Friday Updates - June 24, 2016

Friday, June 24, 2016

Red Tower and Community Church of Durham. Courtesy Todd Selig

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Inquiring minds want to know -- How gross is the "Wicked Gross Science" summer day camp sponsored by Durham Parks & Recreation? 

P&R Director Rachel Gasowski explained last evening to the Parks & Recreation Committee that, “It will be gross, but not that gross, and appropriate for the K-5 age group.” 

There is still time for interested residents to register their kids for this camp session (and other future sessions with equally interesting areas of focus), which runs from 6/27 – 7/1.  For more information about this offering and others check out the attractive, yet simple Parks & Recreation Program Brochure HERE.

In addition, this week Durham resident Nancy Schieb, formerly of Michigan, wrote to point out that we used the wrong location for the historic Michigan Theater in last week’s “Friday Updates.”  Durham Town Planner Michael Behrendt had taken a photograph of the historic theater during his recent trip to Detroit for the annual new urbanism conference.  While Detroit is making a promising comeback the picture captured the depths to which the Motor City had fallen. The caption erroneously stated the theater was in Ann Arbor when in fact it is in … Detroit. 

UPDATES FROM LAST EVENING’S PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING – Ice Rink Management, ORYA, and more

Last evening the Parks and Recreation Committee discussed the future management of the Churchill Rink at Jackson’s Landing, which for the last two skating seasons has been contracted out to a private company.  After much consideration and discussion, the Committee voted to move to an in-house management model in which Durham would employ a seasonal full-time rink manager and associated seasonal part-time personnel to run the rink during the skating season, with some components such as ice equipment maintenance and painting the ice contracted out on an as needed basis, and ongoing facility support from Durham Public Works.


On a separate matter, the Parks & Recreation Committee is planning to reach out to the board of the Oyster River Youth Association (ORYA) in order to discuss how things are going with both organizations.  ORYA is currently in the process of hiring a new director.


The Committee was also very pleased with how well this year’s Memorial Day Parade came together.  Other topics of discussion last evening included replacing the existing wagon at Wagon Hill Farm with a replacement wagon (the current wagon is deteriorating), a terrific suite of P&R programming for the coming summer season, the fact that 50 (FIFTY!) people have signed up for Saturday’s (6/25) P&R camp over at Wagon Hill Farm (all families with children), shoreline restoration at WHF, the Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project and the potential to install a new walking path under a portion of the right-of-way from Doe Farm to the Great Bay as spearheaded by Mike Lynch, the Powder Major conservation project, the Durham Farmer’s Market, and more.

LIBRARY DIRECTOR TOM MADDEN - Moving on Up (North That Is!)

After 10 years of service as Director of the Durham Public Library, Tom Madden will be leaving his post to accept a position as Head Librarian of Brewster Academy.  While the DPL Trustees are sorry to see him go, they appreciate his decision to live and work closer to his grandchildren and his new home in Wolfeboro. 

The Trustees sincerely thank Tom for his 10 years of service, during which time he provided leadership in building a new home for the library and dedication to the community of Durham.  Please stop by the library between now and August 5th to thank Tom and wish him well in his next endeavor.

 

A copy of Tom’s resignation letter can be found 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.

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REFUSE & RECYCLING SCHEDULE:  NO Collection on Monday, July 4th. Delayed one day all week (Mon. collection on Tue., Tue. on Wed., etc.). NO commercial collection on Friday, 7/8/16.

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 to date stepped forward to take on this event.

Schultzy Schaier recently drowned in an uncovered old well in Durham.  

Courtesy Scott Schaier

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

Earlier this month in a tragic accident, the Schaier family’s beloved dog named Schultzy fell into an old uncovered well on a tract of forestland land 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.

INVASIVE SPECIES BECOMING MORE PREVALENT IN DURHAM

We are seeing more and more invasive plant species in and around Durham.  Everyone can do their part on private property identifying and removing such plants if possible.  Some specific examples include:

• Autumn Olive 
• Burning Bush 
• Glossy Buckthorn 
• Japanese Knotweed 
• Muliflora Rose

Often, if such invasive plants are not caught early, they will spread quickly and establish themselves firmly in an area and become much harder to eradicate.

 

DURHAM FARMERS' MARKET - CLOSED JULY 4TH

There will be no Durham Farmers' Market on Monday, July 4th. The market will resume its regular schedule the following Monday, July 11th.

