Fargo History– caught on tape

City of Fargo Downtown Oral History Project: 1900-1950

Did you know?Fargo used to have a trolley system.

Island Park got its name because it would turn into a series of islands when the Red River would flood.

In 1927, Charles Lindbergh visited Fargo three months after his flight across the Atlantic Ocean and parked his plane, the Spirit of St. Louis, on Broadway.

Johnny Carson was on a troop train that stopped in downtown Fargo on his way to WWII.

There was a land-use lawsuit early in the development of West Acres.

The City of Fargo Historic Preservation Commission believes that it is important to collect history through the recollections of individuals that live in the community. Last spring, with help from the N.D. State Historical Society and students in the Public History Department at NDSU, the Fargo Historic Preservation Commission conducted sixteen oral history interviews on historic downtown Fargo.

The basis of the Fargo Downtown Oral History Project: 1900-1950 is that historic buildings are key to people's recollections about downtown Fargo. The intent of the project was to gather information, not just about the historic buildings and places, but to hear about how experiences in downtown Fargo influenced the lives of people that lived here during that time. The oral traditions represent an important source of information about downtown Fargo and community life that unfortunately is often missing from the published history of the City. This body of material is intended to contribute to the historic inventory— including the challenges residents faced, their goals for the future and what makes Fargo a great place to live.

If you would like to read the oral histories (or search for a particular topic using the master index), they are available on the Planning Department's website, http://www.ci.fargo. nd.us/Planning. Copies are also available at the Fargo Public Library and the N.D. Institute for Regional Studies.

Your help is needed…Have you noticed the number of plastic grocery bags blowing all over the City? Why not help keep our City clean by assisting with the following?

When given a choice of paper or plastic–choose paper.

Take your plastic bags to the Fargo Wal-Mart for recycling, or take them to any of the plastic bag recycling businesses listed on page 7.

Pick up any loose plastic bags you see and be sure they are disposed of properly.

Remember

City Commission agendas are published in The Forum each Saturday prior to City Commission meetings.

City Of Fargo web site www.ci.fargo.nd.us

City Commission meetings :Cable One-Ch. 2 broadcasts the meetings live Monday night and replays the tape at 11:00 a.m. on the Saturday following the meeting.

Library Programs (see article)Third Saturday Storytime: Toddlers at 10 a.m.; pre-schoolers at 10:30 a.m.Dec. 12: Decorate the Children's TreeJan. & February: Read-A-ThonFeb. 3: Storytime for Pre-schoolers (see article)Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m.: Valentine craft

City of Fargo legal holidays

• Dec. 25: Christmas Day
• Jan. 1: New Year's Day
• Feb. 17: Presidents' Day
• April 18: Good Friday - Most City offices will be closed.
  Call before the holiday to confirm if the department will be open or if a meeting may be rescheduled.
  

Building permit requirements
Fargo residents should contact the City Building Inspection Department for information on local building code requirements.For information, call 241-1561
NEW home owners and rentersIt is important that you call the water department to open a new water account when you move into a house and also call to close your account if you move out of a property. We need a signed water contract to provide service to an address.Call for information: 241-1324

Holiday garbage collection schedules (when City offices are closed):
Week of Dec. 23:Christmas Day, Wed., Dec. 25
Collections: Wednesday collection on Thursday; the rest of the week on schedule.
Landfill: Closed Wednesday,Dec. 25
Week of Dec. 30:New Year's Day, Wed., Jan. 1
Collections: Wednesday collection on Thursday; the rest of the week on schedule.
Landfill: Closed Wednesday, Jan. 1
Week of Feb. 17:Presidents' Day, Mon., Feb. 17
Collections: On schedule
Landfill: Open Monday, Feb. 17
Week of Apr. 14:Good Friday, Fri., April 18
Collections: On schedule
Landfill: Open Friday, Apr. 18

Clean-Up Week is tentatively scheduled for the week of May 5, 2003.

Garbage collection
Put your garbage out on your berm for collection no earlier than 6:00 p.m. the day prior to collection and no later than 8:00 a.m. the day of collection. Garbage cans should be removed by 6:00 p.m. on collection day.
Garbage cans and miscellaneous containers must not weigh over 50 pounds.
During winter months, please do not place garbage containers and bags on top of snow banks. Place containers in your driveway or shoveled-out area on your boulevard. Fireplace ashes must be fully extinguished and contained in a bag before placing them out for collection. Thank you for helping us keep our City crews safe!

Yard Waste Disposal
City crews will collect yard waste through Clean-Up Week to assist residents when doing their spring yard clean-up. However, residents are encouraged to use the containers at the compost sites whenever possible. Weather permitting, the yard waste containers are removed December 1 and returned to the sites April 1.

Questions: Call 241-1449

Garbage & Recycling contact numbers
Use a touch-tone phone for these24-hour lines:
476-6739: Recycling, household hazardous waste, compost.
476-6749: Holiday garbage schedules, large item policy.
To talk to a live person:recycling, call 298-6944
solid waste, call 241-1449
Website: www.cityoffargo.com/solidwaste/
Up-to-date information on solid waste, recycling, compost and household hazardous waste, recycling sites, hours, events, recycling tips, yard waste programs, holiday schedules, Clean-Up Week, garbage collection map, commercial container rates, news updates, answers to frequenty asked questions, etc.

Christmas tree pickup
Christmas trees will be picked up the week of January 6, 2003.Place trees with regular household garbage. Please do not deposit on snow banks.Plastic bags, wood and metal stands must be removed.

Fargo Public Library

Events and activities for all ages Storytime for preschoolers

Public Library's annual Winter Read-A-Thon kicks into gear on Monday, January 6 and runs through March 1. Book logs will be available at the main library in downtown Fargo, the Southpointe Branch and on the Bookmobile. Readers of every age (from toddler to adult) are invited to participate in this reading incentive program. Small prizes will be awarded to younger readers. The efforts of children in grades three and above, as well as adults will earn chances for larger prizes in a March drawing.
For information, call 241-1495.

Hearts and Hugs

Children and their parents are invited to create crafts in the spirit of Valentine's Day on Thursday, February 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the main library in downtown Fargo and at the library's Southpointe Branch. Treats will be served at both locations. Supplies will be provided. There is no charge.
For more information contact Youth Services at 241-1495

Storytime for preschoolers

Spring sessions of storytime for preschoolers will begin Feb. 3. Storytime will be offered at 6:00 p.m. on Mondays, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and 10:00 a.m. on Wednesdays at the Fargo Public Library in downtown Fargo. A storytime at the library's Southpointe Branch will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Children register for a specific time slot for the 10-week session which ends April 9.
Registration begins January 2.
For additional details or to register, contact Youth Services at 241-1495.

Saturday Storytime

Saturday Storytime continues on the third Saturday of each month. Stories and activities begin at 10:00 a.m. for toddlers and at 10:30 a.m. for preschoolers. No registration is necessary.

www.introduction

Get an introduction to the World Wide Web during monthly demonstrations by library staff on the fourth Thursday of each month. Classes are held in the computer lab on the second floor of the library. This is a free, hands-on class with 10 computers available. Demonstrations will be held at 3:00 and 7:00 p.m. on January 23, February 27 and March 27. For more information contact the reference desk or call 241-1492.

