Friday Updates - June 3, 2016

Friday, June 3, 2016

ORMS 5th grade classes (Elephants and Dragonflies) on the Freedom Trail this week in Boston at the Bunker Hill Monument. Courtesy Todd Selig

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Tick season is upon us as tiny Deer Tick nymphs become particulary active in June ... and they are extraordinarily hard to see!  More information can be found below.

Ole Time Autos at the Durham Public Library this Sat. June 4th from 10-1pm.  

The weekly  "Friday Updates" are prepared for the Town Council and shared wtih the communtiy each Friday afternoon.  The publication doubles as an emergency broadcast system for the community.  If you find the weekly publication to be a useful source of news and information that you believe others might find of interest, please pass this email along.  Signup is possible very easily on the Town's home page at www.ci.durham.nh.us.  One goal of the "Friday Updates" is to ensure the Council and the communty are aware of issues so that interested persons may become engaged and involved in our town.  

Finally, The Candy Bar on Main Street in Durham has changed its name to ... The Candy Bar and Creamery!

WATER/SEWER BILLS

The first half water/sewer bills went out recently and are due June 16th.  The new rate for water is $5.35 and for sewer $7.30. 

It has come to the Town Clerk's attention that the rates printed on the new bill were the old rates; water $4.82 and sewer $6.83. This error was clerical only, the amount due on the bills mailed was correctly calculated using the new rates. 

The Town Clerk's Office apologizes for this error and regrets any concern this may have caused.     

 

PROPERTY TAX BILLS

The property tax warrant for the 1st half 2016 property taxes has been approved and the bills will be mailed out by Tuesday, May 31st, 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.

 

DURHAM POLICE HOST NEW HAMPSHIRE'S SPECIAL OLYMPICS' RUNNERS

There are twenty-two (22) legs of the 2016 New Hampshire Law Enforcement Torch Run where police officers make their way across New Hampshire commencing on May 16th.  The officers seek donations for each mile they run which supports the games in Durham.  The motto of the run for police is “we run for those that cannot!”  

Today, Friday, June 3rd, the Durham Police Department School Resource Officer Holly Malasky and a host of students and staff members from Oyster River High School joined other police officers at the State House at 4:00AM for the final leg of the torch run into Durham. There they started the 35 mile run with the Flame of Hope and were joined by yet more police officers where they ran to the Durham Police Department where they enjoyed a BBQ and a shower. 

Later today a police cruiser parade comprised of vehicles from across New Hampshire will guide the Flame of Hope to the podium where the large flame will be lit signifying the opening of the Summer Games for the Special Olympians!  

 

For athletes and officers alike, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is a story of success, love, respect and commitment between law enforcement officers and Special Olympic athletes.

The games take place at Cowell Stadium at UNH.  

 

LYME DISEASE & TICKS IN DURHAM/NH/MAINE - Be attentive to ticks this season!

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Maine ranks third in the nation for cases of Lyme disease and New Hampshire ranks seventh. And, June is the most active time for Deer Tick nymphs which are exceedingly small and hard to see.


Lyme disease was first noted in Old Lyme, Connecticut, in the 1970s. Before that, it was thought that Lyme disease was a rheumatologic condition, usually found in children. It was not until the early 1980s that the microbe responsible was identified in a lab. This bacteria is found in deer ticks, which are present all over New England and also in the Midwest.


New Hampshire and Maine are especially fertile ground for ticks because of our abundant deer populations, largely rural character, and the frequent presence of stone walls, which provide excellent homes for chipmunks and other rodents, which can also carry the tick.


Deer ticks are quite small and are rust and black in color.  The immature ticks, called nymphs, are only about the size of a sesame seed. Because they are so small, you may not see these ticks at all. It is the bite of the deer tick that carries Lyme disease. Across the country, about 30,000 cases happen per year. Other ticks can carry other diseases, but not Lyme disease.

Symptoms of Lyme disease


There are different stages of Lyme disease, and the more problematic symptoms occur when the bacteria has been present in the body for a longer period of time. Lyme disease is classified by stage, and different symptoms are present as the disease progresses. Erythema Migrans is the classic bull’s eye-like rash that occurs days to weeks after Lyme transmission due to tick bite. The rash can occur with joint pains, fevers or malaise and is part of Stage 1, but all of these symptoms are not always present. Similarly, it is possible to have Lyme disease without the bull’s eye rash. Stage 2 can have all the symptoms of Stage 1, but can also affect the nerves. A Bell's palsy can also be a symptom of Lyme disease. The final stage, Stage 3, can affect the brain and heart.

