|
|
|
 NEWS AND HAPPENINGS ...
|
|
|
|
|
_____________________________________________________________________
|
|
Saturday, 3.14.15, is Pi Day.
_____________________________
Tomorrow, Saturday, March 14th, is Pi Day, an unofficial holiday that celebrates the mathematical constant pi (π). It is celebrated on March 14 in countries that follow the month/day date format because the digits in this date (3/14) correspond with the first three digits of π (3.14).
This year’s Pi Day is unusual, one that only comes along once every 100 years! This year, not only does the month and day of the date (3/14) correspond to the digits in the mathematical constant, the digits in the year do too! If you write the date in the month/day/year format, then the digits of the date 3/14/15 correspond to the first 5 digits of pi: 3.1415.
But there is more… This year's Pi Day goes a step further - at 9:26:53 am and 9:26:53 pm, the date and the time will exactly correspond to the first 10 digits of pi: 3.141592653. Many people are calling this the Pi Second. There is some disagreement over whether there will be two or one Pi Seconds on March 14. Many believe that there can only be one Pi Second at 9:26:53 am, since 9:26:53 pm in the 24 hour clock is 21:26:53.
All of this information may help distract all of us from the fact that today is Friday the 13th…
|
|
ORIENTATION FOR NEW COUNCILORS
Just prior to Monday’s Council meeting at 6 PM, there will be an informal orientation session for new Councilors in the Town Council chambers at the Town Hall. The public is welcome to attend.
|
|
PARKING IN THE DOWNTOWN - Construction Workers Taking Up Downtown Parking Spaces
With four large construction projects underway, we have all experienced the challenges in traversing the downtown with these simultaneous major construction projects ongoing, each with deliveries of material, removal of snow and the comings and goings of various work personnel all new to the area.
During the pre-construction phase, various Town departments including Public Works and the Police Department worked diligently to identify satellite locations such as Churchill Rink, Town Landing, and the former Town Office site so that parking for the host of workers would not consume those in the downtown area.
While this pre-planning has had significant success, our parking enforcement personnel have closely monitored all of the Town’s parking spaces with particular attention to the area immediately adjacent to these construction sites.
Ironically, we have found little in the way of violations as the tradespersons are paying the appropriate fees for parking. And this is the challenge. Business owners and their workers pay a yearly fee for the “right to hunt” for a parking space mainly in the Pettee Brook lot as well as in a host of other locations such as Strafford Avenue and the former Town Office lot.
Historically there have been ample spaces to the point that Pay and Display kiosks were placed in these lots for those empty spaces not used by the downtown business owners/employees. However in spite of ample off-location parking for the tradespersons, many have no aversion to paying the $1.00 an hour for parking closer to their job site. Consequently, the Pettee Brook lot is full almost continuously from 6AM until the end of the business day.
Many of business permit holders have expressed concern about this situation and while ample parking remains on Strafford Avenue, owners of existing businesses feel it is not convenient parking.
Public Works Director Mike Lynch, Code Enforcement Director Tom Johnson, and Police Chief Dave Kurz are in discussions with the construction management companies to offer additional options that may free spaces.
However, in the interim, the Durham Police Department will continue to aggressively enforce applicable parking violations with the downtown.
|
|
AN UPDATE ON RFP SUBMISSIONS FOR FORMER TOWN OFFICE SITE AT 15 NEWMARKET ROAD – Town Council to Receive Presentations Monday Night (3/16/15)
At the Town Council meeting on Monday, September 22, 2014, The Council
voted 8-0 (one member was absent) to end the Purchase & Sale Agreement with Scott Mitchell for the redevelopment of the former Town Office site at 15 Newmarket Road. This vote occurred following nearly an hour of public comments -- the vast majority of which requested that the Council not renew the Purchase & Sale Agreement as Mr. Mitchell had indicated earlier to the HDC that he would need to tear down the existing building to bring his development plans to fruition.
At the November 3, 2014 Council meeting, the Council passed a motion requesting the Administrator to move forward with issuing a proposed Request for Proposal (RFP) with a provision requiring the adaptive reuse of the current building or alternatively that the three front building facades visible from Newmarket Road be preserved.