 

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Looking for Landmarks

The Fargo Historic Preservation Commission is looking for local landmarks– and you can help. Identifying, and hopefully marking, historic landmarks is a good way to make people more aware of the community's history. Whether you've lived in Fargo your whole life or you're new to the area, it can be both fun and interesting to learn about the city's past.

To date, the City has identified the following public statues and markers as landmarks that should be considered for inclusion on a list of locally significant landmarks, monuments or places:

• Holm Field Marker: 10th Ave. N., east of Elm St.
• Central High Cornerstone: 1010 2nd Ave. S.
• American Legion Cornerstone: 505 3rd Ave. N.
• Ten Commandments Monument: 200 3rd St. N.
• Northern Pacific Clock: 701 Main Ave.
• Northern Pacific RR Cars: 600 Main Ave.
• Sod Buster: formerly at 600 Main Ave.
• Statute of Liberty: 200 Main Ave.
• Civil War Soldier Statue: Island Park
• Henrik Wergeland Statue: Island Park
• American Legion Fountain: Lindenwood Park
• Rollon Statue: 200 8th St. N.
• The WPA Pool: Island Park
• Island Park's Gazebo:Island Park
• Oak Grove Picnic Pavilion: Oak Grove Park
• Old State Fairgrounds: North High School

If there are any public (or private) landmarks, monuments, or places that you would like to see the City add to the list of locally significant sites, contact Dan Mahli, 241-1474, or dmmahli@ci.fargo.nd.us

Fargo on the Web

The City of Fargo web site, (www.ci.fargo.nd.us) contains links to all of the City's Departments. Here are some highlights of the various departments' web sites:

A listing of all the City ordinances is available on the Auditor's website: http://www.ci.fargond.us/Auditors/default.htm

You can look up arrival information through links at the Hector International Airport website: www.fargoairport.com

Avid readers can reserve books at the Fargo Public Library website:
www.fargolibrary.com

The Fargo Police Department provides a wealth of information relating to the department and crime in Fargo: www.fargopolice.com

Bus route maps may be found on the Fargo-Moorhead Metro Area Transit website:
www.matbus.com

Information on road construction and street closings is available on the new website: www.fargostreets.com

Realtors and anyone looking to purchase a home in Fargo will find valuable housing information at the new Parcel Information website: www.fargoparcels.com

Employment opportunities with the City of Fargo are listed on the Human Resources web site: http://ci.fargo.nd.us/HR/vacancies.htm

The agendas and minutes for Fargo City Commission meetings are posted on the Commission's web site: http://ci.fargo.nd.us/ Commission/default.htm

SHOPPING MADE EASY THE TRANSIT CONNECTION

No matter where you like to shop, Metro Area Transit (MAT) probably has frequent, reliable service there. MAT serves the West Acres area, Northport, downtown Fargo and Moorhead, Moorheads East 10 area and many other shopping locations throughout Fargo-Moorhead. One of the better-served areas is West Acres and surrounding establishments. Fargo Transit operates 7 routes out of West Acres, including the free Shopping Circulator which provides parking lot service to the West Acres Mall, Village West Hornbacher's, T.J. Maxx, Wal-Mart/Sam's Club, Target and others. The West Fargo route also provides service to West Acres area businesses, including the West Acres Mall and from streets adjacent to K-Mart, Wal-Mart/Sam's Club, Gordmans, Old Navy, Menards, Sunmart, Kohl's and others.
Riders have many options for getting to West Acres. Buses leave from downtown every half-hour from the Ground Transportation Center (GTC) at 502 NP Avenue. No matter which bus you take downtown, there is always a West Acres-bound bus at the GTC ready to take you to West Acres within minutes! But, there are other routes serving West Acres, too. These include Route 20 (north Fargo to West Acres), Route 25 (south Fargo to West Acres), West Fargo (West Fargo to West Acres), and the Shopping Circulator (which goes by many apartments in the West Acres area).
Adult fares on a bus are just $1.00, with youth, elderly and disabled fares only $.50. Since transfers between buses are free, you can ride all the way from the route nearest your home to West Acres for the price of a single fare, even if the trip requires a transfer to another bus. Just tell the driver when you board that you wish to go to West Acres, and the driver will give you any information or transfer slips you may need--it is that easy!
To catch a bus, just stand by any bus stop sign or on any corner in the right lane closest to where the bus comes from and wave to the driver when the bus approaches. The bus will stop to pick you up, and you are on your way.
Fargo Transit is in the process of building a new transit hub at West Acres. All routes serving West Acres will drop and load at the Roger Maris wing in the southeast corner of West Acres. Transit riders do not have to deal with the stress of driving in heavy traffic, a long walk from the parking lot or the expense of driving their own car. The buses are climate controlled, comfortable and safe.
So next time you want to go shopping, do yourself a favor and enjoy a relaxing ride on the bus.
For information, call 232-7500 or visit the website at www.matbus.com.

Hector International Airport

When planning your next trip, remember how convenient and affordable flying can be!

Low Rates for Senior CitizensYou can fly now at low, money-saving rates across all fifty states! Check out airfare discounts with your local travel agent.

Compare the fares: Competitive-Convenient-Affordable Check the fares from Fargo’s Hector International Airport by contacting your local travel agent–do not assume fares are less expensive if you drive hundreds of miles to Minneapolis, Sioux Falls or Winnipeg. When all of the expenses are added up: gas, meals, wear-and-tear on the car and lodging, along with the risk of bad weather, it’s actually less expensive to fly out of Fargo!

Airport web site:www.fargoairport.com

Flight arrival/departure, ticket/reservation information:
Northwest Airlines: 1-800-225-2525
United Express: 1-800-241-6522
You should know the flight number before calling for flight information.

Airport Information CenterGeneral Information: 241-8168This center is staffed daily by volunteers. There may be times that you will receive a recorded message.

Airport security adviceFederal Aviation Administration security requires that vehicles do not park unattended in front of the airport terminal. Vehicles left unattended will be ticketed and possibly towed. Keep your luggage and packages in your possession at all times. Unattended items may be confiscated.

U.S. Customs Service, 1801 23rd Ave. N., Phone: 241-8124

Fargo Air Museum
Hours: Monday—Saturday: 9:00 a.m.— 5:00 p.m.; Sunday: noon—4:00 p.m.
For tours and events: 293-8043 or www.fargoairmuseum.org

Municipal Airport AuthorityThe public is encouraged to attend the Authority's monthly meetings on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. in the airport boardroom.

NEWS FROM THE TOP (TREE TOP THAT IS)

Pruning
The Fargo Forestry Department tree maintenance program consists of the care and improvement of trees on public property.
The goal is to prune each street tree at least once every 8 years (approximately 5,000 trees per year). This work is performed by qualified forestry personnel (all Certified Arborists with the International Society of Arboriculture) or a contract tree service without additional charges to the adjacent property owner.
Smaller trees are structurally pruned to correct early defects and establish the basic framework of the tree. Properly pruned young trees will develop into structurally strong trees that should require little corrective pruning as they mature. Large, mature trees are inspected as to their overall condition. Most trimming is limited to dead branches and maintaining sufficient clearance over the street and sidewalk.
For this coming winter, city forestry and contract crews will be working in areas north of 19th Ave. N. between 10th St. and Elm St. Contract crews will also be working on tree pruning requests citywide that have come in over the year. Because trees are living and growing organisms, clearance problems and pruning needs may occur between cycles. Requests for pruning can be made by the property owner, inspected by forestry staff and scheduled for winter pruning if necessary.
If you are traveling through any area where tree care activities are taking place, please use extra caution.
If you have any questions regarding pruning operations or any other aspect of the forestry program, please call 241-1465.

