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Portsmouth Music Hall on June 8th. Courtesy Todd Selig
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The Oyster River Middle School Jazz Band and the High School Orchestra performed two outstanding performances last Saturday evening at The Music Hall. Middle schoolers performed to a Buster Keaton silent film while high schoolers demonstrated the work they have been undertaking as part of a cultural exchange program in conjunction with Chengdu University’s Confucius Institute, UNH, National Geographic, and others.
During the Buster Keaton film, ORMS students performed all of the music and sound effects. The ORHS production involved musicians performing to accompany beautiful National Geographic nature film imagery from China and the USA, narration in Mandarin Chinese by ORHS students, along with english subtitles. Music Director David Ervin, his colleagues at the ORHS, the students, and others collaborated on this impressive work. Superintendent James Morse offered some remarks.
At points in the performance, a number of individual students sang beautifully with an extended and impassioned rap style sequence … in CHINESE … by one young woman!
I do not exaggerate by conveying that for a moment or so after the music ceased the crowd was speechless and amazed by the overall impressiveness of the evening, which concluded with a much deserved standing ovation.
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US NEWS & WORLD REPORT LISTS OYSTER RIVER AS ONE OF TOP 10 HIGH SCHOOLS IN NH
New Hampshire tests high school juniors in reading, writing, and math via the SAT. Students in New Hampshire need to earn at least 20 credits in various subjects to receive their high school diploma. There are 82 New Hampshire schools honored in the 2019 U.S. News Best High Schools rankings. Oyster River is ranked #9.
View the report HERE.
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CONGRATULATIONS ORHS GRADUATES! - And some updates from the Oyster River School District...
ORHS graduation was June 7 at the UNH Whittemore Center.
The ORHS Senior Walk through elementary schools was June 6.
The June 5 meeting at Moharimet started with an overview of the recent ORHS Band trip to China and short performances (including one popular Chinese pop song) featuring some of the instruments and music that the band performed in China.
Misty Lowe has been selected as the interim principal of Mast Way for the 2019-2020 school year. Ms. Lowe has most recently been Assistant Director of Student Services at ORHS.
Details, drawings, and presentations for the proposed new middle school are now online HERE.
The last strand of the five-year strategic plan was approved. That project is now complete.
Proposed communications goals for the 2019-2020 school year were introduced and may be adopted at the June 19 meeting. The proposal includes updating online content and adding a digital communications specialist to facilitate effective communication between the district and the community.
June 19th is the last day of school for 2018-2019 in ORCSD!
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ANNUAL ORIENTATION FOR TOWN BOARD, COMMITTEE, AND TRUSTEE CHAIRS/VICE CHAIRS AND OTHER INTERESTED MEMBERS - Mark your calendars for an exciting discussion with Mr. Selig on June 19th!
A final reminder that next Wednesday, June 19, 2019, from 7:00 - 8:30 PM in the Council chambers at Town Hall, Administrator Todd Selig will hold an orientation session for chairs, vice chairs, and other committee members of the various Town boards, commissions, and committees.
At the conclusion of the orientation, Administrator Selig will open the floor for a question and answer session.
All board and committee members are welcome to attend, so please mark your calendars and plan to attend this important and informative orientation.
An agenda for this orientation can be viewed HERE.
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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY - DEPUTY TOWN CLERK-TAX COLLECTOR
The Town of Durham is seeking applicants for a Deputy Town Clerk-Tax Collector who will provide administrative support to the Office of Town Clerk. We are seeking a person who has a strong work ethic, is organized, detail-oriented, and who demonstrates exemplary customer service skills as the position requires a high degree of interaction with the public.
This position assists the Town Clerk with a variety of routine and complex administrative functions relating to the recording and retention of official Town records, assists customers with various registrations and licenses at the counter, assists with election duties, and runs various reports. The position requires considerable knowledge of cash handling and cash reconciliation procedures. The successful candidate will be adept at performing a variety of tasks and able to adapt to changing circumstances.
This position reports directly to the Town Clerk. The work week is Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., although the employee may need to work in the evenings during elections and share in working one evening a month until 6:00 p.m.
Must be a resident of Durham, NH.
Durham is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
View the full job description and access an employment application form HERE.
