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 NEWS AND HAPPENINGS ...
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A young Bald Eagle enjoys "lunch on the Bay". Courtesy Jochen Meissner
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This week has been vacation week for the Oyster River Cooperative School District. We hope that everyone with school age children has had a good week with the kids.
Also...Public Works took advantage of both the mild weather this week and school being closed, and began traffic painting in the school areas.
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SPRING CLEANUP NEXT WEEK MONDAY, MAY 2, 2016
The annual residential bulky waste pickup begins Monday, May 2, 2016. Please place materials curbside NO EARLIER than tomorrow, Saturday, April 30th and NO LATER than 7AM on Monday, May 2nd. Remember, electronics that require an electronic sticker at the Transfer Station will still need one curbside. Electronics stickers can be purchased to the Public Works office for $10.
All residents should be receiving their Spring Newsletter detailing the clean up within the next few days. It may also be viewed HERE.
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DURHAM MAY PILOT NEW ELECTION REGISTRATION CHECK-IN TECHNOLOGY FOR NEW HAMPSHIRE
Durham has been identified, along with Manchester and Hooksett, to pilot a new voter registration technology for the upcoming September state primary and November general elections. While we have had questions and concerns about the new technology, Moderator Chris Regan and Administrator Selig, after conferring with Town Clerk Lorrie Pitt and the Supervisors of the Checklist, believe on balance that it makes good sense for Durham to participate as part of the pilot for the Town’s residents and the state as a whole. It is our perspective that the reality is that this is not new technology and it will be coming our way sooner rather than later. We would rather be part of ensuring that it meets our needs locally as well as those of other towns and cities across New Hampshire.
In the long-term, this new technology, if it in fact operates as envisioned, should make the Supervisors’ jobs easier and require much less person power at the polls. Time will tell, but Durham is certainly the place to kick the tires and take it out for a test drive.
A link to the draft legislation can be found HERE.
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FROM THE SUPERVISORS OF THE CHECKLIST
The New Hampshire State Primary is September 13. In New Hampshire, anyone who is registered to vote may do so in a Primary (unlike in some other states) but must vote the party with which they are registered (Republicans vote for Republican candidates, Democrats vote for Democratic candidates).
Undeclared voters may pick the ballot they wish to use. The Supervisors are sure that most residents who wish to be Undeclared or in a party different from the one they voted for in February have done so, some residents have not done that yet..
May 31 is the last day party affiliations can be changed before the Primary.
The Supervisors believe they have made all of the changes that have been requested so far, but urge residents to check to make sure they are where they want to be. A new (as of April 26) checklist has bee posted at the Town Hall and at the Durham Post Office (in the room with the mail boxes). Residents may also check easily HERE. Don’t be disappointed in September!
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MILL PLAZA REDEVELOPMENT PRESENTATION POSTPONED
The presentation to the Planning Board on the Mill Plaza redevelopment is postponed from the May 11 meeting to the June 8 meeting. The applicant is still working on revising the plans for the project. Revised plans are expected to be submitted to the Town by May 25. Once received, the plans will be posted on the Town's website.
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WOULD DURHAM BENEFIT FROM GIS?
Two weeks ago a delegation from Durham met with representatives from the City of Dover to learn more about how Dover utilizes GIS to meet its needs. A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer system for capturing, storing, checking, and displaying data related to positions on the earth's surface. GIS can show many different kinds of data on one map – water lines, sewer lines, fire hydrants, roadways, tax maps, zoning maps, police and fire calls, etc. This enables people to more easily see, analyze, and understand patterns and relationships to facilitate better record keeping and decision making. Our group was very impressed with the work Dover is doing. However, based on the Dover model, successfully undertaking GIS requires investment, including a full-time experienced person to oversee and coordinate the program, software, data input, etc. The staff in Durham sees many potential benefits of implementing a GIS system here. While Durham does have some information in a GIS format, we have been unable to muster the financial or person power support to make it a reality. We plan to discuss it further.
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CINCO DE MAYO AND GRADUATION PLANNING
Durham's police and fire departments have been busy planning for both Cinco de Mayo and the UNH graduation. Numerous planning meetings and many hours of logistical preparations have been under way for some time.
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CAN DURHAM LEARN A THING OR TWO ABOUT TRANSPARENCY FROM KEENE?
Town staff had heard that the City of Keene was doing a lot in the area of televising meetings and making those broadcasts available to citizens via the web. Recently, IT Director Luke Vincent and DCAT Coordinator Craig Stevens traveled to Keene to learn more and see firsthand what is happening there. The software that Keene utilizes was said to be a potential for improving what Durham now offers here via DCAT-On Demand. After visiting Keene, the conclusion was that the software Durham is utilizing now meets the Town’s needs and that we would not in fact benefit by transitioning to another platform.
