|
|
|
 NEWS AND HAPPENINGS ...
|
|
|
|
|
_____________________________________________________________________
|
|
UNH Civil Engineering student Taylor Walter with the newly-constructed Mobile Nitrogen Recycler. Courtesy David Cedarholm
A project team of UNH students working on their senior capstone projects officially launched the first ever Mobile Nitrogen Recycler in Durham last evening for the purpose of diverting urine from Durham’s sewage waste stream for use as agricultural fertilizer. The project focus is to investigate the feasibility of diverting urine from Durham's wastewater treatment plant, which receives its highest influent nitrogen levels on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings between the hours of 11 PM and 2 AM. Read more about the project below.
===============================
Spring has sprung! Unfortunately, it does not quite feel like it with the continued cold weather …
|
|
DURHAM MAKES THE BOSTON GLOBE – "Durham, NH is a Great Place for the Young at Heart"
Durham made the news this week in the Boston Globe’s travel section. To view the article, click HERE.
An excerpt follows: “This pretty New Hampshire seacoast-area town is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and to raise a family in the nation; last year CNN Money also rated Durham No. 2 on its list of top places for 20-somethings to call home. No wonder: the friendly, tight-knit community boasts historic homes and buildings, quiet neighborhoods, and plenty of picturesque places for outdoor adventures. It’s also home to the University of New Hampshire, which adds energy, diversity, and creative spirit, along with concerts, lectures, celebrations, and sporting events that you likely won’t find in other small towns. Added bonus: the Amtrak Downeaster offers several daily departures to and from downtown Durham and Boston.”
|
|
16,000 sq. ft. conceptual design for a proposed new UNH Outdoor
Pool (Snively on left side of image, Edgewood Rd. on right
side) Courtesy University of New Hampshire
DURHAM POOL WORK GROUP TEAM VOTES 4-2 IN FAVOR OF ACCEPTING UNH OFFER OF A MIDDLE SIZE POOL, 14-16,000 SQ. FT. POOL
Several months ago, Mr. Selig asked two members of the Council (Jay Gooze and Wayne Burton), two representatives from FUNHOP (Dudley Dudley and Kenny Rotner), and long-time pool enthusiast Marjorie Wolfson to join him in endeavoring to work through the future of the UNH Outdoor Pool with representatives from UNH.
The group had met on three prior occasions and Mr. Selig in conjunction with UNH officials arranged for the working group to meet at 3 PM on Wednesday, March 19, 2014, at the Durham Public Library (second floor) to continue the dialogue relative to the future of the pool. A detailed Agenda for the meeting was prepared. Interested members of the public were able to attend and in fact there was limited time at the end of the meeting to take questions from the public present.
UNH had obtained cost estimates for approximate 10,000 sq. ft. (average cost of 5 averages received is $3,660,910), 16,000 sq. ft. (average cost of 5 averages received is $4,411,100), and 32,000 sq. ft. (average cost of 5 averages received is $6,289,870) outdoor pool configurations in the general location of the existing outdoor pool.
On Monday afternoon, March 17, 2014, UNH Vice President Mark Rubinstein sent a proposal to the Town offering for UNH to build a mid-size pool, 14,000 – 16,000 sq. ft., estimated at $4.4 million, at zero capital cost to the Town, in the location of the existing pool.
On Monday evening, March 17, 2014, the Council considered a draft motion crafted by Mr. Selig at the request of the Council Chair in which the Council would endorse this proposal. The Council discussed the motion and based on public feedback and Councilor comments ultimately decided to defer further consideration until its next meeting on April 7, 2014.
The Town Council had raised the issue of the future of the pool with UNH as part of a Council resolution adopted last year. The University responded to the Town and was clear that the existing outdoor pool must be brought up to modern health/safety standards for a modern public swimming pool. In addition, because the 1937 facility does not meet modern health/safety standards for a public pool, UNH has provided notice to the Town that it will not reopen the outdoor pool for the 2014 summer season. All UNH summer activities have been designed around the outdoor pool being closed for 2014.
It has been clearly stated by both parties that the 32,000 sq. ft. pool configuration in the $6.3 million +/- range is beyond the financial capacity of both UNH and Durham taxpayers.