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PLANNING BOARD RECEIVED PRESENTATION AND PUBLIC COMMENTS ON EVERSOURCE APPLICATION FOR TREE TRIMMING/CUTTING ON DURHAM POINT ROAD DISTRIBUTION LINE PROJECT
On Wednesday evening this week the Planning Board held a public hearing on the application from Eversource to remove and trim selected trees along Durham Point Road, a locally designated scenic road. Eversource also gave a presentation about the broader Distribution Line Upgrade Project in town and presented its separate application to place 13 new poles in the Wetland Conservation Overlay District. There were many comments from the public about cutting trees on Durham Point Road, mainly in opposition to the proposal. Because of the lateness of the hour, the Planning Board ultimately continued the public hearing and the application for the new poles to its next meeting on June 26.
The original 137 flagged trees were reflective of the trees, within the clearance zones, that Eversource arborists evaluated as a risk to reliability and safety for the upgraded Durham Point Road line. The feedback shared by Councilor Lawson and the other Councilors at the meeting, along with the feedback from residents and Planning Board members during a recent site walk by the Planning Board, encouraged Eversource to relook at the original proposal with additional scrutiny taking that direct feedback into consideration.
As a result, Eversource was able to reduce the number of trees flagged for removal from 137 to 48 within the Durham Point Road evaluation area. Eversource also committed to leaving the underbrush as well. Eversource's arborist offered to have someone from the Planning Board come take a look at the work after the company's tree contractor, Asplundh, make a couple days progress to ensure that the work is consistent with what the Town expects. In addition, arborists from Asplundh will be on site meeting with the crews ahead of each days work. Eversource offered to provide weekly project updates and agreed at the Planning Board to take pictures during the work while keeping in close contact in case there are concerns so Eversource can address them expeditiously.
View all of the documents related to the Durham Point Road application HERE. Emails and letters from the public are included at the bottom.
View the documents related to the distribution line upgrade and the request to install the poles HERE.
Please feel free to contact Town Planner Michael Behrendt here with any questions or if you would like to submit a comment for the Planning Board at mailto:mbehrendt@ci.durham.nh.us.
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CONSTRUCTION ON EVERSOURCE SEACOAST RELIABILTY PROJECT HAS BEGIN IN UNH'S A-LOT AT MAIN STREET AND IN PORTSMOUTH; TREE CLEARING TO COMMENCE IN UTILITY RIGHT-OF-WAY AS EARLY AS NEXT WEEK
Construction of the underground component of the project at Durham's Main Street at the RR Trestle has begun in earnest, as has work in Portsmouth in front of Barnes & Noble in the large parking lot there. Work in A-Lot entails a directional bore under Main Street, as requested by Durham and UNH, to mitigate the visual impact of the SRP project in that location.
Tree clearing will begin as early as June 17 within the historical Eversource utility ROW as part of SRP. Eversource reports it will proceed from UNH down the ROW toward Little Bay, then pick up at Madbury Substation and proceed back toward the other side of the UNH campus. They anticipate 1-2 days in each location. The SRP project was approved last year by the NH Site Evaluation Committee.
The company will be working with individual landowners directly adjacent to the route through site visits, setting expectations about the clearing, determining wood retention preferences, and potential landscape mitigation after clearing is complete.
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PLANNING, ZONING, AND ASSESSING OFFICE - Closed 6/19/19 from 2-4 PM for Safe Zones Training
The Planning, Zoning & Assessing office will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, 2019 from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. while the staff attends a Safe Zones Training class being held at the Town Office, Council Chambers. This training is being run by Lu Ferrell, Interim Director of the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs at UNH and will cover topics such as the concepts and definitions of gender and sexuality, why it’s important to be aware of different identities, and how to work together.
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BAGDAD ROAD/ LITTLEHALE CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROJECT - Bagdad Road to be closed beginning June 24
The Town’s contractor, Mick Construction, will close Bagdad Road to thru traffic and pedestrians beginning on Monday June 24th. This project includes replacing the existing undersized culvert with a 10’ wide x 6’ high precast concrete box culvert with appropriate headwalls and associated minor roadway reconstruction work. Additional work includes the upgrade of water, sewer, and addition of innovate stormwater treatment practices. Bagdad Road will be closed to thru traffic for the duration of the project and will be reopened in August 2019. Residents will still be able to access their homes from Madbury and Emerson/Bagdad Road intersection.
