Friday Updates - April 5, 2013

Friday, April 5, 2013

It appears that spring has finally arrived. Courtesy James Bubar

NH ATTORNEY GENERAL DETERMINES THE TWO DURHAM OFFICERS RESPONSIBLIE FOR SHOOTING A LEE RESIDENT ON DEC. 3, 3012 WERE JUSTIFIED IN USING DEADLY FORCE

The NH Department of Justice has issued a report summarizing the Attorney General’s findings and conclusions with regard to the officer-involved shooting in Lee, New Hampshire on December 3, 2012 involving several Durham police officers.

Based on the investigation’s findings, and for the reasons detailed in the investigative report, New Hampshire Attorney General Michael A. Delaney has determined that the deadly force which resulted in Mr. Steven Amazeen sustaining gunshot wounds to his legs and shoulder was a justified use of deadly force by the two Durham Police Officers who fired at Mr. Amazeen. 

The report reads, in part:  “The evidence demonstrates that throughout the police encounter with Mr. Amazeen the police were threatened repeatedly with deadly force.  Mr. Amazeen begged for the police to shoot him and threatened several times to shoot the officers if they did not shoot him.  At one point, Mr. Amazeen pointed his weapon in close proximity to several officers in an effort to insight them to shoot him.  When this failed, Mr. Amazeen’s attention was directed at the arriving Durham Officers.  He immediately raised his weapon as he approached the officers, while begging them to shoot him.  He approached in an aggressive manner and pointed his weapon at Officer Carpenter, refusing to comply with orders to stop and drop his weapon.  When Mr. Amazeen reached the front of the Durham Police cruiser, and failed to drop his weapon or stop advancing, he left the officers no choice but to fire their weapons to protect Officer Carpenter’s life and themselves from deadly force.  Durham Police Sergeant John Dalton and Durham Police Officer John Lavoie both fired their weapons at Mr. Amazeen.   Mr. Amazeen immediately collapsed on the roadway with bullet wounds to his upper legs and his shoulder.  Officer Lavoie provided emergency medical attention to Mr. Amazeen until the ambulance arrived and transported him to the Wentworth Douglas Hospital.”

Based on all the facts and circumstances of the case, the Attorney General concluded the officers’ actions in shooting Mr. Amazeen were justified under the law.  To review the full report, click HERE.

DURHAM RESIDENT ROGER SPEIDEL RECOGNIZED AS COMMUNITY ANGEL

The University of New Hampshire Wildcats Hockey and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New Hampshire have named Roger Speidel of Durham as an Anthem Community Angel for 2013.

“Anthem Community Angels is a program that recognizes everyday heroes, nominated by Wildcat fans. These are people in our local community who have led, created, or otherwise been instrumental in activities that help make our community better,” said Justin Barnes, general manager, Wildcat Sports Properties. “Roger was nominated for his work at his church in Durham and as a selfless donor to UNH football. He truly represents the very best in a local volunteer.”

Roger was recognized at a recent UNH Hockey home game and given an autographed Wildcats jersey. Anthem will also make a $500 contribution in his name to the NH Wounded Warrior Project.

To see a nice photograph and article in the Foster’s Daily Democrat, click HERE.

The Administrator's poor attempt at illustrating draft Town Office design with shutters and different window treatments.

HDC EXPRESSES MANY CONCERNS WITH PRESENT EXTERIOR DESIGN FOR TOWN OFFICE PROJECT – NEW ITERATION TO BE FORTHCOMING

The new town office project at the site of the former People’s United Bank is in full design mode.   The Town’s architect for the project, Durham resident Art Guidano from AG Architects of Dover, met with the Historic District Commission at this week's meeting concerning the most recent design.  There was general consensus from the HDC, the public, and Town staff that we have more work to do to get the exterior design right. 

Over the next few weeks, the design team will be working on revisions and will return to the HDC in May for additional consultation and guidance. 

It is our hope to achieve an exceptional project architecturally while also being mindful of the impact of exterior design on the project budget.

Suggested possible design submitted during Public Comments at HDC meeting by longtime resident Nancy Sandberg

HOUSING STANDARDS ORDINANCE INSPECTIONS IDENTIFY DEFICIENIES IN DOWNTOWN PROPERTIES

The Durham Fire Department reports that numerous deficiencies were identified as part of the Housing Standards Ordinance inspection conducted this week for a single professionally-managed apartment building in the downtown area:

• 16 missing or completely non-functioning smoke alarms
• 14 smoke alarms with dead or missing batteries
• 1 sprinkler head that was completely taped over
• 1 heat detector covered
• 1 room without any sprinkler coverage at all
• Stairwells do not have functioning emergency lighting
• 2 rooms with illegally constructed shelving that obstructed sprinkler heads
• 3 sprinkler heads that were damaged and pushed back into the wall or ceiling
• Multiple fire doors with damaged or missing self-closers
• Laundry room installed without required corridor separation
• Damaged panic hardware on an exit door. The latch had been jammed open so the door swung but if the latch frees up, the door will not allow egress.
• The Town of Durham is in full implementation of the ordinance with the Fire Department endeavoring to inspect approximately 15 properties each week.  