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Pictured l-r: Todd Selig, Administrator; Eric Feldbaum, NH Dept. of Resources & Economic Development; Senator Kelly Ayotte; Brian Hart, Southeast Land Trust; Bill Gegas, NH Dept. of Resources & Economic Development; Gail Wolek, Deputy Director, NH Dept. of Resources & Economic Development. Courtesy DCAT Studios
SENATOR AYOTTE VISITS THOMPSON FOREST
Last week, congressional funding re-authorization was approved for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) program. LWCF funds were used in part to preserve the Thompson Forest parcel. To acknowledge the congressional re-authorization, on Monday this week US Senator Kelly Ayotte visited the Thompson Forest in Durham located along Wednesday Hill Road near the corner of Packers Falls Road (by the gate to the pump station) for a brief ceremony. The late Shirley Thompson's daughter Kim Laughton, and son-in-law Richard Laughton, attended the event.
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EXPLORING POSSIBILITIES BETWEEN COMMUNITIES FOR GREATER COLLABORATION
In March the Town Managers from Durham, Exeter, Stratham, and Newmarket met to begin a very preliminary discussion on whether there might be areas to explore together in order to collaborate for the provision of municipal services, shared equipment, joint purchasing, backup departmental support, etc. The Municipal Management Association of New Hampshire offers a grant program to local communities to support an internship each year for a college student pursuing government studies. The four towns have partnered and jointly submitted an application to help fund an internship that would work to flesh out collaborative opportunities that might exist. The residual cost of such an internship would be split four ways. The intern would likely be hosted in Exeter or Durham. We are now waiting on whether the application will ultimately be selected.
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DURHAM WEB SITE WILL RECEIVE A FACELIFT
The Town has been informed that the software that supports its website is now old and an update to a new platform is needed. Over the next several months, we will begin the process of transitioning to that new platform. IT Manager Luke Vincent will be coordinating this process in conjunction with our web company, AHA!
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SOLAR 101 WORKSHOP - TUESDAY, MAY 24TH
A Solar 101 Workshop will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2016 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM in the Multipurpose Room at the Oyster River High School, Coe Drive. Prior to the workshop, from 5:00 - 6:00 PM, a tour of Durham's new solar array will be held at 391 Packers Falls Road in Lee (near Jenkins Road). The workshop being sponsored by the Durham & Lee Energy Committees, the Stratham Energy Commission, the Seacoast Regional Energy Hub, and other local area energy groups.
Attendees will learn about solar PV systems and residential installations, including: panel placement, permitting & interconnection, financing & incentives, and installer selection. There will be presentations by Andy Duncan, Energy Training Manager, Lakes Region Community College.
This event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged so that parking can be planned. RSVP via email to dec@ci.durham.nh.us . Be sure to indicate whether you will be attending the workshop, the tour, or both.
PLEASE REGISTER to attend HERE. More information can be found HERE.
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OYSTER RIVER YOUTH ASSOCIATION SEARCH FOR NEW DIRECTOR
ORYA is currently seeking highly motivated and well-qualified candidates for the position of Director of ORYA. More information about this position and how to apply can be found HERE.
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DURHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT PREPARATIONS FOR THE WEEKEND
This weekend is expected to be very busy for the Durham Police with the end of the academic year approaching. Next Thursday, May 5th, is Cinco de Mayo which has evolved into an event of celebration for UNH student and is the beginning of the last full weekend of the UNH Academic Year before exams begin and students begin the exodus back home for the summer.
While in recent years Cinco de Mayo has fell on “reading days” where classes have ended and there is an expectation of studying in preparation for final exams, this year classes will in fact be held on Thursday. This should assist with keeping activity in check but the Durham Police are expecting and planning for significant activity during the day and certainly into the night. They have been monitoring the public domains associated with the more popular social media sites and there are significant indications that there will be substantial activity occurring. While the Durham Police are fully prepared and can routinely address busy weekend nights and even the occasional challenge of a celebratory riot, this “day drinking” phenomenon is a significant challenge. There is no singular attraction other than it’s a Mexican holiday, which by the way Cinco de Mayo literally means “May 5th” and is a Mexican holiday almost exclusive to the Mexican State of Puebla which commemorates the Mexican army’s improbable victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla that occurred on May 5, 1862.
There have been a host of discussions, planning and formulating alternative scenarios by Chief Kurz and his staff. The challenge with the “day drinking” phenomenon is that there is no focus or triggering point that draws the students and visitors to Durham so the police must remain flexible and react to whatever percolates into an event, at whatever time and at whatever location! With these unknowns in play, the police have met several times with the Superintendent Jim Morse and the administration of the Oyster River Middle School formulating plans and alternatives that will ensure that students leaving school do not interact inadvertently with partying UNH students. Additionally letters have been sent to all downtown businesses regarding the potential for throngs of partying students ascending to the downtown. Our Problem Oriented Police (POP) officer, Pam Donley has met with a number of landlords and discussed lease occupancy limitations, reinforced that large gathering of persons on their lawns and public intoxication, even on private property will result in police intervention!
UNH has taken a number of assertive steps including sending emails to parents of UNH students as well as the students themselves, reinforcing that off-campus conduct can impact a student’s ability to continue attending UNH as well as scholarships and study abroad opportunities.
Chief Kurz wishes to remind residents that if you hear disruptive or loud activity this weekend, or any other time, you are encouraged to contact the Durham Police via 868-2324 or 911 if the situation warrants an emergency response.