Questions may be addressed to Town Engineer April Talon, P.E. at 868-5578 or mailto:atalon@ci.durham.nh.us
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DURHAM FARMERS' MARKET - Each Monday afternoon in the Sammy's downtown lot off Pettee Brook Lane
Be sure to stop by the Durham Farmers' Market being held on Monday afternoons at the Sammy's/Store 24 Parking Lot. A variety of locally produced farm products, prepared foods, and fine crafts will be available Mondays 2:15 - 6:00 PM. There will be regular as well as guest vendors with an increasing variety of vegetables available as the season progresses.
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ROTARY CLUB OF DURHAM-GREAT BAY WILL HOST DURHAM/UNH FIREWORKS IN 2019
On Wednesday, July 3, 2019, the Rotary Club of Durham-Great Bay will present The Durham-Great Bay Independence Day Celebration, at Wildcat Stadium, in conjunction with the University of New Hampshire and the Town of Durham. Gates open at 6PM with fireworks beginning at approximately 9PM.
In 2019, in partnership with the University of New Hampshire, Rotary is breathing life into this important community event. Rotary is seeking support from businesses in the area to help make this event a huge success. This is a wonderful community event that draws families from all surrounding communities including Lee, Madbury, Barrington, Newmarket, Dover, and beyond thus building a stronger community.
Both residents and local businesses can become a sponsor and most importantly, join Rotary for a fun evening of fireworks and celebrating our Nations 243rd birthday. We plan to have food, fun and games for children. Last year the Food Trucks and Bouncy Area were big hits. We will be working with Durham Recreation Department again for a great children’s fun area.
Donations are still needed so we can bring this event to you free of charge. To donate please go to: https://durhamgreatbayrotary.org/
For more information, contact Durham-Great Bay Rotary President Tom Boisvert at mailto:tports@comcast.net
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UNH Nature Groupie Stewardship Interns Mindy Prieur and Gus Muscato stand proudly next to a giant pile of invasive Japanese knotweed that they helped cut behind the Town Hall. Courtesy of Ellen Snyder
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CONTROLLING INVASIVE JAPANESE KNOTWEED IN SELECTED AREAS IN TOWN
The Town has embarked on an effort to control invasive Japanese knotweed along Mill Pond Road and around the Town Hall. Ellen Snyder is working with NH State Invasive Plant Specialist Doug Cygan on implementing the best control methods. Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) is an aggressive and highly invasive herbaceous to somewhat woody perennial originating from eastern Asia (Japan, Korea, China and Taiwan). One of the plant characteristics is the noticeably jointed stems, much like bamboo. It was first brought to the United States in the late 1800s for ornamental and horticultural purposes. It quickly became popular in the nursery trade and has been planted in landscapes throughout North America. It was also planted for erosion control and as a forage crop; little did they know at the time how damaging these practices would be.
Invasive characteristics of Japanese knotweed:
- Fast growing, ~ 8” per day.
- Large woody rhizomes that penetrate the ground up to 10’ deep and laterally can exceed 40’.
- Allelopathic properties (chemical compounds that are released by certain plants to eliminate vegetative competition) allowing it to displace native vegetation.
- Forms dense clonal communities.
- Regenerates from rhizome (root) fragments as small as ½” in length.
- Rhizomes can remain dormant for up to 20-yearsCut or mowed stem fragments can regenerate from nodes.
- Outcompetes native species and reduces or eliminates native plant diversity.
- Grows through concrete and pavement causing issues with infrastructure, utilities, drainage, septic systems, walls, and foundations.
The most effective control method is herbicide application by a NH licensed applicator. Japanese knotweed is unlike most plants in that the flow of nutrients/carbohydrates is in one direction, moving upward during the growing season until flowering and then the process reverses to deliver the nutrients/carbs back down to the rhizome system for overwintering. Therefore, chemical application is most effective just after flowering up until the first killing frost (September – November). To increase effectiveness of the treatment, the stems can be cut to the ground in June. The re-growth will be reduced by the time of treatment in the fall. UNH interns Mindy Prieur and Gus Muscato and Land Stewardship Coordinator Ellen Snyder cut several stands around the Town Hall. These piles will be left to dry out to ensure they are non-viable before being taken to the town transfer station for burning. A stand along Mill Pond Road will also be cut in June. Doug Cygan will be treating the plants in the fall and other invasive plants along Mill Pond Road (not on the Milne Sanctuary) as well. Ellen is mapping knotweed populations throughout Durham. If you know of a stand, please mailto:ellensnyder1@gmail.com.