​To date, the Fire Department reports most rental properties have failed the initial inspection. 

To view an Editorial in The New Hampshire concerning how the issue impacts students at UNH who live off campus, click HERE.

The ordinance requires, in part, that all owners of rental properties identify the property and request an inspection in writing from the Fire Department of all of their residential rental properties and dwelling units within 60 days of adoption.  The ordinance was adopted on January 7, 2013.  A $1,000.00 civil penalty may be imposed for failure to do so.  Because the Town’s goal is compliance, not punitive fines, Administrator Selig has made an administrative decision to hold off on implementing the civil penalty referenced until January 1, 2014.  This will enable a full year for owners of rental properties in Durham to notify the Fire Department.  To date, there has been robust compliance though the Town continues to have owners of rental properties who have been away or did not learn of the new ordinance until just recently contact the department requesting an inspection.

At this week’s Rental Housing Commission meeting, landlord representatives indicated that they had no opposition to the required health and safety inspection process for rental properties.  However, landlords did not believe there should be a fee for the permit process assessed to property owners of rental properties.  Rather, the program from their perspective should be supported through the general tax base. 

TOWN COUNCIL APPROVES ZONING CHANGE ALLOWING FOR THE KEEPING OF CHICKENS ON AN EXPANDED BASIS

On Monday evening, April 1, 2013, the Town Council adopted a change to the Zoning Ordinance allowing for the keeping of chickens and turkeys on an expanded basis. Here are the significant changes:

• Poultry.   “Poultry” includes only chickens and turkeys. 
• Zoning Districts.  This accessory use is permitted in the four residential zones, Office Research, MUDOR, and ORLI. 
• Roosters.  Roosters are be permitted only in the Rural Zone excluding lots smaller than 20,000 square feet that were part of a conservation subdivision. 
• Residences.  This use is  permitted only for single and two family dwellings. 
• Housing.  The housing structures must be in the rear or side yards and not forward of the primary façade of the house facing any street, except in the Rural Zone. 
• Containment.  The animals must be confined (by any appropriate means) to the rear year and side yard and may not go closer to the street than the primary façade of the house facing any street, except in the Rural Zone. 
• Fencing.  Fencing is restricted to the rear and side yards except in the Rural Zone. 
• Slaughtering.  Slaughtering would be done in accordance with best management practices (BMP’s). 
• Selling.  Eggs can be sold on the premises in accordance with BMP’s, but other poultry products may not be sold. 
• Complaints.  The process is clarified so that the Agricultural Commission may assist in the handling of complaints but it occurs under the aegis of the Code Enforcement Officer. 

COUNCIL ADOPTS ORDINANCE #2013-04 AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 97 “PLUMBING CODE AND REGULATIONS” OF THE DURHAM TOWN CODE TO CODIFY THE TOWN’S SUPPORT FOR WATER CONSERVATION AND WATER EFFICIENT PLUMBING RELATIVE TO PUBLIC WATER AND SEWER SYSTEMS

Over the past year, in particular, the Council has focused on protecting the capacity and resiliency of its public water supply, the maintenance of its water infrastructure, the effectiveness and efficiency of its wastewater treatment facility and sewer infrastructure, and the health of the Great Bay Estuary, in part as a means to address the Environmental Protection Agency’s concerns about water quality in the Great Bay Estuary.

This Resolution acknowledges and builds on substantial prior efforts of the Town in recognizing the need to address anticipated additional demands on the public water and wastewater systems as the Town moves into the future.

The State of New Hampshire adopted the 2009 International Plumbing Code that currently serves as the standard for the Town of Durham. However, “Chapter 97. Plumbing Code and Regulations” of the Town Code references the (1990) Building and Code Administrators (BOCA) Codes, which is no longer the standard.

The Green Building Council’s LEED certification standards include so-called ultra-low-flow fixtures. The 2012 International Green Construction Code (IgCC)’s “Water Efficiency Provisions” reflects a greater awareness of the need to conserve potable water and serves as the basis for this Resolution’s recommended standards.

For examples, see the table below for a comparison of existing and proposed flow rates for non-public use fixtures, where: 

• gpm = gallons per minute
• gpc = gallons per flushing cycle
• gpf = gallons per flush
• psi = pressure per square inch

Note: The Resolution itself specifies a more complete set of standards.

Availability and cost of fixtures

Homeowners and contractors alike will find readily available fixtures that are lower-flow than the current standard. For example reviewing product offerings at manufacturers’ website shows a similar number of 1.6 gpf and 1.28 gpf toilets at a range of price points, as do local retailers. See attachments for examples and customer reviews.

Policy considerations:
Upside

• Benefit to Town water and sewer users: Potential delay in water or sewer infrastructure upgrades
• Town identity: perception as a state leader in water and energy conservation
• Town identity: perception as a model town for inspection and construction practices

Downside

• Potential marginal additional one-time installation cost
• Some specific brands and/or models may not be locally available, although choices will be available for all categories
• Perception of Durham, NH as a challenging place to build

On Monday, April 1, 2013, the Council discussed and adopted this ordinance change. 

DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT/SORA PROJECT UPDATE


A lot of time has been devoted over the last few weeks on the large downtown project involving Tim Elliott of SORA who conducted a charrette last year in conjunction with the Town relative to the redevelopment project. Mr. Elliott has reached an agreement with the ATO alumni association for acquisition of the fraternity building on the Main Street site and is in ongoing contact with the People’s United Bank about their parcel. Durham and UNH are working collaboratively relative to this initiative. 

 

One area of cooperation will be for Durham and UNH to work together in order to attract grant monies to the project to bridge any gaps between project cost and lease costs to make the project a success. Grant programs under consideration include CDBG, CDFA, Newmarket Tax Credits, and EDA funding.

Although UNH is envisioned to be the anchor tenant in the project, all of the space that the University would lease would be privately owned and therefore taxable through the life of the project. 

In addition, nearly all of the details of this project still need to be fully worked out.   In a very real sense, it is too early to put out information about the project as it is still evolving, but I wanted to let people know conceptually what is being or may be discussed.

Under a lease-to-own arrangement for structured parking, again which requires a great deal of additional discussion before we know the details or if it will be needed, the developer would build and finance the entire redevelopment with the Town entering into a long-term lease arrangement for parking for say, 20 - 30 years, at the end of which the Town would acquire the fee interest in the parking structure with the developer continuing to own what is above it. 

The parking structure with approximately 300 – 400 spaces would service both the redevelopment above it specifically as well as Main Street businesses and the downtown as a whole, and the Town would benefit from all parking fees charged for use of the garage to the extent such fees are charged.   

And to clarify the impact, or lack thereof, of graduate housing within the redevelopment on the UNH Forest Park graduate housing area on campus, UNH is working with the developer to possibly manage some graduate housing within the project.  UNH informs me it has absolutely no plans to replace Forest Park.  Forest Park continues to serve students and families of the University community and is viewed as an important part of the on campus housing enterprise for the University.

Once again, this project will likely include the UNH Interoperability Lab, the UNH Barnes and Noble Bookstore, the People’s United Bank, 300-400 spaces of underground parking below the redevelopment for use by the project and the town as a whole, office space, a restaurant, a small hotel, possible graduate housing managed by UNH, outdoor public gathering space, research space, incubator space, and retail.

As more details become available regarding the downtown redevelopment project, we will endeavor to keep the community informed.

RIGHT-TO-KNOW LAW EDUCATIONAL SESSION SCHEDULED FOR BOARD MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY - TUESDAY, MAY 28, 2013

The members of the Town of Durham’s boards, committees, commissions, Town Council, and Library Board of Trustees serve as members of public boards and are therefore responsible to act in accordance with the Right-to-Know law in the State of New Hampshire. The Preamble of the Right-to-Know law reads:  “Openness in the conduct of public business is essential to a democratic society. The purpose of this chapter is to ensure both the greatest possible public access to the actions, discussions and records of all public bodies, and their accountability to the people.” 

 

In order to ensure that the members of Durham’s public boards are given the resources they need to act in accord with RSA 91-A, a Right-to-Know law educational session has been scheduled for Tuesday, May 28, 2013, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Town Council chambers.

 

Attorney Christine Fillmore from the Local Government Center will be present to provide an overview of the Right-to-Know law and to answer any questions that board members may have. The general public and Town department heads are invited and encouraged to attend the session, or to view it on Durham Community Access Television (Channel 22). 

 

Oyster River School Board members are also invited to attend, as well as the Selectmen and board members from the communities of Lee and Madbury.

 

APPLICATION FOR ELDERLY EXEMPTIONS 

Eligible citizens may apply for an Elderly Exemption or other exemptions/credits (Veterans Credit, Blind Exemption, Solar, etc.) by the deadline of April 15, 2013 for the 2013 spring tax bill. An application may be obtained from the Planning, Zoning, and Assessing Office located on the first floor of the Town Hall, 15 Newmarket Road.  Questions regarding these exemptions can be directed to the Planning, Zoning, and Assessing Office at 868-8064. Current criteria and exemption amounts for the elderly are as follows:

Income Criteria

            Single net income:                    Not more than $32,500.00

            Married, combined income:      Less than        $43,700.00

Asset Criteria

            Net assets:                                Not in excess of $200,000.00

Age Eligibility Criteria                            Exemption Amount

            65 years up to 75 years:                   $125,000.00

            75 years up to 80 years:                   $175,000.00

            80 years or older:                              $225,000.00

HELP DECIDE WHAT DURHAM WILL LOOK LIKE IN THE FUTURE

You may have a stake in the Durham of tomorrow, but have you made your voice heard? There is no better time than today to express your view and have a say in how Durham will grow. A number of major downtown projects are on the horizon. They will have a significant impact.  The Planning Board is currently seeking new alternate members. Commitment, a willingness to listen, and engagement are the key requirements. Act now, and become part of the planning process!

