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No entertainment spots in Bismarck for teens

 
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Sep 14, 2007 - 08:30:11 CDT
By DAVE HERRMANN
Bismarck
I have recently moved back to North Dakota from Los Angeles. In coming back, I have noticed how Bismarck has grown, but of course in the wrong way. Bismarck still has yet to cut into the teenage drinking epidemic that has haunted the city for years and years.

While Bismarck continues to grow in retail, entertainment largely has lagged. Why aren't there things in Bismarck for teenagers to do at night? Living in L.A., teenagers have plenty to keep busy with, including many entertainment hot spots, such as discount movie theaters, state of the art bowling alleys, large arcades that are all open late into the night. What does Bismarck have? Absolutely nothing after 9 p.m.

Now, people must ask themselves, why hasn't Bismarck understood why underage kids drink? Well, frankly I look around and see that the city is dead on a Friday night by 10:30 or 11 for kids under the age of 21. Why doesn't Bismarck tap into a discount movie theater like Fargo or Grand Forks?

Well for one, Kirkwood Mall at one time had a movie theater on its premises, but due to high rent it closed, only to remain a vacant lost place that could serve as a place for kids to hang out late at night. How about a cool bowling alley? Oh yes, that's right, Bismarck closed its bowling alley.

Why doesn't Bismarck think about its kids rather than continue to punish them for simply passing time at night?

Why not take those extra funds for hiring extra police to crack down on underage drinking and give the money to an entertainment committee dedicated to making Bismarck a fun place for under-21-year-olds?

Seriously Bismarck, wake up. Kids are drinking at such an alarming rate that it makes me sick. Get going before we lose another round of kids to drinking problems.
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No entertainment spots in Bismarck for teens
Comments

Cali wrote on Nov 5, 2007 8:16 PM:

" Wow. This issue has been way over dramatized. I lived in LA, lived in Bis, lived in Mpls, and now live back in LA. I travel a lot, just got back from Chicago and Mpls. I was thinking how nice it would be to live in Chicago or back in Mpls because I'm bored with LA. It all comes down to the fact that no matter where you live you will get bored of it. I despised the small city feel of Bismarck, couldn't stand the cold in Minneapolis, and now hate the traffic and smog of LA. Truthfully Bismarck was the most fun city I lived in, because we had to make things fun. Yeah, we drank. We even did drugs a couple of times. Had I been in Mpls or LA I'm sure I would have done the same. It's part of today's society. I have decided to keep LA as my home, but still miss the fun times we had in Bismarck. Point is, of course all the kids think it's horrible, the grass is always greener on the other side. If they want to move let them. If the big cities of the states give them the entertainment they thought it would they will stay. But from looking at a lot of the kids I went to school with they came back to ND. Stop comparing Bismarck to LA. Bismarck has a metro of just over 100,000, and LA a metro of over 17.5 million. There is no comparison. Small cities like Bismarck, Fargo, Billings, Rapid City, etc are doing just fine, the changes will come with the generations. "

Response to From Afar wrote on Sep 28, 2007 8:13 AM:

" I believe that cities wither more due to economic factors, than the lack of entertainment for kids. Providing entertainment for kids doesn't ensure that they will grow up and stay here - it's about making a living. When I was a teenager, we often complained about having nothing to do - it's standard, for kids. The difference now is that there is more of an attitude of giving kids everything they want. They get bored with the material things they have, so give them something else. They get bored with that, so let's have more places for them to go. They'll get bored with that, too. "

Owl wrote on Sep 28, 2007 6:53 AM:

" The view from each side of the fence: My wife and I were having lunch in one of our favorite small dining places in Fargo. We were talking to a couple and mentioning how we wished Bismarck had some more of the indie shops and eateries that Fargo does. They said they were just talking about how they wished Fargo had the Missouri River with our walking trail and the mountain-bike trails in the hills. ; ) "

Puberty Problem wrote on Sep 27, 2007 11:00 PM:

" Once upon a time the teens were going through puberty at the same time their mothers were going through menopause and the mothers beat the daylights out of them and they forgot about it. Now days the mothers have various hormone replacement drugs. There is no such thing as a puberty drug that works and when the kids try to self medicate they are doomed. Every kid in every city claims there is not enough entertainment. They are surrounded by computers, video games, radio, television, boom boxes, fishing, hunting, photography, and numerous places to spend money. Maybe we need a “Puberty Expert” to teach a class in dealing with puberty. Perhaps each “puberty challenged” individual could step up to the microphone and say his name “and I have a puberty problem”. Perhaps we could have a Youth Theater Group do a musical stage play called “Puberty in the Dakotas”. Naturally we would need lots of young cowboy poets and awards for the best songs. Perhaps a speech by a young Roosevelt impersonator saying something like “I had puberty once and you just got to tough it through”. If you can handle puberty you can handle most anything. "

its true wrote on Sep 27, 2007 10:41 PM:

" its true Bismarck was said to be growing faster than Fargo. The one thing that everyone seems to be missing is entertainment and facilities, not just for teens but for young families. If we want respectable families to move in we need to be providing facilities and family friendly activity options. If we don't pull together as a community and look at all aspects of activities and interests we either won't have the influx of families that we will need to fill the houses being built and work at eh many job openings in the city. No I dont think it is just the cities responsibility but they are the most likey people to be leading the cicizens in teh right direction. I think that the city commissioners are so afraid of making someone angry - well I thnk we all know that you can't make everyone happy but you sure could use your position to make things happen and keep our city growing in the right direction. "

Teichthesen wrote on Sep 27, 2007 8:21 PM:

" Perhaps the problem teens face is that their imagination and creativity have been atrophied and crippled from the beginning by incessant stimulus from television, radios, computers, video games and movies. No one needs to think about anything, you are told what you need to buy, do and wear. The radio station is "playing all your favorite hits" so you needn't worry about making up your own mind. If you did, you wouldn't fit in and then what would you do? Perhaps they have become so programmed that when the stimulus ends they simply sit and stare at a blank screen, waiting for the picture to come back on. I've seen it both ways. Its called Social Programming. "

MamaMia wrote on Sep 27, 2007 1:29 PM:

" If you are looking for art in Bismarck there are quite a few art galleries in downtown Bis. Many stay open until 5:30, and one, Latitudes, I think, stays open until 6. Check them out! "

Do something about it wrote on Sep 27, 2007 1:08 PM:

" Why is it that everyone is using the Bismarck Tribune to ask why the city doesn't have something? City government is run by elected officials, you put them there! Go talk to them. How many of you blogsters have ever attended a city meeting and brought the topic up for discussion, or asked that an exploratory committee be designated to look into the feasability of 'teen entertainment'. If it is that important to you, don't wait for someone to do it for you, and then complain in a newspaper blog, do something about it. If you voice your idea, and get shot down, and are frustrated, then you have a leg to stand on. The city commissions in both Bismarck and Mandan are there to SERVE YOU! Quit blaming such 'general' groups like 'the city' for things you feel passionate about that would make this a better place to live. Get off your computer and do something. "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 27, 2007 10:22 AM:

" to Southpark; Agree 100% with your post on 'trash.' Ash should take a train trip through Chicago, Minneapolis or any large city, for that matter, some time and really see the trash part of a town. In comparison, all of Bismarck is squeaky clean. "

Mom of 2 wrote on Sep 27, 2007 9:11 AM:

" To Taylor, So do you think that these extra places for you kids to hang out would help in keeping these kids out of trouble, drinking, drugs or would it just be a waste of time? My personal thought would be it would be great at first but then that would fade and they would back to doing what they were doing before. Kids are growing up entirely too fast at a younger age, it's very scarey. Not just now but all along but it seems more common that KIDS are wanting to do everything that they know they can't. Back when I went to school it was just drinking and smoking, now it's that plus Dui's, drugs, etc. "

Owl wrote on Sep 27, 2007 8:25 AM:

" N.P. - I agree with you. Bismarck does seem to be lacking on the art and music scene. Still, there is a lot going on in those areas that are not well publicized. There should be many more 'young people's' discounts for events. The Senior Citizens get all the discounts but they are the ones who usually have the most money; much more than young people do. I also agree with you about needing more unusual, 'non-mainstream/chain/clone' stores and eateries. Unfortunately, if you try something new or unusual in Bis-Man you're often considered some kind of freak or weirdo. A young person told me they were doing yoga in a park here and someone called the police! We could use some good eateries that serve new types of foods and with great atmosphere, too. Urban Harvest and places like Smoothie Operator and some of the small Italian eateries are bringing new things to Bis but not without some resistance. They need our support. How about Bismarck leads with the establishment of 'Young People's Discounts'? "

N.P. wrote on Sep 26, 2007 10:09 PM:

" Bismarck lacks in art. There are some cool shops downtown.. only open till 5 though. Not open on Sundays whatsoever. No concerts because most of the venues dont allow them anymore. More art shows for teens would be cool. I tried to enter one but it was only 18 and above. The way its going now though. No kid is going to remember being bored in NorthDakote... or remember anything...actually.. Some more things indoor would be good. Btw. It is cold a lot here so that makes Raging rivers..(which is too expensive anyways...) the amusement park..(which is super boring..) the zoo.. (gets old.. and im too old for it..) the river... not options. Hate to break it to everyone hoping youth is going to stay in Nodak. But just about everyone I know is applying to out of state colleges and planning on staying out of state. "

Taylor wrote on Sep 26, 2007 9:51 PM:

" I agree. Bismarck sucks. I hate it here. There really is nothing to do. I lost so many friends because they started drinking. honestly. Take it from a 15 year old. "

Owl wrote on Sep 26, 2007 4:24 PM:

" There are many more things to do now in Bis-Man than there were when I was in high school 30 years ago. What does that tell you? Hint - 30 years ago we also said there was nothing to do. My neices and nephews in the Twin Cities also tell their parents there is nothing to do. If you lived in a metro area what would you do regularly that you can't do in Bis-Man? "

Mom 2 wrote on Sep 26, 2007 4:04 PM:

" I just have to say that I agree that kids will be kids, Unless you as a parent put your foot down and teach them that if they want something then they should work for it. Let them know that if they want to go out and try to fit in with the so called in crowed that they will end up in trouble and probally out at ycc. our daughter has learned that not all of us are made out of money and she feels good about buying her own car , even though it is not as fancy as some of her classmates. But she has found out how to take pride in the things she has.And I'm proud to say that she along with her other sibling have found alot of things to do that dont involve drinking or smoking or drugs and I'am very proud of myself and my husband for raising our kids to be responsible young people. There are things for these kids to do that are not negative and wont get them into trouble. These kids now days have to look for the positive things in life and if the in crowed is not into that then these kids need to find new friends. Plain and simple. Parents need to take responsibilty for there kids and stop turning the other way and thinking that kids will find out for themselves what is wrong and right. Dont leave your kids out there alone to try to figure life out for themselves, Because nine times out of ten the kids will end up in trouble or get hurt.We take one night a week and spend the whole night together as a family, watching movies, doing yard work, going out to eat , or just sitting around talking about how everyone is doing in school or at work.The real problem today is we as parents sometimes forget to take time out of our busy lives to be familys and have family time. Dont just blamr the kids its everyone.God bless all the kids. "

Teen Kids wrote on Sep 26, 2007 2:47 PM:

" OK, I can honestly say that I didn't read all of the comments so I apologize if I am repeating what someone else said but my thought is it seems like more teenage kids are drinking and getting into trouble is because our population is forever growing.....Therefore more kids to get into trouble than compared to when I was younger. I personally have 2 kids and I will guarantee that if you put them to work around your home they don't have enough time to get into trouble or think about drinking. That's what I was brought up doing and it helped me as well. I would imagine the fear of dad's foot had alittle to do with it too but for the most part keeping your kids busy is a very big key. If you don't have much for them to do send them out to my place, there are always things that need to be done. "

northern nd wrote on Sep 26, 2007 2:30 PM:

" I am sick and tired of people whinning about kids having nothing to do. Why do they have to be entertained. I live in a town where there is no bowling alley or movie theater, but my kids have fun. They play games, read books, watch movies, and spend time with their family. We also do a lot as a family, ex: hunting and fishing. They also make their own fun - getting a basketball game together, riding 4-wheeler, etc. It's what you make of it! "

Southpark wrote on Sep 26, 2007 2:07 PM:

" Don't you ever get tired of hearing how ND has the highest underage drinking percentage. According to what? This is the law of large numbers and we don't have large numbers to compare it to. We also have a lot more kids that get cited for under aged drinking because the cops in the big cities have more urgent problems to deal with such as drug dealers and gang bangers. Underage drinking is a problem. It always has been and it always will be. It doesn't matter if you live in Hebron or Detroit. Kids think drinking is cool and of course it is forbidden so therefore makes it that much more appealing. We also have teens that score higher than the national average on ACT's and a higher number of graduates and college graduates. Most of the teenagers commenting on this board will move away, grow up and come back to North Dakota for all it has to offer. It will just take them some time to figure it out. "

Southpark wrote on Sep 26, 2007 1:52 PM:

" Ash: apparantly you have not traveled to far. You don't know what trash is. Why don't you go spend some time on your own in a big city for awhile. You need an eye opening experience, like most of the teens in this town. You will come crawling back. Bismarck could open a hundered teen establishments and you would still go where you could drink. It's just the way it is. Learn to enjoy life without feeling the need for over stimulation. Life is what you make it. "

benito wrote on Sep 26, 2007 1:38 PM:

" im 17 and the only reason i smoke or drink is because there is nothing to do in bismarck. ha. nubs. "

ash wrote on Sep 26, 2007 1:32 PM:

" I wanna know how our city is so lovely. Most parts of bismarck are trashy as hell. The only really nice parts of bismarck are where the rich people live. There is nothing to do on weekends after 10 pm. Im 18 years old, and there is nothing to do in this lame-o town "

pretender wrote on Sep 26, 2007 4:52 AM:

" there is enough video games and computer games to keep any teenage busy nowadays.. if a teen wants to get into trouble .. he or she will. its all that simple. kids will be kids forever. "

Yup wrote on Sep 25, 2007 8:57 PM:

" Oh yeah by the way I'am a 17 year old kid and my parents dont hand me anything . I pay my own way and I'm proud of the things I have. And I'm happy to beable to say I paid for what ever I wanted and what i have got. "

Yup wrote on Sep 25, 2007 6:06 PM:

" Go out of town and enjoy a good bon fire. Then that will lead to drinking and other things and it will all boil down to our teens being bored, They wont be bored when they have a baby and have to support it by them selves, or go on welfare. Get it together make these bored teens get jobs and start paying their way. If they had some responsibility instead of getting everything handed to them they would not have time to get bored.Duh "

Bismarcker wrote on Sep 25, 2007 3:48 PM:

" I think most are missing the point here. It's not about entertaining the youth. It's about providing a place for them to go and entertain themselves. "

Haze wrote on Sep 25, 2007 2:35 PM:

" Thank you 23. It's nice to hear from some younger people on this issue. Instead of all the old-timers who want to read and eat popcorn. "

23 wrote on Sep 25, 2007 9:22 AM:

" I really, really agree with "from afar". I was an avid reader, had a few friends to share the cost of renting movies, did chores without an allowance, and got my first job three months after I turned 16...and still felt the lack of entertainment options. I could afford the movie theater, a night of bowling, or a good concert only a few times per year, especially before I started working (and I did babysitting before the official job). We might not think it's up to us to entertain young people, and it's true that it's not an obligation in that sense, but if we expect Bismarck to keep its youthful generation, don't tell them all to sit at home. "

Ryan wrote on Sep 25, 2007 3:32 AM:

" To At one time: Yes, I too remember such, back when Bis-Man had a decent punk/indie/metal/whatever music scene for the younger folks (like myself then) about 7-10 years ago. There were several (now long gone :( ) venues around here where such shows and bands were playing: Screaming Bean, One World Coffee House, The Midtowner (later the Stadt Haus, later the Starlite lounge, later Joker's), even a couple of shows at the Amvets and other assorted places. All of these shows were quite controlled and behaved, as you mentioned, and were not the gatherings of deliquent chaos the older peoples around here would consider them to be (I should know, I attended many a concert around here like the ones you mentioned, in fact they were probably some of the ones you set up and promoted...!) Nowadays, there is no such venues around here anymore (save for the Post, which is going to have a show like back in the day this Sunday (9/20)!!). This is mainly due to most of these venues closing down for economic reasons, as has been mentioned by others here. Plus, the conservative standpoint of the older-aged majority of this town isn't helping this situation either...... ;( "

Ryan wrote on Sep 25, 2007 3:09 AM:

" Yes, I have to also say that Losing Faith has also hit the bullseye smack-dab in its precise middle, Bismarck's lack of a college base (unlike Fargo-Moorhead or Grand Forks, places where all age groups are represented equally, IMHO) really makes for it being a quite philistine, white-bread, narrow-minded, and stodgily conservative city, which is what Bismarck truly is, frankly speaking. No wonder why people aged 18-35 are quite absent here. Due to such, Bis seems to have the middle-aged to the elderly for the majority of its population, leaving the teens & young adults (like myself) out in the cold, and therefore, guaranteeing them to be bound to move to bigger & culturally richer cities. When ND became a state in 1889, the newly-formed state gov't gave the also-new capital, Bismarck, the choice of either hosting the State University, or the State Penitentiary. They chose the latter, and Bismarck has been suffering ever since. I can't wait to move away from this mecca of dreary philistia... :P "

former bis/man resident wrote on Sep 24, 2007 8:29 PM:

" try getting a group of friends together and go for coffee runs at a local 24/7 restaurant at odd hours or at a time that its not busy. usually servers don't mind order an appatizer or a slice of pie as long as the server is tipped for filling the coffee pot. i'm in my early 30's and when my friends and i don't feel like going to a bar and drink we'll call each other up and go out for coffee and sit for hours. "

stillyoungenough wrote on Sep 24, 2007 12:38 PM:

" As a person that is not relatively that old, I don't think that it's up to businesses to entertain kids. i went to highschool in a town with 200 people. The closest bowling alley, movie theater, etc was 45 miles away. Kids and teenagers need to be taught to make the correct choices. It's easy enough to rent a movie with a friend, play board games, make home movies, etc. It's not that hard to find ways to entertain yourself without outside help. The choice to not drink, smoke, do drugs comes from home "

from afar... wrote on Sep 24, 2007 12:13 PM:

" If you guys will accept the advice of an out-of-towner: it may or may not be your job to "provide" entertainment to the young people in your city. But if you fail to do so, your town and your state will continue to wither and die. It's very easy to say, 'hey, I always got by with reading books and studying, and I was usually working anyway - these kids should do the same.' And the ones who say that are the same ones who look around in amazement when all the young people have left town, and your area is full of people over 50 and under 15 (who are just waiting to grow up and leave). And you'll sit there, scratching yourself and watching in non-comprehension, as more schools consolidate, more businesses shrink or close, and the population gets older. Please, PLEASE, don't believe that all your town, state, and region have to do to survive is keep people safe, support strong families, and uphold the rule of law. Do you know how many cities in the Dakotas, Nebraska, Iowa have worked so hard to provide good safe streets, clean schools, upstanding citizens, and then folded when all the people go to Chicago or Minneapolis or even California once they grow up? You have to look past next month if you want to create a self-supporting city and state. thanks for your time. "