Prevention of Lyme disease


The best protection against Lyme disease is preventing tick bites in the first place. Use a bug spray with DEET — only a 20 percent to 30 percent concentration spray is needed. There are also sprays that are safe for children. Be sure to wash off all sprays once you are indoors.


Check yourself for ticks whenever you are done with outdoor activities. Taking a shower after doing yard work, hiking or being active outside is a good idea, as is running your outdoor clothes through the dryer with it set on high heat; this will kill any ticks. When walking or working in the woods or in areas of long grass or leaves, wear pants tucked into boots, long sleeves and a hat. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to see ticks. Some people put Premethrin on their clothing.


Avoid having piles of leaves and long grass in your yard. These are great homes for ticks. Move recreation areas, such as picnic tables or children’s swing sets, away from wooded areas, brush piles and stonewalls. It’s also wise to keep your lawn mowed. The CDC website is a great source of information for how to minimize ticks in your yard (http://www.cdc.gov/).

Ticks are most active May through August, so it is important to follow tick prevention methods during this time.


The University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension has published information on tick species in New Hampshire, the diseases they can carry, management options, pesticide choices, and new repellents. This publication, Biology and Management of Ticks in New Hampshire, can be viewed HERE.

TEENAGERS AND GRADUATION

As spring approaches, high school students across the United States will celebrate proms and high school graduations. Some people believe that the season of celebration comes with a rite of passage that includes the use of alcohol even with parental supervision. As a result, the time of celebration can turn dangerous and deadly as the number of car accidents caused by drinking and driving increases during the spring months.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration car accidents related to alcohol increase during the spring months of April, May and June, which are also the time of year when most proms and graduations occur.

Another sobering figure is that car accidents are the leading cause of the death for teenagers in the United States, and nearly 40 percent of teenage car accidents are caused by drinking and driving. Therefore parents and teenagers should have a talk about expectations during the season of celebration to prevent alcohol related car accidents and other preventable dangers.

It is widely recognized that open and regular communication between parents and teenagers positively affects the decisions teenagers make. Accordingly, teenagers who have parents who set expectations are less likely to engage in drinking, drug use and sexual behavior.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the part of the brain that regulates risky behavior is not fully formed until age 25 and heavy alcohol consumption before that age can create negative long-term effects. Therefore even though parents feel they can protect teens in a supervised environment the use of alcohol can still lead to danger.

Source: Courierpress.com - Prom, graduation season accelerates dangers of underage drinking, drugs, Nichole White, 4/4/11.

 

Sharon Meeker accepting the Ashton Hallett Award at the Southeast Land Trust's annual meeting. Also pictured is SELT Executive Director Brian Hart who presented the award.

SHARON MEEKER RECEIVES CONSERVATION COMMUNITY'S ASHTON HALLETT AWARD

Sharon Meeker, former Durham resident now living in Lee, received the conservation community's Ashton Hallett Award at the Southeast Land Trust’s annual meeting this week for her 36 years of service and leadership on three different Lamprey River organizations. Over the span of 36 years, hundreds of acres of land along the Lamprey River have been preserved, ensuring better water quality for the Lamprey River, a major source of Durham and UNH’s drinking water. Congratulations, Sharon.

CHIEF KURZ LECTURING IN NORTH DAKOTA

Chief Dave Kurz is one of six subject matter experts who lecturers for the “Leading by Legacy” Program funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance and the U.S. Department of Justice that is designed to provide leadership and management needs of executives, command staff, and first line supervisors from smaller law enforcement agencies. 

He is taking next week off to deliver this training to the North Dakota State Highway Patrol as well as numerous police managers who will travel to Bismarck to participate in the training.  