The RFP was vigorously promoted to individuals, commercial brokers and developers, historic property organizations and websites (HistoricProperties.com; HistoricRealEstate@Savings Places.org; and the Preservation Alliance of NH), as well as those who directly expressed interest in the property. Historic property restorers Stephen Bedard from Concord, and Richard Mecke from Historic Homes, and Aaron Sturgis of Preservation Timber also spread the word in person and in their networks of interested parties. The Town posted the RFP prominently on our website and facebook page. Statewide publications included the information in print and online. Articles appeared in several publications including Fosters, and New Hampshire Business Review. The RFP was distributed to architecture associations, and was handed out at two of the Commercial Investment Board of Realtors monthly meetings. They subsequently posted it to their extensive email list and in their minutes (with a link to the town website) making the information available statewide to commercial brokers. We had a substantial amount of exposure and followed up on all indications of interest.
Staff conducted multiple showings of the property to individuals, architects, local businesses and potential developers, and Alex Ray from the Common Man. There were several local businesses and architects who expressed sincere interest and carefully considered the RFP, but who decided not to submit any proposal.
Three RFPs were ultimately received from The Law Office of Scott E. Hogan (on behalf of George York); Peter Murphy; and William Salas, President, Applied Geosolutions. Brief Summary Descriptions follow:
Peter Murphy
Peter Murphy proposes to pay the town $400,000 for the purchase of the parcel, to be paid in two phases at $200,000 each. He will renovate the existing building and add on an addition in phase 1. He will construct a new building in phase 2. The proposed uses include a medical facility and professional office space. He is also interested in adding a residential component beyond what is currently permitted. Peter hopes to utilize RSA 79E for five years, and will look for other state and federal programs to assist in financing this project.
George York, as represented by Scott Hogan, his attorney.
George York proposes to pay the town $650,000 to purchase the parcel. His plan is to subdivide the parcel and sell the former town office building to an office user (he identifies Applied Geosolutions as that user). He will retain a portion of the parking lot for his own use, and indicates he would make arrangements for the town to have use of the parking area. George didn’t specify any plans to utilize RSA 79E himself.
William Salas, Applied Geosolutions
William Salas proposes to pay the town $400,000 for the purchase of the parcel. They would renovate the existing building with an estimated $550,000, and have indicated they would want five years of RSA 79E to help with the costs of this project. They also indicated they would subdivide the property and sell part of the parking lot to George York, and would be amenable to allowing the Town of Durham to use parking spaces as needed for overflow parking. Applied Geosolutions would be the main tenant of the building, has 15 years of experience, 17 current employees and works in collaboration with the University of NH. They have a secondary tenant, Geospatial and Environmental Technologies Institute, a 501(c)3.
The Council has many potential options at this juncture. It could: 1) Ask staff to continue discussions with one of the RFP respondents moving toward the potential sale of the parcel; 2) Determine that none of the responses are acceptable; 3) Opt to reissue the RFP with another focus or with different criteria; 4) Opt to hold on to the parcel for another municipal purpose; 5) Other actions the Council may determine appropriate.
The actual RFP responses are posted on the Town web site under “What’s New” at https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/
|
|
ZBA TAKES ACTION ON A NUMBER OF ITEMS RELATING TO THE MILL PLAZA REDEVELOPMENT
On Tuesday evening this week, 3/10/15, the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) considered a number of appeal requests relating to the Mill Plaza project. After receiving presentation and undertaking deliberation, the board:
-
Upheld Planner Michael Behrendt’s administrative ruling on dormitories, that dormitories are not an allowed use in the CB zone;
-
Denied the request for a rehearing on the Mill Plaza’s earlier decision to uphold Planner Michael Behrendt’s decision that the requirement for 600 habitable square feet applies to their project.
-
Denied a variance request to use gross square footage instead of habitable square footage;
-
Tabled the second variance about use of residential and nonresidential floors to give the applicant an opportunity to continue its discussions with the Planning Board.
|
|
PLANNING BOARD TO RECEIVE PRESENTATION FROM UNH ON STADIUM PROJECT
The proposed improvements to the UNH West Stadium on the Planning Board’s agenda on March 25 for a public hearing and nonbinding comments.
|
|
This image depicts forested areas being cut this week by NH Fish & Game
to improve wildlife habitat.