The Planning Board regularly meets for a few hours starting at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at Town Hall. Prior to each video-recorded meeting, members receive a packet of materials that varies in complexity but may take a few hours to review. Periodically the Board schedules site walks and special meetings. In addition, the Board considers larger planning issues such as the Master Plan and zoning amendments, in addition to issues such as the Architectural Regulations approved in 2012.

New members typically start as alternates and will be provided with training opportunities. Alternates actively participate in discussions and may vote in the absence of a regular member. Interested residents are encouraged to explore the Planning Board's website from which you may download related documents, and to talk with the Board's Chair (Peter Wolfe) and the Town Planner, who may be contacted by phone at 603-868-8064 or by email at mbehrendt@ci.durham.nh.us. You can also watch recordings of Planning Board meetings on DCAT on Demand. When you're ready, request a Board application from Jennie Berry at 603-868-5771 or by email at jberry@ci.durham.nh.us.

Some have been surprised by the pride they feel from this type of community involvement. Help those of us who are already on the Board make Durham the kind of town you desire.

BUSINESS ACTIVITY DOWNTOWN - HAPPY MARKET

Happy  Market is located at 8 Jenkins Court, Suite 102. Happy Market will bring authentic Asian foods to residents and students of Durham and UNH.  The majority of the products are imported form China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and other Eastern Asian Countries.The fresh produce is grown in the US in farms operated by Asian immigrates.

A wide range of foods from rice to ready to eat dumplings and buns will be offered. Happy Market is expected to open in one to two weeks. Hours (tentatively): 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

WANTED FOR THE CONSERVATION COMMISSION:  EXPERTISE AND ENTHUSIASM

Several members of the Durham Conservation Commission ("the DCC") will be stepping down due to increased professional demands, leaving open opportunities for those with relevant expertise and a willingness to roll up their sleeves. What's on tap?

The Commission is currently updating the chapter of the Master Plan that focuses on Durham's natural resources. Members also work on land stewardship plans, monitor already-conserved properties, lead nature walks, attack invasive plants, and recommend steps to protect against negative impacts to our streams, wetlands, and shoreline. Knowledge of hydrology, zoology, or botany.... birders, trail builders, and Marine Docents: all are welcome.  Note also that the DCC’s Land Stewardship subcommittee recently joined with members of the Parks and Recreation Committee and Agricultural Commission to promote responsible management and use of Town conservation lands that have public access.

Residents interested in becoming members or in working on specific projects are invited to attend the next meeting of the Commission on April 11 at Town Hall starting at 7pm. For more information, please check out the Commission's website.

SPRUCEWOOD FOREST PRESS RELEASE: WELCOME TO DURHAM'S NEWEST LAND

The Trust for Public Land, Durham's indefatigable nonprofit partner in the conservation of the property known to date as the Sprucewood Forest, has issued a press release announcing last week's successful purchase. As those who have followed this project will be aware, the property is likely to be renamed the Oyster River Forest in tribute to the Oyster River, the protection of which is a key reason for the purchase, and to distinguish it from the nearby retirement community. A discussion of appropriate public access on the property is also anticipated in the near future. Exactly what did Durham just acquire, and how? Read the press release!

PSNH TREE REMOVAL ON MADBURY ROAD

The Town completed discussions with PSNH regarding tree removals on Madbury Road.  A public meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 29, 2013 at 7:00 PM at the Town Offices to discuss the tree removal plan.  Madbury Road residents will receive a letter in the next few days personally inviting them to this public meeting. Click HERE to read the letter sent to Madbury Road residents.

SPRING NEWSLETTER

This week the Spring Newsletter was mailed out to all residents.  To view the newsletter, click HERE. A hot topic in the newsletter is the Spring Cleanup of Bulky Waste, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, April 29, 2013 at 7:00 AM. Details can be found in the newsletter. Please call the Department of Public Works at 603-868-5578 with any questions.

SNOW BUDGET...FINGERS CROSSED

Hopefully we have seen the last of the winter storms for the 2012/2013 season.  Although it has been a very busy season, the budget is not as gloomy as expected. Currently 79.5% of the snow removal budget is expended- $164,268 out of the budgeted $206,534. Typically, we like to have 25% remaining for the fall storm potential. Let’s hope it warms up so we can give the budget a rest until late Fall! 

The following is the amount spent for the same time period the last few years:

                2013       79.5%

                2012       44.5%

                2011       62.9%

                2010       35.6%

                2009       80.4%

                2008       81.1%

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS - ENERGY CONSERVATION AND AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT

The Town of Durham, New Hampshire requests proposals from interested parties for an energy conservation and air quality improvement project or projects. The selected energy services company shall be responsible for compilation of all aspects of both the design and the work under a single contract (the “Contract”). The Contract shall include guarantees of performance and a Scope of Work as outlined within this document. It is anticipated that the project may include energy conservation and air quality improvement projects at one or more Town-owned buildings (excluding the fire station, which is shared with the University of New Hampshire).