Fargo Then and Now

Source: 1990 and 2000 census

A village of 100 people…

If we could shrink the earth's population to a village of precisely 100 people with all the existing human ratios remaining the same, it would look something like the following:

• 57 Asians
• 21 Europeans
• 14 from the Western Hemisphere, both north and south
• 8 Africans
• 52 would be female
• 48 would be male
• 70 would be nonwhite
• 30 would be white
• 70 would be non-Christian
• 30 would be Christian
• 89 would be heterosexual
• 11 would be homosexual
• 6 people would possess 59% of the entire world's wealth.
• All 6 would be from the United States.
• 80 would live in sub-standard housing
• 70 would be unable to read
• 50 would suffer from malnutrtion
• 1 would be near death
• 1 would be near birth
• 1 (yes only one) would have a college education
• 1 would own a computer

When one considers our world from such a compressed perspective, the need for acceptance, understanding and education becomes glaringly apparent.

-- Philip M. Harter, MD, FACEP, Stanford University School of Medicine

One is NOT enough

Where are the smoke detectors in your house? You need to have detectors in each bedroom, the area just outside the bedrooms and on each level.

Do you have one in each bedroom? Fires can start in a bedroom. You are most vulnerable while you are sleeping. The smell of smoke does not wake you up. The carbon monoxide in the smoke puts you into a deeper sleep. You cannot depend on just one smoke detector in the hall; you must have one in each bedroom. Common causes for fires in bedrooms include candles, electric heaters, electric blankets, pinched or worn electric cords and children playing with lighters or matches.

Do you have one just outside the bedrooms? The smoke detector located in the area just outside the bedrooms alerts you to any smoke coming toward the bedroom from any other areas in the house.

Do you have one on each level? You do not know where a fire will start. Fires can start anywhere. If a fire starts in the basement a detector in the basement can give you early warning and catch the fire while it is small.

Landlord training program

The Landlord Training Program will teach you to better manage your rental property. It provides information on how to keep criminal activity from occurring at rental property to landlords, resident managers or anyone else actively involved in managing rental property in Fargo. The Fargo Police Department offers the program.

The eight-hour landlord training program class includes information on applicant screening, rental agreements, ongoing management techniques, how to evict a tenant, warning signs of criminal activity, maintaining the property to habitability standards, the role of the police and other topics.

The cost of the class is $5 per person. The next class is scheduled for Sept. 17, with another class scheduled Oct. 22. Advance registration for the class is required.

Call Deb Tellinghuisen, (701) 298-6968, for registration information.

Participants who attend the training program will be notified if police are sent to their rental property for various reasons, such as noisy parties, disorderly conduct, possession of controlled substances, assaults, minors possessing or consuming alcohol, etc. In addition, training program participants can request free local criminal background checks of prospective tenants. If requested, a crime prevention officer will make a free inspection of the rental property and make recommendations to deter crime and also will assist in getting an Apartment Watch program started on their rental property.

Since the classes began in 1996, more than 90 percent of local landlords who have attended the Landlord Training Program said the class provided them with practical information they use in managing their rental property and that they have changed how they manage their rental properties

Building Codes

Building codes are designed to protect people and property by assuring safety in building construction and use. These codes also are used to assure minimum community standards are enforced.

A permit is required for construction that physically changes or adds structures to your property or for work regulated by city codes or ordinances. The following are examples of construction which require permits:

New buildings: dwellings, sheds (over 120 square feet), detached garages and carports.

Additions: attached garage, 3-season porches and decks.

Alterations beyond cosmetic changes such as converting carports to garages or a non-living space to living space and the installation of additional windows and doors.

Repairs involving structural members, including rafters, trusses, etc.

Moving or demolishing a building.

Heating equipment such as furnaces, boilers, unit heaters, wood or gas fireplaces, gas lines, HVAC units and electric and/or gas water heaters.

Electric and plumbing changes: in most cases any electrical changes and most plumbing changes require a permit.

If you have questions or concerns on a specific item, please call us.Contact the City of Fargo Inspections Division, 241-1561, for more information or check the City of Fargo home pages on the Internet at: http://www.ci.fargo.nd.us

PARKING RESTRICTIONS

When restrictions are in effect, it is unlawful to park any vehicle from 1:00-7:00 a.m. on north-south streets Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; or on any avenue on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Any vehicle parked in violation is declared a public nuisance and may be impounded.
Residential restrictions
Restrictions are enforced November 1April 15, from 19th Ave. N. to 13th Ave. S.; from the Red River to 25th St. and in any other designated areas.
Central Business District restrictions
Restrictions are enforced throughout the year from the Red River to University Dr. inclusive and from 7th Ave. N. to 1st Ave. S. inclusive.
PenaltiesPolice officers will enforce parking ordinances. The penalty for violating most parking ordinances is $10.00. Exceptions include lane violations ($15.00) and handicapped parking violations ($100.00). A fee of $3.00 is added to any parking ticket not paid within 10 days of issuance.
Vehicles may be impounded without notice if parked in a hazardous manner or having unpaid parking tickets. The impound fee ($50.00) plus any additional costs (impound, storage, parking tickets) must be paid before the vehicle is released to the owner. You should print your name on the tickets.

Fargo Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative

Incentives to Remodel, Up-grade and Renovate Homes in Fargo's Older Neighborhoods

The Fargo Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative (NRI) started in 2001 and is designed to encourage investment in targeted neighborhoods between 14th Ave. N. and 13th Ave. S., east of 25th St. In 2001, 74 properties participated in one of the four NRI programs. All four programs were re-funded and are open for applications in 2002.

Interest Rate Reduction ProgramThe City will work with you and a participating banker to reduce the interest rate you pay to finance an eligible remodeling project by 3% for a period of 5 years.

Existing Rehab and Purhase Rehab ProgramsThe City will provide both new and existing homeowners with a low interest loan, 4% fixed over 10 years, to finance significant home improvements (i.e. conversion of rental property to single family or construction of an addition). Child-care vouchers, up to $200 a month for 72 months, are also available on properties that have been approved as Purchase Rehab projects.

Infill ProgramThe purpose of this program is to replace dilapidated homes with new residential properties. The City typically purchases and demolishes properties that cannot be rehabilitated and makes the cleared land available for new housing. If you have any suggestions for properties that we should consider for the Infill Program, call Dan, 476-4144.

Housing Initiatives for low/moderate income households In addition to investing local funds through the NRI programs, the City also uses a portion of its funding from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide new income-eligible home buyers with down payment assistance and existing income-eligible homeowners with housing rehab assistance. Both of these programs provide zero-interest zero-payment loans that don't need to be paid back if you live in your house for at least 10 years.