WHO IS CUTTING DOWN THE FOREST OFF LONGMARSH ROAD ALONG Rt. 108?
The Town's various departments have received numerous phone calls and e-mails this week from residents wondering why the trees located on Route 108 and on Longmarsh Roads are being harvested.
The Division or Forests and Lands, in conjunction with the NH Fish & Game Department, has sold the timber on these parcels to improve wildlife habitat on 77 acres on these tracts of land, which are part of the Great Bay NERR Wildlife Management Area.
The project is designed to create young forest habitat; areas thick with young shrubs and trees interspersed with grasses and wildflowers. The wildlife that requires young forests includes nearly 65 different kinds of birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects many of which are “species of great conservation need” in New Hampshire. Among these is the state endangered New England cottontail.
Public notices regarding the project were posted in the Portsmouth Herald, Fosters Daily Democrat and the Town Hall, and a workshop regarding the project was held at the Durham Public Library on June 9, 2014. In addition, all eighteen abutters were notified of the project.
An information pamphlet about the cut can be found by clicking HERE.
For more information, please visit the following websites:
http://www.youngforest.org/
http://youngforest.org/content/young-forest-video
|
|
DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING AND PROGRAM - TUESDAY, APRIL 21ST
The Durham Historic Association will present “A MOST AMAZING ENGINEERING FEAT: THE FIRST PISCATAQUA RIVER BRIDGE” at its Annual Meeting on April 21st at 7 PM at the Durham Public Library 49 Madbury Rd. Dr. Helen Frink will give an illustrated talk about the architect and builders of this amazing, early bridge from Cedar Point in Durham to Fox Point in Newington, described in a 1794 newspaper article as “the largest and most elegant bridge in North America…, one of the greatest pieces of mechanical genius done in America”. A brief business meeting will precede Dr. Frink’s presentation. There will be an opportunity for attendees to become DHA members to continue the preservation of documents and artifacts relevant to the history of Oyster River Plantation and the Town of Durham. Refreshments will be served.
|
|
AND THE PHONE SCAMS KEEP COMING!
Chief Kurz advises that the police department has had several residents contact them about continuing telephone scams. These calls are so troubling to us all but the technology and the desire to separate people from their money clearly has no bounds.
The most recent calls have been very similar in nature regarding the Internal Revenue Service. One resident was savvy enough to provide the Durham Police with the following transcript:
"Internal Revenue Service is the reason of this call is to inform you that the IRS is filing a lawsuit against you to get more information about this case file. Please call immediately on our department number 209-813-2917. I repeat 209-813-2917. Thank you."
The Durham Police are working in cooperation with investigators from the IRS who indicate that although the area code of “209” is a California zone, there is routinely a forwarding mechanism that transmits the call immediately to an overseas location. Be aware that no reputable company nor governmental entity such as the IRS will ever contact anyone in this manner to discuss issues, especially a matter as serious as a lawsuit.
Once again the Durham Police are sharing this information for awareness purposes and to help prevent fraud and/or identity theft from occurring during these purposely stressful telephone calls! As always the Durham Police urge residents NEVER to provide personal and/or credit card information via social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter or telephone solicitation. Even though these criminal enterprises appear to be centered in off-shore locations, it is requested that any suspicious solicitation activity be reported to the Durham Police for further assessment and review.
|
|
2014 Durham Town Report - Cover photography courtesy DCAT Studios
Design/production by Design Point Studio, Salisbury, NH
PRINTED VERSION OF 2014 DURHAM ANNUAL REPORT AVAILABLE AT TOWN OFFICE
The printed version of the 2014 Town of Durham Annual Report is ready to be picked up by interested residents/taxpayers at the Town Clerk-Tax Collector's Office. Copies are also available at the Durham Public Library. As in the past, the report is also available on the Town web site for easy access to any and all.
|
|
FIELD PROPOSAL ON SCHOOL DISTRICT BALLOT DOES NOT RECEIVE REQUIRED 60% REFERENDUM VOTE – Feedback Received from Students at ORHS
Following the announcement of results relating to the ORCSD field proposal, Administrator Selig received some thoughtful correspondence from Oyster River High School (ORHS) students concerning the issue. A copy of one such email is pasted below for general information within the community:
"I am a junior at ORHS and a member of the student senate, as well as a 3 season runner.