Fossilman wrote on Sep 24, 2007 9:35 AM:

" You mean Minot has Bismark beat on places for teens to hang out at...........Many places in Minot for the teens and family to hang with.... Bismark surprises me that they don't have anything at all! But yes its up to the parents too,but with two jobs and work,work,work,they pay their children no mond.....Its all about the mighty dollar.....Kids don't have a prayer today!!!!!!!!!!!! "

Callie wrote on Sep 24, 2007 8:52 AM:

" Response to Joe: You hit the nail on the head. Why does everyone else have to provide the entertainment for kids? I grew up in a small town, and believe me, we had far less available to us than kids in this area have. We also were given much less, and were expected to do chores, work part-time, etc. Maybe if kids were expected to do a little more at home, and parents spent more time with their kids, there would be far less time available for kids to have to find "something to do." "

former bis/man resident wrote on Sep 23, 2007 3:13 PM:

" I find this funny alot of people mention cultural activities and yes i do have to agree parents need to get more involved with their kids. but how many 12-20 year olds does anyone know who is interested in culture? i didn't start becoming interested in cultural things til i was in my late 20's and was able to appreciate them more. there are some family activities that go on in the city but its the parents who need to take the time for stuff like that and as far as reading books well i don't know about anyone else but i've tried that route as a teen and adult and doesn't work there are alot of people who have short attention spans and get bored easy with books and now when i read a book its to read to my 2 yr old nephew because that is one of his favorite things. try something new like volunteering for the big brother big sister program or some other program not only is it fun but rewarding as well "

Right here wrote on Sep 23, 2007 8:12 AM:

" Nothing to do in Bismarck! How can you all say that? Reading these moronic comments provide hours of entertainment. "

What!!? wrote on Sep 22, 2007 11:27 PM:

" Read a book, already. Those who complain need to look no further than themselves for blame. Don't look to the world to entertain you, find the means yourself. "

To: From CA myself wrote on Sep 22, 2007 4:32 PM:

" Check http://www.igs.berkeley.edu/library/htCaliforniaPrisonUnion.htm Is that is why California has 70 prisons each with over 2,000 young men at the end of puberty. They do an average of 3.5 years for violent crimes or drug crimes and then another group of young men take their places in the 70 overcrowded prisons. Go tour a California Prison and notice that the majority of inmates are under age 25 and that fact remains the same year after year as one group mostly replaces another group of puberts. Remember puberty ends at about age 25 and seldom do you see people going in prison for the first time after that age. If there is so much to do in California why are so many groups of young men staking out every park, shopping center or motel parking lot as a place to hang out at night. Check the above web site and read about California's most common club for young men. "

Nick wrote on Sep 22, 2007 1:51 PM:

" To Losing Faith: You nailed it. That's why I go to the cities, especially large university towns, on a regular basis. To prevent atrophy of the mind. "

Losing Faith wrote on Sep 22, 2007 11:02 AM:

" I grew up in mandan, traveled the country and abroad. I keep coming back here not because we have an edge but because its home. The whole "problem" with this town is we don't have a large college base. We don't have a large university with a fresh current of youthful ideas. So we are basically left with those who don't want more than a big name chain restaraunt or big box retailer. That is our identity. That is how it will be. The majority of people here are happy and ignorant....and thats fine. For those parents who want more for their kids.... send them away to college somwhere else until the local mentality changes. "

do dah wrote on Sep 22, 2007 10:38 AM:

" Hey joe!!! This guy is saying get involved with your kids!! How can you get anymore involved than have the support of the city you live in?? "

Joe wrote on Sep 22, 2007 9:43 AM:

" oh ok I get it, its really the schools job to teach are kids their abc's and 123's. The church's job to teach on spirituality. And Bismarcks jobs to entertain them, now when my kid fails or gets into trouble its not his or my responsibility as a parent, but societies. Get real, not enough for them to do! Seems to me your looking for someone to entertain your children so you dont have to! Get involved with your kids and maybe they wont need Bismarck to entertaintain them all night so they have something to do.... "

Haze wrote on Sep 21, 2007 3:10 PM:

" Mouth: I'm glad you love this state. So do I and I think we need to do more to keep the kids out of trouble. I am just as entitled to my opinion about this as you are. Have you read the court section of the paper lately? Lots of young people in trouble. Because they have nothing to do but drink and party and get into trouble. Young people don't get into reading books and staying home that much. I personally moved away to Colorado when I was 20 because of the job market and the fact that all there was to do was party. Granted it was fun, but someone was watching out for me as I never got into trouble. I want more for my kids. "

Reggie wrote on Sep 21, 2007 2:11 PM:

" Mouth WOW just likes to argue about things . "

From CA myself wrote on Sep 21, 2007 1:01 PM:

" I have noticed in the entire state that there is nothing for teenagers to do, BUT drink. I cant remember having time to in CA. We always had places to go. Beaches, amusement parks and the local drags, were the kids did hang out and had the movies, arcades, and roller skating rinks, minature golf, go carts ect. All in a area that made a little strip so kids could do the kid thing. Hang out with their friends. It was heavly patrolled yet allowed so that kids werent out getting into trouble. Also by the beaches you had your certain areas by the peirs were they would cruise. Also shops opened ect. Kids now adays in this state really have no were to go so they party at the gravel pits or fields ect. I wish we could do something about this. "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 21, 2007 9:14 AM:

" to Haze; Wow. Do you have it backwards. I LOVE THIS STATE. I love the low population, the rural atmosphere and the somewhat laid-back life style. I like being able to drive in Bismarck and Fargo and not have to worry about traffic congestion. I want to keep it as close to this as possible. (That is why I don't live somewhere else) We obviously are on two different wave lengths here. I don't want to see development just for the sake of development. I don't like to see housing developments popping up all over the prairies. As for keeping our young people in the state. If recreational activities were all it took to keep them here, I am sure that would have been addressed long ago. Young people leave their homes for other places for a variety of different reasons and they should. Maybe they don't like the prairies or the cold winters. They need to experience life among other cultures, different scenery, different job atmospheres. Every state, no matter what its political, economic or cultural background has its problems and young people leave all the time. Some return to their home state, some don't. Just a simple fact of life. Oh and you might as well face another reality here. Some people pinch pennies all their lives, some don't. Pinching pennies is not necessarily age-related. "

Kevin wrote on Sep 21, 2007 7:53 AM:

" Gang members should be rounded up and shot. Period. "

California wrote on Sep 21, 2007 12:42 AM:

" More to do in California. http://www.modbee.com/local/story/72474.html "And 24 of 74 people awaiting trial on murder charges in Stanislaus County Superior Court are charged with gang "enhancements," an indication that officials believe a killing is gang- related and deserves extra punishment. Gang markings can be found in alleyways and fences and street signs throughout Modesto, though they are most concentrated in neighborhoods in the southern and western areas of the city". "

Innertained wrote on Sep 20, 2007 11:12 PM:

" To Michael: excellent points! I agree 100% "

Haze wrote on Sep 20, 2007 9:28 PM:

" Mouth: You are bound and determined to make sure you only have a negative attitude about this state. You are burying your head in the sand and not even opening your mind to anything new. Again - you are confirming my thoughts of why young people leave this state. You say you have to "count your pennies" to go to a movie? Gee - that is something for the young people to look forward to. Let's not change anything, let's not even try. Let's just wave goodbye to them as they keep leaving. Because god knows the economy here won't support anything. "

Michael wrote on Sep 20, 2007 7:21 PM:

" Bismarck does have a suprising amount of culture but it doesn't come with lazer shows and smoke. A lot of people fail to notice it because they've been so programmed to sensation by television and movies. "

To Michael wrote on Sep 20, 2007 4:07 PM:

" Excellent insight, Michael. I have to agree. I'm 30 now and I was never interested in the bar scene, parties and things like that. I am interested in REAL culture that builds people up. Of course, I understand there are people that want to spend their weekends at a bar and so forth. That's fine for them. It's not my thing, though, and I would really appreciate culture that is much more in-depth. "

Michael wrote on Sep 20, 2007 3:27 PM:

" I have never needed someone to entertain me. Most of what I see that passes for entertainment is an insult to my intelligence and values. Perhaps that is why today's youth feel bored. The popular culture demeans the human character. "

grew up in ND wrote on Sep 20, 2007 10:05 AM:

" I hope that someday Bismarck will wake up and smell the coffee. It's all about money. Out of the teen hangouts, liquor stores and bars that have opened and closed in the last 20 years, that I can recall, who's winning? "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 20, 2007 9:54 AM:

" to Haze; Oh, please don't give up. I am having too much fun. All I want from you is a realistic response as to the feasibility of providing these types of activites, given the demographics of our cities and state compared to those in a larger city or more populated state. I, personally, don't believe that our state is decaying. I know plenty of people who travel extensively to other countries, other states and other cities. They are well aware of what is going on in the rest of the world. But why do you think that they return here? They don't have to. They just don't want to have to deal, on a daily basis, with the problems that come from living in a larger metropolitan area. Most of us like the laid back, slower atmosphere here in our state. WE have the best of both worlds. OH, and many of us old "fogies" can't afford expensive movies anymore than the young people can. We just pick our priorities, save our pennies, and spend it on those that are the most important to us. And as another poster wrote, there are plenty of activities in the B-M area. You just need to have the initiative to find them. And contrary to what some young people believe, most activities are not age related. "

Any Takers wrote on Sep 20, 2007 8:28 AM:

" Is anyone interested in pursuing the possibility of opening a drive in movie theater? How GREAT would that be? They were so fun as a kid - alot of the bigger cities have them and they flourish. HOw about it? "