For more information about these programs, please contact the Planning Department:
Phone: 241-1474
E-mail: planning@ci.fargo. nd.us
Web:http://ci.fargo.nd. us/planning

What's in your neighborhood? It can't be said enough– strong neighborhoods make strong communities. In the fall of 2002 the City will be releasing a report called the "State of the Neighborhoods." In it you will be able to find a profile of each of the 52 residential neighborhoods that make up the city of Fargo. You will also find a detailed analysis of larger neighborhood trends, defined using the community's 15 elementary school areas.

This is the first time a report like this has been compiled for the City. The neighborhood boundaries are new and may be changed over time. But the idea is to take a snapshot of Fargo's neighborhoods and present information that is useful, interesting and easily accessible.

The 2002 report will include information on 52 neighborhoods. Looking at the list of names below, can you guess which neighborhood you live in?

By September 2002, you will be able to visit the Planning Department web site to see a map that will show you exactly how each neighborhood is defined and also allow you to download the neighborhood profile.

CLEAR THOSE SIGNS!

City ordinance PROHIBITS posting signs and handbills on public and private property without the consent of the owner. It is ILLEGAL to post garage/yard sale or other promotional signs on any utility pole. Residents should feel free to take down any signs so posted.

League of Women Voters® of the Red River Valley

League of Women Voters…www.lwvnd.org…a voice for citizens, a force for change

WHO WE ARE

The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan political organization which encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government. We work to increase understanding of major public policy issues and strive to influence public policy through education and advocacy.

WE INVITE YOU

The League of Women Voters encourages everyone to participate. Please join us at our meetings and events and stay informed through our website and online voters guide, www.dnet.org. We would welcome the opportunity to have you as a member!

WHERE WE MEET

Public educational meetings are generally held on the first Friday of each month, September through May, 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the Sons of Norway Lodge, 722 2nd Ave. N., Fargo (a cafeteria lunch is available). Monthly membership meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month, 7:30—9:00 p.m. at the Fargo Public Library, 102 3rd St. N., Fargo.

WHERE'S THE LATEST ELECTION INFORMATION: WWW.DNET.ORG

DNet (Democracy Net) is the most comprehensive voter information resource available. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Education Fund, DNet allows voters to find the offices and candidates on their ballot by entering a zip code. Voters can ask candidates questions and see their positions on the issues, all in one website. Visit the award-winning site to find your candidates at the federal, state and local levels.

PROGRAMS:

First Friday Meetings ( Sons of Norway Lodge): December 6: Food Safetythe Bioterrorism Concern, speaker Dr. Catherine Logue, NDSU and January 3, The UN, Women's Issues and Democracy, speaker Julia Jones, LWVRRV Co-President.
* 2003 Saturday Legislative Forums: The League and the Chamber of Commerce of Fargo-Moorhead will sponsor legislative report forums in the City Commission Room, Fargo City Hall, 200 3rd St. N. They begin at 9:00 a.m. and end about 10:30 a.m. They will be held February 1 and 15, March 1, 15 and 29.

WHO TO CONTACT

For information about voter education, program topics and to confirm public meeting dates and times, please feel free to call the League office at 232-6696

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Your opinion is needed…

One of the most important goals of this newsletter is to communicate information to you about your City. To be sure we stay on target, let us hear from you:

1. Article(s) most useful to me:
2. I would like more information about:
3. Comments/suggestions:

Return this information to:

City Commission Office
200 N. 3rd St.
Fargo, ND 58102

or e-mail your comments to:

commission@ci.fargo.nd.us

Fall - Winter
2002-2003

Calendar

RECYCLING & COMPOST LOCATIONS

It is important that disposal items are placed in the correctly marked containers. Please do not place brush, trees, or other non-compatible trash in containers or around the compost sites. (A $500.00 fine and/or misdemeanor charge will be levied against anyone found violating this City Code.)

COMPLETE COMPOSTING & RECYCLING SITES: INCLUDES YARD WASTE, NEWSPRINT, GLASS, METAL, PLASTICS, CARDBOARD & MAGAZINES

North Side

• Longfellow Park- Elm St. & Forest Ave. N.
• Trollwood Village - Broadway & 32nd Ave. N.
• North Coliseum - 10th St. N., north of 17th Ave. (behind Curling Club)
• Solid Waste Dept. - 2301 8th Ave. N.
• Mickelson Field - 9th Ave. N., east of Oak St.

South Side

• Water Plant - 4^th St. & 13^th Ave. S.
• Good News Lutheran Church - 25^th St. & 17^th Ave. S.
• Lift station - 42^nd St. & 2^nd Ave. S.W.
• Lewis & Clark School - 17^th St. & 18^th Ave. S.
• Rheault Farm - 25^th St. & 30^th Ave. S.
• Minnkota Recycling - University Dr. & 35^th Ave. S.
• Centennial Area - 25^th St. & 40^th Ave. S.

NEWSPRINT, GLASS METAL, PLASTICS, CARDBOARD & MAGAZINES

North Side

• Sunmart Foods - Univ. Dr. & 7th Ave. N.
• Osco Drug - Univ. Dr. & 19th Ave. N.
• Minnkota Recycling - 903 4th Ave. N.
• HHW Building - 606 43 _ St. N.
• Children's Museum - 1201 28th Ave. N. (clear glass only)

South Side

• Sunmart Foods - 13^th Ave. & 25^th St. S.
• Cash Wise Foods - 14^th Ave. & 33^rd St. S.
• Hornbacher Foods - 13^th Ave. & 42^nd St. S.
• Hornbacher Foods - 32^nd Ave. & 15^th St. S.
• Sam’s Club/Wal-Mart - 13^th Ave. & 47^th St. S.
• Lincoln School - 21^st Ave. S., east of 9^th St.

GLASS, METAL & PLASTICS

North Side

• McKinley School - 2930 8th St. N.

South Side

• Carl Ben Eielson School - 1035 16^th St. S.
• Hawthorne School - 555 8^th Ave. S.

NEWSPRINT ONLY - Dakota Clinic, Univ. Dr. & 16^th Ave. S. (north parking lot)

OFFICE PAPER - (White, light colored. copy, computer paper, plain and window envelopes):Minnkota Recycling locations: 903 4^th Ave. N. & 3510 S. Univ. Dr. (containers are inside the redemption center; call 293-8428 for hours)

HOW & WHAT TO RECYCLE

Please follow the guidelines below when preparing items for recycling. Recyclables are not garbage, they are raw materials used to manufacture new products. Place materials in the correctly marked containers. If unacceptable materials are thrown in recycling containers, the ENTIRE LOAD MAY BE CONTAMINATED AND LANDFILLED. To prevent this from happening, please read this information and keep this newsletter for future reference. For more information, please call 296-9944 or visit www.cityoffargo.com/solidwaste/ Thanks for recycling!

CARDBORD BINS

Acceptable: Corrugated cardboard & brown paper bags. Flatten boxes .

Unacceptable: Wax-coated or glossy cardboard, dirty pizza boxes, pop cases & box board (cereal, shoe & cigarette-type boxes).

METAL CAN BINS

Acceptable: Aluminum, steel & tin cans as well as EMPTY paint cans with a thin film of dried paint. Rinse all cans. No need to remove labels from food cans.