 

COMMUNITY GARDEN DONATES TO DURHAM FOOD PANTRIES

Hunger takes no vacation in the summer. As it has done in the past, the community garden is dedicating a plot to provide fresh vegetables to the two Durham Food Pantries. Donations can also be made to:

• Cornocopia at the Waysmeet Center, 15 Mill Road, Thursdays 4:00 - 5:30PM and Fridays 12:00 to 1:00PM
• St. Thomas More Church Food Pantry, 6 Madbury Road, Thursdays 4:00 to 6:00PM

DOGS RUNNING AT LARGE

There have been several reports of dogs off leash that have been consuming Durham Police time of late.  Town ordinances require that a dog be on a leash no longer than 8 feet at all times when off the private property of the owner. 

If the dog bolts from the owner’s property to harass or frighten people this is a violation of the Town Ordinance. 

We all love our pets but there are some who may be frightened of a dog they are not familiar with and it is ultimately the owner’s responsibility to ensure that their animal is restrained when off their property limits.

SOIL AND ROCK SAMPLING WITHIN EVERSOURCE RIGHTS-OF-WAY FOR SEACOAST RELIABILITY PROJECT TO TAKE PLACE IN DURHAM - Beginning in Early June

As part of the Seacoast Reliability Project, Eversource and its contractors will be conducting engineering field investigations which include soil and rock sampling within its right-of-way. Eversource’s contractors will be taking soil and rock samples near the proposed overhead transmission structure sites to help evaluate the condition of the soils on the right-of-way.

Sampling typically takes 1-2 days per location, with equipment remaining on site for the duration. Some minor vegetation trimming or removal may be needed to access the sampling locations. Plywood and/or wood mats may also be used temporarily to protect environmentally sensitive areas. The mats will be removed at the conclusion of the soil sampling.

This field work is part of the preparations for the Seacoast Reliability Project (SRP), designed to improve the reliability of the transmission system in the area. On April 12, Eversource submitted an application to the New Hampshire Site Evaluation Committee for approval to construct this project. The siting process is currently under way and is expected to conclude by mid-2017. Pending receipt of regulatory approvals, construction is scheduled to begin shortly after. Please note that these surveys are NOT part of the construction process.

Work Locations

This field work will take place within the boundaries of the existing Eversource right-of-way corridor that is being proposed for the Seacoast Reliability Project. The right-of-way begins at Madbury Substation, and crosses Madbury Road, Route 4, Main Street, Mill Road, Route 108, Timberbook Lane, Cutts Road, Frost Drive, Sandy Brook Drive, Longmarsh Road, Durham Point Road, Gundalow Landing, Little Bay Road, Nimble Hill Road, Fox Point Road, Spaulding Turnpike and Woodbury Avenue, ending at the Portsmouth Substation.

Work Schedule

Survey and staking will begin in late May followed by the soil and rock sampling which is anticipated to be complete by mid-summer.

 

Students from Mast Way School marched in Durham's annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 30th. Courtesy Keith O'Brien

2016 MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

Thank you to those who participated and came out to support the 69th Annual Memorial Day Parade.  Although the rain canceled out several groups from marching, hundreds from the community were able to join together on Main Street to pay tribute to our service men and women.  

We were honored to have Thomas Cunningham Jr. join us as our Parade Grand Marshal along with Gold Star Mothers Sally Heuchling & Donna Hardy, who performed the wreath ceremonies at Mill Pond and at Memorial Park.

 

In 2009, the Bourgoin-Reardon Unit 94 Auxiliary of the American Legion, who for many years faithfully coordinated the parade, requested that the Town assume primary responsibility for planning and organizing the Memorial Day Parade. 

To this end, the Town and the Parks and Recreation Department continue this time-honored community event.

Gold Star Mothers Sally Heuchling & Donna Hardy performed the wreath ceremonies at Mill Pond and Memorial Park. Accompanying the two women is Durham Police Officer Thomas Kilroy. Courtesy Durham Parks & Recreation

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.

 

UPCOMING DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS

• Next week, contractors will be adjusting catch basins and sewer manholes in the downtown area.  There will be disruption to traffic flow and parking, particularly on Main Street and Pettee Brook Lane.  This should last only about two days.
• Downtown paving is tentatively schedule for the week of June 13th.  This paving will take place at night to minimize disruptions. 

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: Vegetable Gardening: How to Plant a Vegetable Garden for Children

Learn how to create a satisfying gardening experience for young children, using plants and seeds that are easy for children to handle, planted in an attractive design.  