At Wednesday’s pool working group meeting, UNH provided additional information regarding the pool pricing received and answered questions regarding parking (which would remain unchanged at Woodside), the impact of the proposed Hamel Recreation Center expansion project on a future outdoor pool (the design of which is essentially on hold pending the outcome of pool discussions), whether the historic pool could be reopened for the summer 2014 (UNH indicates it cannot reopen the outdoor pool due to the facility not meeting modern public pool standards concerning health/safety), whether there will be a zero depth entry, lap lanes, diving area, expanded community space, and other features to appeal to the entire town in terms of ages and abilities (there will though the details will need to be fully developed as part of the actual pool design process), scheduling/pass pricing (which must be developed once a size is settled upon as part of the design process), shadow analysis (the mid-size pool would be located in what is now the deep section of the existing pool which is the sunniest portion of the site), timetable (UNH desires to bring the mid-size pool proposal to the USNH Board of Trustees on April 18th so that the project can get under way and be open for the 2015 swimming season) and more.
After much discussion and following public question and answers, Mr. Selig asked for a consensus of the Town delegation to the working group on the pool issue and the vote was 4 in favor of moving forward with the University’s 14,000 – 16,000 sq. ft. (approx. $4.4 million) proposal (Jay Gooze, Wayne Burton, Marjorie Wolfson, and Todd Selig), and 2 opposed (Dudley Dudley and Kenny Rotner).
This recommendation will be conveyed to the Town Council to help guide Council deliberations on the subject on April 7, 2014.
To view conceptual images of the various pool designs discussed, click HERE.
To view an article from Foster's Daily Democrat on this week’s work session meeting regarding the pool, click HERE.
To view the University's extensive information regarding the planning process for the Outdoor pool and other information, including pool design images showing different size configurations, click HERE.
To convey feedback relative to the pool issue, please write to Administrator Todd Selig at tselig@ci.durham.nh.us.
|
|
Resident James Bubar looked out at his backyard one very cold morning this winter and saw these steaming trees. He noted that it looked as if his backyard was on fire.
|
|
REQUEST FROM DURHAM HOUSING ASSOCIATION REGARDING ELIMINATING FIRE LANE DESIGNATION OF DIRT PORTION OF SMITH PARK LANE
The Town has received a written request from the Durham Housing Association asking the community to eliminate the fire lane designation for the dirt portion of Smith Park Lane. The dirt portion of the roadway is the lower section from the paved turnaround area to Mill Pond Road. The Durham Community Church owns the majority of Smith Park Lane and this land is largely leased to the Durham Housing Association.
The Town has had issues with significant erosion over the years as water sheets down the unpaved portion of Smith Park Lane onto Mill Pond Road creating a recurring issue of dirt and sand washing over the Town’s sidewalk along the roadway and ultimately into the Mill Pond contributing to the filling in of the pond and turbidity problems for the watershed.
The Fire Department and Public Works Department are open to the request and therefore the matter will be brought forward for Council consideration in the coming weeks.
To view a copy of the letter received from the Durham Housing Association, click HERE.
|
|
MOBILE NITROGEN RECYCLER PROJECT OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED
A project team of UNH students working on their senior capstone projects officially launched the first ever Mobile Nitrogen Recycler in Durham last evening for the purpose of diverting urine from Durham’s sewage waste stream for use as agricultural fertilizer. The “Pee Bus” as it has affectionately been named is the brain child of UNH Civil Engineering students Taylor Walter, Adam Carignan, Aly Packhem, and Business major Liz McCrary who are working with Town Engineer David Cedarholm and UNH Civil Engineering Professor Nancy Kinner.
For the initial deployment, the Pee Bus will be positioned at the Elizabeth DeMeritt House on Garrison Ave for the next couple of weekends during late night hours to provide relief facilities to students as they meander about campus.
The project focus is to investigate the feasibility of diverting urine from Durham's wastewater treatment plant, which receives its highest influent nitrogen levels on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings between the hours of 11 PM and 2 AM. On average, about 80% of the nitrogen entering the treatment facility is from human urine.
The Mobile Nitrogen Recycler project proposes finding an alternative and sustainable destination for the urine. The project is an extension of the Oyster River Integrated Watershed Plan joint effort between the Town and UNH and also serves as a public outreach tool to help education the students and community at large about role that nitrogen plays in the water quality of the Great Bay Estuary. Working closely with Durham and UNH, the team hopes to introduce this new innovative approach to the community.
The idea of using urine fertilizer is not a new one, rather it’s been around for thousands of years. Different cultures around the world continue to use urine as a cost effective fertilizer still today. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium naturally exist in urine in readily available forms suitable for effective plant uptake. However, today’s porcelain bathroom culture has evolved to make all conversation regarding waste management awkward and uncomfortable.
People are accustom to just flushing away their waste and often don't think about where the waste ends up or even that it may be a valuable resource.
If the nitrogen flow could be intercepted downtown as well as at town and campus-wide events, the project could remove an influential amount of urine from the waste stream and collect it to use as a research fertilizer on hay crop.