Unacceptable: Scrap metal (car parts, iron & steel), razor blades, tin foil, nails, dirty cans, aerosol cans & paint cans with any contents remaining.

NEWSPAPER BINS

Acceptable: Newspaper, shoppers & anything that is delivered in the newspaper, including glossy inserts. Brown paper bags should be placed in the cardboard container.

Unacceptable: Magazines, catalogs, office paper, phone books & egg cartons.

YARD WASTE CONTAINERS

Acceptable: Grass, leaves, garden trimmings, and excess fruits & vegetables.

Unacceptable: Tree branches*, bushes, large amounts of sod, and lawn bags.

*Branches are collected by the Forestry Dept. and should be placed on the boulevard on your regular collection day. This service runs May-October. Do not place in bags, boxes or cans. Call 241-1465 for large piles or more information.

GLASS BINS

Acceptable: Clear, green & brown food & beverage containers. Empty & rinse all containers; remove lids, caps & covers; light blue glass bottles should be placed with green glass.

Unacceptable: Ceramics, window glass, light bulbs, & Pyrex

PLASTIC BINS

Acceptable: Plastic bottles with a neck numbered #1 & #2 (soda, milk, detergent & shampoo) are recyclable. Check for recycling symbols #1 & #2 on containers. Empty & rinse all bottles & containers. Remove caps, rings & lids.

Unacceptable: Motor oil, vegetable oil or antifreeze bottles, yogurt or cottage cheese containers, margarine tubs, ice cream pails, plastic bags, toys and any container numbered #3-#7.

MAGAZINE BINS

Acceptable: Magazines, small catalogs & similar printed material with glossy pages.

Unacceptable: Phone books & large catalogs with glue binding such as Sears and JCPenney.

DO NOT PLACE MEDICAL WASTE such as needles & syringes in recycling bins. Place used needles in a rigid container such as an empty coffee can, plastic laundry detergent, or bleach bottle. Secure lid tightly, label the container "Medical Waste" and place in the garbage. DO NOT recycle.

DISPOSAL & RECYCLING GUIDE

AEROSOL CANS:

If empty, throw in garbage. If unused contents are toxic or hazardous, including paint, take to HHW facility. Otherwise throw in garbage. NOT PLACE AEROSOL CANS in recycling containers.

ANTIFREEZE:

Take used antifreeze to HHW facility. DO NOT pour down storm sewer drains or septic tanks. For large amounts call: Antifreeze Recovery, Inc.: 232-4260, Oye Construction: 232-2782 , OSI Environmental: 233-5446

APPLIANCES:

Major appliances are banned from all N. D. landfills. Ask appliance dealer to take old appliance as a trade-in when purchasing a new one or take to: Appliances. Hazer's Auto & Truck Salvage: 282-044, Seventh Ave. Auto Salvage: 282-5130 (non-freon only) There is a disposal fee for appliances. The Fargo Landfill charges $20 plus weight (these are taken to Hazer's ). The landfill does not accept any appliances with freon.

BATTERIES:

Car batteries (lead-acid) are banned from all N.D. landfills. They must be accepted as trade-ins for new batteries at all retail stores. The following businesses take old car batteries: Batteries Plus: 232-3474 .Exide Battery: 277-1156, Hazer's Auto & Truck Salvage: 282-0441, Interstate Battery: 232-4409, K-Mart: 235-7303, HHW facility: 281-8915

Household batteries sizes AAA-D: Take to the HHW Facility.

Nickel Cadmium (Ni-cad) & lithium rchargeable batters can be taken to: Batteries Plus, Interstate All-Battery (280-9200), Monarch Photo, Nodak, Radio Shack, Target, Wal-Mart, HHW facility.

Button batteries: Can be taken to Batteries Plus, Interstate All-Battery, Monarch Photo, or Wal-Mart.

CARDS: GREETING & HOLIDAY

The following places accept used cards for making new cards: Hjemkomst Center, Atten: Juli M. 202 1^st Ave. N, Moorhead, 299-5514; SE Human Service Center, Atten: RSVP, 2624 9^th Ave S., Fargo, 298-4602; Friendship, Inc. Attn. Karla, 801 Page Dr., Fargo, 58103, 235-4969; St. Jude's Ranch for Children, 100 St. Jude's St., Boulder City, NV 89005, 800-492-3562 (front portion only, send or order cards).

CLOTHING & CLOTHING & HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

Items in good condition may be taken to: The Arc of Cass County: 232-6641, Dakota Boys Ranch: 280-2371, Goodwill Retail store: 234-9101, St. Vincent DePaul Society: 235-5944, New Life Center: 235-4453, Salvation Army Thrift Store: 233-7347

COMPUTERS

Used computers: If the computer is in working condition, check with Computer Renaissance (281-0566) to see if it can be re-used. Residential (single) units can be taken to the HHW Facility (April-October, M-W-F), 281-8915. For large quantities, call: Green Lights Recycling: 218-979-1068 (local); McLaren Computer Recycling: 297-0093

FILM CANISTERS

Empty plastic film canisters can be taken to: Monarch Photo, Target Photo Lab, Wal-Mart's Photo Lab.

FLUORESCENT BULBS

Can be taken to the HHW facility. Older fluorescent ballasts may contain PCBs--please take to HHW facility. Large quantity generators (more than 220 lbs. of hazardous waste per month) must contact a recycler: Green Lights Recycling: 800-208-8340; Lighting Unlimited: 800-958-0205, Mercury Waste Solutions (MWS): 651-628-9370, OSI Environmental: 233-5446, Retrofit: 800-795-1230; Superior Special Services: 800-831-2852

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE

Includes paints, thinners, stains, varnish, aerosol cans with contents, drain & oven cleaners, poisons, automotive fluids, older fluorescent light ballasts, weed & insect killer, etc. Please store material away from children and pets until it can be disposed of properly. Fargo's permanent HHW collection facility is located at 606 43_ St. N. and is open April--Qctober., Mon., Wed., and Fri.). Hazardous waste from conditionally exempt small quantity generators (small businesses that generate less than 220 lbs. of hazardous waste per month) will be accepted for a fee. Call 281-8915 for more information. For large amounts call: ETS: 282-6009, OSI Environmental: 233-5446, Safety Kleen: 237-9070

INK JET CARTRIDGES

Recycle your empty ink jet cartridges from personal computer printers in a free pre-paid envelope. Available at: Laser Tek Services: 239-4033 (free pickup); Office Office Interiors: 282-6570 (toner & ink jet; drop-off or free pick-up); Solid Waste Office: 2301 8^th Ave. N., 298-6944 or the HHW facility, 281-8915.

MOTOR OIL

Used motor oil is banned from all N.D. landfills. Econo Lube, Jiffy Lube, Hazer's Auto Salvage and most service stations accept used motor oil (up to 5 gal. at a time) at no charge during business hours. For large amounts contact Oye Construction, 232-2782 or OSI Environmental: 233-5446. A collection tank for used motor oil is located at the Fargo Landfill and at the HHW facility. (Motor oil & HEET bottles are NOT recyclable; throw in the garbage.)