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THANK YOU MINDY AND GUS! -- UNH NATURE GROUPIE STEWARDSHIP INTERNS
UNH Nature Groupie interns, Mindy Prieur and Gus Muscato have spent two weeks assisting Land Stewardship Coordinator, Ellen Snyder, with a variety of land stewardship projects. Here is a summary of their experience in their own words.
Greetings, Mindy Prieur writing. My first 2 weeks as one of the Nature Groupie Summer Interns has been better for working with Ellen Snyder and the Town of Durham. What a privilege to learn about land stewardship from a habitat specialist. My education at UNH helped prepare me to work in land stewardship as I had already been instructed on common native and invasive plant species identification. As with many things though, the realities of how to manage invasive species turned out to be more complex than I realized. Ellen instructed us in land stewardship by explaining the nuances of invasive species removal, managing how people use public lands, how to maintain trails, and more. At Milne Sanctuary, we learned about the process of shifting land away from invasives to forming native pollinator meadows. A visit to Thompson Forest provided a beautiful example of a reclaimed native pollinator meadow. At Doe Farm, it was a satisfying challenge to assist in building two small trail bridges. I am also grateful to be learning practical skills; conservation easement monitoring at the Merrick property was pleasantly educational. Our experience doing some routine trail maintenance at Longmarsh Preserve was an absolute privilege as our day was filled with gorgeous views and exciting wildlife observations. Removing invasive knotweed from the Town Hall parking lot felt like a great way to thank the Town of Durham for the opportunity to learn and enjoy so much on its various properties.
Hi! My name is Gus Muscato and for the last two weeks my internship partner Mindy and I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Ellen Snyder on land stewardship projects for the Town of Durham. We have pulled invasive plants, planted native shrubs, built new trails and bridges over old trails, along with getting to enjoy the outdoors with someone as knowledgeable and invested in nature as they come! I feel like I’m finally in my element and able to apply all the wonderful lessons I’ve learned taking classes at UNH and see their real-world applications. That’s not all though, and thanks to the Nature Groupie Internship, I have been lucky enough to spend my first two weeks working with Ellen to really learn what it's like to spend your life and make your living outdoors and I love it!
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NHDES TO CONDUCT OIL SPILL BOOM DEPLOYMENT TEST JUNE 20-21
On June 20 and 21, 2019 the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) will be deploying an oil spill protection strategy in Upper Little Bay to test the effectiveness of the strategy. June 20th will consist of a training day and equipment inspection. During this training portions of the strategy will be deployed. On June 21st the complete strategy will be deployed consisting of 8 lengths of oil spill boom totaling approximately 5,650 feet. These lengths will be deployed located across Little Bay as shown below. This strategy is intended to minimize the amount of spilled oil that could be carried by the current towards Great Bay. During both days, activity will begin at approximately 9:00 AM and continue until approximately 3:00 PM. The river will remain open to vessel traffic under the direction of the Safety vessels on scene.
For Information: please call: Jason Domke, NHDES at 603-724-0626
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FY 2018 DURHAM FINANCIAL AUDIT BY MELANSON HEATH & COMPANY - Town finances looking good.
At the Town Council meeting to be held on Monday evening, June 17, 2019, Council members will receive a presentation from the Town's auditing firm, Melanson Heath & Company, Nashua, NH, for the Fiscal Year ending December 31, 2018.
View the 2018 Audit document HERE
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TOWN COUNCIL ADOPTS 2019-20 GOALS
At its meeting on Monday, June 3, 2018, the Town Council adopted its list of goals for 2019-20. View the final list of adopted goals HERE.
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SCHOOL'S OUT! - UNH OUTDOOR POOL SEASON OPENING EVENT
On Wednesday, June 19, 2019, UNH Campus Recreation will hold an Outdoor Pool season opening event from 4 - 7PM. Free pool entry! Music, lawn games, and concessions.
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UNH OUTDOOR POOL IS NOW OPEN!
The UNH outdoor swimming pool is now open for the season! The rates below for Durham Residents reflect a 15% subsidy from the Town of Durham valid towards both season memberships and Multi-Visit Passes. Proof of residency must be provided to receive this subsidized price. Passes need to purchased in person at Outdoor Pool or Hamilton Recreation Center.