Newly submitted conceptual design for the Mill Plaza site received by the Planning Department on 5/25/16.  Courtesy Durham Planning Office

MILL PLAZA REDEVELOPMENT SUBMITS REVISED DESIGN TO PLANNING BOARD AS PART OF DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS

The owner of the Mill Plaza, Colonial Durham Associates, has submitted revised conceptual plans for the redevelopment of the 10-acre parcel.  The applicant will return to the Durham Planning Board on June 8th to discuss the revised plans and ideas/specifics regarding the project with the board.  The public hearing on the proposal will resume following Planning Board discussion.


Interested residents can obtain more information on the Town’s web site HERE.

DURHAM OFFICIALS DID NOT MEET WITH HANNAFORD EXECUTIVES THIS PAST WEEK

As noted last Friday, partly in response to concerns raised by Durham residents, Economic Development Director Mary Ellen Humphrey had scheduled a meeting with Hannaford officials to discuss the chain's long-term plans at the Mill Plaza site.  

The owner of the Mill Plaza property in which Hannaford is located is currently before the Durham Planning Board investigating redevelopment at this site.   

While the Town remains interested in a long-term relationship with both Hannaford and the Mill Plaza owner/landlord that best serves the residents of Durham, the Town is also mindful of the challenges associated with inserting itself into conversations about possible redevelopment plans for the property that could expose the Town to liability. 

As a result, the meeting scheduled for this past Thursday was cancelled by the Town.  

Andrea Bodo explains the history of the Hamilton Smith Memorial Chapel to members of the Amoskeeg Mills Questers from Manchester, NH. Courtesy DCAT Studios

AMOSKEEG MILLS QUESTERS GROUP VISITS THE SMITH CHAPEL

On Thursday this week, Historic District/Heritage Commission Vice Chair Andrea Bodo gave a talk at the Smith Chapel to 21 members of the Amoskeeg Questers from Manchester.

The group was very interested in hearing the history of Hamilton and Alice Hamilton Smith, Edith Congreve Onderdonk, and the history of the Smith Family Chapel. Many of them had gone to the University of New Hampshire or had children that did and knew the names. They were very impressed that the Chapel is owned and maintained by the Town.

To learn more about the Smith Chapel, located on Mill Pond Road, click HERE.

In 2013, much needed renovations were completed on the Smith Chapel (above). The scope of work on the chapel included a new slate roof and copper gutter, down spouts, and ridge cap; stain glass window rehabilitation; brick walkway rehabilitation; new electric service/lighting; custom design trim work repair; landscaping; exterior painting, and cleaning/polishing all brass items. Courtesy Andrea Bodo

 

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 6, 2016

Planning Board - Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Conservation Commission - Thursday, June 9, 2016

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

DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22

Currently in production is the latest episode of “In the Biz, Durham Business Spotlight”, so keep your eyes open for its release date.  In this episode, EDC Director, Mary Ellen Humphrey chats with Megan Senter, manager of the Soupery & Juicery in downtown Durham.  Learn a little bit of what you didn’t know about our newest business.  You can also see how they make one of their delicious concoctions. 

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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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If you happened to miss the Seed Starting Workshop in the Community Room at the Durham Public Library, don’t fret DCAT Studios was there to record and prepare the video for replay.  There are many awesome tips by presenter: Jeremy DeLisle, UNH Cooperative Extension. I can’t go into detail simply because I’m not a gardener, but if you are,  then this is don’t miss TV.  This video will replay on DCAT Channel 22 on Saturday & Sunday @ 4:00 PM.  This program will also be available on DCAT On Demand.  Total video run time: 1:30

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The Durham Agricultural Commission is working with farmers and gardeners in the area to give you a behind-the-scenes video tour of local farms and gardens.  The videos are produced by Durham resident & DCAT 22 Volunteer, Phil Kincade and present a seasonal look at our working landscape.  This video is currently only available for viewing on DCAT On Demand (DCAT 22 Studios folder).

