airport. Once in Chicago, the opportunity to connect domestically as well as internationally is available on United Airlines including locations such London, England and Frankfurt, Germany. Book your travel today at www.united.com or at www.bismarckairport.com and see what the “Windy City” has to offer!

BISMARCK, N.D. – Mayor John Warford is seeking Bismarck residents interested in serving a three year term on the Bismarck Human Relations Committee. The deadline for applications is July 30, 2010. The volunteer committee has one open position. Anyone residing in the City of Bismarck or the City’s extraterritorial area is eligible for appointment. The new committee member will be announced at the August 10, 2010, City Commission meeting.

The Human Relations Committee meets the third Monday of every month at the City/County Building. The committee has adopted a policy that four consecutive absences from meetings will result in a request for resignation.

The mission of the Mayor’s Human Relations Committee is to protect and promote the personal dignity of all Bismarck citizens and to eliminate any discriminatory barriers that prevent them from reaching their full human potential.

Interested Bismarck residents should send Mayor Warford a letter describing their qualifications, background, and why they would be interested in serving on the committee. Please visit www.bismarck.org and click on application. The letter and or application should be mailed to:

Mayor John Warford
City of Bismarck
PO Box 5503
Bismarck, ND 58506-5503

For more information you may contact: Bismarck City Administration at 701-355-1300 or
visit www.bismarck.org

BISMARCK, N.D. – A permit is required to remove or plant boulevard trees in the City of Bismarck. Property owners may plant street trees by obtaining a Permit to Plant Trees on Public Street Rights of Way from the Forestry Division. Permits are free of charge. A forester will conduct an on-site inspection to determine where the trees can be placed, recommend species that are best suited for each site, and issue the permit. The Forestry Division schedules appointments for street tree planting permits. In most cases it is not necessary for the homeowner to be present.

Homeowners must request the City Forester to come and inspect boulevard trees that they desire to remove prior to removal. A permit will then be issued if approved by the Forester. As a practice, requests to remove trees due to fruit or seed drop issues are not granted.

Placement of trees in the lawn area must accommodate proper spacing between trees and minimum distances from: intersections, fire hydrants, street lights, overhead wires, driveways, mailboxes, street lights, and water service lines.

Contact the Bismarck Forestry Division for a Permit to Plant or Remove Trees on Public Rights of Way (boulevards). Call the Forestry Division at 355-1733 or fill out the online form at www.bismarck.org/forestry to schedule an appointment for a Permit, and to inquire about the cost share incentive program, Partners in Planting.