My peers and I obviously just found out about the results of the vote on Article 3. After having spoken to a large number of my friends and peers over the past weeks and months, it is clear that the great majority of the ORHS student body is strongly in favor of the upgrade for our outdoor athletic facilities. In the short time since the results were announced I have also been in direct contact with many other students, as well as on social media where a large number of students have taken to expressing their disappointment. I felt that it was my place on behalf of the ORHS student body to make as many people of authority and position in this district aware of this immediate response as possible, since it is so clear and widespread.
The proposed upgrade to the athletic facilities is undoubtedly a decision that the entire community should be involved in. By this I mean that those living in this district without direct ties to the school system should have a say, as they did, but also that the students who this change would actually affect should have a voice too. Although I recognize that students have the opportunity to show their support in a variety of ways, those of us under 18 ultimately do not get to a chance to show this support on paper since we cannot vote, which of course in the end is how the decision was made. I understand the 3/5 vote was necessary to pass the article, but with 54.6% of voters in favor of the upgrade, and only 136 more "yes" votes necessary, I am confident that had students had a say in this, it would have passed. The hundreds of students who were in support of this project feel as though we were not taken into account as seriously as we should have been in this decision, especially considering it is us who will be so directly affected. We recognize that we are not adults and cannot vote, but we are educated, involved, and directly affected young people who deserve a say in such a big decision centered around us and our future.
I do not know what can be done from this point on to either appeal this decision, simply spread awareness of the general student disappointment and sense of being discounted, or explore the possibility of some sort of student demonstration, but I figured this would be a good start. I have CC'd this email as well to people who were involved in this process and could hopefully offer some insight as to how to continue, as well as the high school principle, Todd Allen, and athletic director, Corey Parker. Please do not hesitate to respond with any feedback, to pass along this email to anyone you think may benefit from reading it, or simply spread the word about the immediate reaction of the ORHS student body.
Thank you for your consideration"
Mr. Selig referred the student to ORHS Principal Todd Allen who reports that he subsequently had an opportunity to speak with this student (and others) at the school concerning the matter.
|
|
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS TO SERVE AS DURHAM REPRESENTATIVES ON MILLS SCENIC BYWAY CORRIDOR ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Mills Scenic Byway was recently designated as a New Hampshire Scenic and Cultural Byway in May 2014 under RSA 238:19. This 12-mile scenic byway is one of three of the most recently designated in the state, and runs through the communities of Newmarket, Durham, Madbury and Rollinsford.
NH Scenic and Cultural Byways designation requires that a committee be formed to guide work in collaboration with SRPC on a Corridor Management Plan (CMP) as well as other activities agreed upon by committee members. The plan will highlight cultural, historical, ecological, and recreational services along the route. The committee is generally a grassroots collaboration of participating citizens, stakeholders, and municipal staff with the group deciding on their own organizational structure. As a member of the group, their role will also include promoting the route and using the CMP Plan to guide the management process. The group is not regulatory but serves as the route’s ambassadors. SRPC would aid in the process providing technical guidance and general support.
This 12-Mile Byway will be an important aspect of the cultural and historical resources to the adjacent communities including Durham. The Town is looking for volunteers that would officially be appointed by the Town Council to be a part of the committee/group.
If you are interested, or if you know of anyone who may be interested in joining the committee, contact Jennie Berry at jberry@ci.durham.nh.us or call her at 603.868.5571.
|
|
VACANCIES ON TOWN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES
On April 30, 2015, terms on various Town boards, commissions, and committees will expire. In April, the Town Council will begin the process for making its annual appointments/reappointments to Town boards, with appointments to take effect May 1, 2015. The Durham Town Council is seeking interested residents of the Town of Durham who have the ability, desire, and time needed to fill these vacancies.