2016 ZONING BOARD MEETING DATES AND REVISED DEADLINES

The Durham Zoning Board of Adjustment normally meets the second Tuesday of every month. Meetings are held in the Council Chambers of the Durham Town Hall unless otherwise posted. The meetings start at 7:00 p.m.  Any information to go into the Zoning Board packet must be submitted by noon on the date the packet goes to the Board. Beginning in July, deadlines for Zoning Board applications are changing. To view the ZBA meeting dates and new schedule of deadlines, click HERE.

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.

SEWER REPAIR ON MILL ROAD

The Town and UNH will be working together to complete a sewer repair on a section of shared sewer line on Mill Road near the entrance to the Mill Plaza and C-Lot beginning on July 5th. Work will be completed during the day and detail officers will be utilized maintain traffic on Mill Road and access in and out of the Mill Plaza. This project is being completed prior to the Town finishing its paving work on Mill Road. We appreciate your patience. Questions can be directed to Durham Town Engineer April Talon, P.E. at atalon@ci.durham.nh.us or at 603-868-5578.

SPRUCE HOLE WELL AND ARTIFICIAL RECHARGE UNDER WAY FOR DURHAM/UNH WATER SYSTEM - River levels reach historic lows.

The UNH/Durham Water System is currently utilizing the Spruce Hole Well as a water resource!

Staff recently completed the first round of Artificial Recharge at the Spruce Hole Aquifer, however, without significant rain in the watershed the Lamprey River is now near a historic low flow for the month of June.

As of this afternoon the flow in the Lamprey River is 17 CFS.

The Spruce Hole Well and Artificial Recharge Project was developed to provide an additional water source for Durham/UNH.

The Durham/UNH Water System is required by the state to cease withdrawing its water from the Lamprey River when the river is at 16 CFS. Demands on the water system are low therefore are we pumping only a small amount of the available capacity of the Spruce Hole Well and other sources. Staff will be monitoring the Spruce Hole well water levels and conditions of the Lamprey River.


The Spruce Hole Well is permitted for approximately 1 million gallons per day with a limit of 63 million gallons per year PLUS the amount of artificial recharge added to the aquifer.

The new well places the Durham/UNH Water System in a very envious position with respect to other communities in the Seacoast and beyond as drought conditions develop in NH.  In short, Durham and UNH have together had the foresight to jointly plan for the worst and the benefits are significant for the collective community.  

Administrator Todd Selig holds planning materials relating to sustainability. Durham recently received the Sustainable Communities Award for its "forward thinking" sustainability strategies related to health of the the Gulf Coast of Maine.

DURHAM WINS AWARD FOR SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES

The Town of Durham has received the Sustainable Communities Award for its forward thinking strategies related to the health of the Gulf of Maine.


The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Coastal Program nominated Durham for the award, which The Gulf of Maine Council presented recently at a ceremony in New Brunswick, Canada.


The NHDES worked in coordination with the Strafford Regional Planning Commission to highlight Durham’s achievements.


The award honors Durham for its success in Smart Growth strategies such as improving the downtown area, supporting preservation of natural and historical resources, enacting numerous stormwater projects and progressing towards economic security and energy independence, said the Gulf of Maine Council.


View the Foster’s Daily Democrat article HERE.

CHICANE PILOT APPLICATION ON MADBURY ROAD IS COMPLETE – Temporary chicanes have been removed.

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.  With desired data in hand, the temporary chicanes were disassembled on Thursday morning.


The results of the data collection effort was as follows:  


With the two temporary chicanes in place, the 10 MPH pace speed was 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.


In essence, this means that people driving the speed limit on average reduced their speed by 3 MPH but people in excess of the speed limit reduced their rate of speed by 60-70%, which was a desirable outcome of the pilot program.


As noted last week, approximately 4,165 cars per day on a weekday come through the roadway.  


The Town has received mixed feedback on the pilot program with the majority of feedback being generally categorized as negative.  


Some residents on Madbury Road expressed frustration with the pilot program preferring either to have speed tables or nothing installed, while others residents there were 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 were 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 cyclists indicated that they in fact experienced close calls with aggressive drivers going through the chicanes at the same times as the bikes.


Some residents 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 who stopped in to the Town Hall told Mr. Selig last 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.


The results of the pilot program will be discussed in the coming weeks by Town staff.  

 

Newly-painted crosswalk on downtown Main Street. Courtesy Todd Selig

DOWNTOWN CROSSWALKS NOW ZEBRA PATTERN - An effort by DPW to enhance visibility and reduce maintenance costs.

With the repaving of the Main Street loop, the Town has transitioned from the faux brick red painted crosswalks to continental-style zebra pattern crosswalks in bright luminescent white paint with reflectivity.  The zebra pattern is brighter, more discernible, lasts longer, and will require less maintenance.  All positive attributes.