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For more information regarding hours of operation for the Hamel Recreation Center, parking, and more, please call the UNH Campus Recreation Department at 862-2031 or visit their website at https://campusrec.unh.edu/outdoor-pool
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ITALIAN RESTAURANT & MARKET PROJECT AT 56 MAIN STREET (former Red Carpet Flower Shop Location)
The Planning Board held a public hearing on Wednesday about the construction management plan for a new restaurant, Italian market, and events space at 56 Main Street proposed by Doug Clark (situated in the brick building to the right of Town and Campus at the corner of Jenkins Court). The project presents challenges because Jenkins Court will need to be closed for a number of weeks while a new sewer line is installed in the street. The board allowed for construction to commence soon once other pertinent conditions are addressed with the proviso that Jenkins Court not be closed for sewer construction until the board reviews and approves additional necessary changes on July 10. The applicant is coordinating carefully with the Public Works, Police, Fire, and Building Departments on the construction process.
View all of the documents related to the project HERE.
Please feel free to contact Town Planner Michael Behrendt with any questions or concerns at mailto:mbehrendt@ci.durham.nh.us.
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MILNE NATURE SANCTUARY RESTORATION WORK UNDER WAY
Thanks to help from town volunteers, UNH interns, Nature Groupie, DPW, and Land Stewardship Coordinator Ellen Snyder, the first phase of the Milne Nature Sanctuary restoration is completed. A new perennial garden was planted around the Milne memorial, invasive shrubs were pulled, and dozens of native shrubs planted in areas bordering the grassy opening. The Milne Committee is now planning for the next phase. Dr. Cathy Neal, UNH Horticulture Specialist, has provided guidance on creating a pollinator meadow. Several committee members are researching wildflower seed mixes and plant species to be planted later this summer or fall. UNH Strafford County Extension Forester Andy Fast will be visiting the site on June 24th to discuss the Committee’s desire to remove more overstory invasive Norway maples, which are preventing native species from thriving. Hand pulling of understory invasive plants is also continuing. If anyone would like to assist, please mailto:ellensnyder1@gmail.com. These efforts are part of restoring the health of the one-acre property that lies on the shores of College Brook, Oyster River, and Mill Pond, and which was given to the Town by Margery Milne as a nature sanctuary and a place where residents could enjoy quiet, reflective time in nature.
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DURHAM ENERGY COMMITTEE PROVIDES UPDATE ON OYSTER RIVER MIDDLE SCHOOL PROJECT - “A Tale of Two Panels”
Recently, the architects designing the new Middle School discussed how solar energy might be incorporated into the design vision for the facility. Both photovoltaic panels and solar thermal panels were mentioned; our June Update focuses on both of these types of panels.
Photovoltaic (PV) panels are widely used to produce electricity and may be included in the Middle School design concept. PV panels can convert 15% to 20% of incoming ultraviolet solar radiation to produce electricity. The energy output of the panel compared to the solar energy input is known as the effectiveness of the panel.
Solar Thermal Panels are less widely used. These panels absorb incoming infrared solar radiation to produce heat; the heat is typically used for heating domestic water, and sometimes for space heating. Solar thermal panels can convert between 50% and 60% of the incoming infrared solar radiation into heat; this approach is three times as effective as PV panels.
So why aren’t solar thermal panels more widely used than PV? Well, consider the type of energy that’s produced. Solar thermal panels are great at producing heat. However, photovoltaic panels produce electricity, which is much more useful energy than heat energy. And as a bonus, we can actually sell excess electricity back to the electric utility grid!
One of the biggest questions is; “Are solar panels worth the investment cost?” Well, let’s look at this; when the average installed cost of each type of solar panels is considered, the return on investment of each approach looks like this:
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Photovoltaic Panels- The price of PV panels has been dropping, and panel performance has been increasing, making these systems increasingly attractive. If utility rebates are taken into account, the cost payback is in the 6 to 9-year range.
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Solar Thermal Panels- Solar thermal systems involve piping, pumps, controls and other equipment, which add to the system installation cost somewhat. However, these panels provide strong performance. The cost payback is in the 4 to 10-year range, depending on whether utility rebates apply.
Typically, energy projects which have an installation cost/payback in the 7 to 10-year range are considered worthwhile investments. The relatively low installation cost/payback of solar panels makes a very persuasive argument for including them in our proposed Middle School project!
Perhaps the greatest payback of all is that the energy of the sun can be used effectively to power our buildings without emitting carbon, and without damaging the environment. On a recently-sighted bumper sticker: “When a massive spill of solar energy occurs, it’s just called a nice day.”