Citizens interested in board appointments may stop in or contact the Town Administrator’s office at 868-5571 and ask for a board application form. Applications are also available on the home page of the Town’s web site: www.ci.durham.nh.us in the green area located at the right. Click on “Forms”, then “Application for Appointment”.
Completed applications may be mailed to the Town Administrator’s office, or submitted via email to jberry@ci.durham.nh.us. The deadline for receipt of completed applications is Friday, March 27, 2015.
Conservation Commission: 1 regular vacancy; 2 alternate vacancies
Durham Agricultural Commission: 2 regular vacancies; 1 alternate vacancy
Durham Energy Committee: 3 regular vacancies
Durham Library Board of Trustees: 3 alternate vacancies (1-year terms)
Economic Development Committee: 1 regular vacancy; 1 alternate vacancy
Historic District /Heritage Commission: 2 regular vacancies
Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee: 3 regular vacancies; 1 alternate vacancy
Oyster River Management Advisory Committee: 1 member
Parks and Recreation Committee: 1 regular vacancy; 1 alternate vacancy
Planning Board: 1 alternate vacancy
Strafford Regional Planning Commission MPO Policy Committee: 1 vacancy
Zoning Board of Adjustment: 2 regular vacancies; 2 alternate vacancies
|
|
Three sailboats, constructed during a UNH Marine Docent Family Boat Building Workshop, on their maiden voyage at Mendums Pond. Courtesy Karl Schoppe
BUILD A BOAT IN A WEEKEND - FAMILY BOAT BUILDING WORKSHOP
The UNH Marine Docent's will hold a Family Boat Building Workshop, May 15-17, 2015, at Kingman Farm in Madbury.
In three days, families will construct the Oyster River Cat, a 12' sailboat. A professionally made sail is included. The marine plywood hull has a 5' beam that easily carries two adults or even three in light wind. She is equally adept as a row boat for calm days at the lake.
A day of sailing instruction in June at Mendums Pond in Barrington, N.H. is included in the price of the program. The instructors of the UNH Community Sailing Program will provide a morning of on-shore rigging, safety, and basic theory, followed by an afternoon of on-the-water practice in your new boat.
Each family must include at least one child age 12 or older. Extended families or single parents are encouraged to apply. If you would like more information or want to be considered as a participant, please contact Mark Wiley at the Marine Docent office, 603.862.6702. Visit http://seagrant.unh.edu/family-boat-building for more informatioin.
|
|
|
|
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
Durham Town Council - Monday, March 16, 2015
Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee - Tuesday, March 17, 2015 (7:00 AM, Durham PD Community Room)
Economic Development Committee - Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Land Stewardship Subcommittee - Friday, March 20, 2015 (9 AM)
All meetings recorded on DCAT are available on DVD at the Durham Public Library for checkout and viewing.
VIDEO ON DEMAND: Meetings can also be viewed via Video on Demand. Interested viewers can access the streaming site from the Town’s website at http://www.ci.durham.nh.us/ by clicking the DCAT on demand logo, or directly at http://dcat.pegcentral.com/.
Durham Public Library Board of Trustees meeting schedule.
DCAT Programming Schedule.
|
|
DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22
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.
For the latest information about programs and events, visit: Durham Parks & Recreation Online
View weekly calendar and class descriptions HERE.
Coyote Club – NEW Session Starts March 9th. Find out more HERE.
Why take a fitness class with Durham Parks & Recreation?
-
Convenient location - Drop in to most classes for only $10!
-
Fits your schedule - Classes available Monday through Saturday!
-
Quality - Classes instructed by certified, local, and passionate instructors!
Bootcamp: An hour of POWER! Total body cardio and strength workout to start your day off right.
Tai Ji Quan - Moving For Better Balance: This world-renowned balance training program combines Tai Ji Quan movements with therapy and function exercises to keep you on your feet and moving.
Pilates: Improve your flexibility, gain core strength, and overall body tone. All in one hour!
Zumba: A dynamic, easy to follow, cardio dance fitness class. We do hip-hop, salsa, flamenco, bollywood, and so much more! You don't need experience, just jump in and join the party!
Yoga: Allow your mind, body, and spirit to connect through meditation and movement.