OFFICE PAPER

Includes copy paper, envelopes with or without windows & computer paper. Paper accepted (inside the redemption centers) at Minnkota Recycling: 903 4th Ave. N. and 3510 S. Univ. Dr., Call 293-8428 for hours. Document destruction service available (businesses or large quantity generators should call for rates)..

OIL FILTERS

Completely drained oil filters can be taken to the HHW facility for recycling. OSI Environmental: 233-5446 for business (larger) quantities. Amoco, Econo Lube, & most service stations accept them for recycling (usually a $1.00 charge).

PAINT

Use up or give to someone who can use it or take to the HHW facility. Cans with small amounts of latex paint, oil-based paint & paint thinner can be dried out & placed in the garbage. Add sawdust, kitty litter or sand to solidify large amounts, then throw in the garbage.

PHONE BOOKS

Recycled every spring & winter when new books are distributed. Specially marked containers are placed at area grocery stores in March & December. The rest of the year, throw in garbage. DO NOT place in the magazine or newspaper recycling bins.

PLASTIC BAGS

Wal-Mart accepts plastic bags. Thrift stores (The Arc, Dakota Boys Ranch, Goodwill, New Life Center, Salvation Army, St. Vincent's) can re-use clean plastic bags. DO NOT place in recycling containers at the drop sites. Many dry cleaners have bins for dry cleaning bags.

PROPANE TANKS

Empty propane tanks can be thrown in the garbage if the valve is removed. If the valve can't be removed, or the tank has some gas in it, contact the following for disposal or re-valve options: Ferrellgas: 233-2478, .Suburban Propane: 800-582-8835

These companies accept large cylinders and do not accept small, disposable cylinders from grills or torches. These should be emptied and thrown in the garbage.

SCRAP METAL

DO NOT place at the recycling sites. Car parts, iron, steel, etc., can be taken to: Hazer's Auto & Truck Salvage: 282-0441, Seventh Ave. Auto Salvage: 282-5130, Fargo Landfill: 282-2489 .

STYROFOAM (polystyrene) "peanuts:"

Styrofoam peanuts, block & shape pieces, can be taken to the following stores for re-use: Mall Boxes, Etc.: 235-9505 (19th Ave. N.), Packaging Store: 237-9254 .

TIRES

Banned from the landfill (can be taken to the landfill for a fee and they will deliver to a recycler). Most dealers recycle old tires with the purchase of new ones.

TONER CARTRIDGES

Used, empty toner cartridges from laser printers and some copy machines can be taken to: Laser Systems: 293-6865, Mall Boxes, Etc.: 235-9505 (19th Ave. N.), Laser Tek Services: 239-4033 (free pickup).

NOTE:

This Information is provided by the City of Fargo as a public service and is not an endorsement of specific businesses, services or products, nor is It a complete listing of all services available.

Please call the business or agency to confirm hours, location & possible fees or charge for services.

The stuff we throw away…and what to do with it
Garbage collection

All garbage must be placed in galvanized metal, plastic or disposable containers such as sturdy plastic bags. Containers must not weigh over 50 pounds. Containers must be placed on the berm no earlier than 6:00 p.m. the evening prior to the collection day and no later than 8:00 a.m. the morning of collection. Garbage cans must be removed by 6:00 p.m. on collection day.

Items such as appliances, building material, furniture, concrete and automotive parts, etc., will be collected on a call-in basis only. Collection crews will attempt to collect the large items on your normal collection day; however, residents must contact the Solid Waste Dept. (241-1449) prior to their collection day. These items may also be hauled to the Sanitary Landfill. A fee will be charged.

Yard waste disposal

City crews will collect yard waste beginning October 14 through spring clean-up week. However, residents are encouraged to use compost sites whenever possible. Yard waste includes grass, leaves, garden trimmings, excess fruits and vegetables.

Large green containers for yard waste and smaller white containers for bags and boxes that you use for hauling the waste, are in place at the recycling centers. Recycling center locations are listed on page 7.

Compost & wood chips

Free compost and wood chips (1- yd. maximum) are available to Fargo residents. Proof of residency is required.

Compost can be picked up at the compost facility (7th Ave. N., east of 45th St.) every Wednesday and Thursday from Wednesday, September 4 through Thursday, September 26 (3:30—5:00 p.m.) and Saturday, September 14 (7:00 a.m.—noon). Residents with cans and bags for compost must load their own. City crews will help load pickups and trailers.

Appliances

Appliances will be picked up at no charge (limit 2) ONLY during the May Clean—Up Week.

Request your appliance dealer to take your old appliance or take to Seventh Avenue Auto Salvage (water heaters only), 402 42nd St. N.W. (282-5130) or Hazer’s Auto & Truck Salvage, 811 9th St. N.E., West Fargo, (282-0441) or the Solid Waste Department. There is a disposal fee for appliances.

Landfill information

Lead-acid batteries, used motor oil, tires and major appliances (including microwave ovens) are banned from landfills. The Fargo Landfill accepts tires and non-freon appliances for a fee and will haul them to a recycler.

Sanitary Landfill: 4501 7th Ave. N. (7th Ave. & 45th St. N.)
Hours 7:15 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. Monday- Saturday.

Information or assistance? Call 282-2489.

RECYCLING & HHW CLASSES

Coming soon: Recycling and Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) classes
Fargo's recycling office and Clay County Environmental programs will conduct classes through Moorhead's Community Education program. The winter catalog will list the classes under General Interest and Child Care Providers section. There is a small fee for the classes. The classes are:
3 Rs: Reduce, Reuse & Recycle: Find out tips on reducing waste, reusing various materials, what is/is not recyclable and what our recyclables are made into. Learn how to create less waste, shop for the environment and make a gift from recycling. Be prepared to take a surprise home.
Unknown hazards lurking in your home?: Have you checked under your sink or in your garage lately? Learn about the hazards of household hazardous waste, proper storage and disposal. Learn about safe cleaning alternatives and ideas for reducing, reusing & recycling HHW.
Call 284-3400 to register or for more information; or link to the MCE web site from www.cityoffargo.com/solidwaste

RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE REMINDERS

Where did the four pages of recycling information go? Since this is a special edition of the Fargo Update, not all of the usual information is included. Please refer to your Fall-Winter 2002-2003 issue of the Update for the recycling charts. The information is also available on our web site: www.cityoffargo.com/solidwaste [It's above this section]

Attention curbside recyclersThe 2003 curbside recycling calendar will be out soon. If you are not home when we deliver them during the first two weeks of December, we will attempt to leave them in between your door or in another dry location near your entrance.
If you were not aware that Fargo has curbside recycling, call 298-6944 for more information or to sign up for this service. No more standing at the recycling containers in the cold, now simply set it at the curb (or in the alley).
Mark your calendar!Stop by the Fargo Recycling & Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) booth at these shows this spring:
February 21-23, 2003: Red River Valley Home & Garden Show, Fargodome.
March 15-16, 2003: Home, Lawn & Garden Show, Civic Center

New resident information

If you are a new resident or have moved and need a refresher course on Fargo's solid waste, recycling and household hazardous waste services, new brochures are now available!
One brochure covers information on garbage collection, landfill hours, temporary containers, Spring Clean-Up Week, compost and more.
The second brochure covers information on recycling drop-off sites, curbside recycling, how & what to recycle, yard waste, HHW and a miscellaneous disposal guide.
Brochures can be picked up at the brochure rack in City Hall (200 3rd St. N.) or by mail (call 298-6944.

