Friday Updates - June 17, 2016

Friday, June 17, 2016

Community Church of Durham

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The Community Church of Durham, UCC, and Waysmeet Center/United Campus Ministry at UNH will be hosting a community gathering for healing and hope this Saturday evening, June 18, 2016, from 7:00 – 8:00 PM in Memorial Park in downtown Durham as congregation members and interested residents stand with the LGBTQ community and support each other in this time of grief, anger, fear and loss In the wake of the tragic shooting that took place earlier this week in Orlando.

People in attendance will hear the names of those who were killed in Orlando, light candles of hope, share words of healing, and stand together for love, justice, and inclusion. The organizers indicate that all are warmly invited to this interfaith event.

A very important remindeer that Father's Day is Sunday! :) 

The Council will hold a public hearing on Monday evening, June 20th, regarding the proposal to charge non-residents for parking at Wagon Hill Farm.  The Town Council meeting begins at 7 PM.

SAXBYS COFFEE IS COMING TO DURHAM – At Madbury Commons location along Madbury Road

A new business is coming to Durham this fall – Saxbys Coffee.  This is the space in the new Madbury Commons building that is directly across from Woodman Road on the first floor next to Kennebunk Savings Bank.


To learn about Saxbys Coffee, check out their web site at http://www.saxbyscoffee.com/about.html


Read an article in the Foster’s Daily Democrat about Saxbys coming to Durham HERE.

PROPERTY TAX BILLS

The property tax warrant for the 1st half 2016 property taxes has been approved and the bills mailed out. Taxes are due Friday, July 1st.

As always, if  residents are unable to pay the entire amount by the due date, it is to their advantage to pay as much as they can and as often as they need. This will decrease the amount of interest that will accrue.

Questions and concerns should be addressed to the Town Clerk-Tax Collector's Office at 603-868-5577.

 

TOWN OFFICES CLOSED FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY

All Town Offices will be closed in observance of the Independence Day holiday on Monday, July 4, 2016.

NO FIREWORKS CELEBRATION FOR DURHAM

In the fall of 2014, the Town of Durham was notified by the Durham-Great Bay Rotary Club that it would no longer be able to organize the annual July 4th fireworks and celebration in town.  No other organization has stepped forward to take on this event.

The Parks and Recreation Department is not able to take on this added program due to staffing limitations.  The cost of fireworks was not included as part of the FY2016 approved budget.   


If another organization has an interest in taking on this event, please write to Administrator Selig at tselig@ci.durham.nh.us.  

 

AMERICA! (Durham!)…  THE CYCLIST IS NOT YOUR ENEMY! - A plea from the bike

Earlier this month, Durham resident (and Town Treasurer) Karl Van Asselt sent along to Mr. Selig, who is NOT an avid biker in the least, an article from the Wall Street Journal written by Jason Gay that has some relevance to Durham.  


One of the Town Council’s continuing goals is to develop “. . . initiatives that promote public transportation options and ensure safe walking and biking.” 

It is this goal that has resulted in increased signage regarding bicycles, sharrow markings, the establishment of new bike lanes, and a variety of other initiatives to promote various forms of transportation in a safe manner.  The WSJ article urges the public to “end the ridiculous battle between cyclists, pedestrians and drivers.”  


Given that there have been two serious bicycle accidents in Durham to date in 2016 (both of which have involved a motor vehicle hitting a bicycle, and in both cases the driver of the motor vehicle was issued a summons) involving experienced cyclists, and that a recent visit by Mr. Selig to the Ray LaRoche Transfer Station and Recycling Center on Durham Point Road (AKA - the dump) resulted in a long-time resident stating very explicitly that the bike lanes and sharrows and additional signage was not necessary because “the problem is the cyclists, not the cars,” Administrator Selig felt that the article forwarded along by Mr. Van Asselt was very opportune to share with the Council and the community in the hope of increasing awareness and bringing cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers together. 

The full WSJ article can be found HERE.

UPDATE ON CHICANE PILOT APPLICATION ON MADBURY ROAD

The Town has collected speed data both prior to and now after the installation of the two temporary chicanes on Madbury Road as part of our pilot program there aimed at reducing speed along the roadway.  While data collection is still ongoing, results to date follow.  


With the two temporary chicanes in place, the 10 MPH pace speed is 3 MPH lower with the speed limit in the pace range. 

Excessive speeds have dropped 60-70%.  Some vehicles are still traveling too fast.  The maximum speed recorded, even with the two chicanes, was 58 MPH.


Approximately 4,165 cars per day on a weekday come through the roadway.  


We plan to continue to collect speed data as part of the pilot initiative over the next few days.  


The Town has received mixed feedback to date on the pilot program with the majority of feedback being generally categorized as negative.  Some residents on Madbury Road have expressed frustration with the pilot program preferring either to have nothing installed or speed tables.  Some residents on Madbury Road have been pleased with the pilot.  Although there are not bike lanes on this stretch of Madbury Road (the white lines on the sides of the road denote fog lines, not bike lanes as a sharrow program is in place here), a number of bicyclists and motorists have expressed that they are concerned that if a car and a bike went around the chicane at the same time, the bike would be pushed off of the road.   