Local farmers Dorn Cox and Ray LaRoche are both interested in volunteering their acreage for fertilizer research. Lower percentages of nitrogen in the waste stream means less to remove at the facility, and ultimately an offset of nitrogen influent to the Great Bay Estuary.
The team will also be collecting data to evaluate the interest and acceptance of a urine diverting culture in the local Durham community. Tonight will be their second night of collection, and the hope to for a steady “stream” of donators.
|
|
MASTER PLAN DRAFT MAPS
The Town has hired Strafford Regional Planning Commission (SRPC) to complete the updated Master Plan. SRPC has prepared a number of DRAFT maps of existing conditions (These are subject to change). To view the maps, click HERE.
|
|
VACANCIES ON TOWN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES
On April 30, 2014, terms on various Town boards, commissions, and committees will expire. In mid-April, the Town Council will begin the process for making its annual appointments/reappointments to Town boards, with appointments to take effect May 1, 2014. 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 28, 2014.
Conservation Commission: 4 regular vacancies; 1 alternate vacancy
Durham Agricultural Commission: 2 regular vacancies; 2 alternate vacancies
Durham Energy Committee: 3 vacancies
Economic Development Committee: 1 regular vacancy
Historic District /Heritage Commission: 2 regular vacancies
Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee: 2 regular vacancy; 1 alternate vacancy
Oyster River Management Advisory Committee: 2 vacancies
Parks and Recreation: 1 regular vacancy
Planning Board: 2 regular vacancies; 1 alternate vacancy
Strafford Regional Planning Commission MPO Policy Committee: 1 vacancy
Zoning Board of Adjustment: 1 regular vacancy; 1 alternate vacancy
|
|
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 16-18, 2014, at Kingman Farm in Madbury. In three days, families will construct the Oyster River Cat, a 12-foot sailboat, that is also an excellent rowboat. All skill levels are welcome; just bring a desire to work together as a family. An experienced Docent/boat builder will work with families every step of the way. A $1,500 fee includes all boat building materials and a professionally made sail for each family. Each family must include at least one family member 12-20 years old. Also included is a day of sailing instruction at Mendum's Pond. For more information, contact Mark Wiley at 603-862-6702, or visit http://www.seagrant.unh.edu/family-boat-building
|
|
ZONING DETERMINATION FOR 66 MAIN STREET – THE VACANT FORMER ATO FRATERNITY BUILDING ON MAIN STREET – Building No Longer Possesses Grandfathered Status for Fraternity/Sorority Use
The owner of the former ATO Fraternity House property at 66 Main Street that has been empty now since November 6, 2011, was recently informed by the Code Enforcement Department that the property was no longer grandfathered for a fraternity use.
After having been raided by police as part of a drug investigation the prior year, Fire caused extensive interior damage on July 11, 2012.
A Building permit #13-461 to repair that damage was issued on June 3, 2013. To date, there has been no active progress on restoration of the fire damaged area under that permit and it expired.
There has also been no Fraternity or Sorority in Occupancy of the structure for well over 1 year, the time period under which grandfathered status expires. Further, the fraternity has pursued other non-fraternity/sorority uses for the parcel to include the SORA project which ultimately did not move forward.
The Durham Zoning Ordinance, 175-28.C, requires a Non-Conforming Use that has been discontinued after a year to meet the current Zoning Ordinance for any subsequent Uses. The current Zoning Ordinance does not allow Fraternity/Sorority Uses within the Central Business District.
Planning Board action will be required for any Change in Use in the future.
Durham’s Planning Department has recently been advised by the owner of the parcel, Gamma Theta Corporation (the local alumni chapter of ATO fraternity), that it is in conversations with Rite Aid Pharmacy to redevelop the property as a pharmacy use. Gamma Theta is presently marketing the 66 Main Street property.
As you may know, Rite Aid has been evaluating possible locations in Durham for some time as it seeks a larger/freestanding venue from its present Mill Plaza location – potentially at the Town Office site or elsewhere.
|
|
DURHAM POLICE CALEA ASSESSMENT - PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION ON MARCH 31, 2014
The Durham Police have been a nationally accredited law enforcement agency since 1999. To maintain that status, every three years assessors visit Durham and inspect the policies and procedures to ensure that the agency has established best practice standards and equally as important, that the agency is adhering to them. The Durham Police Department is scheduled for an on-site assessment as part of a program to achieve accreditation by verifying it meets professional standards.
A team of Assessors representing the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA), will confirm the Durham Police Department's ability to comply with state of the art standards in four basic areas: policy and procedures, administration, operations, and support services. The team will consist of Chief Carl Shinner of the La Plata Police Department, La Plata, Maryland and Ms. Synthia Nugent of the Wilmette Police Department, Wilmette, Illinois.