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SUBMISSIONS FOR INCLUSION IN THE WEEKLY FRIDAY UPDATES - Here's how to submit something...
Quite frequently we have individuals or organizations email or call to find out if they can get something in to the Friday Updates. We do appreciate submissions and photographs, but anyone wishing to contribute items are asked to please send them not later than the Thursday prior to the publication. Also, when sending items, please email to both Administrator Selig (mailto:tselig@ci.durham.nh.us) AND Administrative Assistant Jennie Berry (mailto:jberry@ci.durham.nh.us) as one or the other (or both at times) may be out of the office on a Friday. Photographs should be sent in the original size and should not be cropped, resized, or altered in any way.
Also...if you know of others who would find the weekly "Friday Updates" of interest, please pass them along. Folks can sign up on the Town website HERE, on the left side in blue click "Friday Updates", then enter their email address and first and last name.
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A female snapping turtle crosses Longmarsh Road after laying eggs (maybe in a pile of wood chips?), returning to nearby Colby Marsh, a town conservation area. June is the peak month for turtle nesting so watch for them crossing roads so they can move safely between upland nesting areas and their ponds. Courtesy of Ellen Snyder
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MCGREGOR EMS OFFERING FREE STOP THE BLEED CLASSES THIS SUMMER
McGregor is offering "Stop the Bleed" classes to local businesses and groups free of charge throughout the summer. Stop the Bleed is a national awareness campaign intended to cultivate grassroots efforts that encourage bystanders to become trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. The course lasts about 90-minutes. If you or your business/program is interested in scheduling a class please mailto:cprmanager@McGregorems.org for more information. McGregor is able to offer this program at no charge through a Winant Fellow grant from the University of New Hampshire's School of Public Policy.
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TOWN OFFICES CLOSED ON THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2019
All Town Offices will be closed in observance of the Independence Day holiday on Thursday, July 4, 2019.The holiday curbside collection schedule also follows.
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JULY 4TH HOLIDAY REFUSE AND RECYCLING COLLECTION
All Town offices will be closed for Independence Day on Thursday, July 4, 2019. There will be *NO COLLECTION ON THURSDAY- DELAYED ONE DAY REST OF WEEK- THURSDAY’S COLLECTION WILL BE ON FRIDAY AND THERE WILL BE NO COMMERCIAL COLLECTION ON FRIDAY 7/5/19.
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SITE PLAN REGULATIONS
In April the Planning Board adopted an amendment to the Site Plan Regulations to establish procedures to expedite small projects without Planning Board review.
View the process for the Minor Site Committee HERE.
Please feel free to contact Town Planner Michael Behrendt with any questions, mailto:mbehrendt@ci.durham.nh.us.
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BUNKER CREEK BRIDGE REPLACEMENT - Here's the plan for road work and a road closure on busy Rt. 4...
As many in Durham know, the Route 4 bridge crossing Bunker Creek has failed and is scheduled to be replaced commencing this summer through project completion in September of 2020. During this summer’s activity the tasks to be accomplished will result in one lane closure that will be governed by on-site flaggers.
Representatives from SPS Engineering of New England, the firm retained by the State of New Hampshire to design and build the replacement bridge, attended Durham’s Department Head meeting to discuss their strategy designed to lessen traffic challenges.
There will be a period next summer of 2020 when Route 4 will be closed entirely requiring strategic thinking for police and fire to ensure all segments of Durham will be professionally serviced during this period. The length of the closure has yet to be determined but could be five (5) days to fourteen (14) days as SPS Engineering are proposing 24 hour construction to lessen the impact but negotiations with the neighborhood are ongoing and not finalized.
There will be further updates regarding this project as information is learned from the State of New Hampshire.
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A beautiful lilac blooms over and around the public works department entrance sign this week. Courtesy Todd Selig
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OYSTER RIVER CYCLE & SPORT - A new downtown Durham business off Pettee Brook Lane
Brian, the owner of Oyster River Cycle & Sport, lives in Durham with his wife Shannon and two sons, and has cycled competitively and worked in the industry for 20 years
Brian offers a variety of bicycles for all ages and abilities as well as cycling accessories. Much of Brian’s time will be spent servicing bikes, just as he was doing when Economic Development Director Christine Soutter arrived at his downtown shop. In tune with a community boasting a major educational institution, he also plans on offering workshops to help bicycle owners.