Some residents have expressed that they believe the solution is increased police enforcement.  In regard to police enforcement, the DPD does run radar along Madbury Road frequently but the department is simply not staffed to the level that would be required to provide constant radar patrol along Madbury Road.  


If Madbury Road residents and the community at large desire a measurable improvement in lowering speeds along Madbury Road 24/7, a physical alteration to the roadway will be necessary such as a chicane, speed table, or some other hardened solution.  


A few residents have expressed that Madbury Road is a through road to downtown and as such the residents along the roadway should just have to deal with a lot of traffic at high speeds.  “They knew it was a main corridor to town when they moved in,” one resident told Mr. Selig this week.   


One of the Town Council’s continuing goals is to develop “. . . initiatives that promote public transportation options and ensure safe walking and biking.”  It is this goal that has resulted in increased signage regarding bicycles, sharrow markings, the establishment of new bike lanes, and a variety of other initiatives, including the temporary chicane pilot on Madbury Road, to promote various forms of transportation in a safe manner.

 

Monday, June 20th, is the lasst day of school for the Oyster River Cooperative School District. Courtesy Todd Selig

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL IN OYSTER RIVER IS MONDAY

This coming Monday is the last day of school for children within the Oyster River Cooperative School District.  Summer has arrived!

 

ACTIVE SHOOTER EXERCISE PLANNED FOR JULY 11TH AT DURHAM TOWN HALL

The Durham Police Department is working with the staff at the Town Hall to plan an active shooter exercise for July 11th from 3-5 PM.  The Town Hall will close to the general public during this timeframe.  


In December 2015, at the request of staff, Durham developed an Employee Active Threat Response Plan that employees at the Town Hall desire to practice.  The Durham Police Department is working to develop several scenarios to give employees and emergency responders alike important training in this area.  During the scenarios, a firearm will be discharged using blanks to give everyone as accurate a sense as possible concerning what such situations might entail.

 

HOUSING SALES STRONG IN DURHAM/SEACOAST – Upper tier priced Durham homes begin to move

While good quality housing in the $250,000 - $400,000 range has been quite strong in Durham for some time, Assessor Jim Rice reports that housing stock in $400,000 – $700,000 price range is now also beginning to move.  This is good news for Durham.  


An article in the NH Business Review dated June 15, 2016, indicated that sales of residential single-family homes and condominium units on the Seacoast hit a modern volume record for May, according to the Seacoast Board of Realtors.


According to the board, there were 138 single-family sales in the 13-town sampling monitored every month — the most since July 2015 and 22.1 percent ahead of May 2015.


The monthly sale price of $430,300 was the highest by far in 2016 and the highest since November’s $434,516. For the year, the median sale price has reached $400,000, up 6.59 percent from last year on a total volume of 407 sales. That figure is 13.68% ahead of 2015 as well.


Meanwhile, condominium sales set a monthly volume record for the second straight month – 9.2 percent over last May, at 71 units. That was the most sales in a month since last July’s 84 units.


The activity spurred a monthly median sale price of $261,000, matching the high for the year set in February. Total condo sales are now running 22.22 percent ahead of 2015, at 241 units. The cumulative condo median sale price for the first five months of the year reached $245,000 — a 10.13 percent improvement over 2015, according to the Realtors.

 

Durham resident Amanda Merrill

AMANDA MERRILL APPOINTED NEW DIRECTOR OF THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF ENERGY AND PLANNING

Governor Maggie Hassan just announced that Durham’s own Amanda Merrill will serve as the new Director of the Governor’s Office of Energy and Planning (OEP). 

A former state Senator and state Representative, Ms. Merrill served on the energy & natural resources, public & municipal affairs, and wildlife committees during her two terms in the Senate, and the environment & agriculture and science, technology & energy committees during her 11 years in the House.  She also previously served as the Interim Executive Director of the New Hampshire Land & Community Heritage Investment Program and as its board vice-chair, as well as a member of the Durham Planning Board. She was a founding board member of the Granite State Conservation Voters Alliance and has served as a board member of the Audubon Society of New Hampshire and the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance.  She will begin her duties at OEP on June 20, 2016.  

“Our businesses and families need clean, reliable and affordable energy to continue to grow and prosper, and keeping our clean energy economy moving forward will help create jobs, spur economic development and protect our environment,” Governor Hassan said. “Mandy brings a wide range of experience in energy, land use and environmental policy from her years of public service, and she will be a valuable adviser to me as we continue working to build a more affordable and more innovative energy future for our people and businesses.”