Strength & Stretch: Improve your bone density and balance with a total body strengthening session, followed by stretching to improve flexibility.
Yoga for Active Adults (55+): Quiet your mind, reduce stress, and learn relaxation techniques. Designed for every ability level.
Tai Chi Advanced: Combination of Tai Ji Quan movements and therapeutic exercise to keep your body active. Designed for participants with Tai Chi experience.
Churchill Rink
We want to hear from you! Please stop by the Survey Kiosk, located at the front entrance window.
Community Appreciation Day: Join us on Sunday, March 15, 2015 for Free Public Skate from 12-1:45 pm! Find out more at http://www.churchillrink.org/
Save the Date:
Meet & Greet with the Durham Bunny! - March 28th - 12 - 2:00 PM (Location TBD)
Camp REACH Registration - Opens April 13th
|
|
The Active Retirement Association will feature guest Carl Lindblade who will be speaking on "Governor Winant, the Untold Story." See more information below
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
OR Jazz Band Jazz it up silent and live auction and a night of dancing, food, and fund-raising for the OR Middle School Jazz Band and Studio Orchestra, Saturday Mar 14, 2015, 5:30 PM, UNH Holloway Commons. The Jazz Band has been selected to play at Walt Disney World in Florida. This event will help defray expenses for the trip. Purchase tickets at the ORMS Main Office, at Good JuJu in Newmarket, NH or on line HERE.
Newcomers Unlimited, Friday, Mar 20, 2015, Community Church of Durham Fellowship Hall. Coffee & Conversation at 9:00 AM. Short meeting & speaker at 10:00 AM. Program: Meet Eleanor Roosevelt: 1905-1945 - Wife, Mother, and First Lady. This session will focus on the White House years. Program made possible through a grant from the New Hampshire Humanities Council. Open to the public. Please park in the lower lot.
ORYA & Oyster River Hockey Community "Get Behind Griff" community skate and gathering, Friday, Mar 20, 2015, 4-6:00 PM, Churchill Rink at Jackson's Landing, $5/person or $20/family
Girls' Hockey Day, Friday, Mar 20, 2015, 6-8:00 PM, Churchill Rink. ORMS & ORHS Girls' Hockey Teams will organize a friendly scrimmage for everyone to join in, regardless of experience. Free pizza afterward provided by ORYA Hockey. Equipment will be available to borrow. To arrange for skates ahead of time, contact jsnow@orcsd.org. Contact Karen Niland 603-833-7751, Karen.niland@me.com, with questions.
Active Retirement Association March General Meeting, Monday, Mar 23, 2015, 1:30 PM, Durham Evangelical Church (sanctuary, upper level). Program will feature Carl Lindblade of the UNH Hospitality Management Department, speaking on “Governor Winant, the Untold Story." Visit ARA website for more information or contact Carol Caldwell, 603-343-1004, ccaldwell57@comcast.net.
Durham Garden Club, Tuesday, Mar 24, 2015, Durham Public Library. Featuring presentation by Jill Crosbie: “Getting a Fresh Perspective with Vertical Gardening”. Social time and refreshments at 6:30 PM; presentation begins at 7:15 PM. Public is welcome to attend. Questions, contact Sheila McCurdy, 603-659-5623, russheila@comcast.net
Growing Places TimberNook Camps – Spring 2015. Both run at Moharimet Elementary School, 11 Lee Road, Madbury.
Creative Minds for 5-12 year olds (After School Enrichment for five Tuesdays)
3:15-6:00 pm Tuesdays, April 7, 14, 21 and May 5, 12 - Cost $150
No program Tuesday April 28 due to Oyster River School Vacation
Going Wild “Challenge Camp” for 5-12 year olds (Oyster River school vacation week) 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Monday – Friday, April 27 – May 1 - Cost $175
*Extended Care is available 7:30-9:00 am and 1:00-5:30 pm. The cost with extended care is $250. Email timbernook@growingplacesnh.org to sign up.