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IRS SCAMS CONTINUE
Durham residents have been contacting the Durham Police frequently this week letting them know that they have been receiving calls from scammers. While the Durham Police have been in close contact with Federal law enforcement, there appears little that can be accomplished as all indications point to off-shore locations supported by relatively sophisticated software that is making the calls appear as though they are originating within the United States. Efforts to focus law enforcement initiatives upon these software providers is being explored by the Federal entities and as yet, Durham Police have not been informed of the success or status of these efforts.
In the interim, Chief Kurz remains focused upon informing Durham residents of the scams with the goal that to be aware is to be forearmed!
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TOWN OFFICES CLOSED ON MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016 FOR MEMORIAL DAY
All Durham Town offices will be closed on Monday, May 30, 2016, in observance of Memorial Day. All Town offices will reopen for regular business on Tuesday, May 31, 2016.
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Transfer Station and Refuse/Recycling Schedule Changes for the Memorial Day Holiday
NO CURBSIDE COLLECTION ON MON 5/30/16 - Delayed one day all week. Monday collection on Tuesday, Tuesday collection on Wednesday, etc.
TRANSFER STATION CLOSED SAT 5/28/16
NO COMMERCIAL COLLECTION ON FRI 6/3/16. The holiday schedule can be viewed HERE.
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In the third grade at the Moharimet elementary school, toy animal Anteaters are all the rage! Two are shown here resting in a stroller at the corner of Bagdad Road and Nobel K. Peterson Drive while waiting for the school bus in the early morning hours with their young human owners. Courtesy Todd Selig
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AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION WEEKLY MINI FILM SERIES
Durham's Agricultural Commission's has begun featuring a Mini Film Series in the weekly "Friday Updates". Each week a short video on an agricultural topic will be posted that Commission members hope subscribers will enjoy and find helpful.
This week's mini film: Using Goats to Graze Brush and Invasive Plants.
Goats are well suited to clearing land. Learn about the advantages of using goats to manage land. Learn, too,about a possible business opportunity: Your own herd of grazing goats for hire!
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DURHAM POINT ROAD BRIDGE REPAIR PROJECT
Advertisement to formally bid the project for construction hits the newspapers this weekend. Bids will be due on Thursday May 19th, 2016 at 1pm. Construction is expected to begin late summer 2016 pending environmental permitting. Project letters will be sent to affected residents on Durham Point Road and Bay Road to inform them of project schedule and bridge closure information. If you have any questions please contact Town Engineer April Talon, P.E. at atalon@ci.durham.nh.us or 603-868-5578.
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PARKS AND RECREATION ON LINE REGISTRATION COMING SOON
Residents have asked for it and the Town is working to deliver! In the very near future, the Parks and Recreation Department will begin to offer on line registration. Kudos to P&R Director Rachel Gasowski for her yeoman’s work on this project. Thank you as well goes to IT Manager Luke Vincent, Staff Accountant Barbara Ross, and the Town Clerk’s Office staff.
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ELEVEN SIGNS A CITY WILL SUCCEED ACCORDING TO THE ATLANTIC – Durham Possesses All but One – A Craft Brewery!
A recent article from The Atlantic outlined eleven signs that indicate whether a city will succeed. They are as follows:
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Divisive national politics seem a distant concern. “Overwhelmingly the focus in successful towns was not on national divisions but on practical problems that a community could address.”
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You can pick out the local patriots. “Who makes this town go?” The answers varied widely, sometimes it was a mayor or town council member, sometimes a local businessperson, sometimes a university president or a civic activist, sometimes a saloonkeeper, a historian, or a radio personality.
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“Public-private partnerships” are real. In successful towns, people can point to something specific and say, “this” is what a partnership means.
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People know the civic story. Successful communities have their stories. In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for example, that it’s just the right size – big enough to find stimulation and opportunity and small enough to be livable and comfortable.
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They have a downtown. A downtown is the quickest single marker of the condition of a town. “Most of the cities we visited were pouring attention, resources, and creativity into their downtown.”
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They are near a research university. Research universities lift the economy by bringing in a student population and have become powerful start-up incubators.
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They have, and care about, a community college.
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They have unusual schools. Think ORCSD!
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They make themselves open. Politicians, educators, business people, students, and retirees frequently stressed the ways their communities were trying to attract and include new people of all types.
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They have big plans. When a council member shows a map of how the future will look, that is important. “Few national politicians even pretend to offer a long-term vision anymore.”
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They have craft breweries. “A city on the way back will have one or more craft breweries, and probably some small distilleries too.”
To view the full article in The Atlantic, click HERE.
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ASSESSING OFFICE BUSY REVIEWING ELDERLY EXEMPTIONS AND VETERANS CREDITS APPLICATIONS
Assessor Jim Rice has been very busy reviewing applications submitted by April 15th for the Elderly Exemption and Veterans Credits programs.
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KENNY YOUNG’S CLIMB FOR CONSERVATION - and help save the Andean Spectacled Bear
Kenny Young, Young's Restaurant, is gearing up for the adventure of a lifetime - a trek in Macchu Picchu in June. He will part of a team that is not only going to climb this famous trail, but is also looking to do their part in helping the Climb for Conservation. Both on the restaurant's Facebook page and in the restaurant itself, fund-raising has begun that will go towards programs which have been created to save endangered species. Kenny's group will be specifically raising funds to save the Andean Spectacled Bear, the only surviving bear species native to South America and is in a vulnerable state due to habitat loss.