All responses to this RFP must be received in a sealed envelope and clearly marked “Request for Proposal for Energy Conservation and Air Quality Improvements for the Town of Durham”. Candidates shall submit ten (10) duplicate copies of their qualifications in accordance with this request to: Todd I. Selig, Town Administrator, at 15 Newmarket Road, Durham, New Hampshire 03824, or by email to jberry@ci.durham.nh.us to the attention of Todd I. Selig. Proposals must be received no later than 5:00 PM on Friday, April 19, 2013 to be eligible for consideration. To view the RFP on the Town of Durham web site, go to http://www.ci.durham.nh.us/, “Helpful Resources” at the top of the page, then “Bids & RFPs”.

AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION ANNOUNCEMENT:  APPLICATION PROCESS NOW OPEN!
Kids Can Grow is a joint program of the Strafford County Master Gardeners and the Strafford County UNH Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development program. Participants are introduced to gardening through hands on, "learn by doing" experiences, home garden visits and mentoring from a UNH Cooperative Extension Master Gardener. Our goal is to help youth become successful young gardeners!

Program requirements: Youth must be between 8 and 12 years of age; Garden beds must be located in Stafford County; Participants must be able to attend at least 4 out of 5 of the teaching sessions: May 11th, June 1st, July 13th, August 10th, September 8th

Program Highlights: Participate in a Harvest Festival on the UNH Campus where youth and families will have the opportunity to share garden recipes; Enter vegetables grown through the Kids Can Grow program in the 2013 Rochester Fair.

Applications to the 2013 Kids Can Grow Program are due by April 26 to Jillian Hall at the UNH Cooperative Extension Office. Applications can be found by clicking HERE.

To RSVP or inquire about any of our events, please contact Jill Hall, Strafford County 4-H Program Coordinator at 603-516-8112 or by email: jillian.hall@unh.edu.

GOOD NEWS FROM THE AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION

The Town Council has adopted changes to the Town's Zoning Ordinance to permit the raising of chickens and turkeys in most zones in Durham with specific conditions.  The zoning ordinance has been updated to reflect this change and may be found by clicking HERE. The Agricultural Commission will host a comprehensive workshop on Thursday, May 30th for residents interested in learning how to properly care for backyard poultry.  The workshop will be held from 6pm - 8pm at the Durham Town Office.  For more information, please contact Agricultural Commission Chair Theresa Walker, theresawalker@comcast.net. 

Building committee members discuss the final color selections. Courtesy Walter Rous

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

The weather was cooperative this week.  Cool temperatures and a brisk wind at the start of the week gave way to mild temperatures, clam winds and blue skies by Friday.  This allowed the masons to complete the brickwork on the stair tower on Wednesday.  Thursday and Friday were spent washing and brushing excess mortar off the brick and tooling and cleaning up the mortar joints.  As was noted last week, the masons are doing a great job matching the quality and “feel” of the older masonry.  Additional outside work included roofing, flashing and siding work on the entry porch roof, the junction of this roof with the house and with the south facing bay and the tie-in of the porch roof with the stair tower.

On the interior, recessed can lights were installed in the Local History Room and rough wiring was installed in the Café and at the house basement.  Boiler vent work was completed and ductwork was hauled in to the Mechanical Room.  Work continued on the elevator cab and on the controls in both the elevator and the Elevator Machine Room.  Lots of drywall work was underway in the toilet rooms, elevator shaft, stair tower, staff work area, south facing bay window and in the house.  As rough plumbing, electrical work and framing are inspected and approved, the drywallers are right behind to close up those approved areas so work can proceed.

The Building Committee spent a couple of hours on site Monday afternoon to finalize finish paint colors.  The Durham Fire Department has made several impromptu tours to acquaint members of the department with the new facility.

Drywall installers use stilts rather than ladders to work overhead. Courtesy Walter Rous

PUBLIC MEETINGS: SCHEDULE AND VIDEO ON DEMAND

The following public meetings are scheduled for the coming week  All meetings begin at 7:00 PM and are held in the Council chambers at the Durham Town Hall unless otherwise indicated below.

Town Council Work Session - Monday, April 8, 2013. For agenda and other information, click HERE.

Durham Agricultural Commission - Monday, April 8, 2013 (7PM @ Durham PD Community Room). For agenda and other information, click HERE.

Durham Energy Committee - Tuesday, April 9, 2013 (7PM @ Durham PD Community Room). For agenda and other information, click HERE.

Zoning Board of Adjustment - Tuesday, April 9, 2013. For agenda and other information, click HERE.

Planning Board - Wednesday, April 10, 2013. For agenda and other information, click HERE.

Conservation Commission - Thursday, April 11, 2013. For agenda and other information, click HERE.

All meetings recorded on DCAT are available on DVD at the Durham Public Library for checkout and viewing.

VIDEO ON DEMAND: Meetings can also be viewed via Video on Demand. Interested viewers can access the streaming site from the Town’s website at http://ci.durham.nh.us/  by clicking the DCAT on demand logo, or directly at http://dcat.pegcentral.com/.

Durham Public Library Board of Trustees meeting schedule, please click HERE.

DCAT Programming Schedule, please click HERE.