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The last week of March saw author KD Mason arrive at the Durham Public Library.  You won’t want to miss his explanation of his decision to become a writer and how he dreamed up his main character, plus so much more.  Mason is witty and extremely entertaining.  DCAT 22 was there to record what was missed by those who decided to stay home and watch Dancing with the Stars, rather than come to the Library for snacks and cool author.  DCAT 22 replay: Saturday & Sunday @ 1:30 PM.  This program will also be available on DCAT On Demand.  Total video run time: 1:00

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DCAT is Live Streaming

Please join DCAT for any of our regularly scheduled meetings live-streamed directly to the device of your choice . It’s easy, all you have to do is go to: live-stream.com and follow the prompts to set up your live stream account.  You’ll receive email updates as to when the meeting will be held and the start time.  All you have to do is click and watch.  Live-stream works on any PC (just remember to update your Adobe Flash player), Apple or Android device.  Please contact dcat@ci.durham.nh.us with any questions.

Administrator Selig with members of the Malaysia delegation that visited Durham this week. Courtesy DCAT Studios

MALAYSIA DELEGATION VISITS DURHAM – A US Department of State Program focusing on Use of Traditional and Social Media

This week, a delegation from Malaysia visited Durham to learn about the community’s efforts relative to the use of social media and the Durham “Friday Updates” in keeping the Town Council and community informed and engaged on local issues.  The program was sponsored by the US Dept. of State, Office of International Visitors, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and the World Affairs Council of NH.

 

The Malaysia delegation included: Danial Abdul Rahman, Press Secretary to the Minister, Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia; Haryaty Hamdzah, Information Chief & Head of Division, Puteri (Women’s Youth Wing), United Malays National Organization; Shariftah Zarinah Syed Ibrahim, President, Cheras Youth Council, Information Chief Puteri, Titiwangsa Parliament, United Malays National Organization; and Irwan Ambak Khalid Izhar, Youth Chief, Setiawangsa Branch, United Malays National Organization.  

 

Additional stops included:  Visit to the Concord Monitor, a meeting with NH State Representatives Susan Almy and John Potucek, a trip on the Mount Washington cruise ship, visiting the Bedford NH Town Memorial Day Parade, and others.

 

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.  

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

 

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.

Stargazing Dates & Times
Saturday, June 11th- 8:45-9:45pm

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

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.

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.

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:
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
 
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.

 

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

The Candy Bar has updated its name and logo to reflect the addition of the ice cream shop. Starting today June 3rd, The Candy Bar & Creamery will be open until 8pm on Fri/Sat and 7pm Sun-Thu. Starting Friday Jun 17th, it will be open until 8pm every night.

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 beginning June 6 through October 3 (2:15 - 6PM)

McGregor Memorial EMS Fund-raiser: NH Gives, Tuesday, Jun 7, 2016, sponsored by the NH Center for Nonprofits in concert with GiveGab. Those desiring to donate to the fund-raiser may do so HERE. To visit McGregor's website, click HERE.

Oyster River Parents & Preschoolers Birthday Party - Saturday, Jun 11, 2016, 2 - 4PM, Little River Park, North River Road, Lee NH. Includes birthday cake from Sweetened Memories and Ice Cream from Bloomin' Cow, followed by crafts and activities for kids aged 0-6. Wildlife Encounters will showcase various live animals. Free event. To learn more about ORPP, click HERE.
Silent Film Night at Portsmouth Music Hall, with the ORMS Jazz Band and Studio Orchestra, under the direction of David Ervin, Marc LaForce, and Andrea von Oeyen, Saturday, Jun 11, 2016, 7:00 PM. The silent film classic The Navigator, featuring Buster Keaton. Tickets/$16, can be purchased at the ORMS or The Music Hall Box Office: 603-436-2400, 28 Chestnut Street, Portsmouth, NH.  Online purchase HERE.

Mast Way School Playground Renovation Fund-raiser - Sunday, Jun 12, 2016 is the start of the fund-raiser at Barnes & Noble in Newington. Kids events from 12 noon - 3PM include: local author/rock climbing guide, STEM activities, etc. A percentage of purchases (bookstore & Café) will benefit the school playground renovation, but you must mention Mast Way.

Ladies Bike Group Ride - Tuesday, Jun 14, 2016, 5:45PM from Durham Bike & Sports. Route will be in Durham that is appropriate for bikers not comfortable with riding for about 1-1/2 hours and for those who have not been riding much. Intended to be fun and recreational! Those needing a safety check, tune up or adjustment and air pressure will receive a 15% discount on labor and parts. Call 312-1755 or 397-5140 to save a spot or answer questions.
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.