Special waste items

Items such as appliances, building material, furniture, concrete and automotive parts, etc., will be collected on a call-in-basis only.
Collection crews will attempt to collect the large items on your normal collection day; however, residents must contact the Solid Waste office (241-1449) prior to their collection day. These items may also be hauled to the Sanitary Landfill. A fee will be charged.
Lead-acid batteries, used motor oil, tires and major appliances (including microwave ovens).
These items are banned from North Dakota landfills. The Fargo landfill accepts tires and non-freon appliances for a fee and will haul them to a recycler.
Appliances
Appliances will be picked up at no charge (limit 2) only during Spring Clean-Up Week (first full week of May).Request your appliance dealer to take your old appliance or take to Seventh Avenue Auto Salvage (water heaters only), 282-5130, or Hazer's Auto & Truck Salvage, 282-0441. You may also call the Solid Waste Office (a fee will be charged for disposal).
Phone book recycling
Nov. 15Dec. 22: Containers will be located at Hornbacher's Foods (Northport, Univ. Dr. S., Southgate, 13th Ave.); Cash Wise Foods in Fargo and Sunmart (University Drive and 7th Ave. N.). All types of telephone books (McLeod USA & Quest) will be accepted in the containers.

THE RECYCLING STORY

Ever wonder where items go when they leave your recycling bin?
At the grocery store last week, you purchased a jug of laundry detergent (#2), bananas, a jar of pickles, cereal, toilet paper and a bottle of water (#1 ). When you arrived home, you received a birthday present, mailed to you in a corrugated cardboard box. Later in the month, you put these empty items on the curb or took them to the recycling site for recycling. After spending a couple of days in the recycling container, a truck took them to the recycling centerMinnkota Recycling.
At the center, plastic bottle #1 is separated from plastic bottle #2. Each is packed in its own bale. #1 bottle is sent to Georgia where bottles are washed, melted and made into a fabric that is spun into carpet. Sometimes #1 bottles get made into clothing such as t-shirts, jackets, mittens and more. #2 bottles travel to another company in Minnesota to be made into lawn edging and patio lumber.
Some of the glass jars and bottles are sent to be made into new glass bottles and jars. The rest of them go through a crushing machine at the recycling center and are broken down into small pieces. Next, they are taken to Glass Recycling Midwest in Fargo, where they are crushed further and made into sandblasting material. They can now be used to blast off old paint.
People are often confused about recycling corrugated boxes. They mean well, however, pop cases, shoe boxes, cereal boxes and other boxboard cannot be recycled in Fargo. These have to be separated because the boxboard is considered contamination. After being separated, they are baled up and sent to different places to be made into more cardboard, cereal boxes and other similar items.
Banana peels, as well as leftover apples and garden trimmings from the end of the season, all make their way to the compost container at the recycling site. There they are mixed with grass clippings and leaves. They will all be made into compost. In the spring people use the compost to make their flower beds, gardens and yards come to life with rich nutrients and the cycle will begin all over.
Recycling is important to both our environment (fewer new resources needed) and the economy (creates local jobs in our community). Thank you for recycling and composting keep up the good work!
For information about Fargo's recycling program, visit our web site: www.cityoffargo.com/solidwaste/

Stop unwanted mail—or at least slow the flow

Is your garbage can filled with envelopes, catalogs, fliers and other unwanted bulk business mail?

Have you ordered one item by mail and now you are flooded with other similar item catalogs or even unrelated ones?

If so, your name has been passed around, traded and often times rented by companies that want your business. Some companies depend heavily on new customers from their bulk business mail. But what happens when it has become the majority of your garbage each week?

Don't despair, there is good news (especially if you have access to the Internet).

The City of Fargo's Division of Solid Waste has links to remove your name from lists on their web site: www.cityoffargo.com/solidwaste/

For those of you without Internet access, the following mailing address may be used:

DMA Mail Preference Service, Box 643, Carmel, NY 10512.

It helps if you can put the mailing address label in with your letter to remove your name, as the company usually lists a code or customer number on the labels.

Minnkota Recycling (north & south side locations) now has containers for this type of mail (including flyers, windowed envelopes and more), call 293-8428 for their hours.

Curbside brush recycling

1. This service is provided weekly from May 1 through October 31, 2002 and coincides with your regular garbage day.
2. Brush must be placed on the boulevard.
3. Stumps and roots will not be collected.
4. Do not put brush in garbage cans, boxes or bags.
5. Residents can haul their brush to the landfill at no charge. Proof of residency is required.
6. This program is not intended to subsidize commercial tree service work. It is the responsibility of the property owner and/or tree service to haul the brush to the landfill for disposal.
7. Brush up to 10 inches in diameter will be chipped. Large piles (over 2 pickup loads) will require scheduling a log loader for pickup at the rate of $120.00 per hour.

For additional information regarding forestry-related programs call 241-1465.

CLEARING SIDEWALKS OF SNOW!

Winter is just around the corner! City ordinance requires the sidewalk in front of or adjoining any building or lot, whether occupied or unoccupied, to be clear of snow and ice to the width of such sidewalk on or before 9:00 p.m. each day.
If snow and ice are not removed from the sidewalk by 9:00 p.m. each day, the City may remove it and the expense for such removal will be charged and assessed against the property.
Snow which has been shoveled or removed from any sidewalk or driveway must be placed upon the boulevard in such a manner that it does not create a hazard.
Snow must not be placed in the street or on other people's property.

SNOW SAFETY TIPS

Your roof
During the past few winters, you've probably heard more than you cared to about snow and what you should be doing around your home should the snow we receive begin to build up. Doubtless some of the things you have heard even alarmed you into taking actions that may or may not have been necessary.
The first thing that comes to my mind is the advice, published 4 or 5 years ago, that you should begin cleaning snow from your rooftop to avoid excessive build-up. My personal, first reaction was a fear that such advice might actually cause more people damage than any threat posed by the snow. I was very concerned about the possibility of people falling from snow-covered roofs or having heart attacks or strokes. Before you run for your shovel to clean off that roof this winter, I would advise you to consider a few things and judge for yourself as to whether or not you should be concerned.
You should not be concerned if the snow build-up on your roof is at normal amounts based on your experience. Your roof structure, if it has not been altered, is capable of successfully handling a great deal of snow.
Most roofs are designed to handle a minimum of 30 to 35 pounds per square foot of roof area. This is a good deal of snow. Provided your roof structure has not been changed, it should accommodate at least as much snow as it always has. Some roofs constructed with portions that are higher than others may be more susceptible to damage from accumulating snow in the form of drifts at roof junctures. You only need to be more aware of these areas of your roofs. These areas of newer roofs have been designed to accommodate snow drifts.

Ice dams
Ice dams form over roof eaves especially in older homes. They are caused by the snow experiencing the freeze/thaw process through the action of sunshine during otherwise cold temperatures and heat escaping through these areas of the roof or a combination of these events.
Ice dams may cause damage to roofing materials and leakage at these locations. Older homes are more susceptible to ice dams. In some cases it may be necessary to remove some of the snow built up in these areas. You should use your best judgment and your experience with your home in making the determination of when or if snow removal is a good idea.