MCGREGOR MEMORIAL EMS WELCOMES JOHN FORMELLA AND RUTH MOORE TO ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
On Monday April 1st, the McGregor Memorial EMS membership unanimously approved the newest addition to its Board of Directors. John Formella is a NH native and an attorney practicing law at a firm in Portsmouth.  John is excited to serve on the McGregor Board and brings with him valuable law and fund-raising experience.  Just last month McGregor EMS was excited to welcome Durham resident Ruth Moore to the Board of Directors as Secretary as well.  Community members who may be interested in volunteering with McGregor in a non-medical role can email Membership@McGregorEMS.org for more information. This year McGregor Memorial EMS is celebrating the 45th Anniversary of service to the communities of Durham, Lee, Madbury, and the University of New Hampshire!

RESPONSE TO STRANGULATION TRAINING HELD FOR AREA DEPARTMENTS

On Monday April 1st, McGregor Memorial EMS held its monthly training meeting at New Hampshire Hall on the campus of UNH. The guest speaker this month was Paramedic and Rochester Police Department Detective Robert Frechette who gave a presentation related to domestic violence called " Response to Strangulation" to members of multiple public safety departments in the area.  Sixty-five area EMS personnel, law enforcement officials, firefighters, and EMT students gathered for a training seminar that covered identifying injuries on a victim, treatment recommendations, medical documentation, evidence preservation, and a discussion of New Hampshire's strangulation laws. McGregor EMS thanks all who attended the training as well as Detective Frechette for an engaging, informative seminar.

 

DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION

The Durham Historic Association presents the Pontine Players production THE COMMON HEART on Tuesday, April 9, 2013, 7:00 PM, at the Durham Public Library. Pontine's Co-Artistic Directors, Marguerite Mathews and Greg Gathers, premiere an original work exploring the literature, philosophy, and legacy of the New England Transcendental Movement. Drawing on works by Emerson, Hawthorne, Thoreau, and other denizens of Concord MA during the great spiritual awakening of the 1830's and 40's, THE COMMON HEART evokes an enlightened era when New Englanders sought to throw off their Puritan roots in favor of a closer, more personal communion with the divine essence of the natural world.

To learn more about the Durham Historic Association, click HERE.

Children wait for the signal to gather eggs during the 19th Annual Durham Egg Hunt on Saturday at the Durham Town Landing.  Courtesy Stefanie Frazee

PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

JOIN US FOR YOGA:  Mondays:  5:45AM and 5PM;  Tuesdays:  7:15PM; Thursdays:  6:00AM.  What to expect:  Yoga is a series of physical poses which promote good posture, alleviate health problems, reduce stress, and make the spine supple.  Yoga is often used as both an exercise and a form of physical therapy. Cost is only $40 for 8 sessions! Couples Yoga coming soon! Find out more HERE. 

GET FIT! CHECK OUT ONE OF OUR ENERGIZING CLASSES TODAY!  

BOOT CAMP, Wed/Fri, 7AM 

PILATES, Mon 9AM, Wed 6:30 PM, Sat 10AM

ZUMBA - Mon/Wed 5:30 PM, Sat 9AM

STRENGTH & STRETCH - Wed/Fri 8AM

TAI CHI (Beginner/Advanced) - Fri 4-5:30 PM

TAI CHI (Moving for Better Balance) - Tue/Thu 9-10AM

Find out more HERE.

SUMMER SPEED CAMP:  For athletes in grades 7-12 who are looking to improve their game, while having a TON of fun this summer. Find out more HERE.

ADVENTURE PADDLE CAMP:  Parks & Recreation is teaming up with Seven Rivers Paddling to offer kids kayaking camps this summer!  We are offering a series of week-long sessions for kids ages 6-8 and 9-13.  Each session will guide the participants through basic paddling techniques; balance; self rescue skills; wildlife exploration; and conservation topics. For more information, please visit Seven Rivers Paddling on FB, or email: sevenriverspaddling@gmail.com

 

KAYAK TOURS:  Durham Parks & Recreation is teaming up with Seven Rivers Paddling to offer weekend tours this summer! Seven Rivers Paddling Days:

• Saturday, April 27th @ 10AM – Jackson’s Landing
• Saturday, May 4th @ 5PM (Sunset Tour) – Jackson’s Landing
• Saturday, May 11th @ 10AM – Jackson’s Landing
• Saturday, May 18th @ 3PM – Jackson’s Landing
• Saturday, May 25th @ 10AM – Jackson’s Landing

All tours are $50/person, (ages 9+) and include necessary instruction and gear (boats too)!

Both beginner and advanced paddlers welcome.  Tours are 3 hours each.  Space is limited!

To register, please fill out a registration form at: ci.durham.nh.us/recreation (follow directions on top of form).

COUCH TO 5K:  Have you ever wanted to run a 5k but don’t know how to get started?  Come run with us in our “Couch to 5k” program.  Nicole and Sheila are great instructors who bring FUN and energy into running.  This program includes registration for, and concludes with the Bobcat Bolt 5k in June. 