The Office of Energy and Planning (OEP) is part of the Executive Department within the Office of the Governor. OEP’s responsibilities include:

• Developing a State Energy Strategy to help plan for a clean, reliable and affordable energy future that protects the state’s resources and promotes innovation;
• Offering community services such as heating fuel aid, floodplain management assistance, statewide population data information, and the availability of a statewide computerized geographic information system;
• Promoting the principles of smart growth at the state, regional, and local levels through the municipal and regional planning assistance program;
• Promoting energy efficiency and reducing energy costs by supporting programs for low-income households, state government buildings, businesses and industry, and schools and towns;
• Exploring opportunities to expand the use of renewable, domestic energy resources and supporting energy independence;
• Promoting land use efficiency through a state comprehensive outdoor recreation plan and the monitoring of the state’s investment in conservation land; and
• Supporting programs that focus on protecting and increasing the resiliency of the natural resources of critical areas of the state such as the coastal watersheds.

EVERSOURCE’S SEACOAST RELIABILTY PROJECT APPLICATION DEEMED COMPLETE BY NH SEC – Durham/UNH file motion for intervenor status

The NH Site Evaluation Committee this week determined that the Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project was complete and as such a public hearing will be scheduled by Eversource in Durham and in Newington in mid-July.  The date has yet to be determined.  


In addition, Durham and UNH jointly filed a motion to intervene as part of the application process.  The Town of Newington also filed a motion to intervene this week.  


Read an article about this in the Foster’s Daily Democrat HERE.

 

EVERSOURCE TO ENHANCE POWER LINES ON MILL ROAD SERVICING FACULTY NEIGHBORHOOD AND PORTIONS OF DOWNTOWN - System improvements in response to Durham requests

At Durham’s request, Eversource will be enhancing electric reliability to Mill Road feeding portions of downtown Durham and the Faculty Neighborhood this summer.  The company will be installing the much awaited spacer cable (also known as Hendrix cable) on Mill Road.  This is a real improvement for Durham residents within the project area.  Spacer cable provides additional protection in the event a branch or tree comes down and impacts it.  As part of the project, Eversource will remove the Durham substation and replace the existing aged poles, currently 35-40' with 50', to accommodate the new cable.  Although this project will also improve electric reliability, it is not related to or part of the Seacoast Reliability Project, which will also improve reliability to the Seacoast area.

 

PUBLIC WORKS SEASONAL PART-TIME WORK AVAILABLE FOR SUMMER - Looking for Oyster River (or other) youth (or older) for summer employment for mowing parks, landscaping, etc.

The Department of Public Works is seeking part-time/seasonal help for landscaping and mowing.  The position begins ASAP through August/September 2016.  It is a great outdoor position for the summer!

Years ago these positions were very popular with young Oyster River graduates (or current UNH students) but in recent years we have struggled to find takers for these important summer positions.

Applicants must be comfortable working outside in summer conditions.  Experience is a plus but not necessary. Pay starts at $10/hr or more based on experience.  18 years of age or older, driver’s license and clean record a must.  Applications are being accepted through June 24th. 

Applications can be obtained from the Department of Public Works at 100 Stone Quarry Drive, Durham, NH 03824 OR via e-mail, publicworks@ci.durham.nh.us

ANNUAL BOARD OFFICER TRAINING SESSION WITH ADMINISTRATOR SELIG SCHEDULED

Each year, Todd Selig invites the chair/vice chair of Durham’s boards/committees (as well as other interested board members) to meet with him as an orientation to the chair/vice chair position, issues regarding the right to know law, an orientation concerning Council goals, and many other matters. 

All members of board/committees are welcome to attend, as is the public.  

 

The session this year will be held at 7 PM on Monday, June 27, 2016, in the Town Council chambers.  It will be televised on DCAT beginning at 7 PM.

 

NO STATE INVESTS LESS IN HIGHER EDUCATION THAN NEW HAMPSHIRE

No state invests less in public higher education than New Hampshire, where the government spends an average of $2,591 per pupil annually. As is generally the case in states with low public higher education spending, out-of-pocket tuition costs are relatively high in New Hampshire. At $9,843 per student, out-of-pocket tuition costs are the fifth highest nationwide. The low public investment by the state has not prevented greater numbers of students from enrolling in New Hampshire schools, however. Enrollment grew by 3.8% last year, the highest of all states and in stark contrast with the 1.1% nationwide enrollment decline.


Given that UNH receives so little support from state government and that local resources to support municipal government are also scarce, Durham and UNH have done very well in finding ways to partner with one another to both offset the University’s financial impact upon the host community AND to find ways to work together to achieve mutual goals.


Read more about which state funding of higher education HERE.

 

Representatives from Orono, ME meet with Durham officials this week.  Courtesy Craig Stevens, DCAT

DELEGATION FROM ORONO MAINE VISITS DURHAM

A delegation from the Town of Orono, home to the University of Maine, visited Durham on Tuesday, June 14, 2016, to talk with Durham officials about local government, economic/community development initiatives, and the many town/gown joint initiatives that have been implemented between Durham and the University of New Hampshire.  Orono reached out to Durham part-time Economic Development Director Mary Ellen Humphrey earlier this year to request the meeting.  The Orono delegation bought the Durham officials lunch at Young’s, followed by a walking tour of downtown Durham and parts of the UNH campus.  To learn more about Orono, ME click HERE.