More like Los Angeles? wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:09 AM:

" Dave who wrote the above article claims there is a lot to do in Los Angeles. It makes me wonder why Los Angeles is the crime and drug capital of California. Maybe because the only thing to do in the Barrio is join a gang and push drugs. Maybe because the only thing to do in the Ghetto is join a gang and push drugs. Maybe it is a similar problem in some poor white and asian areas. If there were as many people going out at night as Dave claims they would need many thousands more places for teenagers to go than presently exist. Is he claiming that every teenager in Los Angeles is within walking distance of some theater or bowling alley? You can drive for hours in Los Angeles and never see any recreation buildings for youth. That is unless you go downtown or near a mall. Unless you drive along the beaches in the high rent district where lots of people have beach parties or have swimming pools and have pool parties. Unless you drive way out of town where some people have horses. If you want to charter a fishing boat to fish or go to the islands and scuba dive to catch lobster you can. Not something you would do every week. Well-supervised recreation centers and church basements can have table tennis or any number of games. Dave would make it sound like Bismarck has a worse drug and alcohol problem than Los Angeles. Staggers the imagination. Los Angeles County has about 10 million people and most youth are not near movies and bowling alleys. Statistically Los Angeles probably fills up 25 or more of California’s 70 prisons. Nice try Dave. "

Mike R wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:00 PM:

" At one time: Yet again the Bismarck PD is blamed for everything. Nothing to do in town - blame the BPD. No concerts at the civic center - blame the BPD. Kids are moving out of state - blame the BPD. Someone almost ran over you - blame the BPD for not being out there writing traffic tickets. You got a traffic ticket - blame the BPD for not trying to catch the real criminals and wasting time on minor traffic offenses. Store got broken into - blame the BPD,, they should have been out patroling more. If you see a cop at any event - blame the BPD, they are only out harrasing citizens. Cripes sakes people, is there anything we can't blame on the BPD? The war in Iraq - blame the BPD. Why not? Apparently they are responsible for everything else in the world, they might as well be responsible for that also. I would like to take all the whiners that complain about the BPD, and drop them off in some country where there is no law and no one to protect you. Let them fend for themselves for a few months and see how they do. Maybe then they would appreciate living in a place that has laws and police officers to enforce them. "

Fred wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:39 PM:

" Sounds like some good potential for the old theater on the NE corner of Rosser and 4th. Discount theater, old and alternative film nights, assorted concerts. I'd go there for something different. Bismarck sure needs something different! "

Haze wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:49 PM:

" Mouth - I give up. You win. Let's just sit in this state and decompose slowly. That should make people like you happy. "

former bis/man resident wrote on Sep 19, 2007 6:34 PM:

" to A point to be made: You'd actually be suprised at the discount theater in Fargo it is actually popular because alot of people here are too cheap or broke to spend $5.50 to $7.50 for a movie that just came out granted by the time these movies hit the discount theater the movies are about to come out on DVD. Now its a matter of coming up with money or find investors, and a building for the theater. I don't find that Kirkwood mall would be a sufficient place for this considering the rent for the mall is too expensive. Personally i feel that Kirkwood mall will no longer be a mall in the future it will end up becoming a huge Scheels store. Oh wait it already is. "

former bis/man resident wrote on Sep 19, 2007 6:16 PM:

" I have to agree with Dave on this issue. Growing up in the Bis/Man area I remember how Shade's bar that use to be in Kirkwood Mall would host teen dances on Sunday nights at least once a month those were so popular at the time. and i also remember the bar i use to work for Whiskey Point tried to copy that and it flopped along with Bismarck trying to have a couple of teen centers that held dances on weekends well guess what? those flopped too. In case you people don't realize Bismarck/Mandan is extremely conservitive and full of close minded people to have a discount movie theater or a place for local bands to play for all ages or people from the ages of 15-20 would be and is great for the teens. I was back home for a weekend and wanted to hang myself because of the radio stations. Bismarck/Mandan has now become the BIBLE BELT of ND every other station was a christian station its time for Bismarck to get a radio station that caters to the heavier side of music like Q98 in Fargo. What's next? a church on ever street corner in place of a starbucks like in Fargo? "

Fred wrote on Sep 19, 2007 4:01 PM:

" A co-worker was complaining about nothing to do in Bis-Man. I showed her the 'Community Calendar' section of the Trib. She couldn't believe all the things taking place she hadn't heard about. "

At one time. wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:37 PM:

" At one time very recently we had alot of music for young people to attend in the area. Controlled environments with no drinking , smoking , or anything else illegal. Myself and fellow bandmates set up alot of concerts that were all ages and only cost $5 for a 6 hours of music. The constant harassment of police caused rising concern among venue owners of renting their property out for these events. Anyone here ever go to a concert at the post in Mandan and not see 4 Sheriffs walking through all night and harassing people? There was no smoking or drinking allowed on the premises and the parking lots always controlled at these events whether they were at the post or elsewhere. The only thing happening was music. So think it over people. You had a great outlet and like most things worth something in these two towns it has been smashed down by closed minds and law "enforcement". "

ladybug wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:07 PM:

" what's amazing as i scan through these comments is the reference of "kids" being age 18-21. correct me if i'm wrong here - anybody age 18 is considered an adult. you want to go out and have a good time, get a job so you can pay for it. it's great when a community has opportunities for this particular age group but they should be able to find a way to entertain themselves. we used to have food and game nights or go shopping at walmart in the middle of the night, see how much we could buy with $5. a little creativity and these "kids" won't need state of the art anything. from what i've seen and heard, the opportunities they have now (like the movie theater and bowling alley) they don't really use. face it, prices are high for all of us. i'm 25 and if i'm bored and don't have bucks to spend at the theater, i'll rent a movie and have some friends over. suck it up! "

23 wrote on Sep 19, 2007 11:45 AM:

" Hey, as someone who has a B.A. in English, I'm all about book clubs and higher interest in reading for pleasure, especially for that high school age group, and I also played two instruments and sang from junior high through part of college (and still do sing). But those interests are too similar to what students do every day in school. Teens need a way to relax and have a good time on weekends -- without feeling like they haven't left the classroom, and without the temptations of drugs, alcohol, etc. Concerts are great if owners can provide enough security to keep out the bad stuff but not ruin the fun atmosphere. I also agree about the bowling alley -- I don't always mind driving to Mandan (although I can't believe Bismarck doesn't have one of its own anymore) or paying the money, but competing with leagues is frustrating. Every time I try to bowl during their season, I am turned away, and I shouldn't have to form a league just to enjoy the game. "

Teichthesen wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:30 AM:

" LJK: Absolutely. Turn off the TV, open a book. Learn to play an instrument, go to a play or a historic site, maybe a museum. Plant a garden, learn to cook or bake. Wash dishes by hand and talk with the person who is drying them. Play a board game. If you're looking for something "out there" to satisfy you, you won't find it. It has to be inside you first, then you can enhance it. "

VFWRocks wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:25 AM:

" Just so you know, the under-21 events at the VFW Club are not for profit although over 21-year old people do show up at the bar and that is always welcome during these events too. The young people do pay a cover charge but those fees go right to the bands. On September 23rd, the next ALL AGES event, there will be 7 bands and no cover charge. There will be a free will offering to help offset the medical expenses of a great guy who needs help paying his bills. See www.VFWBismarck.com for more information and check back there often for future under-21 events as well. "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:09 AM:

" to Haze; Let's just agree to dis-agree on terminology. Maybe I should have just used the short term of Disco Club which might have made you happier. However, Rave parties (with their accompany music, lightshows, designer drugs, plus some oldie but goodie drugs, etc), Dive Bars(Bismarck used to have quite a few of these), places like the Basque Nightclub(even had one or two of this type) and M Lounges just aren't going to be that available in Bismarck, ND. Neither are Jazz clubs (just an example) and the thousands of other varied entertainment musical venues that are in the larger cities. Entertainment, that in many cases, is open to people of all ages. We all want different types of entertainment. No, I am not satisfied with sitting at home at night, every night, doing nothing. I, too, enjoy a good night out. However, I am more realistic than many of the younger people. If I want to enjoy that type of an evening, go to a bigger city. Otherwise, I have to utilize the entertainment that is available closer to home. Just a simple fact of life. Yes, it would be nice to get more, better and cheaper entertainment for all, not just young people, here in this area. But it just isn't going to happen unless it is financially feasible and patronized regularly in order for profits to be realized. "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:09 AM:

" to Haze; You are hilarious and I am really amused that you would take exception to my word useage. I could have used much less flattering terms for some of the places that are considered the "in" thing right now. But, in deference to the other posters, used a word that could and still is all-encompassing for some types of clubs. Since I am no longer into the 'teen' scene, have no pressing need to know the updated terms for their hang-outs. My whole point in this discussion has been that no city truly owes anyone, whatever their age, entertainment places. Almost all entertainment is profit driven. If a business does not make a profit, it closes, period, final, end of story. Providing entertainment is generally not considered a "service" paid for by the community. And I am so glad that you enjoy a good laugh at my Posts. At least you are not bugging someone else and hurting their feelings. "

LJK wrote on Sep 18, 2007 8:06 PM:

" Teenagers have been complaining for years about not having enough to do. I saw it in Bismarck growing up and I've seen it just about everywhere else since then (seven states and the District of Columbia). I always felt we had enough options in Bismarck, but somehow we always ended up at a house party sponsored by the latest kid proclaiming "my parents are away". Not having anything else to do (or more accurately not bothering to find it) seemed like a pretty convenient excuse for our extensive partying and it's no different now. Want something to do? Wise up, put down the bottle and open a text book. "

Haze wrote on Sep 18, 2007 6:47 PM:

" My Dearest Mouth from the South: Discotheques???? You didn't really just say discotheques did you????? Oh - thank you so much for the laugh my friend. Gotta love ya. I rest my case. I just cannot argue progress with someone who thinks there are still "discotheques" in the big cities..........tee hee. "

Sander wrote on Sep 18, 2007 5:47 PM:

" I agree all the way.....the people that think bismarck is fine and is in no need to have things around town for younger people (21 and under) are probably older or people that just don' care. I think it's funny how the governors wife is all against underage drinking however still there is nothing for kids to do around here at night when ost kids want to be out having fun. I do realize that some kids ruin things that could have been good. I remember going bowling and such at night only later to be told by parents that I couldn't go because of the drugs being passed around, however not once did I ever see or take any drugs therefore why was something ruined for me? I feel for young kids these days .......So when I hear stories of kids drinking underage I feel like it's almost a common thing that everyone hears about and with that happening less and less will help the problem How about this if a kid got a minor in poss. he or she pays $250 with all this going on use that money to do something "

Bismarcker wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:29 PM:

" Years ago there was the Teen Club on the west end of Main that later turned into a pizza joint. YMCA downtown on 5th Street. Also the Capital Theater showed old scary movies for a quarter. When my oldest son was a teen the bar at Kirkwood Mall would open for special under 21 nights and he and his friends always attended and loved it. That didn't last long. I was recently in Mpls attending a small concert at a bar and noticed that 18 and over were allowed in. Everyone over 21 was wrist banded. Didn't notice anyone under 21 drinking but all seemed to be having a good time. Some of the teen clubs opened in past years were immediately taken over by certain groups of teens that made it an unpopular place for others. Owners need to be aware of this and make sure all teens feel welcome and safe. Don't you remember what being a teen is like? I have never heard of the VFW's under 21 events. That's great. When bowling league sets in for the winter, is there any bowling available to the public? I honestly don't know. I think String Bean is a popular place for a certain crowd. I don't remember a discount theater in Mandan, but that's in Mandan. And what kind of movies did it show? Something of teen interest? And not everyone drives. Dave Herrmann if you are trying to bring something to Bismarck for teens MORE POWER TO YOU!! I hope you succeed. And lastly, what IS up with our civic center? We pour money into remodel after remodel and it sits there unused for months at a time. And they talk about the need for a civic center hotel? What the heck for? And I just have to say this... Start a bookclubs? A business plan?? PULEEZE. These are normal teens we are talking about. "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:42 AM:

" to Haze; I am having a great deal of fun making a fool of myself. I, at least, recognize that. Some of you don't. However, your assessment of my character and life experiences is not important. Reality is. And the reality of this situation is that no one, outside of a small child or someone in a nursing home, etc., needs to be entertained by others or have entertainment provided. The Bismarck-Mandan area has plenty of things to do if someone is willing to seek out and take the time to participate. B-M may not have the discotheques, etc. that are available in the larger cities. But face reality here. Bismarck is not a big city and doesn't have the clientele to support this type of endeavor even if someone were willing to fund it. There are still lots of fun activities in the area, just take the time to look for them. Of course, if you are looking for something to do after 10:00 at nite, that's a different story. Then you should be living in the Bigger cities, because few, if any, small towns or cities have the resources to provide all nite entertainment. And probably shouldn't be in the business of doing so, either. "

I agree wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:38 AM:

" This is why they are stealing pool cues "

To Haze wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:11 AM:

" I've lived in Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Washington DC, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, California, New Jersey, Michigan, Virginia, Kentucky, New Mexico and Deleware. Anytime I can stay home and pop corn while reading a book is a good day. There's nothing out there worth having, my friend. "

Kevin wrote on Sep 17, 2007 9:26 PM:

" How about jobs? "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 17, 2007 7:39 PM:

" to It's 2007: I don't have a problem with progress as long as it is for all the right reasons. But according to so many people, we are so much more enlightened socially than we were 30 or 40 years ago. So if that is true, our young people of today should no longer have to use booze for a good time. They would know that it is an exercise in futility. Anyhow, let's not cross posts here. "

Haze wrote on Sep 17, 2007 7:37 PM:

" Dear Mouth from the South: It's very obvious from your posts that you've really never experienced what larger cities gladly offer people in the way of entertainment. Reading books and popping your own popcorn may be big on your list but let's get real. We aren't moles burrowing in our holes. People want to go out and do things. Not necessarily to "be entertained by the public" as you say. Until you actually experience something other than ND - maybe you should quit posting. You're kind of making a fool of yourself. "

Deb wrote on Sep 17, 2007 5:30 PM:

" to "Subsidize" : AMEN!! "

Thomas Elliot wrote on Sep 17, 2007 4:38 PM:

" Good Heavens fp give it a rest. "

fp wrote on Sep 17, 2007 3:47 PM:

" Jim S;I see you are over here with your veiled threats about standing in front of the troops. You are advocating violence against fellow citizens. Typical fascist. That saying is so played abd tired. Head down, bad boy ..no soup for you...NEXT!!!!! "

gone wrote on Sep 17, 2007 1:25 PM:

" You go, ND Father. Nice to hear there are educated people in ND. Or at least two of them. Jim S, why don't you check out a reliable source rather than Fox News. If you still back this war, then you must have your head somewhere unmentionable. "

subsidize wrote on Sep 17, 2007 12:55 PM:

" so....no one discussed the obligation of the city helping subsidize entertainment for our teens and young adults. Why are our tax dollars going to subsidize old farts who've had their whole lives to work and earn money to pay for their own clubs and social halls? But we balk at giving money to the youth of our city so they can do something besides drink? "

jc wrote on Sep 17, 2007 11:22 AM:

" After reading the posts here - I can only say those who are bored will never be entertained by a teen center, movie or bowling. I have lived in several small and large ND communities and anything done for teens held their interest for...oh about a month. Those that did come back were labeled nerds or freaks while the rest went on to bigger and better things. Just why are the residents of the town supposed to to keep teens or young adults entertained? If parents would pay some attention to the offspring of their loins - maybe just maybe - boredom wouldn't be as prevalent. For those of you whining about the costs of movies and such, the last I heard beer wasn't free either. $8 for a movie $14 for an 18 pack you do the math. "

VFWRocks wrote on Sep 17, 2007 9:46 AM:

" You want a specific solution to being bored in Bismarck and Mandan? Go to the VFW Club on August 23rd and listen to 7 great bands perform for ALL ages. Go to VFWBismark.com and click on the Music and Events page link for complete details. There you go; an end of the same old same old at least for one Sunday anyway. "

MamaMia wrote on Sep 17, 2007 9:08 AM:

" To Rod M: You need to work on those anger issues! ;) "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 17, 2007 8:05 AM:

" to JustMe; Sorry if I offended you with the bar scene. Did not intend to. However, things haven't changed much in thirty some years. ( Am not precisely elderly.) Same complaints, etc. I lived in Seattle at the University some years back and the kids there had the same complaints as they did here. Nothing to do. Couldn't afford, etc. Big town, little town, doesn't matter. I guess you have to make your own fun. Plus, just what is fun is viewed differently by all. Also if you are over 21, you are considered an adult and no longer in need of being entertained by the public. "

Dave Herrmann wrote on Sep 16, 2007 11:37 PM:

" At this time I am researching the idea of opening a discount theater. I have 5-6 potential investors who are wanting things of this nature to happen. So I am in fact working on something. "

theater wrote on Sep 16, 2007 11:00 PM:

" I would love to open a discount movie theater and kirkwood mall would be a perfect place. But I think the costs to get it set up would outweigh the money I could make there. "

Jim S wrote on Sep 16, 2007 10:22 PM:

" ND father, or is it farther. WAKE UP. Do you think you are supporting our troops when you protest during war time? Deminstrate and protest all you want, but when the boys are fighting a war, you better stand behind them 100%. If you are not going to stand behind them, you can sure stand in front of them. "

A point to be made wrote on Sep 16, 2007 9:32 PM:

" "Bismarck" did not close the bowling alley and Kirkwood movie theater. Business owners did. If you think there's money to be made in opening a discount theater, a bowling alley, or anything else, stop complaining and open one up! No one is preventing anyone from opening up these places if they want to. There is not, however, any guarantee that the business will succeed. "

It's 2007 wrote on Sep 16, 2007 6:54 PM:

" Dear Mouth: Progress??? hahahaha. Funny one coming from you. I bet they have to pay CASH when they buy their booze. "

Dave Herrmann wrote on Sep 16, 2007 6:09 PM:

" Hey "ND Father," get off your soap box and stick to the point of this discussion! "

JustMe wrote on Sep 16, 2007 5:26 PM:

" Well Mouth, how little you know about me or other young people. First, I read all week, why would I want to read more on my freetime? I don't really get into high school sports, and the pro sports here, for $10 you sit in nose bleed seats. Bobcats I don't mind, and I have gone to their games, but both sports have first class teams here in town, I agree. As for your bar topic, I'm offended. I don't drink, and am old enough to go to bars, and no, I don't enjoy it. You assume I drink and get drunk all the time, I assume you are elderly and have no concept of whats happening in the present day. See how that works? Yeah, I may go to the bar, and I CAN have fun, I went to One Card Short with my GF this last weekend, cost me $12 for the whole weekend of entertainment. So yes, bars do have something to offer when you turn 21. And finally to all those that just say enroll us all in the service, get real. Nobody is telling you to enroll, who gives you the right to tell me I need to enroll. Odds are you didn't serve this country,had the option to enroll, I too have the same right. "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 16, 2007 9:48 AM:

" to JustMe; Is there something wrong with learning how to entertain yourself by reading a good book or getting together with a group of friends at someones' home and watching good old classic movies on the TV or the VCR, popping your own popcorn,etc.? Yeah, I know, that is not exciting. There are all sorts of sporting events going on in our local school systems that I believe are open to the public. No one owes you entertainment twice a week on weekends and if you are not intelligent enough to learn how to entertain yourself until you can legally enter bars (where you appear to think all the fun is) (how little you really know, that gets old, too rather quickly), I guess that should be your problem. It seems to me that all the fun appears to center around being 21 and being able to drink. And, half the time, the only reason you think that you are having fun is because you are too drunk to know the difference. How truly sad that our young people can only eqate fun with drinking alcohol. I guess that hasn't changed. No progress here. "

ND Father wrote on Sep 16, 2007 9:22 AM:

" To: North Dakotan. Typical conservative nonsense wake up America, there is a war going on! Our young people should not waste their time loitering in fast food parking lots. These young men and women, who are our sons and daughters, need to be earnestly legally demonstrating and demanding the war end and actively participating in the up-coming presidential election. They, as all of us do, realize we have a president without any morality and intelligence. These young men and women realize the war is all about oil, they are our future and we must encourage them to become well educated and be able to make the correct decisions that lie ahead in order to lead our nation toward a bright not bleak future. "

Cd wrote on Sep 16, 2007 6:49 AM:

" To: Mouth from the South and Troy. Couldn't agreed with you more! "

To MamaMia from RodM wrote on Sep 16, 2007 5:07 AM:

" Thank you professor for being our resident spell checker/grammar cop. Do you think anybody gives a rat's butt besides yourself whether somebody makes a simple mistake in spelling/grammar??! How clever you must think you are by inserting the (sic) in there. Get a life and keep your snub remarks to yourself you nerd. "

JustMe wrote on Sep 15, 2007 6:01 PM:

" Alright already, I agree, go buy an ad for your bowling alley, it's not cheap to go there, adevertise that too. When I was in college, I didn't have a whole lot, I worked, but I had tuition and other bills to pay, so no, I couldn't afford $8 games of bowling, and like $15 for thunder alley, no thanks. For those of us that didn't sit in McDonalds parking lot, it doesn't leave much for us to do. No, I am away from my family at college, which doesn't allow for me to go home and play scrabble every Friday night like some of your recommendations. Yeah, there's the river, but only for 4 months a year. Parks? Not so much, I think you need to be out by 10, then what, I worked till 9, so not gonna work... and for those saying we have all these gadgets, I had a computer, for homework. If you want to talk about gadgets, by all means, I will allow you to buy me some. I agree, there is entertainment around Bismarck, but affordable for two nights, every weekend? no. "

Troy wrote on Sep 15, 2007 3:45 PM:

" Entertainment is not the problem parents are. As a father of two if my children get into trouble I don't blame the lack of hot spots for kids getting into trouble. Obviously I have not instilled good values and judgement. No matter what kids will get into trouble but we as parents need to step up and curb bad behavior. "

Mellon wrote on Sep 15, 2007 2:29 PM:

" Quit posting about your bowling alley, and BUY an ad in the newspaper! "

North Dakotan wrote on Sep 15, 2007 9:10 AM:

" Typical liberal nonsense. Wake up people, there's a war going on! Our young people shouldn't be wasting their physical prime loitering in fast-food parking lots. We need to slap a uniform on these brats, hand them a semi-automatic, and get them shooting at whoever our good President says is the enemy right now. I think it's the Sunnis? "

disrespectful wrote on Sep 15, 2007 8:46 AM:

" These kids don't respect anything these days. If you ever drive by Mcdonalds on main any Sat. or Sun. morning, it looks as if someone just dumped a garbage can all over the parking lot. I was driving down main around noon doing the speed limit, and one of these kids in his little 4 cyl. bubble machine went around me and gave me the finger for no reason. If these kids (not all fo them) don't learn some respect, I will not feel sorry for them. "

Economix 101 Class wrote on Sep 15, 2007 1:30 AM:

" Dave, welcome back. Truly it is a matter of economics... supply and demand. Supply is never the problem when there is adequate demand. And by "adequate," I mean more than just the cries of a few thousand Bis-Man youths marching down Main with pitchforks and torches demanding something. "Adequate" also means demanders are willing to pay for the entertainment they want. If something is not profitable, businesses will not remain in it very long. And the fact is we sure don't want city government doing anything for teens as it will be as lame as can possibly be. Govt has to take too many opinions and POVs into consideration when sponsoring anything- a "politics = compromise" sort of thing. And that's fair, when asking citizens to allow their confiscated funds, set at punitive rates and taken at gavel-point, to go to work. What you get is Mrs. Gertrude Fiddlepoop- a faithful deaconess at First Church of the Frozen Chosen- weighing in with her councilman wanting to make sure that nothing untoward is being funded with her taxes- like rock and roll music or that booty shaking she sees on channel 40. The other thing you'll get is councilman receiving phone calls from mobilized young people wanting, well, exactly what would attract and hold teens' attention in a place for teens. In the end, ol' Gert will win out because she is funding the project. This is why the solution is provate enterprise serving customers willing to pony up the jack for goods and services. I agree with an ealrier post pointing out that young BisManites have the money for gadgets, girls and gum, so cost is obviously a non-factor. Really, it's about their priorities and apparently you must be very lonely in what you're demanding and willing to pay. "

mom wrote on Sep 15, 2007 1:17 AM:

" Bismarck does have the Bobcats and the Wizards to attend....ticket prices aren't that bad and if parents are concerned about the price of tickets maybe they should make their teens earn the money they spend for entertainment, there are two movie theaters, ever hear of the river? there are plenty of places that you can gain access without needing a boat. Ever here of parks? Sibley Park has an aweseome Frisbee Golf Course which is free!! Look around at the Parks & Rec website for activities and call around there are several free things for kids to do. Oh yeah why not get the kids interested in hunting or fishing? Ever heard of sports? I used to hang out with my neighbors and play ball until dark and then watch movies. I remember babysitting for several families while I was in junior and senior high school. If I wanted anything fancy or special for clothing I had to pay for it on my own....we never purchased clothes from Dayton's, Herbergers, etc. unless they were on sale!! I mean extremely cheap. "

SayWhat??? wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:34 PM:

" I've lived in Bismarck, Fargo, Denver, Omaha, Billings. Same thing where ever I've lived. Same story of nothing for teens to do. Even the teens on MTV's "staged" reality shows from LA to San Diego are complaining about the same things the teens in Bismarck, North Dakota complain about. Believe me, you will all survive. "

SayWhat??? wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:27 PM:

" tb: you abused drugs all your teen years and left asap because YOU chose to. Quit the lame excuses for your own self indused misery. "

What a Joke wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:06 PM:

" Gosh, one of the lamest letters to the editor in recent memory. Bismarck/Mandan has one of the nicest bowling alleys in the area on the Strip in Mandan. I'm not sure, Dave, but you may even find a PINBALL machine there! And, omigosh, say it isn't so.... yes.... dear Lord it's true..... it's OPEN PAST 9PM!!??? And since the wonderful Kirkwood Mall Movie Theater closed, the Grand Theater has added at least a dozen screens (making up for the three at Kirkwood). I don't remember the Kirkwood Mall Theater being a "discount theater" by the way. Seems to me there are more screens now then there were 15 years ago. So the only two examples in Mr. Herrman's letter are debunked. I vote for Mr. Dave as chairperson of the new entertainment committee!!!! Yippee, we're saved from teenaged drinking!! "

Mouth from the South wrote on Sep 14, 2007 6:54 PM:

" Don't try to con some of us with this bull about everything being too expensive. When our young people are walking around with I-pods, cell phones, designer jeans, computers, their own cars, etc. what is the gripe about having to pay $12.00 to see a movie? Or is it just a simple matter of priorities? Of course it takes money to see entertainment, always has and always will. But just why is it the job of the city to provide entertainment for the young people? My parents didn't expect to have someone entertain their children or provide a place for them to 'hang.' They expected their children to be home every evening before 9:00 and boredom was not even a word that we knew. If we were bored, my mother would actually find work for me to do. Apparently teens nowadays don't have to help clean house, do dishes, laundry, yardwork or any of the other tasks that had to be done years ago. Do all these families have housecleaners, gardeners or maids? Or does Mom have to do all this herself? It is the parents responsibility to keep their children entertained, not the cities. And when I was over 18 and in college, studying during the week was the norm for the evening or going out for pizza, etc. And partied on weekends. By the way, drinking was just as bad back then as it is now or maybe even worse. Very little has changed in this way. "

e'nuff said wrote on Sep 14, 2007 6:31 PM:

" Fargo is getting concerts by Ozzy Osbourne and Rob Zombie in October. Bismarck is bringing in Kenny Rogers. Typical Bismarck, always catering to the geriatric ward that makes up the population of this town. Maybe Grandma will the teens drink at her house while she listens to good ole Kenny crooning about Lucille leaving. "

Point to Ponder wrote on Sep 14, 2007 5:01 PM:

" Here is a novel approach to the situation presented in this letter. Why not ask teenagers what they would like to see for entertainment? Maybe form a teen focus group that would work with city leaders to create entertainment and recreational opportunities. I think the reason why so many teen clubs fail is that the target audience doesn't have any stake or "ownership" in the venture. While few teens would have the capital to open such a venture, teenagers do have creative ideas and energy if people would just give them a chance to express themselves. Maybe listening to teens is the key instead of always telling them what to do. "

ND Conservative wrote on Sep 14, 2007 4:52 PM:

" Hey Shifty--feel free to ooze out of the door, back under whatever rock you crawled out from. If you don't like it here--leave. Having to deal with more homicides, rapes and meth just for the sake of cultural diversity and excitement is not worth it. Please feel free to spread the word amongst others of your ilk--if you don't want to be here--leave, rather than dragging down the State to the lowest common denominator. "

kev wrote on Sep 14, 2007 4:45 PM:

" maybe parents could spend more time with their teens instead of leaving them at home or dropping them off at the bowling alley while the parents go out and drink. then, teens wouldn't be so bored out of their minds that they find new ways to get high. "

Detour Teen Center wrote on Sep 14, 2007 4:25 PM:

" Bismarck we did have a teen center a fun place not that long ago and of course no funding to keep it going i remember calling every person in the phone book to help try to get money to keep it going but bismarck failed to contribute "

Old Cranky Republican wrote on Sep 14, 2007 4:08 PM:

" tb, I also "abused drugs throughout teenhood and left asap." Know what? I opted to come back after a dozen years or so in big cities. Know why? Because I grew up and figured out that once you have kids, you don't want them raised anywhere but here. I gave up a 6-figure job in a major city to move back here and make peanuts instead. I did it for the sake of allowing my children to grow up in a "boring" place like Bismarck where they'll be exposed to less (not NONE) of the BS of the big city, and get a far better education than they could there. Sure, the weed is more expensive here and tougher to find, but that's just fine with me...less that my kids can get a hold of. As for entertainment, I say there's no use in funding something designed for teens. I remember being here as a teenager. The "teen clubs" that formed faded away quickly because they sucked out loud. Main Avenue or a good house party were far more entertaining. I don't see much difference today. "

tb wrote on Sep 14, 2007 3:49 PM:

" that is exactly why I abused drugs throughout teenhood and left town ASAP. this place is run by a bunch of old, cranky, republicans. "

Sherman on the Mount wrote on Sep 14, 2007 3:12 PM:

" Bismarck is a textbook example of an over abundance of baby-boomer elderly folks, calling the shots. They want Bismarck to be as quiet as a library, and as exciting as a morgue. Well, it is... End of story. Nice job! "

solution wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:58 PM:

" If we had a mandatory military draft for all those kids 18-22, they can all end up as cannon fodder for the next phase in Bush's war on terror: the invasion of Iran. We'll need more troops to send into the grab for oil meatgrinder in the Middle East. Let's kill off our next generation!! "

Shifty Riff-Raff wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:08 PM:

" Rule #1 while living amongst uptight, religious zealot hicks. Never, NEVER mention you are from California. This is especially true, if you are trying to influence their opinions. The moment you mention Californiay, you can literally hear the shutters close in the little minds of these NoDaks. "

Roscoe wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:05 PM:

" Yooooooooooooooo city slickers! I'm from Gator's Creek, Georgia. Yooooo city slickers, always trying to tell us what to do. Oooooh. "

sn68 wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:40 PM:

" still missing the point. what does living under your roof have to do with having someplace to hang out with friends? Do your kids live at home or do they live in captivity? Do you let them have friends over? My son and his friends did plenty of hanging out and watching movies, but it gets old. It costs money to go bowling. Cruising costs nearly 3 times more than it did 5 years ago. My 14 year old has a job, but he's limited by law to 18 hrs a week, and it won't go far when he's paying for insurance and gas. I don't want him to be cruising main anyway. I'd rather know he had a fun safe place to hang out. I have an 18 year old and a 19 year old in college, and they are making their own way. But, the 19 year old doesn't care to come home on breaks any more because there's not much cheap to do here but drink. He gets paid a very small salary, so it doesn't go far. He's in a military school, so he can't get another job. Everything costs money. Ice skating is limited to cooperative weather and even more limited indoor times are available (all the rich hockey players renting the ice). Most indoor venues like that are overrun with the littler kids anyway. The other things mentioned are just plain old boring. Book club? Coffee house? We're talking teens here, not retired old folks. These kids are in high school or college all day, their free time should be spent socializing, not absorbing more knowledge. It's called living a balanced life. We subsidize senior citizen hangouts...why not for teens? I like hearing the comments about the "use to could's." Why did people stop hosting these activities if they were so fun? LACK OF MONEY. Right back to the have and have nots. "

JustMe wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:30 PM:

" I too recently graduated college in Bismarck, and let me tell you, there is NOTHING to do here. Yeah, you could go to the movie theater, but it's cheaper to go buy a dvd and watch it in the comfort of home then pay for me and my gf. I could go bowling, but once again, that costs money. Any other ideas? I could go to a crappy rap concert, not for me. If I didn't have a gf to hang out with through college I would have transefered after my sophmore year. The only thing worth doing was going to the gym and working out, as the facility on campus was free. I have a job, but I also have bills, as I did not have a silver spoon growing up. Come on Bismarck, nobody goes to bed at 10 at age 20, and after a week of school and work we want something to do, you leave us no choice but house parties. "

Do your Research wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:16 PM:

" Mr. Herrmann, Before you go bashing our lovely city and try to impose your big city values on us you need to do your research or at least talk about things that people can't research themselves. Lucky Strike Lanes is a state of the art bowling center, but it was not created as a hot spot for youth after 9pm. In fact Lucky Strike Lanes in Hollywood CA closes to any not 21 or over after 7pm. The reason they do this is that underage drinking is a problem all over the U.S. The other area about needing affordable things for the youth "Just like in LA", is that a game of bowling at Lucky Strike Lanes ranges for $6.95 per game to $7.95 per game plus $3.95 for shoe rental. I hardly would consider this affordable. The problem with big city ideas moving in on small town values is that they are quick to pass judgement, but slow to put their money where their mouth is. "

Clifford I wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:05 PM:

" Underage drinking is not a modern problem. For whatever reason, adults grow out of adolescence and into parenthood with very little perception of youth culture, even if the culture is nearly identical to their own. Even my parents, who lived and breathed with The Doors and Jimi Hendrix and the sexual revolution, find Nirvana hard to understand. And they're LENIENT. Also, kids do not drink simply from boredom; there are a variety of reasons, identifiable only to that individual. Building a bowling alley will not stop underage drinking. Many people my age do it only for the rebellious aspect: that is, they drink because they were always told not to. It's very natural and healthy to doubt what you've always been taught. Thankfully, my parents encouraged it. My parents never told me what not to do -- I was taught the consequences and possible outcomes of my actions, and I was left to make my choice. Perhaps, and this is my speculation only, kids drink because of a conservative, moralistic upbringing, just to anger their parents/authority figures. I don't drink because I choose not to drink, and I would never in my life tell someone how to make their own choices. I was never given any strict commands when I was young, so therefore I have very little to resent or rebel against. And I live a rather straightforward, clean life. Go figure. In addition, I also resent anyone suggesting that I need anyone telling me what I should be doing at night. Not every teen -- or even most, I would say -- parties all night. I have trouble sleeping most nights, so I stay up and watch movies, read, write, or talk to friends. I have my own values, and I can make my own judgments, just like the rest of my generation. Go ahead, though: Build a community center and see how many kids stop drinking cold turkey. There's a larger problem here, and it doesn't involve a dearth of recreational activities in Bismarck. Think about it. "

MamaMia wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:24 PM:

" I, too, remember the days of Teen Canteen upstairs at Hillside Park and the GP hotel dances. We had two teen clubs, also. The first was on 5th St. and the second one was on Main. The Main St. one was big enough to hold dances. Traveling bands like the Lost Souls, The Cornerstones and the Uglies came though town on a regular basis. Of course we also had our own Tradewinds 5, starring Dickie Torrance, Vernie Peterson and Rip Cullen (among others). I know those days are over, but wouldn't it be nice if community leaders would "take the lead" on this and see if we can't sponsor more teen get-togethers and dances, like the ones currently held at the VFW? If the word went out, I know there would be plenty of us who would be willing to donate our money and effort to help. If we want to curb teenage drinking, we have to get actively involved. Kids don't care what you know until they know that you care. "

Midway Lanes wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:22 PM:

" DAVE HERRMANN Get a clue, we have a 52 lane state of the art bowling center within 8 minutes of anywhere in the Bismarck-Mandan area. It is loaded with games, billiards, darts, and glow bowling for all our younger generation. Stop out and see this beautiful facility for yourself and get educated. Jim Mellon "

It's not about drinking wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:08 PM:

" I'm assuming by the comments that have been made, that these were written by adults that may not have a clear understanding of generation Y. I recently graduated from college and I never had a problem finding something to do when I was in high school and college that didn't involve drinking. I credit my parents for their excellent guidance and example of a strong work ethic. Nothing was handed to me. If I wanted something, I had to work for it. There is not a lack of things to do for young adults in Bismarck, there's a lack of creativity that needs to be ignited. Visit a coffee house and start a bookclub, remodel a car, start a business plan, have a movie night at a friend's house, go ice skating and sledding. I could go on and on, but this space won't allow me to. "

Dave Herrmann wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:03 PM:

" Let it be known that I have been sending my resume around to many area businesses in hopes of getting things starting. I myself want to see Bismarck change! As for some of your comments I have not blamed parents for the misgivings of under-age drinking nor have I said kids in LA are better off. I left the area because of heavy traffic and crime. Money is a big issue there as it is here. The teens in LA find things to do though, most not all, choose to go to local shopping centers which are usually open till 12 am on weekend nights for fun. What does it take to get a discount theater in Bismarck, a good discount theater for that matter? Simply investment which I myself have started working on. Arcades are so over now-a-days with the rise of Xbox's and Wii's. For those looking for a great bowling alley idea google Lucky Strike Bowling. I myself avoided drinking under-age in Bismarck simply because I wasn't in to it. I would have loved a movie theater that played movies later then the 9:40 late show like Bismarck provides. Let us also turn to the Bismarck Civic Center, what major events geared towards teens has this placed provided? Very very few. Dirks Bentley? Come on Bismarck Civic Center! Why is Fargo getting acts like Bright Eyes, Yellowcard to name a few? Simply the event planner for the Fargo Civic Auditorium knowns how to do it! I have 5 years of tour planning for a major record label and know what and how to get shows in towns. I hear BCC is hiring a promotions person, well whomever does the hiring, I am looking for a position ;) Keep the comments coming Bismarck! "