To learn more and to assist Kenny with his climb, visit his Facebook page HERE.
Additional information may also be viewed HERE.
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"THE SMART GROWTH MANUAL"
The Planning Office has added “The Smart Growth Manual” to its library of planning books in Town Hall. This book, written by Andres Duany and Jeff Speck (with Mike Lydon), authors of “Suburban Nation,” offers an insightful comment on myriad development-related topics. Excerpts from the book will be included in Friday Updates periodically.
“Inevitable Growth. The very term smart growth implies that development can be positive, and, until the advent of sprawl, this was the common understanding. Today, the poor quality of our built environment has convinced many people that good growth is not possible, and that the only option is to stop development entirely. Such an approach is untenable, as the population of this country is expected to grow by 30 million over the next 20 years. . . . The first step of effective long-term planning is to admit that growth will occur, and the second step is to focus on its quality.”
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TOWN CLERK MAILING MACHINE BEING REPLACED
The Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s Office is in the process of replacing our aged mailing machine. The staff has been able to secure a lower lease rate for a new machine adequate for what the Town needs from a local company, rather than from the national distributor we have previously utilized. Kudos to Town Clerk/Tax Collector Lorrie Pitt and her staff!
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Solar array at the Town's gravel pit on Packers Falls Road. Courtesy DCAT Studios
SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION AT PACKERS FALLS GRAVEL PIT
Good progress has been made relative to the 640 kW DC solar array at the Town’s gravel pit on Packers Falls Road. All panels have been installed and are now being wired. We must have the installation up and running by the end of June. Executive Councilor Colin Van Ostern who represents Durham (and a long-time supporter of the project) visited the site last week to view the progress for himself.
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TOWN OF EXETER INVITATION TO ATTEND HEALTHY LAWNS-CLEAN WATER FORUM
the Great Bay-Piscataqua Waterkeeper and Exeter's Healthy Lawns-Clean Water committee are hosting a public event focused on the wise use of fertilizers as well as pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, and neonicitinoids. The forum will be held on Wednesday, May 4, 2016, at the Exeter High School located at 1 Blue Hawk Drive off Route 27, west of Exit 9, Route 101 in Exeter.
Doors open in the auditorium at the Exeter High School at 5:30 PM with the program starting at 6 PM; expected to run through 8:30 PM.
Forum speakers will include:
Jay Feldman, Executive Director of Beyond Pesticides
Chip Osborne, a nationally renowned organic turfgrass expert
John Bochert of Eldredge Lumber in York, Maine, a company now offering alternatives to some commonly marketed insecticides and herbicides.
Some local lawn-care vendors will be present to showcase their eco-friendly products. Attendees will have an opportunity to visit vendors before, after, and during a break.
Contact Kristen Murphy with any questions at kmurphy@exeternh.gov or call 603-773-6112.
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UNH MASTER'S DEGREE STUDENT IN KINESIOLOGY SEEKING INDIVIDUALS TO PARTICIPATE IN MASTER'S THESIS
Victoria Gregory, a Master's Degree student at UNH in Kinesiology with a concentration in exercise science, is conducting her Master's Thesis, which is looking at the energy cost of walking across body types. She is looking for participants that are between the ages of 18yr and 50yr who exercise less than 5hr a week. She is specifically looking for a female in her 40s who is 5'8", and two males between 35yr and 45yr who are 5'10" with BMIs (weight to height ratio) that are between 22 and 25.
Participation requires two 1-hour visits to New Hampshire Hall in Durham where individuals will perform a simple leg strength test and walk with and without a weighted vest for 6min.
Those interested in participating are asked to contact Ms. Gregory via email, vgreg6@gmail.com, or call 978-888-1839.
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UNH COMMUNITY TRANSPORTATION SURVEY IN PROGRESS
The Survey Center is assisting UNH Transportation Services and Campus Planning with an important transportation survey relating to UNH parking, transit and campus mobility.
Last conducted in 2011, this survey has been repeated every 5-7 years since 2001 to provide important benchmark and attitudinal data. Faculty and Staff may be selected for a random phone call version of the survey over the course of the next two weeks.
Durham residents affiliated with UNH in a faculty, staff and/or student capacity are invited to take the web-based survey during the course of the next several weeks.
The survey takes approximately 5 minutes to complete and can be found HERE.
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SUMMER UNH CONSTRUCTION IMPACTING TWO UNH-OWNED PUBLIC STREETS - Lower Quad Reconstruction
Per notice provided to the Town Traffic Safety Committee, effective the Monday after Commencement (May 23, 2016) , the Lower Quad reconstruction project will result in Quad Way (south of Holloway Commons Loading dock) and Academic Way (between Mill and Quad Way) being closed to all traffic for the entire summer. All parking in lower quad will be closed. Please find alternate routes. If you are inviting guests to campus, be sure to provide them with directions exclusive of these road sections.
A map of current construction projects can always be found on the UNH Facilities website.