Oyster River Cycle & Sport is open Tuesday-Friday from 9-5:30, Saturday from 9-5 and Monday afternoons during the Farmer’s Market. Learn more by visiting their Facebook page, or website. He's adjacent to the Sammy's/Store 24 parking lot next to Bamee.
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IT'S SUMMER AND THE KIDS ARE OUT!
The Durham Police want to remind vehicle operators and parents about the importance of keeping children safe throughout the summer months.
We drivers should be extra cautious in looking for child pedestrians and bicyclists during the summer by:
- Being alert, especially in residential areas.
- Always expecting the unexpected such as children crossing the street at the wrong place or suddenly running in front of you.
- Paying attention at intersections.
- Double checking around you when backing out of a driveway or parking space.
Parents can help by reminding their children about staying safe on the roads by:
- Focusing on the basics such as reinforcing that your children make eye contact with the driver before they cross as street.
- Reminding them to walk…don’t run across a roadway after looking both ways.
- Reminding children not to play in or around vehicles especially in large parking lots.
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HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY - Morning of Saturday, October 26, 2019
The 2019 Household Hazardous Waste Day will be held at the Department of Public Works facility located at 100 Stone Quarry Drive. As in the past, all hazardous waste will be collected by appointment only, between 8 - 11:30 AM. To register, you must call DPW at 603-868-5571 or mailto:publicworks@ci.durham.nh.us. REMEMBER - THE MAXIMUM COLLECTED PER HOUSEHOLD IS FIVE GALLONS. NO EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS, RADIOACTIVE WASTE, ASBESTOS, SILVEX OR INFECTIOUS/BIOLOGICAL WASTE WILL BE ACCEPTED.
NOT ACCEPTED AT HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY - LATEX AND OLD-BASED PAINTS, MOTOR OIL, AND ANTI-FREEZE. These items can be brought up to the Transfer Station with a permit throughout the year. Latex paints must be dried out first, motor oil, anti-freeze and oil-based paints can go up as is. Typically, hazardous waste is categorized as toxic, ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or otherwise hazardous. Please check the manufacturer's label.
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RECYCLING SCHEDULE REMINDER... As of February 2019 curbside recycling has been on an alternating schedule, one week bottles, cans and glass, the following week paper and cardboard. There are still many folks combining their recyclables. Please refer to your newsletter or see schedule HERE.
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IF YOU SEE SOMETHING WRONG, ODD, OR NOT QUITE RIGHT, PLEASE CALL THE POLICE
The very essence of community policing is that the community and the police work together to confront crime and the fear of crime. The vast majority of Durham residents understand that the police cannot be everywhere simultaneously to observe criminal or suspicious activity as it occurs and the department finds it difficult to patrol residential areas with the frequency residents, businesses and the police prefer. So Chief Kurz urges you to contact the police at 868-2324 or 911 if you see, hear or sense something is not quite right. An officer will respond quickly and resolve what may or may not be a criminal activity. When law enforcement works directly with residents and businesses we collectively are going a long way toward reducing crime, improving quality of life, and enhancing public safety.
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ST. GEORGE'S CHURCH HAS COMMUNITY GARDENS AVAILABLE FOR RENT
Two sizes: 4' by 8' and 4' by 4'. Plot, soil and water supplied. The gardens are located at the rear of the property (One Park Court) just off the parking lot. For information and to get a rental agreement: 603-868-2785 or mailto:officestg@comcast.net
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LOW & MODERATE INCOME HOMEOWNERS PROPERTY TAX RELIEF - An opportunity for qualifying Durham residents.
The “Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief” application is now available. This application can be picked up at the Planning & Zoning Office at the Durham Town Hall or found online HERE. It should be submitted to the State of NH Department of Revenue Administration prior to June 30, 2019.
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SWAP SHOP VOLUNTEERS ARE APPRECIATED! WHY NOT BECOME ONE?
We need volunteers!
We have had a recent shift downturn in the number of volunteers at the Swap Shop.
There have been times when no volunteer has been available to help residents.
We are already starting to close the Swap Shop early due to understaffing.
With more volunteers the Swap Shop will continue for all residents!
It’s an easy commitment of 3 hours and you get to be the first to see interesting items!
Call or text 603-969-4732. Email Cristina at mailto:foggdrive@yahoo.com
Drop off items need to be in good condition on Saturdays and Tuesdays until 2:00.
