Mr Geek,
Coming to you from Jamestown.
Not sure how big of towns you have lived in the past, but Jamestown is your typical smaller Midwest town of 15K (low crime, laid back, quiet, slow paced).
We have a pretty decent selection of restaurants, and so-so for retail. As you have probably found out a new Wally World Super Center is now under construction.
We have an excellent school system with brand spankin new state of the art high school and newly renovated middle school. Lots of great sports facilities to go with them.
We have a lot of available outdoor activities such as boating (large reservoir right on the North side of town), and another about 5 minutes North of town. Great fishing, hunting, bird watching, horse back riding (new trails and camp).
We have a pretty active Chamber of Commerce and a social committee called After 5 (
Jamestown After 5 - Home). Our committee of which I am a member is there to help welcome new residents and people to our fair city. We try to get people involved and feel at home when they move to the area. We try to get out and socialize, and have some fun events. If you plan on moving I would urge you to let us know and we would be more than happy to roll out the red carpet and welcome you to town.
I will not be a fool and tell you there are no downsides to our fair community, the shopping leaves much to be desired, but Fargo and Bismarck are only 100 miles away. We really lack clothing, and a large building materials store (like Home Depot). And of course things can get a little boring especially in winter. But life is what you make of it, if you get out and get involved in activities, there is plenty to do.
Feel free to drop me a line through the private message feature and I would be more thank happy to give you more info, and ideas.
PS, have to assume you will be some how connected to one of the businesses going into the new mall going up by Wal-Mart?
Thanks!