 

MILL ROAD PAVING IS ONLY 50% COMPLETE – The final coat will cover the entire roadway surface to the curbs

Mill Road is only 50% complete. The top coat of asphalt is scheduled for late July, early August. Although the new asphalt does not currently stretch edge to edge of the roadway, it will once the final coat is applied.  

 

DIRECTOR OF PLANNING MICHAEL BEHRENDT TO WORK ON UDPATING DURHAM SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS AS TIME PERMITS

Durham Town Planner Michael Behrendt will be working on updating the Town’s subdivision regulations as time permits in the coming months.  

 

DOG DROWNS IN UNCOVERED OLD WELL ON TRACT OF FOREST LAND IN DURHAM – A reminder to residents ensure old wells are covered and safe

Last week in a tragic accident, a dog fell into an old uncovered well on a tract of forestland along Durham Point road in Durham and drowned.  A brief reminder to all residents to ensure that if you have old home sites on your property, or if there are old wells that used to service your residence, be sure to inspect and cover them for safety purposes.

 

DURHAM DEPARTMENTS SHORT-HANDED DUE TO SEVERAL ABSENCES

Chief Kurz reports that our department of 20 sworn officers is presently down by 4 as a result of several leaves of absence.  Two officers have been deployed by the military.  A third officer is recuperating from an injury.  The fourth officer’s wife just had a beautiful baby and is out on family leave.  


Durham’s Wastewater Superintendent has been notified that he is being deployed by the military for around 8 months.  


The Fire Department is down by one firefighter as a member of the staff gave notice.  The department is currently engaged in a hiring process to fill the vacancy.

 

CHIEF KURZ TO PROVIDE SEVERAL UPDATES TO TOWN COUNCIL ON MONDAY

Earlier this year, several thefts and break-ins occurred in areas in Town, as well as the Churchill Rink at Jackson’s Landing. In addition, last week a fight occurred at the Milne park/sanctuary on Mill Road involving two juveniles that resulted in one of the teens sustaining a serious head injury.


Police Chief Kurz has been invited to Monday night’s meeting to provide an update to Council members on these incidents.

 

WEB SITE REDESIGN UNDER WAY – Suggestions from residents for improvements sought.

The Town is currently in the process of updating/redesigning its web site housed at www.ci.durham.nh.us.  If residents have suggestions on aspects of the site that could be improved upon, please send an email to DCAT’s Craig Stevens at dcat@ci.durham.nh.us.  

 

SOCIETY FOR THE PROTECTION OF NH FORESTS TO TALK WITH TOWN COUNCIL ABOUT POWDER MAJOR CONSERVATION PROJECT ON MONDAY

The Durham Conservation Commission has been working with the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests (SPNHF) regarding a land conservation project for the Powder Major Farm. This project involves the purchase of 195 acres of land owned by three Goss families and located in Madbury, Lee, and Durham by the Forest Society.  It also includes the purchase of a conservation easement on approximately 32 acres of agricultural land adjacent to the historic Powder Major John Demerritt homestead in Madbury. The SPNHF is requesting support from all three towns in two ways:  financial contributions from dedicated conservation funds, and for each community to hold an easement on the portion of land in their respective town.


The Conservation Commission received a presentation on the project at its October 8, 2015 meeting. At the conclusion of the presentation, the Commission voted unanimously to give its support for the property being preserved. At the January 14, 2016 Conservation Commission meeting, Commission members voted unanimously to support the project with funds available from the Conservation Fund (estimated to be approximately $120,000.00).


Martha Twombly and Brian Hotz from the Society for the Protection of NH Forests have been invited to attend Monday evening’s Town Council meeting to provide an overview of this project.

 

SUMMER HOT DEALS!

The "Summer Hot Deals" listed below will run from June 17th through August 19th. Please contact the businesses directly with any questions.
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3 Bridges Yoga, 37 Main St., 603-590-0010

2 months of unlimited yoga for $125

Papa John’s, 10 Pettee Brook Ln., 603-868-9999

Buy a Large or Extra Large Pizza at regular menu price, get the second pizza of equal or lesser value FREE. Offer valid online only. Use promo code TMT4569DBABOGO when ordering.

SolSistar, 49 Main St., Suite 103, 603-397-5229
25% off 1 non-sale item on Friday’s when you mention Summer Hot Deals!

Tacomano, 38 Main Street, 603-397-5203

FREE gauc or bacon with purchase of either a burrito, a bowl, or an order of tacos.

UNH Dairy Bar, 3 Depot Road, 603-862-4843

Get a large fountain beverage for only $.99 cents when you buy any salad or sandwich at the UNH Dairy Bar!

A colorful flamingo brightens up downtown Durham. Courtesy Robin Mower

OYSTER RIVER WOMENADE ANNUAL "YARN-BLOOMING" ENDS JUNE 26

Recently Oyster River Womenade's annual "Yarn-Blooming" was put on display on Main Street in Durham with trees on Main Street being covered in beautiful knitted designs blooming with flowers.