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DURHAM BIKE & SPORTS NEWS
* We now RENT BIKES, in response to many customer requests. Available bikes are new and vary in size. Family coming to town? Reserve a rental by calling us on 397–5140 during shop hours, which are posted on our Facebook page (facebook.com/durhambike).
* DB&S receives requests for USED BIKES from UNH students and families who only need a bike occasionally. To meet this need, we are now accepting both adult and children's used bikes for donation or consignment. If you have a bike in very good condition that you want to sell or donate, bring it by.
* BIKE GROUP RIDES RE-START IN JUNE! Watch for information and ride dates on our Facebook page.
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Administrator Selig and his family are doing some sightseeing in Washington, D.C. over the ORCSD vacation week. Today they visited the U.S. Capitol (above) and the Lincoln Monument (below), as well as the Jefferson Monument. Courtesy Todd Selig
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2016 UPDATE TO THE NEW HAMPSHIRE HOMEOWNERS GUIDE TO STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Want to know more about how you can manage stormwater generated from your property? Read the Homeowners Stormwater Guide from NHDES that was recently updated! It is a great learning tool and has Do-It-Yourself Solutions!
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY 2016 LIBRARY USER SURVEY - Your Voice Does Make a Difference!
The Durham Public Library Board of Trustees and Staff want to hear from you!
Please take 5 minutes to complete the adult or youth survey. Use your home computer or come to the library where every computer terminal has a quick link. Every member of your family is welcome to participate by taking the survey individually.
The responses to the anonymous surveys will be used to assist the staff and Trustees in preparation for our annual strategic planning process, setting priorities, and ensuring we are meeting the needs of the entire community.
If you are unable to access a computer or cannot take the survey online, you can complete a paper version of the survey—ask for it at the front desk of the library. Once completed, please drop it in the confidential library dropbox inside the front door.
Access the Adult Survey (ages 18 and over) HERE
Access the Children and Teen Survey (under 18) HERE
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about the Durham Public Library.
The survey ends Friday May 13th.
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TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS IN MAY
In May, the Town Council will meet on Monday, May 9th and Monday, 23rd instead of its usual 1st and 3rd Mondays.
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EDC Director, Mary Ellen Humphrey, stopped by this week to visit the new Kennebunk Savings branch at 17 Madbury Road at Madbury Commons. Pictured from left to right are: Chelsea Molinaro, Assistant Branch Manager; Mary Ellen Humphrey, EDC Director; and Cara Dello Russo, Branch Manager. They invite you to stop by for a free cup of coffee (or tea)!
DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22
DCAT 22 On Demand has made a change to the Town's Video On Demand service. The switch to the new VOD service began on Monday, April 18th. All of the videos that were available on the old site have been ported over, and are up and running for the public's viewing pleasure on the new site.
The new site address: https://dcat22.viebit.com/
Please contact: dcat@ci.durham.nh.us with any questions
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If you happened to miss the Seed Starting Workshop in the Community Room at the Durham Public Library, don’t fret DCAT Studios was there to record and prepare the video for replay. There are many awesome tips by presenter: Jeremy DeLisle, UNH Cooperative Extension. I can’t go into detail simply because I’m not a gardener, but if you are, then this is don’t miss TV. This video will replay on DCAT Channel 22 on Saturday & Sunday @ 4:00 PM. This program will also be available on DCAT On Demand. Total video run time: 1:30
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The Durham Agricultural Commission is working with farmers and gardeners in the area to give you a behind-the-scenes video tour of local farms and gardens. The videos are produced by Durham resident & DCAT 22 Volunteer, Phil Kincade and present a seasonal look at our working landscape. This video is currently only available for viewing on DCAT On Demand (DCAT 22 Studios folder).
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The last week of March saw author KD Mason arrive at the Durham Public Library. You won’t want to miss his explanation of his decision to become a writer and how he dreamed up his main character, plus so much more. Mason is witty and extremely entertaining. DCAT 22 was there to record what was missed by those who decided to stay home and watch Dancing with the Stars, rather than come to the Library for snacks and cool author. DCAT 22 replay: Saturday & Sunday @ 1:30 PM. This program will also be available on DCAT On Demand. Total video run time: 1:00
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DCAT is Live Streaming
Please join DCAT for any of our regularly scheduled meetings live-streamed directly to the device of your choice . It’s easy, all you have to do is go to: live-stream.com and follow the prompts to set up your live stream account. You’ll receive email updates as to when the meeting will be held and the start time. All you have to do is click and watch. Live-stream works on any PC (just remember to update your Adobe Flash player), Apple or Android device. Please contact dcat@ci.durham.nh.us with any questions.
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PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Durham Parks and Recreation, its Director and Committee, strive to offer a wide range of quality programs, parks, and facilities that encourage all community members to participate in healthy, fun, and enriching activities. Together, they celebrate the essential role public recreation plays in fostering a cohesive and vibrant community.
Online Program Registration- Now Available!
Durham Parks & Recreation is excited to announce the addition of online program registration and payments to our department! You can find program and department information by visiting us HERE. Please create an account on the left hand side of the page, which will allow access to register for programs. Please be sure to ask questions, and let us know if something is not’t operating correctly.
