Bismarck, Burlington or elsewhere for South African family? (crime rates, lawyer)

[phoenixlady]

We are a South African family living in Phoenix but wanting to make a move up North because Phoenix just does not appeal to us at all. We are looking for a friendly community and a good education. We are also looking for a place where there are seasons (We lived in London Ontario for a while and loved it!). I did my own search and I love the old buildings in Burlington VT, it looks tight knit and cozy...but I could be wrong. I am not sure why Bismarck ND attracts me as well but I need some advice before we move after the school year ends. I am a bit nervous to be where there are many Tornadoes, so that is out, even though my husband preferred Nebraska. He is a South African lawyer but can work in any legal field until he converts his degree. Any suggestion would be very much appreciated!

[IDtheftV]

Originally Posted by phoenixlady

I am a bit nervous to be where there are many Tornadoes, ... Any suggestion would be very much appreciated!

My suggestion is NOT to worry about tornadoes.

Define "many." ... Tornadoes can occur anywhere, but over 95% of them worldwide happen in the US "Tornado Alley."

I grew up in Dayton, OH - near where one of the worst tornadoes ever hit in 1974. It is also very near the site of the worst one of all time ( but not the most powerful ).

I've never seen one. I used to look for them.

Most lifelong residents of Bismarck probably also say the same thing.

Most ranchers in ND probably have seen one or two and those were just apparitions out near the horizon.

I've noticed that many posters worry about stuff they've heard about "somewhere." The NM and AZ forums are full of posts from people worried about the crime rates yet most of the regulars have never seen any crime. The closest they come to it is hearing that someone they know knows someone else who had it happen to them.

Even with my situation where someone stole my ID; does anyone really worry about it? Sure it sux when it happens to you, but it doesn't have much chance to do so.

Take precautions, sure. Worry about it? - nah.