The goal of "Yarn-Blooming" is to help raise awareness for Oyster River Womenade, a local organization that provides monetary support to community members in times of hardship, for example, help with medical expenses,

fuel costs, or automobile repairs.   

 

Communities that are directly helped by OR Womenade are:  Newmarket, Madbury, Lee, and Durham.  OR Womenade's belief is that by helping someone with a short-term crisis, we can help their situation from spiraling out of control.  

 

For more information about OR Womenade and to see more images of Durham's *yarn-blooming trees*, please visit their website HERE.

 

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: Organic Pest Control-Natural bug and Insect repellents

Now that your vegetables are beginning to grow, you may be confronted with your insect competitors. This video suggests responsible ways to deal with them.  

 

The Commission would also like to share a Facebook page with information concerning Fleet Farming. Fleet Farming is a program that turns lawns into Yard Farms, a concept similar to the Ag Commission's Food Friendly Yards campaign.

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. Click on the meetings listed below to view agendas and other information.

Town Council - Monday, June 20, 2016

Economic Development Committee - Tuesday, June 21, 2016 (8 AM)

Planning Board - Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Parks & Recreation Committee - Thursday, June 23, 2016

Lamprey River Advisory Committee - Thursday, June 23, 2016

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

Economic Development Director Mary Ellen Humphrey and Megan Senter, Manager of the Soupery & Juicery located at 30 Main Street. Courtesy DCAT Studios

DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22 - Check out the In the Biz Spotlight this week on Durham's newest business -- The Juicery/The Soupery.

In the Biz Spotlight: DCAT 22 Coordinator, Craig Stevens and EDC Director, Mary Ellen Humphrey visit local businesses to introduce them to the community, and to welcome newcomers to Durham.  Most recent episode: The Juicery & The Soupery. Stop by and sample their products.  Note: all cups, lids, soup cups, straws, and silverware are compostable. All of the serve ware is compostable as an effort to help the environment, which is a part of their company's culture.  Quote: “Smoothies, juices and soups are fast food... that actually contain food.” Tory Dube (marketing) and Megan Senter (store manager). The episode can be viewed Cable Channel 22 @ 12:30 PM & 6:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday and on DCAT On Demand.

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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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Perhaps you missed or couldn’t make it to the Solar 101 Workshop on May 24.  Have no fear, DCAT 22 was there to record the entire workshop.  Learn about solar PV systems and residential installations, panel placement, permitting & interconnection, financing & incentives, and installer selection.  Presentation by Andy Duncan, Energy Training Manager, Lakes Region Community College. This video is also available on DCAT On Demand or watch it on Cable Channel 22 on Saturday or Sunday @ 1:00 PM

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Join DCAT 22 Studios, the Durham Energy Committee and James Hasselbeck of Revision Energy for a tour of Durham’s new solar array.  Walk the grounds with a group of solar enthusiasts.  Plenty of questions and answers about the new array.  So, don’t miss this DCAT 22 original programming.  The program is available on DCAT On Demand or watch it on DCAT Cable Channel 22, Saturday & Sunday @ 8:30 PM – total run time: 47 minutes
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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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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.

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 isn’t operating correctly.  

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DPR SUMMER PROGRAM & EVENTS GUIDE

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Discover Durham’s Trails

Durham Conservation Commission, Parks & Recreation and the Land Stewardship Committee are offering once a month guided treks for community members to get to know the trails and recreational spaces in Durham. Participation is FREE!
Join us for our next scheduled trek:

Sunday, June 19th: Beech Hill Trail at 10am- Parking available at the end of Beech Hill Road.

Family Camp Out at Wagon Hill Farm

Saturday, June 25th – Sunday June 26th

4:00pm-9:00am

$30/family

June is National Camping Month and DPR is celebrating with a special night out camping at Wagon Hill Farm with the family!  We will have a BBQ dinner, scavenger hunt, storytelling and s’mores by the campfire. Optional sunset kayak tours will also available with Seven Rivers Paddling. A camping checklist will be provided to those registered. Pre-registration with DPR is required by Friday June 17th.

Bird Walk for Beginners

Join local bird enthusiast Kylee and Vince Nogg at the Oyster River Forest for a leisure walk to seek out resident and migrant birds and the sights and sounds they have to offer.  All ages and abilities are welcome to attend.  Bring binoculars if you have them.  Meet at the entrance of Oyster River Forest off from Packers Falls Road not later than 7am.  Register HERE by June 10th.  Participation is FREE.

FREE Yoga at Wagon Hill Farm

Thursdays from 5-6pm beginning June 9th.  Bring a mat or a blanket and meet at the wagon.  Participation is FREE. Class is canceled in the case of inclement weather.

2016 Summer Day Camps with Durham Parks & Recreation - Registration is still open for DPR camps!

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 concludes 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!   For more information or to register please visit us HERE.

 

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 Durham Parks & Recreation by Thursday of each listed stargazing dates.