Celebrate World Tai Chi & Qigong Day-Saturday, April 30th at Churchill Rink
Local tai chi enthusiasts will be celebrating World Tai Chi and Qigong Day on Saturday, April 30, 10:00 am, at the Churchill Rink in Durham.
Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art of self-defense, now done in a modified style mainly for health and for fun. Its forms combine relaxed, fluid and slow movements with a calm and alert mental state. Tai chi builds physical endurance and enhances flexibility, balance and coordination.
World Tai Chi & Qigong Day is celebrated around the world on the last Saturday in April.
The event is free. Please join us - to either participate or just watch and enjoy. Please contact Dianne Ramey at (603) 868-1219 or dianne.ramey@gmail.com with any questions.
2016 Memorial Day Parade
On Monday, May 30th the Town of Durham will have a parade honoring our veterans beginning 10:00am at Mill Pond Road. Immediately following the welcoming announcement, we will proceed down Mill Pond Road, and turn left onto Newmarket Road. From there, we’ll make another left onto Dover Road/Main Street, toward downtown and Memorial Park, where the second ceremony will take place. There will be live music, musket salute, invocation, and other special announcements.
For those interested in participating in the parade, please fill out our Parade Participant Registration Form and return it to Parks & Recreation by May 25th.
After School Mountain Bike Club
Tuesdays & Thursdays beginning Thursday, May 19th-Thursday, June 9th. After school until 5pm. Bikes will be transported by DPR from ORMS to Madbury Town Hall each session. Bus # 29 will be available to transport middle school students after school to Madbury Town Hall. Min. of 6. Max of 8. Please register with DPR by Friday, May 13th.
Stargazing At Wagon Hill Farm
Durham Parks & Recreation and UNH Astronomer John Gianforte - The SkyGuy, have teamed up to offer Stargazing at Wagon Hill Farm! We will be offering an interactive stargazing workshop on the second Saturday of each month beginning in May. Participants can join us in the orchard at Wagon Hill Farm where we will view the moon, Jupiter, constellations, and more! In the case of inclement weather, join us at Churchill Rink! $10/person, $20/family. Please pre-register with DPR by Thursday of each listed stargazing date.
Stargazing Dates & Times
Saturday, May 14th- 8:30-9:30pm
Saturday, June 11th- 8:45-9:45pm
Saturday, July 9th- 9:00-10:00pm
2016 Summer Day Camps with Durham Parks & Recreation
Durham Parks and Recreation is offering nine exciting weeks of Summer Day Camps beginning June 27th- August 26th 2016!
Full or half day options available along with a five-week partnership camp with ORCSD Camp R.E.A.C.H. DPR provides an afternoon camp option to each of their morning camp sessions! Camp R.E.A.C.H. will run weekly from July 11th-August 12th Monday- Thursday with an optional Friday Field Trip. Scheduled trips include, Jenness Beach, Water Country, an Island Kayak Adventure, Blitz Air Park & Mini Golf, and Hampton Beach & Ice Cream!!!
DPR also has some great fun-filled and educational camp options before the July 11th start of Camp R.E.A.C.H. and after R.E.A.C.H concluded on August 12th. Campers can look forward to Wicked Gross Science Camp, Super Hero Physics Camp, an Adventure Paddle Camp, Extreme Earth Camp, Youth Yoga Camps and Wicked Cool Med. School Camp!!
Registration is open for any of our camp weeks! Call or email to register now!! For more information please visit us HERE.
FREE Balance Workshop with Sally Baker, PT
Better balance prevents falls and injuries. Join Sally Ann Baker PT from Durham Physical Therapy as she shows you easy balance exercises, which will help restore some of the flexibility, and strength you remember.
As we get older, falling can result in more than the bruises we might have experienced in our youth; it can rob us of our independence. Every year thousands of older people experience broken hips and head injuries. Don’t join this group!
Join Sally Thursdays at 12pm at the Durham Recreation Parks & Recreation building located in the old court house on 2 Dover Road, for a half hour of fun, gentle, preventive exercise, a no sweat approach, which will arm you against the uneven surfaces.
Call the Durham Parks & Recreation at 817- 4074 or email at recreation@ci.durham.nh.us for more information about this FREE recurring program. Pre-registration is not necessary for participation.
We want to hear from you!
Have a new exciting program idea? Please be sure to share your vision with Parks and Recreation Director, Rachel Gasowski. Stop by the Recreation Department Office (2 Dover Road), or call/email the department at (603) 817-4074/ rgasowski@ci.durham.nh.us.
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The annual Letter Carriers Food Drive will be held on Saturday, May 14th. See more information below.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Turning Primary Energy into Local Climate Action: An afternoon with author and 350.org co-founder Bill McKibben, Sunday, May 1, 2016, 2-4PM, Community Church of Durham, followed by a reception in Fellowship Hall. This presidential primary brought the need for action on climate change front and center. Hear about how this energy can be transformed into much needed climate action in the state. $5 donation suggested. For tickets and to RSVP, click HERE. Hosted by Community Church, 350 New Hampshire, and Divest UNH.
Permaculture Installation at the Waysmeet Center, Sunday, May 1, 2016, 9AM - 1PM. A group of UNH students and community members have designed a project that will rejuvenate the grounds of the Waysmeet Center and install a living landscape that integrates natural ecosystems with the natural features on the property. There will be a whole host of Slow Life Sunday events following the installation.