UNH Summer Camps. From acting to programming, writing to technology, UNH offers more than 40 summer camps and programs to entertain and educate K-12 youth. Registration for many of the 2015 offerings is now open. Programs range from traditional summer day camps to specialty athletics 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, as well as dates, ages and registration information, click HERE.
|
|
DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Celebrate Ireland on St. Pat’s Day Tues. March 17th, 6:30-8:30 pm - Fun filled evening "Ireland Style" Beginning with live music by Ti Crossman. Enjoy authentic Irish treats while you Journey to Ireland with Michael Behrendt as your tour guide! Photo Courtesy of Michael Behrendt
Family Storytime: “Eat Your Fruits and Veggies!” Saturday March 14th 10:30 -11:30 am -There will be fun stories, fingerplays, feltboard and a craft! Next week, Sat. March 21st 10:30: “Beauty and the Beast Ballet with Northeastern Ballet!” Family Storytime.
Crafternoon – Saturday March 14th 12:00-4:00 pm – Come and create! Stop by the Children’s room for a fun craft.
Celebrate Ireland on St. Pat’s Day Tues. March 17th, 6:30-8:30 pm - Fun filled evening "Ireland Style" Beginning with live music by Ti Crossman. Enjoy authentic Irish treats while you Journey to Ireland with Michael Behrendt as your tour guide! Michael's presentation begins at 7 pm. He will discuss the history, culture and architecture of Ireland, including Northern Ireland. No registration needed. Oh the "Luck of the Irish" DPL is lucky to have a great local musician, quality bakers and a tour guide traveler!
Computer Help at the Library! Tuesday through Friday, 3:00-4:30 pm – Any kind of computer help is available at these times every week. People are standing by to assist you with your questions.
Game Afternoon: ages 10 & up, Mon., March 16th at 2:45 p.m. - This week’s games are: "Pit and Apples to Apples, Jr.”
Storytimes, Tues. March 17th and Thurs. March 19th at 10:30 a.m. They will be about “Spring and St. Patrick’s Day”! We read stories, do fingerplays, feltboard and a craft.
Writer's Response, Thursday March 19th 6-8 pm - Writer's Response - A forum to share passion for writing. Some published, some already writing, others just starting out. What unifies the Writer's Response is a passion for writing, feeding on each others enthusiasm, energy and ideas.1st and 3rd Thursday monthly from 6-8 pm. Contact Armida Geiger, mailto:ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us
Knitting Club for 3rd-5th graders! Weds. March 18th from 4-5 p.m. - Come and learn to knit. Space is limited. Sign-up at the Children’s desk.
Friends Book Discussion, Tues. March 31st at 10:30 am - Please join Jennifer Lee in the community room, as she facilitates the Friends' book discussion of Gilead by Marilynne Robinson. Your copy awaits you.
Baby Lap-sit (ages 2 & under with care-giver) Weds. March 18th at 10:30 a.m. – Join us for stories, movement, songs, fingerplays and fun. There is a time to socialize afterward. Registration required for this 8 week session. Sign-up at the Children’s desk.
Homeschooler’s Activity Hour, Fri., March 20th at 10:30 a.m. and we will talk about “Spring”! This group is geared toward home-schooler’s, but all are welcome.
Lego Club will meet again on Thurs. March 19th at 3:45 p.m. and the theme will be “Dinosaurs”!
Northeastern Ballet visits Family Storytime with "Beauty and the Beast" excerpts! Saturday, March 21st at 10:30 am - Join us for this special Family Program. Northeastern Ballet will visit and perform excerpts from their spring ballet "Beauty and the Beast". This event will be held upstairs in the community room. Don't miss it!
Family Movie: Box Trolls! Saturday, March 21st, 2:00 pm - Join us for this month's fun family movie: "Box Trolls". Popcorn is served! This movie is shown upstairs in the Community Room. All are welcome!
NH Moose Mystery: Cowboys, Vampires and Ghost Moose! Thursday March 26th 7pm - Presented by UNH Professor Peter Pekins, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment.
Vertical Gardening presented at Durham Garden Club, Tuesday March 24th 6:30 pm - Getting a Fresh Perspective with Vertical Gardening. All are welcome to come and listen to speaker Jill Crosbie of Salmon Falls Nursery and learn about many aspects of vertical gardening, slides, varying designs, plant choices, and construction.