Saturday, June 11th- 8:45-9:45pm - We are still accepting registrations for this Saturday.  Please call or email to register.

Saturday, July 9th- 9:00-10:00pm

 

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. Balance Workshop will run through June 30th, and will resume in the fall.

Save The Date:
Learn To Fish Workshop and Field Day with NH Fish & Game!

Wednesday, July 6th at Churchill Rink –Workshop from 4:30pm to 7:00pm

Saturday, July 9th at a local pond (TBD)- Fishing experience and instruction from 9:00am to 1:00pm.  In the basic fishing course you will explore the skills and equipment needed and resources available to you to start your journey to becoming an angler.

For all ages 8 and above- Ages 8-14 require adult accompaniment.  Register HERE by July 1st.  $10/person.  All equipment provided.

Art in the Park at Jackson's Landing

Mondays form 4-6pm beginning July 11th.  Join us at Jackson’s Landing for an evening of Art in the Park.  We will have a rotating schedule of Pottery Painting and Glass Fusing!  For more information on Art In The Park click HERE.

Music By The Bay Summer Concert at Wagon Hill Farm

Thursday, July 14th 6-8pm, featuring: Sum x 4

Pack a picnic dinner, gather friends and enjoy live music at the picturesque waterfront setting at Wagon Hill Farm! Additional parking available in the orchard.  FREE!

Picnic in the Park with The Little Red Wagon

Thursday, July 21st 5:30-7:30pm at Jackson’s Landing

Pack a picnic dinner, play at the playground and enjoy a 45 minute theatre performance- Luna Goes to Mars by The Little Red Wagon from UNH Theatre & Dance.  FREE!

Community Archery Clinic with Archery in Motion

Wednesdays at Churchill Rink, July 27th- August 17th 10-11am

Ages 7+, $70/pp.  Community Archery Clinic is geared for both youth and adults! Pre-register with DPR by July 20th.  Space is limited.

Music on Main Summer Concert

Thursday, August 4th 6-8pm, featuring: Fling.

Join us on Main Street for an evening of live music and family fun! FREE
 

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Wildcat Fitness offering "Free Fridays" from June thru August. The Free Fridays offer allows full use of the gym and participation in yoga, barre, spin, TRX, HIIT, PiYo, Bootcamp, Dance Fit, and many other fitness classes. Stop by and bring a friend. More information HERE.

Durham Farmers' Market at Jackson's Landing - Every Monday now through October 3 (2:15 - 6PM)

UNH MUB Summer Series with weekly Wednesday movies (including many in 3-D!), a mini-carnival, an outdoor movie, and more. For the full printable schedule click HERE.

Three Chimney's Inn Summer Kick-off Celebration, Saturday, Jun 18, 2016, 3PM. More information HERE.

Open House, hosted by Great Bay Kennel Doggie Daycare, 27 Newmarket Road, Durham, Saturday Jun 18, 11AM - 3PM. Leased pets welcome. Includes facility tours, raffle giveaways, treats for K9s and their humans, special pricing on products. Free temperament test and additional free day of daycare to any new clients who sign up that day.

8th Annual Bobcat Bolt 5K and Kids Fun Run, Saturday Jun 18, 2016, OR High School, 9AM - 5K start; 10:15AM - Kids Fun Run. Pancake Breakfast 9-11AM (free for runners, $5 for spectators). ORMS Jazz Band will entertain. Register at www.bobcatbolt.com. In memory of Josh and Nate Hardy, proceeds benefit Oyster River youth initiatives.

Family Paddle, Sunday, Jun 26, 2016, 1 - 3PM, Lamprey River, Lee. Sponsored by Town of Lee 250th Celebration, Lamprey River Advisory Committee, & Lamprey River Watershed Association. Paddle begins and ends at Lee public canoe access, Rte 152 near Wadleigh Falls. Participation limited. Please register by Jun 24th to Dawn.Genes@LRWA-NH.org, 659-9363. Participants must provide their own boat, paddles, and properly fitting PFD for each person in boat. No boat? Rentals available from Seven Rivers Paddling, 969-5120.

Volunteers Needed - The Stewardship Network New England is looking for local volunteers who are able to collect water samples from predetermined locations in the Oyster River in Durham during at least one storm event in July. There will be a training for those interested on June 30th from 5-6:30 PM at Jackson Estuarine Laboratory in Durham, NH. More information, contact Megan Verfaillie, 603-809-0623, mpv1000@wildcats.unh.edu

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Children’s and Young Adult Programs:

Children's Summer Reading Program - Join us for our fun 5 week summer reading program!   "On Your Mark, Get Set...READ!"  Registration continues!  Program runs from June 27th through July 29th.  Keep track of your minutes read and win weekly prizes.  We also keep track of all our minutes read together.  There will be fun programs; Movie nights, Storytimes, 9-12 year old group, Team Art, Kick-off with Storyteller Simon Brooks, Music on the Library Lawn, 6-8 year old group, Young Adult Writing program, Nature Art Nights, Firemen, Police and EMS visits with their trucks, yoga, karate, finale with Bryson Lang, juggler and comedian and much more.  Trivia, guessing jar and even a "Barrel of Monkeys" (ages 2 -12 years).  Don't miss it!
YA Writing Group (ages 10 & up) , Mon. June 27th at 4:00 pm -  This week: “Brainstorm & showcase your ideas with a post-it mural”.  Like to write?  Join us in the YA Room for fun writing exercises.  Post your writing to our blog “Write Away”. July 11 – Mad Libs, July 18 – Science Fiction, July 25 – Comics & Flip books
Family Movie Night: “Peanuts” (All ages, Oyster River Room), Mon. June 27th at 6:00 pm – Popcorn is served and all are welcome to come and see Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the gang!  July 11 – “The Good Dinosaur”, July 18 – “Air Bud”, July 25 – “Cars” (“drive-in movie”).
Summer Story Time, Tues. June 28th at 10:30 am - This week “Games & Trains”!  Join us for fun stories, fingerplays, feltboard and a fun craft.  We will take a pretend train ride and play a fun game.  July 5 – “Balls & Sports”, July 12 – “Silly Snacks & Monsters”, July 19 – Bruins visit at 11 am, July 26 – “Let’s Move & Dance”.
9-12 year old Summer Reading Activity Hour, Tues. June 28th at 6:30 pm – This week” Board Game Night!”  Come and play some fun board games and win prizes.  We’ll also play some fun group games and talk about what you are reading. July 5 – Fitness Fun & Obstacle Course, July 12 – Karate Demonstration, July 19 – Cool Tech Toys, July 26 – Create Art.
Summer Reading Kick Off with Simon Brooks** (All ages, Oyster River Room), Weds. June 29th at 10:30 am – Come kick-off our summer reading program with this talented storyteller.  Simon will have everyone engaged and inspired with his unique storytelling ability.  Don’t miss the fun.  
Team Art, Weds. June 29th at 4:00 pm – Come collaborate to build a Chihuly inspired coffee filter sculpture that will stay at the library. (All ages)July 6 – Chalk Feathers & Peacocks, July 13 - , July 20 – Ribbons & Beads, July 27 – A water & wax dot piece
Music on the Library Lawn (Family Music Night): “Truffle” (All ages, outside*), Weds. June 29th at 6:30 pm – Bring your lawn chairs for a fun night of music.  Held rain or shine. July 6th – 39th Army Band, July 13th – Harsh Armadillo, July 21st – T.J. Wheeler,, July 27th – Bill Staines.
Firefighters & Fire Truck Visit! (All ages), Thurs. June 30, 10:30 am – Join us as we meet the Durham Firefighters, and tour their truck.  Make a fun craft as well.  July 7 – Frozen Yoga, July 14 – Wildlife Encounters at the Madbury Town Hall, July 21 – Ambulance McGregor EMS visit, July 28 Durham Police and Police Car visit.  All ages.
 6-8 year old Summer Reading Activity Hour, Thurs. June 30th at 3:00 pm – This week:  “Fun & Games” Join us for stories, games, puzzles and a fun craft.  We’ll also talk about what you are reading. July 7 – Fitness Fun & Obstacle Course, July 14 – Harry Potter Cosmic Yoga, July 21 – Legos & Rockets, July 28 – Make –It!
Nature Crafts! , Thurs. June 20th at 6:30 pm – Join us for fun outside nature crafts.  This week:  “Rain Garden Walk & Pinecone Owls”  (All ages)  July 7 – Fairy Houses,  July 14 – Pet Rocks & Spooky Campfire Stories, July 21 – Moon Sand & Castles, July 28 -  Painting Under the Stars.
FINALE CELEBRATION with Bryson Lang, Comedian/Master Juggler , Friday, July 29th at 10:30 am -  Join us in celebrating your summer reading accomplishments. Bryson Lang will perform a hilarious act combining skillful juggling and original comedy! Prize books, reading certificates, and Bagel Works Prizes will be handed out.  Cake will also be served.  (All ages, Oyster River Room) * Note: In case of inclement weather, this program will be in the library’s Oyster River Room.
**Funding for the Kids, Books and the Arts event is provided by the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation, CHILIS, Cogswell Benevolent Trust, and is supported in part by a grant from the NH State Council on the Arts & the National Endowment for the Arts as well as funds administered by the NH State Library and provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
A special thank-you to the Friends of the Durham Public Library for all their support.  A big thank-you to The Sea Dogs, Bagel Works, The Candy Bar, Canobie Lake Park, Dunkin Donuts, The Durham Makery, Durham Bike, Durham House of Pizza, Franz’s Food, Fro-zone, Hayden Sports,  Water Country, Tacomano, Wildcat Pizza, Young’s Restaurant, Pauly’s Pocket, The Juicery, Subway, and other local businesses for their prize donations.   
Boston Bruins Mascot, Blade, and Ice Girls to visit Summer Reading on Tuesday, July 19th at 11 am- 12pm – The Durham Public Library has been chosen by the Boston Bruins summer reading outreach program, “When You Read, You Score!”, to have the Bruins Mascot, Blade,  and Ice Girls visit! Blade will visit and children will be able to have their picture taken with Blade.  We’ll hear a story about Blade, play some Boston Bruins trivia with the Ice Girls, where you can win awesome prizes from the team and then also make a fun hockey craft.  Go, Bruins!