 

AMERICA! (Durham!)…  THE CYCLIST IS NOT YOUR ENEMY! - A plea from the bike:  Let’s end the ridiculous battle between cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers.

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 (WSJ) written by Jason Gay that has some relevance to Durham.   


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


A few excerpts from the article follow as a number of residents indicated last week they did not have access to the WSJ to read the piece...

"Of all our wacky and agitated 21st century culture wars, the most ridiculous and unnecessary, to me, is Bike Haters vs. Bike Lovers.


To be fair, what irritates the public is not bicycles, but bicyclists. Here, many people have anecdotes, sometimes years old, which can be vividly recalled at town meetings, bike lane hearings and in the comments sections of articles like this one. Stories like the nefarious cyclist who rode the wrong way on a one-way street. The bike doofus on the sidewalk who nearly rode over Pinky, the neighbor’s adorable French bulldog. The Spandex lunatic who pulled up to your car at a stoplight, condemned your driving, used some colorful language and gave you the finger.


I will not deny for a second that cyclists can behave badly. I’ve seen it. I’ve done it. . . . But it’s exasperating to see how Bad Cyclist anecdotes receive equal treatment to voluminous statistical evidence that cycling makes communities better.


It’s maddening to watch public meetings where bike lanes are raged over like they’re landing pads for Martian armies. The transportation data is incontrovertible: Streets that accommodate for cycling get safer. Fewer people get hurt. Fewer people get killed. People on bikes and people walking on the street. Everybody. Even people in automobiles.


I want you to see me—and every cyclist—as part of the same transportation ecosystem. I want people to stop treating a wildly diverse human activity as a prickly subculture. Do you know the vast majority of cyclists are not Spandex speed warriors? Do you know many more cyclists are commuters, people just trying to get to work or do errands—or maybe even do their job? Despite all the attention paid to plutocrats atop $14,000 carbon machines, your average cyclist is pretty much…everybody.


And all any cyclist wants—and here you can feel free to generalize—is to get where he or she is going, safely.


Believe me, I understand why cyclists can be defensive. Cycling often feels like an act of self-preservation, because it is. People riding bikes die, all the time, and too often it’s treated like a blameless accident, when it’s not. Even if the greatest hazard on the road is distracted driving, the culture is conditioned to normalize the automobile.


For cyclists, it means showing some restraint, and respecting rules of the road.


Likewise, pedestrians, keep those heads up!


And drivers: recognize that while you’re entitled to be on the road, you’re not entitled to all of it. Ease up on the aggression, and please—please—put that stupid phone in the glove compartment.


If we’re all going to be here, we probably should stop demonizing each other."


The full article can be found in the WSJ HERE.

 

ANNUAL BOARD OFFICER TRAINING SESSION WITH ADMINISTRATOR SELIG - MONDAY, JUNE 27th

A final reminder that next Monday evening, June 27th, beginning at 7PM, Administrator Selig will hold an orientation for the chairs/vice chairs of Durham’s boards/committees (as well as other interested board members) about issues regarding the right to know law, Council goals, and many other matters. 

All members of board/committees are welcome and encouraged to attend, as is the public.  A question and answer session will follow.

The session will also be televised on DCAT beginning at 7 PM.

 

CAMPUS EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM TO BE TESTED, FRIDAY, JULY 1, 2016

Regular testing of the University of New Hampshire’s outdoor notification system will occur Friday, July 1, 2016, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The test will include the siren, a “canned” message and a recording signaling the end of the test. The entire exercise will take less than 10 minutes.

In addition, the university will also simultaneously send test messages through its alert system to registered cell phones, pagers, BlackBerrys, PDAs and/or e-mail accounts, and a directed communication to all UNH faculty, staff and students.

The outdoor notification system is designed to not only alert the campus community when there is imminent danger but also follows up with voice instructions. This two-step approach, called Alert and Inform, helps reduce confusion and restore order.

Sirens are located on the roof of the MUB, the roof of Morse Hall, A-Lot and the dirt parking lot near the equestrian facility. The system reaches a distance of nearly a mile in all directions.

Contact UNH Police Chief Paul Dean, at 862-1427 for more information or with any questions.

 

Durham Police Officer Pam Donley, Chief David Kurz, and Deputy Chief Rene Kelley pictured with children and their new teddy bears donated by the Oyster River Parents and Preschoolers. Courtesy DCAT Studios

ORPP DONATES TEDDY BEARS TO DURHAM POLICE

The Oyster River Parents and Preschoolers (ORPP) donated 30 Teddy Bears to the Durham Police Department.  The stuffed animals will be kept in the police cruisers and be available for officers to give to young children in need of some comfort.  