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Pendergast Garrison. Courtesy DHA
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DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION ANNUAL JUNE PICNIC - Sunday, June 16 2019 - 5PM to Sunset
Not far from Mahomet’s (Moharimet’s) planting ground on the fertile lands between the fresh water portions of the Lamprey and Oyster River is a driveway bordered by massive maples and old stone walls just off Packer’s Falls Road. Turn down this ancient drive and step back into the eighteenth century to join members of the Durham Historic Association for their annual June Picnic at the Pendergast Garrison House, home of Joe and Ann Vaillancourt. Pack up your family, guests, and picnic supper and come soak it all in!
See you at 151 Packers Falls Road for our annual celebration of Durham’s unique history and the citizens who help keep that history alive.
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WHILE THE WEATHER MAY BE BEAUTIFUL, WATER TEMPERATURES ARE STILL VERY COLD – Use caution if going into the water...
The warm air temperatures on Friday and into this weekend may cause unsuspecting people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only in the lower 50s across Lake Winnipesaukee, and in the lower 50s in the state's smaller lakes and rivers.
Cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. When the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could loose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish simple tasks. Anyone on small boats, canoes, or kayaks should plan accordingly if recreating this weekend and use caution to avoid this threat.
Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life jacket!
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FOOD FRIENDLY YARDS - The Durham Agricultural Commission can be a great resource.
The Durham Agricultural Commission encourages Durham residents to produce their own food through the Food Friendly Yards program. We are a resource for residents wishing to learn more about growing fruit, starting vegetable gardens and creating pollinator habitat in their own yards. We can provide information about raising poultry and other livestock where appropriate. Each year we host a Food Friendly Yards Tour on Farm Day, inviting residents to visit and learn from their neighbors.
For more information or questions, mailto:foodfriendlyyards@gmail.com
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DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION "ARTIFACT OF THE WEEK"
What famous American owned this miniature carriage, how did he obtain it, and how did it end up at UNH for 13 years?
Post your comments on the DHA Facebook page HERE.
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TOWN OF DURHAM FACEBOOK AND TWITTER ACCOUNTS
Did you know that the Town has a Facebook & Twitter account and frequently posts Durham & UNH news, happenings, and articles of interest in our area and the seacoast?
Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.
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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.
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R.E.A.C.H. SUMMER DAY CAMP - July 8 - August 9, 2019
R.E.A.C.H. Summer Day Camp is a community-based summer camp collaboration between Oyster River Cooperative School District and Durham Parks & Recreation. It meets Monday- Thursday, July 8 through August 9 at the Oyster River Middle School. Campers can participate in a morning ORCSD program, and then have the option to transition to afternoon camp with Durham Parks & Recreation. Since Oyster River is providing lunch for all school-aged kids, there is no need to pack one! To complete the week, Durham Parks and Recreation is also offering Friday Field Trips.
Read more about the program in the April 2019 Celebrate Durham blog HERE.
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY UPCOMING EVENTS
Beginning June 10th
Come in and register for the Summer Reading Program, "A Universe of Stories", for both children and adults. Summer Calendar coming soon.
June 24th, at 6:00pm
Save the date for our first summer reading program, event!" Chasing the Moon" A film By Robert StoneSneak Peek Screening in partnership with PBS
June 28th, at 10:30 am
Join us for the Summer Reading Kick off "Storywalk Carnival" There will be a craft, face painting, Bubbles and more! Rain or shine.All are Welcome.
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HISTORY IN AN OYSTERSHELL - A Brief History of Durham, NH 1600 - 1976 (A little volume that was the Heritage Project of the Durham Historic Association Bicentennial celebration)
Preface - "Since before God made the first little green apples, oysters have probably been growin in the Oyster River; and some of the largest and juiciest to be found anywhere in the world are still growing here today. The following vignettes from rollicking history of Durham town on the Oyster River are therefore presented between the shells of an oyster."
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1916 - Search began for property suitable for a town cemetery. Committees appointed, money voted but nothing accomplished until 1925 when 6 acres were bought from Karl Woodward for $1,200. Under the supervision of 3 trustees, area was cleared, graded, surveyed and 20' by 20' lots laid out.
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Have a Happy Father's Day and enjoy the weekend.
In addition, a reminder that the Durham Historic Association Annual June Picnic is scheduled for this Sunday, June 16th. Check out the Community Programs and Events button above for more information.
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