Adult  Programs:

2 Day Book Sale Fri. June 17, 1-4:30 and Sat. June 18, 10-1 - Most books $1-$2   Wooden Laser Cut Liberty Puzzles available for purchase, while supplies last.  Held by the Friends of the DPL, indoors on the second floor.
LIBERTY PUZZLES - The Friends will be offering fifteen 'once done' Liberty classic wooden jigsaw puzzles at the children's book sale, June 11 and the annual book sale, June 17 and 18 for fifty dollars each.  Each puzzle contains dozens of intricate, charming and whimsical pieces of quarter inch maple plywood with no two pieces alike.
Exercise Your Mind-READ - Adult July Reading Program - Mon. June 27   Pick up the weekly puzzle, complete it and enter it into the weekly drawing for a prize.   Prizes donated by Wildcat Fitness!   Contact Armida Geiger 603-590-1117
Durham Photo Contest: July 4, 2015 through July 4, 2016 - $300 Cash Prize for the Winner! Contest is sponsored by a Durham resident, to capture the beauty, character, and identity of Durham using seven photographs that express Durham’s character. More information can be found on the DPL website.
Friends of the Library Summer Big Read 2016 - Spend the summer reading at a suitably leisurely pace (about 250 pages a month) our September Book Discussion choice, to be facilitated by Jennifer Lee. The 2016 book is Our Mutual Friend by Charles Dickens. Copies to borrow for the summer are available at the library. If you buy your own, be sure it has notes and an introduction (and readable print.) There are several good paperback editions for between $11 and $13. Enrich your reading, if you like, by signing up with your name and email at the library, and you will receive by email from the facilitator:  A brief historical and biographical background and short bibliography of background books.  Suggestions for making your reading easier and more enjoyable. Periodic encouragements and provocative quotes, facts, suggestions, etc.  The opportunity to ask questions before September. Signup is optional, but please do it by June 15.  You can request to be put on the list at the library circulation desk, over the telephone (868-6699), or by email durhampl@gmail.com If you were on the email list last summer (for Middlemarch), simply email Jennifer.
Thank you to all that attended and participated in the Ole Time Auto Show on Saturday June 4.  The weather was sunny and warm, but not too warm to melt the ice cream enjoyed by all.  Thank you again to Hannaford in Durham for their donation of Hoodsie Cups.  A nice variety of antique autos filled the lot and were a viewing pleasure.
MUSEUM PASSES -- The Friends of the DPL sponsor passes to twelve different museums.  The Seacoast Science Center (located at Odiorne Point in Rye, NH) is the perfect place for children and adults to enjoy interactive marine exhibits while learning more about our ocean.  Pass admits two adults and up to four children or grandchildren into the Seacoast Science Center at 50% off the cost of regular admission. Present the pass at the Park toll booth, but be aware that from April-September a park fee of $4 per adult (12-adult) and $2 per child (6-11) may be imposed.  Pass holders will always get into the Seacoast Science Center at a 50% discount with the library membership. The attractive website has information to help you plan your visit.                                               Seacoast Science Center  670 Ocean Boulevard  Rye, NH 603-436-8043,    www.seacoastsciencecenter.org   As always the museum passes are sponsored by the Friends of the Durham Public Library.  Reserve online using the library website http://www.durhampubliclibrary.org  Pick up the reserved museum pass at the circulation desk.

 

For more information, visit the Durham Public Library website.

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Michigan Theater, Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Courtesy Michael Behrendt

A REPORT FROM DETROIT FROM MICHAEL BEHRENDT, TOWN PLANNER

Durham Town Planner Michael Behrendt took the above photograph during his recent trip to Detroit for the annual new urbanism conference.  While Detroit is making a promising comeback this picture captures the depths to which the Motor City had fallen. The majestic Michigan Theater was designed in the French Renaissance style in 1925.  The theater’s impresario, John Kunsky, said of the space, “It is a theater for the whole world.  It is designed to be the great showplace of the middle west.”  

 

The Michigan hosted the Marx Brothers, Frank Sinatra, Jack Benny, Louis Armstrong, Red Skelton, Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, Doris Day, the Dorsey Brothers and Bette Davis.  By the late 1940s, however, the space was used mainly for movies.  The theater closed in 1976 though the office building is still in use.  Tenants threatened to leave if they did not have adequate parking so the owner gutted the space and converted it to a parking structure.  Ironically, the theater was built on the site where Henry Ford built his first automobile, the quadricycle.

 

The theater closed on March 5, 1967 after a double billing of “The Spy With a Cold Nose” with Laurence Harvey and “A Thousand Clowns” with Jason Robards.  

 

Have a very nice weekend.  

Todd

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