Registration for UNH Summer Camps Is Ongoing. Many UNH summer youth programs/sessions have spots available for registration. UNH offers more than 40 camps and programs to entertain and educate K-12 youth, ranging from traditional summer day camps to specialty athletic camps to arts camps, STEM programs, and a variety of other academic subjects. Day and overnight programs are available. For a full list of camps and to register, click HERE.

 

Ole Time Autos at the Durham Public Library this Sat. June 4th from 10-1pm

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 begins Monday, June 13th.  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!
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!
The library now has two Kindles for kids to check out and two Kindles for Young Adults to check out.  The kids Kindles are loaded with lots of great books, apps and videos while the YA Kindles have favorite YA titles to check out.  See the Children’s/YA Librarian at the Children’s desk to check one out.

Adult  Programs:

Ole Time Auto Event Sat.  June 4, 2016 10am-1pm - We are no longer accepting antique autos...we have reached our capacity.  Thank you to the auto owners that contacted DPL and will be bringing your autos to the show. 10:00 - Autos on display 10:00 - Joe Green, Saxophonist  11:00 - Author Michele Albion, The Quotable Henry Ford.  12:00 - Photo Trivia  Popcorn & Hoodsie Ice Cream cups while supplies last! Let's hear it for Tenor Saxophonist Joe Green, to perform at Ole Time Auto Show! Contact Armida 603-590-1117 or  ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us
First Aid class Tue. June 7, 6-8 pm - McGregor Memorial EMS offers class in First Aid.  Register http://cprsafe.org
Acoustic Open Mic Wed. June 8, 6:30 pm - Perform, listen, relax, enjoy refreshments.  Hootmeisters: Peg Chaffee and Cheryl Sager of "Nice n Naughty" fame. Held in the library cafe.
Book Sale- Children and Young Adults Books Sat. June 11, 10-1 - Books .50   Wooden Laser Cut Liberty Puzzles available for purchase.  Held by the Friends of the  DPL n the Craft/Storytime room.
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    Weekly puzzles, weekly prize drawings!  Watch for details. Contact Armida Geiger 603-590-1117
Music on the Lawn- Truffle Wednesdays 6:30 beginning June 29.   Rain or shine. June 29: Popular local band, Truffle (Acoustic).
Staff News - Assistant Director Nancy Miner, who was formerly the Vice President, has stepped in as the President of READS, the adult services branch of the New Hampshire Library Association.  READS (Reference and Adult Services) disseminates information and advocates for adult programming, circulation, reference and technical services for the state of New Hampshire.

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.

MUSEUM PASSES -- The Friends of the DPL sponsor passes to twelve different museums.  Try the Portland Museum of Art, 45 minutes away in historic Portland, Maine.  Free admission to general and special exhibits for two adults and six children. Reserve online using the DPL website. Pick up the reserved museum pass at the circulation desk.

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.

For more information, visit the Durham Public Library website.

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From the book, New Hampshire Icons…

 
Strawbery Banke (with one ‘r’ in ‘Strawbery’) gained its unusual name from English settlers early in the seventeenth century who were fond of the wild berries growing in the region. .. . .  It’s also one of New England’s earliest waterfront neighborhoods, located . . . in the middle of the historic district of famed seaport town, Portsmouth.  Consisting of forty-two buildings, dating from the seventeenth through the twentieth century – the oldest of the Banke’s structures dates from 1695 – most are still on their original foundations, one of the many distinctions that makes Strawbery Banke unique among other such outdoor museums.

 

The site was originally chosen by English settlers in 1630 because of its promise as a safe harbor at the mouth of the Piscataqua River.  Today, Strawbery Banke represents four centuries of New England seaport life, from colonial times through World War II.  A living museum since 1963, Strawbery Banke was saved from the frenzy of urban renewal sweeping the nation, and its preservation helped facilitate the creation of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.

 

Visitors can stop off at the candy counter in the Marden-Abbott Store and see a genuine cooper at work at the Dinsmore Shop.  . . . Many of these locations are tended by docents in period costume and in character. . . . The museum . . . maintains four centuries’ worth of historic gardens filled with organic, heirloom plantings.


If residents have not visited Strawbery Banke, it is worth the short trip from neighboring Durham.   

 

Have a very nice weekend. 

Todd

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