Oyster River Parents and Preschoolers (ORPP) is a non-profit preschooler activity group open to families in the Oyster River School District (Durham, Lee & Madbury). Members organize events and activities throughout the month for children (birth through kindergarten) during the week, parent activities in the evenings, and family events on the weekends.  The organization contributes to the greater community through community service activities as directed by its members.

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.

 

PUBLIC HEARINGS SCHEDULED BY NH SITE EVALUATION COMMITTEE FOR EVERSOURCE’S SEACOAST RELIABILTY PROJECT APPLICATION -- July 14, 2016 in Durham and July 21, 2016 in Newington

On April 12, 2016, Eversource, filed an Application for a Certificate of Site and Facility with the NH Site Evaluation Committee (SEC). Eversource seeks the issuance of a Certificate of Site and Facility approving the siting, construction, and operation of a 115 kV transmission line from their Madbury substation through Durham and Newington to the company’s Portsmouth Substation.


The project will be approximately 13 miles in length and is comprised of a combination of above ground, underground, and underwater segments. The project will be located in the communities of Madbury, Durham, Newington, and Portsmouth.


On April 29, 2016, pursuant to RSA 162-H:4-a, the Chairman of the SEC appointed a subcommittee in this docket. On June 13, 2016 the Subcommittee issued an order finding that the Application contained sufficient information to carry out the purposes of RSA 162-H.


RSA 162-H:10, I-a, requires that within 45 days after acceptance of an application for a certificate, that the applicant hold at least one public information session in each county – in this case Strafford and Rockingham -- where the proposed facility will be located.


The purpose of the public information session is to provide the public with information on the proposed project, to provide an opportunity for comments and questions from the public, and to explain the process the SEC subcommittee will follow in reviewing the application. Robert R. Scott, the presiding officer of the SEC subcommittee, has designated Counsel to the Committee, Michael Iacopino, as the presiding officer for the public information session.


The Strafford County public information session will be held on July 14, 2016, at 6:00PM at the Oyster River High School, 55 Coe Drive, Durham, New Hampshire.


The Rockingham County public information session will be held on July 21, 2016, at 6:00PM at the Newington Town Hall, 205 Nimble Hill Road, Newington, New Hampshire.


The application and all other filings in this docket are located on the SEC’s website.


Unlike the last time a public hearing was scheduled by Eversource relative to the project in Durham on April 22, 2015, this time around there will be the opportunity for a question and answer session. Eversource will not have a judge moderating this time, rather the Site Evaluation Committee will be taking on that role for this round, and the next, of information sessions.


Also, Eversource will be conducting an open house in advance of the information session again, similar to what residents experienced last April, to allow residents to ask specific information from the Eversource project team.


Eversource is currently in the process of selecting members of its panel that will be prepared to respond to questions from the Durham public and help address issue on the spot. In some cases, depending on how specific the question, Eversource may need additional time to gather the information but hopefully those instances will be minimal.


Last year, the project was estimated to cost in the range of $70 million with more than half of the route in Durham within existing Eversource rights-of-way.

 

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.  

 

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!

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.

LAMPREY RIVER ADVISORY COMMITTEE SUMMER NEWSLETTER

The Lamprey River Advisory Committee has published its 2016 summer newsletter which is available for viewing HERE.

The LRAC would like to remind boaters that New Hampshire law RSA 270-D:2,VI, states that if you are less than 150' from someone's boat, dock, swim raft, shore, rocks, or almost any other object (except navigation buoys), then you should be at headway speed, whether a No Wake sign is present or not. Let's all have a safe, enjoyable experience on the water this summer.

Governor Hassan with representatives from various agencies selected to be pilot sites for a major upgrade to New Hampshire's Trauma & EMS Information System. Courtesy McGregor EMS

MCGREGOR MEMORIAL EMS RECOGNIZED FOR "TEMSIS" PILOT PROGRAM

McGregor Memorial EMS was one of six agencies selected by the NH Bureau of EMS to be a pilot site for a major upgrade to NH’s Trauma & EMS Information System (TEMSIS).  TEMSIS elite is a highly secure system and part of a national database for EMS services and is considered to be the largest, consolidated medical database in the country.


On June 14th, Bill Cote, Executive Director and Harry Mueller, Operations Manager traveled to Concord to meet with Governor Maggie Hassan who recognized and thanked those agencies for their valuable input and dedication to the profession.  

 

TOWN COUNCIL MEETS ONCE IN JULY

The Town Council will hold one meeting in July - Monday, July 18th.

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.

There are no public meetings scheduled for the week of June 27th. 