CPR & AED Course by McGregor Memorial EMS, Tuesday March 24th 6-8 pm - McGregor Memorial EMS CPR & AED (defibrillator) for adult, child and infant. The AHA, American Heart Association Heartsaver AED Course for Ages 11 and up. To register visit: https://cprsafe.org Fee is $20
Pajama Storytime, Tues. March 31st at 6:30 pm – This month: The Ocean! Come wearing your pj’s. Join Oyster River Parents and Pre-schoolers and the Durham Library for stories, songs, fingerplays, feltboard and a fun craft. Snack is provided by ORPP. This is a great way to meet other parents and children. All are welcome.
An Art Student’s Vision of Italy in the gallery upstairs - Please visit the new exhibit in the gallery upstairs: Shannon Malley, An Art Student's Vision of Italy. Shannon graduated from UNH in 2011 with degree in Studio Art. She painted landscapes of Italian countryside and villages on her trip in 2010, when visiting Italy in the summer. All her paintings were made on locations, capturing the broad countrysides in natural beauty or streets and parks in different parts of the day. Come to see her memories of Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
Patch Club: reading incentive program for ages 2-12 years. Sign-up at the Children’s Desk!
Tales for Tails: Read to a trained therapy dog K-4th grade - sign-up at the Children’s desk. We have two new dogs, North and Ozzie! This is a great way for your child to gain confidence in reading!
Join the Durham Public Library Birthday Book Club. Celebrate a child’s birthday in a unique way with a gift of a book to the library. Talk to the Children’s Librarian at the children’s desk for more details.
Youth Book Groups:
Raccoon Readers 2nd-4th grade. Monthly book group. Tues. April 7th 6-7PM. This month's book is "The Contagious Colors of Mumpley Middle School" by Fowler Dewitt. We talk about books, do puzzles, play some games and make a craft.
Bookeaters Middle School Book Group. Meets Wed. April 8th 2:45-4PM This month's book is "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein. Walk from the Middle School. Ruth Wharton-McDonald is the facilitator. All are welcome and pizza is served. Books are available at the library.
Libros Lovers, Monthly High School book group. Meets Wed. 2:45-4:00PM. April 15th. This month’s book is “The Sun God’s Heir” by local author, Elliott Baker. Elliot will visit the group this month and talk about writing and his book.
Upcoming:
4/3 Alzheimer’s Café 10:30 am
4/6 Young Adult Writing Group 6:30 pm
4/7 Raccoon Readers (2nd-4th grade group) 6:00 pm
4/7 Vegetable Garden Doctor 7:00 pm
4/8 Bookeaters Middle School group 2:45 pm
Visit the DPL website www.durhampubliclibrary.org for more information.
|
|
WEEKLY ARREST REPORT
*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.
|
|
FROM "HISTORY IN AN OYSTERSHELL - A BRIEF HISTORY OF DURHAM, NH, 1600 - 1976 written by Philip A. Wilcox and members of the Durham Historic Association
1924 - The Pettee Block, built in 1897 by George Whitcher, burned, destroying general store, market, barber and tailor shops, pharmacy, men's dormitory. Mrs. Gorman warned all the residents. Dover and Newmarket Fire Departments helped our call firemen -- but in vain.
|
|
Celebrate Ireland on St. Pat’s Day A reminder that on Tues. March 17th, 6:30-8:30 pm - there is a fun filled evening "Ireland Style" Beginning with live music by Ti Crossman. Enjoy authentic Irish treats while you Journey to Ireland with resident and Town Planner Michael Behrendt as your tour guide. Michael's presentation begins at 7 pm. He will discuss the history, culture and architecture of Ireland, including Northern Ireland. No registration needed. Oh the "Luck of the Irish" DPL is lucky to have a great local musician, quality bakers and a tour guide traveler!
Have a very nice weekend and HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!
Todd
Todd I. Selig, Administrator
Town of Durham, NH
T: 603-868-5571 F: 603-868-5572
tselig@ci.durham.nh.us http://www.ci.durham.nh.us
Everyone can tackle climate change. How can you reduce your carbon footprint?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