16TH WORLD TAI CHI QUIGONG DAY CELEBRATION: Join Parks & Recreation Tai Chi Instructor Lin Lin Choy on Saturday, April 27th @ 10AM – Great Lawn, UNH.  This is a free event for all ages.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

• Durham Day - Saturday, September 21, 2013 at Wagon Hill Farm (Rain Date: Sunday, September 22nd)
• Music By the Bay Summer Concert Series - June, July, August 2013 at Wagon Hill Farm
• Memorial Day Parade - Monday, May 27, 2013

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For more information regarding any of the classes or events offered by Parks and Recreation, visit the P&R web site at https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/boc_parksrec.

Eva Bebbington and the Durham Bunny. Courtesy Jenna Roberts

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

ORHS Project Graduation Event, Friday, April 5, 2013, 7:00 PM, Libby's Bar and Grill (downstairs). Evening includes live auction, trivia contest, and live music. Supports this year's ORHS senior class. $10/suggested donation.

Northeastern Ballet Theatre Presents Cinderella Ballet, Saturday and Sunday, April 6 (7 PM) & 7 (2 PM), 2013, Oyster River High School Auditorium. For cost and other information, click HERE, or call 603-834-8834, or email info@northeasternballet.org.

Community Forum on Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness, Tuesday, April 9, 2013, 7-8:30 PM, Young's on Main Street. For more information, call Community Church of Durham at 603-868-1230, email office@durhamcommunitychurch.org, or visit http://www.durhamcommunitychurch.org/

Free Showing of Documentary "Bully: The Movie", Wednesday, April 11, 2013, 6:30 PM, MUB Theatre II on UNH Campus. Audience discussion with UNH experts follows. Students 13 and over encouraged to attend. For more information call 603-862-7008.

Team Jess Annual Pasta Dinner & Raffle to Benefit the National MS Society, Greater NE Chapter, Thursday, April 11, 2013, 5-8:00 PM, Libby's Bar & Grill function room. $5/person for all-you-can-eat buffet-style Italian dinner. Kids under 12 eat free. For more information call 603-868-1297.

Great Bay Figure Skating Club 2013 Spring Revue: Earth Wind and Fire, Saturday, April 13, 2013, doors open at 12:45 PM, Dover Ice Arena. 39th year for this show which highlights the progression of the club skaters from the seacoast and surrounding areas including Oyster River and UNH. Tickets: $8; 4 and under free. For more information call Doreen Wachenschwanz, 603-312-0707 or visit http://greatbayskating.org/

UNH Conference for Office Professionals. For office managers, executive and administrative assistants, clerical and office staff.  Wednesday, April 17, 2013, 9AM-4PM, Sheraton Harborside Hotel, Portsmouth. $195 if registered by April 3; $235 after April 3. For more information, click HERE.

Durham Newcomers Unlimited, Master Gardner, Carol Doering will present "A Garden for Wildlife: Natural Landscaping for a Better Backyard", Friday, April 19, 2013, 10:00 AM, Community Church of Durham. Free and open to the public. For more information call 603-868-7364.

UNH May Day Carnival, Saturday, April 27, 2013, 1:00 - 9:00 PM, Parking Lot C and Quad Way at UNH. All are welcome at this campus and community event, featuring amusement rides, game booths, live music, carnival food and more. Admission is free for all UNH students, faculty, staff and their families. $5 Admission for all other community members.

Durham Police Officers Association Pancake Breakfast, Saturday, April 27, 2013, 8:00-10:00 AM, Durham Evangelical Church, Dover Road. Proceeds benefit the Chief Ray Burrows Scholarship Fund. $7/adults, $3/children for all you can eat pancakes, home fries, sausage, bacon, and eggs.

An Introduction to Rain Garden Design & Installation, Friday, May 3, 2013, 8:30 AM-3:30 PM, Great Bay Community College Room 123-124, 320 Corporate Drive, Portsmouth. Installation rain date: May 6th. Registration deadline is April 29th.  For more information call 603-559-1529

UNH New Hampshire Sea Grant Family Boat Building will take place on May 17, 18, and 19 at Kingman Farm in Madbury, NH. Each family must include at least one child age 12 or older. There is a mandatory introductory session Thursday evening, May 16. Extended families or single parents are encouraged to apply. Applications are due by April 15. If you would like more information or want to be considered as a participant, please call Mark Wiley at the Marine Docent office, 603.862.6702, (mark.wiley@unh.edu), or call the program director Ray Belles, 603.868.7180, (ORFARM@comcast.net). Please also visit the Sea Grant web site at http://www.seagrant.unh.edu/family-boat-building.

Great Bay Rowing (GBR) - Registration is now open for the spring session. GBR is a non-profit club fostering interest in the sport of rowing. We provide our members, with the opportunity, facilities, equipment, and instruction to row at both competitive and recreational levels. For more information, click HERE.