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

DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22

Protecting Against Frauds & Scams

New frauds and scams seem to crop up daily, many of them specifically targeted at seniors. Identity theft, investment fraud, and scams rob millions of Americans of their hard-earned money. Last year, 13 million people were the victims of identity theft alone – that’s one person every two seconds! Join DCAT 22 Studios for an important program by AARP presenter Norma Boyce, to learn how you can protect yourself against frauds and scams.  This presentation is available for replay on DCAT 22, Saturday & Sunday at 4:00 PM.  The episode can also be viewed on DCAT On Demand. Total run time: 1:00

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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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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.  

DPR Summer Program & Events Guide - A comprehensive detailed guide of Parks & Recreation summer happenings.

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.

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

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.

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.

Save The Date:

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) (JULY 4TH EXCEPTED- SEE ABOVE)

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.

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

FREE Summer Lunch - Provided by ORCSD Lunch Program, Jul 5 - Aug 11, 2016. Any child 18 and under eats free at the OR Middle School on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thu. Cafeteria opens at 11:30 AM

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:

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

Music on the Lawn- Truffle Weds. 6:30 June 29: (Acoustic) -   Truffle acoustic trio consists of David Bailey, Ned Chase and Dave Gerard. These three musicians have been creating music together since 1986.  They have performed in all but ten states across the U.S., playing as many as 275 shows in one year.  Truffle has achieved widespread popularity by headlining many respected venues as well as sharing the stage with international act as Little Feat, Phish, The Band, Dave Matthew's Band, Bill Payne, David Lindley and Blues Traveler to name only a few.  Truffle has released five albums (including "Nervous Laughter" on the November/Sony label) as well as contributing to Gerard's five solo records, and assorted compilations. Their music has also appeared on multiple major motion picture soundtracks.  Their latest, "That's Right" (2005) is a collection of songs penned and arranged by all the members; with quality song writing, memorable melodies and tasty production, it is by far their most mature record to date.  The trio's groove-driven acoustic style has a sound all its own.  With elements of soul, bluegrass, R&B and the world beat, they bring a well-rounded set of "music-Americana" to the stage. Bring a picnic dinner, chair and blanket! Rain or shine. Held in the Oyster River Community Room if it's raining.
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 the many volunteers who made the three day book sale a great success. The Friends Bookstore is always open and restocked weekly. From the Friends of the Durham Public Library.

MUSEUM PASSES: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum - Located in Boston the museum houses the collection of art patron, Isabella Stewart in a setting built to resemble a 15th century Venetian palace. One current exhibit, "Off the Wall: Gardner and Her Masterpieces", features about 25 Masterpieces from artists such as Botticelli and Rembrandt and spans the Renaissance to Rocco periods. The exhibit includes paintings and drawings from the permanent collection and additional items from archives that relate to how Gardner put together her remarkable collection. The exhibit is in the museum's new wing and runs through August 28th.The museum is closed Tuesdays. The pass provides up to four (4) people with $5 admission per person.  Children under the age of 18 are always admitted free.

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.

Oyster River Knitters - Tue. July 5, 7-9 pm

Beginners and all levels are welcome to attend. Contact Janet  jadoty@comcast.net

 
Friends of the DPL - Wed. July 6, 1pm social, 1:30 pm meeting

All are welcome to attend.
Book Donation Week – Gently used books and CDs accepted June 27th through July 2nd.

 

For more information, visit the Durham Public Library website.

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"THE SMART GROWTH MANUAL" -- Information from Durham Planner Michael Behrendt.

The Planning Office has added “The Smart Growth Manual” to its library of planning books in Town Hall.  This book, written by Andres Duany and Jeff Speck (with Mike Lydon), authors of “Suburban Nation,” offers an insightful comment on myriad development-related topics. Excerpts from the book will be included in the "Friday Updates" periodically.

 

“Growth Priorities.  Smart growth directs both public infrastructure funding and private development where they will have the greatest economic, environmental, and social benefit.  This approach requires a clear prioritization of growth alternatives, from smartest to “dumbest,” as follows:

1. Urban revitalization
2. Urban infill
3. Urban extension
4. Suburban retrofit
5. Suburban extension
6. New neighborhoods on existing infrastructure
7. New neighborhoods requiring new infrastructure
8. New neighborhoods in environmentally sensitive areas

Once this hierarchy is established as policy and designated on a regional map, governments can attract development to the high-priority areas through a range of incentives.  Maryland Governor Parris Glendening described his state’s program this way:  “We told communities that they’re still free to sprawl – we’re just not going to subsidize it.”"

 

Have a very nice weekend.  

Todd

Everyone can tackle climate change. How can you reduce your carbon footprint?