Parent wrote on Sep 14, 2007 11:27 AM:

" To sn68, if my 18 or 19 year old wants to continue to live under my roof, sleep in a warm clean bed, eat his/her mothers delicious food, watch television; play his/her computer games, receive the proper medical attention, and be in a save secure loving clean environment then he or she will follow their mothers and my rules or leave and try to survive on his or her own. It never has happened! "

Parent wrote on Sep 14, 2007 11:13 AM:

" Every city in America has a drug problem (alcohol is a drug), Bismarck is not the exception, “there’s just nothing to do in Bismarck, or Fargo or Minneapolis or whatever.” Every parent, teacher or other adult has heard that lame comment before. David Herrmann mentions that Los Angles has all sorts of nightlife for teenagers, such as arcades, discount movie theatres, state of the art bowling alleys all open late into the night and then criticizes us because nothing is open after 9:00 pm. Teenagers on school nights need to be home at 9:00 pm; actually 9:00 pm is to late. Young people need to be doing their homework in preparation for class the next day. They need to be alert the next the day, preparing for their futures. Teens don’t need nightlife. Teens need to be under the supervision of their parents and these parents must be stable, intelligent and have set strong guidelines for their children. These parents must be setting proper examples. Yes, we have unfit parents but sending your child to an all night arcade or similar entertainment venue is asking for disaster. I think Bismarck is doing pretty well, any drug problems are between the youngster and those who spawned him or her. When I was a teenager attending BHS, down several blocks, from the school was a confectionary/news stand. The place was well run. It had pinball machines at the back. I went in their once and the bullies, and underachievers were at the pinball machines acting rowdy. I new then I wanted no part of the place; nothing up lifting was occurring there. Mr. Herrmann go back to Los Angles where youngsters don’t steal, carouse at night, use drugs, get into fights or join gangs because they have a real night life. Ah yes, Los Angles a perfect utopia and Bismarck is so boring. "

sn68 wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:44 AM:

" a lot of you are missing the point. Kids 18-21 DO NOT HAVE A CURFEW and are limited in the places they can go. It costs a lot of money to go bowling or to the movies. $8 to get in the door, $4 for a soda, $5 for a bucket of popcorn? Minimum of $10 to get you into one game of bowling, with a snack. It takes money to get a place going, and the point as made in another article is Bismarck seems to be wantonly throwing big dollars at activities that cater to a wealthier set, when money should be going to the kids. It takes a village. When it's cheaper to get drunk than go to a movie, somethings wrong. My 19 year old doesn't want to come home on college breaks anymore, because all there is to do. That, or blow a lot of money to do anything else, or sit around and twiddle your thumbs. Playing cards gets old, and you can only spend so much time outside. I know Elements does some stuff but you really don't hear much about it. "

VFWRocks wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:04 AM:

" Over the past year the Bismarck VFW Club has had a large number of successful nights entertaining people less than 21 years of age. Local bands like GypsyFoot and Fat Dad do a large numbers of shows there for that age group and the turnout has always been fantastic. Keep checking back at VFWBismarck.com to check out their next under-21 night. With gas prices the way they are the days of dragging Main Street are over and the youth need a place to have fun that is safe and alcohol free. The VFW Club has done a great job at providing such a place. "

Former Bis Teen wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:42 AM:

" I remember at least 2 teen entertainment centers/clubs that opened during the mid-late 80's when I was a teen. Nobody was interested in them. I doubt that has changed much. We spent a lot of time sitting on Main people watching and goofing off, or going to the river for a bonfire. I think perhaps instead of looking for endless sources of entertainment for teens, we should encourage teens to get jobs and EARN their toys like we had to "way back when." "

jt wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:37 AM:

" I think a teen 'center' type of thing would be a great idea. My kids are not old enough yet, but I still think about what they will be doing for 'fun' they get older. Not to say it had to be open until 1:00 am every night. 10:00 during the week and 12:00 on the weekends. I'm not sure what the curfew is in town. "

Failure of City & Parks Dept. wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:13 AM:

" ND is the highest in underage drinking so perhaps we can raise the tax on a bottle of beer to $2.25 like tobacco and then they will drink less!! Repubicans cancelled the 1 cent tax the teens wanted to warn against drinking. The city commission stated that $38,000 for a teen center that was running in the black was too much money for the city to pay so it closed. I grew up in this town and our city provided teen dances and the parks department provided teen canteen up at Hill Side Park swimming Pool with dances from 7:00 - 9:00 pm for junior high and from 9:00 till 12:00 for high school on weekends . We had great bands come and play at the GP Hotel and Mandan also had bands for their teen hops. The dances always had a cop strolling thru so of course kids could not drink before hand. The casino seems to get great groups in but the civic center has gone to hell in a handbag as far as entertainment for adults or kids. If the civic center can be open for all these sporting events such as fishing tournaments ect. There is no reason it could not plan some good bands for the kids. "

MamaMia wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:07 AM:

" To Your (sic) Right: Methinks you should have spent less time cruising Main and more time at home studying your grammar and spelling. "

Just a thought wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:50 AM:

" Apparently Mr. Herrmann has forgotten the main reason that theaters, bowling alleys etc. are built. That reason is to make a profit for the owners. I'm guessing that the theaters that closed and the bowling alley that closed did not have "Not for profit" business licenses in their offices. I don't believe that supplying teens with bowling and movies will alleviate the drinking problem. The only place that problem can be solved is in the home. Parents must do their job as parents and teach sometimes harsh lessons to their children about the dangers, and even the illegalities of underage drinking. "

kw wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:49 AM:

" they won't do anything~ too busy thinking of how "rich" they will be if they bring in more retail,etc~ pretty sad "

Very True wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:42 AM:

" This is true but every effort to open a teen nightspot has failed for lack of interest. Unless the city or state would subsidize such an effort, it's probably to fail. "

RLC wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:25 AM:

" Good point! I agree, the entertainment choices, or lack there of, are awful here! It's too expensive anymore to "drag main" because of the gas prices, and gathering anywhere to hang out is pretty hard to do as there is no real place to go. Yes, Bismarck, bring something in for the kids! "

Conflicted wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:16 AM:

" Yes, I honestly do see the need for entertainment venues for teenagers. But open late into the night? Doesn't Bismarck-Mandan have curfews? Seems I have read in the Trib before about kids being picked up by the cops for curfew violations. So, how will that work then? It's been a while since I was a teenager, and my teen years were spent on the family farm, so I don't know the ins and outs of being a teen in an urban setting... "

Ignorance is truly bliss wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:58 AM:

" What Dave fails to point out here, either from ignorance or to hide these facts to make his point more valid, is that: 1. Mandan used to have a discount movie theater, but due to lack of business, it closed. 2. Mandan does have a state of the art bowling alley, it's called Midway Lanes. 3. Many teen centers have tried opening over the years, but due to lack of support from the very teens that they were open for, they had to close. 4. Numerous churches in the area do a plethora of events and functions for the teens; yet these functions or events are without heavy attendance. It would seem that teens of today are just like teens of yesteryear. And that is they just want to drink, hang out, and drag main. As bad as David made it sound, I believe Bismarck-Mandan is a far cry from the gang and crime ridden streets of L.A.!!!!! Also, this message specifically to Daivid himself............you talk of telling others to do something about your perceived problem, what are YOU doing? Are YOU taking any action? What events, functions, or activities for teens have you organized since you have returned from L.A.? "

Idea wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:39 AM:

" I have an idea, Dave. If it makes you sick why don't you open a bowling alley or an arcade somewhere? And if you think this is just a problem in Bismarck-Mandan you are way off base. "

Seriously wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:15 AM:

" "Kids" are going to drink no matter what or how we try to deter them. Whether there are places for them to go or not. In my opinion, "kids" 17 and under should be home with their family at that time of the night anyway. Don't blame parents inability to handle their kids on Bismarck. Put blame where it belongs. With the parents. "

your right wrote on Sep 14, 2007 6:01 AM:

" Yes, kids have no place to call thier own. When I was growing up we had alot of things to do in BI-smarck and Mandan area. We had parties (without booze) along the river. Now days if nore then 5 kids get together. Law enforcement thinks right away the are drinking or somethng else. We would hangout at Mcdees or Hardees. ANd not all night lone. We crused main street looking for old friends and new ones. Now days kids have learned from thier parents that there are different types of kids. The well to do and the poor. Now if you have a car that is more then three years old you are a poor kids. Or if you do not have a stereo that makes your ears bleed. We have fast cars and niosey ones. But, none of them were less then 7 years old. We learned to work on them. We put alot of money into stereos, tires, engines, and any else we could think of the make the car ours. We worked to fix our cars. Now days kids just go to mom and dad. I need this for my car or I need these kinds of clothes. Yes, kid need a place to have but. But, they also need to earn that place. We do not need to give it to them. "

Douglas wrote on Sep 14, 2007 4:42 AM:

" Hilarious. I can't understand why we don't want our teens to be more like those in California. Of course, we'll have to raise their allowance so they can afford designer drugs and all night raves. I've seen this same letter 10 and 20 years ago. Somehow we manage to have higher high school graduation rates and higher college graduation rates that California (and just about every other state). Do we have higher teen drinking rates?...or just less murders on the front pages of our papers, so stories like "high teen drinking rates" can dominate our news? "

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