May Day Rally for Immigrant Rights, Sunday, May 1, 2016, 4:30PM, Thompson Hall Lawn, UNH campus. Speakers will include: Eva Castillo, Rev. Sandra Pontoh, Rev. Larry Brickner-Wood, UNH students Gabby Greaves, Auderien Monareh, and Sid Nigam. Featuring the Leftist Marching Band and Indonesian Dancers. More information HERE.
ORCSD Sustainability Committee e-Newsletter. The ORCS works to promote sustainable practices in the School District. Staff, students, administration, and community members from Durham, Lee, and Madbury work collaboratively to achieve “green” projects and educational opportunities. View the ORCS e-Newsletter HERE. The ORSC will meet on Wednesday, May 4, 2016, 7PM at Moharimet School.
Community Wellness Fair, Sponsored by the ORCSD Mental Health Wellness Committee, Thursday, May 5, 2016, 5 - 7PM, Oyster River High School. More information HERE.
Mast Way School Annual May Fair Fund-raising Event - Friday, May 6, 2016, 4:30 - 7:00 PM. Will include a raffle, games, Kona Ice, face painting, delicious food and much more.
10th Annual Quackfest - Hosted by the Rotary Club of Durham-Great Bay, Saturday, May 7, 2016. Rubber duck race on the Oyster River at the Town Landing. Music, children activities, hamburgers, and hot dogs. Event starts 11AM; ducks launched at 1PM. Prizes given for winning ducks. Ducks can be purchased from Rotarians in front of Rite Aide Thu & Fri (Apr 28 & 29) from 3:30 to 5:30PM and Sat (Apr 30), from 10AM– 1PM. Ducks can also be purchased at the event. Do not have to be present to win. Ducks: $5 each or 5 for $20.
Yogathon Fund-raiser for the Waysmeet Center, Saturday, May 7, 2016, Three Bridges Yoga Studio. Each class will be taught by a different local yoga instructor, starting on the hour between the hours at 12 and 7PM. Suggested donation is $10/class. For class listings and information on registering, click HERE.
Herring Aid - Saturday May 7, 2016, 10:00AM - 12:00 Noon, Macallen Dam, Newmarket. Sponsored by NH Fish & Game and Lamprey River Advisory Committee. More information HERE.
Durham Post Office Letter Carriers 24th Annual Food Drive, Saturday, May 14, 2016. Residents are asked to leave non-perishable canned and boxed food out by their mailboxes and their letter carrier will pick it up when they deliver mail. All donations will help stock local panties in town and are greatly appreciated.
TimberNook Enchanted Evening, Saturday, May 21, 2016, 5 - 8PM, Moharimet Elementary School, Madbury NH. Ages 5-10 years old, $35/child. Register HERE or call 603-868-1335. More information HERE.
ORHS Presents Footloose The Musical, Thursday, May 26 - Sunday, May 29, 2016. Presented with great music, dancing, and singing by the ORHS Student Players. Ticket information available soon.
Annual Plant Sale - Hosted by Strafford County Master Gardeners Association, Sunday, May 29, 2016, 10AM - 2PM, Durham Town Hall parking lot, 8 Newmarket Road. Large variety of perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, and trees available at discounted prices. Master gardeners available to answer questions. Contact Traci Bisson, tracibisson@metrocast.net. More information HERE.
Growing Places Timbernook Enchanted Evening - SPRING: April vacation week for school age children. SUMMER: Two exciting summer camps. FALL: New before school program.
UNH Summer Camps taking Registrations. Camps are offered for all ages, and in areas such as STEM learning, the Arts, Academic Enrichment, Athletics, and Recreational programs. Registration information HERE.
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From the Friends of the Durham Public Library, Daffodils are in bloom!
DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Children’s and Young Adult Programs:
Game Afternoon (ages 10 & up) Monday May 2nd, 2:45-4:00 pm – This week: Spoons & Jungle Speed! Join us for board games, snack and prizes. All are welcome!
Raccoon Readers, 2nd- 4th grade book group, Tues., May 3rd, 6-7pm – This month’s book: Malcolm at Midnight by W. H. Beck. Come and talk about the book, play some games, do some puzzles, have a snack and make a creative craft. All are welcome and books are available at the circulation desk.
Storytimes! Tues. May 3rd and Thurs. May 5th 10:30am, This week’s theme: Flowers & Mother’s Day! Join us for stories, finger-plays, felt board, songs and a craft.
PJ Storytime, Weds. May 11th, 6:00 pm - This month: “Puppies!” Join Oyster River Parents and Pre-schoolers (ORPP) and the Durham Library for this month’s PJ storytime. Come wearing your pajamas! Come and hear some Puppy stories, and make a pup-tastic craft. We will have a special animal visitor. Snacks are provided by ORPP and all are welcome.
Baby-Lapsit, Wed. May 4th 10:30-11:30am - For children & their care-givers, infancy to age 2. Songs, stories, movement, rhymes & socializing afterward.