Durham Great Bay Rotary Upcoming Meetings. All meetings held at 7:30 AM at the Three Chimneys Inn,. All are welcome. Apr 24th-Carolyn Johnson on her trip to Guatemala; Apr 10th-Club Forum; Apr 17th-Maggie Stier of NH Preservation Organization on Old Man of Mountain; Apr 24th-GSE Team from Nigeria; May 1st-John DeLorey on college financing/planning; May 8th-GBRC member Ric Erikson; May 15th-Club Forum; May 22nd-GBRC member Arthur Bradbury; May 29th-Open. Call 603-868-1664 for more information.

ORHS List of Athletic Events for the Spring - To view the schedule, click HERE.  *** Weather could postpone or cancel some of these events ***. For daily updates, contact ORHS at 603-868-2375, extension 2.

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Durham Public Library Goes Mobile!  Are you doing all your business from your cellphone these days? Would you like simple, direct access to the library’s website and catalog when you’re on the run? Then we have two new products for you. Scan the QR code below, or from the library’s homepage and you can download a version of the library’s website, specifically designed for mobile devices. It’s simple and easy to use. Want to access the library’s catalog from your iPhone or iPad? Well now there’s an app for that! Search the Apple App Store for “Surpass Library Trek”. Download the app, find the Durham Public Library using GPS and login to your account. If you’ve forgotten your library account ID and password you can ask us for it the next time you visit.
 

Preschool Storytimes, Tues. April 9th and Thurs.  April 11th at 10:30 am – This week:  Rain and Rainbows!  Join us for stories, fingerplays, songs, feltboard and a craft.  All are welcome. 
Lego Club is Back for 1st-4th Graders starting Thurs. March 21st from 3:45-4:45 p.m. -Like to build with Legos?  Join us for this fun club for 1st-4th graders.  We will meet for 5 Thursdays, March 21, 28, April 4, 11 and 18! 

Homeschooling Activity Hour starting Friday, April 12th, 10:30-11:30 a.m. – Homeschoolers join us as we read some books, play some games and work on a craft.  This program is geared for home-schoolers but all are welcome.  We will meet for eight Fridays (starting April 5th and ending May 24th).
The Durham Historic Association Presents the Pontine Theatre's Newest Production: The Common Heart, Tues. April 9th at 7:00 p.m. - Explore the literature, philosophy and legacy of the New England Transcendental Movement in "The Common Heart," an original work created by Pontine Theatre's co-artistic directors Marguerite Mathews and Greg Gathers. Drawing on works by Emerson, Hawthorne, Thoreau, and other denizens of Concord, MA, during the great spiritual awakening of the 1830's and 40's, "The Common Heart" evokes an enlightened era when New Englanders sought to throw off their Puritan roots in favor of a closer, more personal communion with the divine essence of the natural world. Serving the Seacoast since 1977, Pontine Theatre has developed a sterling reputation for high quality performances and educational programs.  With an impressive repertoire of innovative, original productions, the company serves as its home town, Portsmouth, NH and New England and neighboring states.
Libros Lovers, High School Book Group, Weds. April 10th, 1:00-2:00 p.m. - Join us for this High School Book Group.  This month's books are "You Against Me" by Jenny Downham and "buy-ology" by Martin Lindstrom.  Ruth Wharton MacDonald is the facilitator.  All are welcome and pizza is served.
Date Change for ORHS Poetry Night!  Oyster River High School Poetry Night has been switched to Weds, May 8th, 7:00 p.m- Join Oyster River High School Students for a night of creative poetry readings!  The ORHS Poet Laureate, ORHS Poetry Out Loud Winner and the ORHS Literary Magazine Members will do some readings.  Refreshments will be served and all are welcome!
Join the Patch Program, our reading incentive program for children aged 2-12 years. Children earn patches for minutes read or being read to as well as a Durham Library book bag. If new to the program, stop by and register.  Thanks to the Friends of the Durham Public Library for their continued support of this program.

 
Check out our website www.durhampubliclibrary.org for more info.

FROM "DURHAM, NEW HAMPSHIRE A HISTORY - 1900-1985"

"Farm Life in Durham: This brief look at farm life in Durham during the twentieth century would not be complete without a history of Adams Point and the Adams family farm and boardinghouse. Indeed, there have been so many great changes at Adams Point, its history almost deserves a separate chapter.

Adams Point

The Driftwood was launched on October 22, 1950. Captain Adams's ninetieth birthday, precisely at high tide, an event long to be remembered by those who witnessed it. Craft of every description filled the little cove, and hundreds of people dotted the shore. When the chocks were pulled, the Driftwood splashed into the water, took off under her own power, and made a grand circuit around the cove Cheers arose and echoed around the shores. There was only one hitch. No one had thought to put water in the radiators, and the engines got mighty hot; this may be one reason why the voyage was short. But it was grand! Champagne was drunk; speeches and toasts were made; and not a few tears were shed as the Driftwood was brought along shore and firmly secured to the dock." Published in 1985 by the Durham Historic Association.

Have a very nice weekend. 

Todd

Todd I. Selig, Administrator

Town of Durham, New Hampshire

T:  603-868-5571    F:  603-868-5572

tselig@ci.durham.nh.us    http://www.ci.durham.nh.us

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