Egress-exit windows
Egress windows from basements usually are located in area wells and on window wells and should be kept clear of debris and snow or ice build-up.
These windows are designed and required for two purposes: the escape of sleeping room occupants and the free entry of rescuers.
For these reasons window wells on which these windows depend should be kept as clear as possible. This may require the removal of snow. Lower level windows of split or bi-level homes may also become blocked by snow and should be kept clear to ensure that they can be operated from the inside in the event of an emergency.

Roof vents
Blocked roof vents from either your fuel-fired appliances or your plumbing can pose very real threats to your health or safety. While appliances such as furnaces or boilers will seldom block completely because they vent fairly hot air, snow build up, even at a distance may cause them to not draft properly. This might cause back up of combustion products, including carbon monoxide, within your home. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that can and does pose serious health problems if the cause of its build up is not removed.
While plumbing vents do not typically contain carbon monoxide they can and do convey gases that are also dangerous to your health. Plumbing vents do convey warmer air to the exterior of your home. This air is generally not sufficiently warm to prevent snow from blocking these openings.
When these vents are blocked, plumbing fixtures may not function properly and that malfunction may cause gases to escape back into your home.

High efficiency (PVC) vents
Often overlooked vents from your home appliances that are also affected by large build-ups of snow are those from high efficiency, fuel-fired equipment such as your furnace.
These vents may not exit your home through its roof. Typically many of these vents leave your home below your first floor through its band joist. Located in this way, especially if concealed or partially concealed by foundation plantings, these vents are easily affected by snow build-up around your foundation.
These vents can be easily cleared and should be inspected for blockage as often as possible.
For information call the Building Inspection office, 241-1561.

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

The Fargo Fire Department suggests some unique ideas for Christmas gifts that can save a life:
Smoke detectors are needed in every bedroom, just outside the bedrooms and one on every level of your home.
How about getting someone a fire extinguisher? An all-purpose dry chemical extinguisher (ABC type) can be used on ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids or live electrical fires.
If your home has an attached garage, a fireplace or uses a gas or oil furnace, a carbon monoxide detector would be a gift you need.
Many homes have bedrooms on an upper level. If a fire blocked your exit through your house how would you get to the ground safely through your window? A chain escape ladder is what you need for your bedroom.

SUMP PUMPS

The winter season is upon us again. It is time to shift our efforts to preparing for freezing temperatures, ice and snow. This includes preparing our sump pump discharge hose. Many of us will be able to use a short 8' to 10' hose that allows the discharge to disperse harmlessly into the yard. When the ground is frozen, the water will not cycle back into the drain tile. The short hose allows the water to completely drain out before it freezes. A good cover of snow will also insulate the hose against freezing. Many homes do not have a constant sump pump discharge during the winter months. These homeowners may be able to completely disconnect the hose from the outside pipe. If the sump pump does activate, it will discharge onto the snow.
Our inspectors have seen many homeowners run water softener discharge into the sump pump pit. This causes a buildup of salt water that eventually ends up in the yard, killing the grass. Water softener and air conditioner discharges should go into the floor drains.
Our Sump Pump Program allows homeowners to connect their sump pumps to the sanitary system during the winter months if they obtain a seasonal waiver. The waiver charge is $36.00 per year and is added to the water bill at $3.00 per month. If someone moves from one location, the waiver is automatically canceled and a new waiver must be obtained for the new location. The seasonal waiver allows homeowners to connect their sump pump hose to the sanitary system from October 1 to March 31. This program is a wonderful solution for the homeowners that spend the winter in warmer climates.
Have a safe and fun winter from all of us at the City of Fargo's Sump Pump Program.
Please call us at 461-7867 if you have any questions about your sump pump or its connections. For more information and waiver applications, visit our web site at http://www.cityoffargo.com/

TOBACCO CESSATION PROGRAM at Fargo Cass Public Health

Improving the health of people in our area--that's the goal of a new tobacco cessation program offered by Fargo Cass Public Health.
Health risks associated with tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure are a serious problem for the United States and North Dakota. Approximately 440,000 people in the United States die each year from tobacco-related diseases and another 3,000 die from secondhand smoke exposure. Tobacco contributed to 19% of the premature deaths in Cass County in 2001 (149 out of the total 978 deaths).
Nationally, 23.3% of adults are smokers; in Cass County, that figure drops to 20.3%. That means 25,000 people in Cass County could expose nonsmokers to secondhand and environmental tobacco smoke. Cigarette smoke is very harmful to smokers and the nonsmokers around them.
More than 25% of low birth weight babies (5.5 pounds or less) born in Cass County from 1998-2001 had mothers who smoked during pregnancy. Children live in about half of the households with adult smokers. Tobacco is not easy to quit-- that is why we set up the Break Away from Nicotine (BAN) program which is based on Mayo Clinic's Nicotine Dependence Center model, and is recognized as one of the most successful tobacco cessation programs available. The Fargo Cass Public Health BAN program operates on a sliding fee scale so that everyone who wants to participate has the opportunity.

One-on-one customized program
Every client has a one-on-one consultation with our staff. After the consultation, the client attends a treatment session where we develop a treatment plan for him or her. Clients also attend three educational sessions designed to help them stay tobacco-free.
During the treatment session, the BAN staff discusses the options available to help smokers break away from their nicotine addiction. These include nicotine replacement therapy and behavioral therapy. Nicotine replacement therapy (such as the nicotine patch) relieves some of the withdrawal symptoms caused by the lowering of the nicotine level in the body.

Each client's treatment plan is designed specifically for him or her.
Cookie cutter plans that have a one-size-fits-all approach are not as effective as plans designed to meet individual needs. Our customized plans allow the BAN staff to determine clients' nicotine levels and gradually remove their bodies from nicotine dependence, reducing unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Together the client and BAN staff set a \ldblquote quit date which will be the client's first day to be tobacco-free.

Clients select educational sessions that fit their schedules.
These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including why addiction occurs, what the nicotine cycle is, triggers of tobacco use, withdrawal, coping with withdrawal and relapse prevention. We also cover stress management, nutrition and exercise.

Support is very important in the BAN program.
Fargo Cass Public Health teams up with supportive people in each client's life to help the smoker become tobacco-free. If needed, continued support is available for up to a year after clients complete the program.

Interested in the BAN program and becoming Tobacco-free?
Taking the first step is difficult but it is a very positive, life-changing event. At BAN, we know how addictive nicotine is. We can help our clients live a healthier life by ending tobacco dependence.
For more information or to set up a free consultation, please call Anne at 241-1367.

IN THIS ISSUE

• Building codes
• Calendars
• Fargo history
• Fargo statistics
• Fire safety
• Landlord training
• Landmarks
• League of Women Voters
• Library
• Neighborhoods
• Parking
• Recycling
• Remember
• Transportation
• Trees
• Web sites (Fargo)
• Unwanted mail
• Yard signs
• Your opinion
• Snow problems
• Christmas gift ideas
• Sump pumps
• Tobacco cessation