Lego Club (K-4th grade) on Thurs. May 12th 3:30-4:30pm, Theme: Knights & Castles! – NO LEGO CLUB ON THURS. MAY 5TH. Like to build Legos? Join us to do Lego challenges and build cool structures. Please note the new start time.
Homeschoolers Group, Fri. May 6th 10:30am, Theme: Mexico & Mother’s Day! – Join us for books, games puzzles and a fun craft.
S.T.E.A.M. Program, Sat. May 7th, 10:30-11:30am. This week: Volume & Weight! Join us every Saturday for S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math) activities in the Storytime/Craftroom. All ages welcome! Next Week, Sat. May 14th – Planting, Water and Watersheds!
Babysitting Class with McGregor EMS, Sat. May 7th, 10:00am-2:00 pm – This course is designed to certify kids ages 11 & up who are looking to or already babysit. All students will receive a Babysitting, CPR and first aid certification. The cost is $35 and payment is due upon registration. To register, visit http://www.cprsafe.org or call 603-862-3674
The library now has two Kindles for kids to check out and two Kindles for Young Adults to check out. The kids Kindles are loaded with lots of great books, apps and videos while the YA Kindles have favorite YA titles to check out. See the Children’s/YA Librarian at the Children’s desk to check one out.
Tales for Tails – Have a child who needs to increase their confidence in reading? Have them read to one of our Pet Partner dogs! Your child will read ½ hour once a week to one of the dogs and their handlers. Sessions run for 4 weeks. Call the Children’s Dept. at 590-1124 to sign up now! Still room to read with Tango!
Join the Reading Patch Club! Ages 2-12 years - Earn patches and a tote bag for hours that you read! Program sponsored by The Friends of the Durham Public Library.
Adult Programs:
First Aid Class Tues. May 3, 6pm - AHA Heartsaver First Aid Class offered by McGregor Memorial EMS. Register http://cprsafe.org
Oyster River Knitters/Crocheters Tues. May 3, 7-9pm - Contact Janet 868-6699. All levels and beginners are invited for an evening of assistance and fun!
Alzheimer's Café Fri. May 6, 10:30am - Informal gathering for dementia patients still residing in their own homes & their caregivers. Contact Nicole Moore, DPL 868-6699
Fifty-Plus Years of SCUBA Diving Adventures, Wed. May 11, 7pm - Denny Chasteen presents a "photo tour". He has been SCUBA diving since the early days of the sport, traveling throughout the world photographing marine life while witnessing their interesting behavior.
SOFT and Other Things We Learned: How UNH Developed a Writing Style, Thurs. May 12, 5-7pm - The Rhetoric Society of America Student Chapter of New Hampshire Presents SOFT and Other Things We Learned: How UNH Developed a Writing Style with Professor Emeritus Tom Newkirk. Light refreshments served.
Septic System Outreach, Saturday, May 14, 2016, 10AM - 12 Noon. Free and open to the public. Are you savvy about your septic system? Almost all homeowners could use a refresher course concerning one of their biggest investments. With proper planning and care, your septic system can last a long time and add value to your property. Don’t ignore it just because it is below ground and out of sight! No registration is required, but if you have any questions, please contact Armida Geiger, Durham Public Library adult program coordinator, at ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us or call 603-590-1117.
From the Friends of the DPL, Daffodils are in bloom! - The Friends of the library thank Blue Bell Greenhouse, 105 North River Road, Lee, for supplying us with the excellent quality Holland daffodil bulbs which made this glorious display a certainty.
New Exhibit at the DPL Gallery! April 2016 - In 2011, children recently immigrated to Manchester NH joined students from Moharimet Elementary for a project to document their own or their ancestor’s immigration experiences by working together to create story portfolios. Guided by Beth Olshansky and Susan O’Byrne, the children produced remarkable storybooks. Come to see the project results during April.
Ole Time Auto Guest Speaker Announced! Sat. June 4, 2016 10am-1pm - Guest speaker Michele Albion, author of The Quotable Henry Ford. Autos will be on display for your viewing pleasure. Sneak peek at the possible car line up to date: Chevy Nova, 1950 Ford Street Rod, Antique MG, 1978 Pace Car 25th Edition Corvette, 64 Pontiac Catalina, and 56 T Bird. Are you the owner of an antique auto? Please contact Armida via phone 603-590-1117 or email: ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us
Armida Geiger, Adult Program Coordinator is looking for owners of classic and antique autos. Saturday June 4, DPL will host its first “Ole’ Time Auto” event. Please contact Armida 603-590-1117 or e-mail: ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us
Reminder: New Operating Hours - Mon. 12pm-8pm, Tues. Wed. & Thurs. 10am-8pm, Fri. 10am-5pm, Sat. 10am-2pm Closed Sun. Please let us know if you feel this change is for the best, and/or how it might impact you. Send your thoughts to durhampl@gmail.com. Your feedback is appreciated
For more information, visit the Durham Public Library website.
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WEEKLY ARREST REPORT
*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.
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Administrator Todd Selig having his make up applied in advance of the NHPTV spring auction where he volunteered as a guest auctioneer on Friday, April 22nd at the NHPTV facility in Durham. The NHPTV spring auction continues into this weekend. Tune in and consider making a bid to support NH's local public television station.
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