As part of the on-site assessment, agency employees and members of the community are invited to offer comments at a public information session on Monday, March 31, 2014 at 7:00 PM. The session will be conducted in the Durham Police Department Community Room, #86 Dover Road, Durham, New Hampshire.
Agency employees and the public are also invited to offer comments by calling: 603-590-0770, on Monday, March 31, 2014 between the hours of 1PM and 3PM. Comments will be taken by the Assessment Team.
Telephone comments as well as appearances at the public information session are limited to ten minutes and must address the agency's ability to comply with CALEA's standards. A copy of the standards is available at the Durham Police Department. Local contact is Captain David Holmstock at 603-868-2324.
Any person wishing to submit written comments about the Durham Police Department's ability to comply with the standards for accreditation may send them to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA), 10302 Eaton Place, Suite 100, Fairfax, Virginia, 22030-2201.
To find out more information about the process, click HERE.
|
|
WHAT IF WE MAKE DURHAM MORE WALKABLE?
Social capital -- a community's collective asset that is based on the power of its social networks -- is enhanced by safe sidewalks, good lighting, and well designed, compact development with easy access to shops, parks, schools, and dining.
Studies indicate that communities that are walkable are linked to greater health benefits, higher home values, and better mental health.
With the Master Plan update underway, residents might wish to learn more about this concept. Read the newly published UNH Carsey Institute article, "Walking Builds Community Cohesion."
|
|
Major accomplishments were made this week regarding framing at the new Town Hall site. This picture is the installation/erection of the wall system between the Main Lobby and Council Chambers. Courtesy Craig Stevens
|
|
MEETING OF THE MACALLEN DAM STUDY COMMITTEE
The Macallen Dam Study Committee will hold a meeting on Thursday, March 27, 2014 beginning at 7:00 PM at the Newmarket Town Hall, Council chambers. The agenda is as follows:
-
Introduction: Why the Town is studying removal of the dam: An Overview of the project
-
Update of Project – Gary LeMay of Gomez and Sullivan
-
Preliminary Results of Hydraulic Model
-
Preliminary cost estimate for dam removal
-
Draft report status
-
Status of CLF Grant Extension
-
Public Education/Outreach
-
Report on Meeting with NH DOT regarding hydraulic modeling
-
Other Business
-
Adjourn
|
|
UNH KINESIOLOGY DEPARTMENT CARDIAC PREVENTION EXERCISE PROGRAM
The UNH Kinesiology Department’s Cardiac Prevention Exercise Program is intended for individuals over the age of 45 years with risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of the program is to help individuals improve their overall health for the prevention of a heart attack, stroke or invasive cardiovascular repair surgery through regular exercise and education.
The program offers health-related fitness testing and an individualized 24-session exercise intervention based on the participant’s personal goals and fitness testing results. Education is also provided about the major risk factors for heart disease and the lifestyle habits that can be adopted to reduce overall CVD risk. For more information about the program, click HERE.
|
|
|
|
THE LATEST PRODUCTIONS FROM DCAT STUDIOS
The Return of Music to the Bulletin Board System
Where is the music coming from on the bulletin board? After many years of the bulletin board being silent, music has returned! DCAT has added Pandora Live Streaming Commercial Free music to the bulletin board system. The music that’s playing is at the discretion of the DCAT Coordinator, but that doesn’t mean suggestions are not welcome. For the next week a combination of Lite Rock & Pop Hits Radio will be playing, in the cue; Jazz & Easy Listening. If you have any suggestions, please contact: Craig Stevens, DCAT Coordinator – dcat@ci.durham.nh.us
=======================
The Quotable Eleanor Roosevelt, Sundays @ 1:30 PM, Run time: 44 Minutes
Learn about one of the most fascinating first ladies this country has ever had: Eleanor Roosevelt. Author Michele Albion brings Mrs. Roosevelt to life in an interactive discussion about the inspirational and aspirational woman. This video is also available for viewing on the Town’s On Demand site.
=======================
Bicycling Through Europe: One Durham Family’s Adventures
Sundays @ 5:55 PM, Run time: 1:10
Think about it: imagine packing up your family, notifying teachers, renting your home, hugging your friends good-bye and setting off on a bicycle tour of Europe! One Durham family did just that. Last year, Chris and Wendy Brooks decided to bring their children on a sight-seeing adventure through Europe. They will tell you the story, share their pictures, and perhaps inspire you to take your own journey. This video is also available for viewing on the Town’s On Demand site.
These videos are also available for viewing on the Town’s On Demand site.
|
|
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.
Planning Board - Wednesday, March 26, 2014. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.
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://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, please click HERE.
DCAT Programming Schedule, please click HERE.
|
|
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.
Archery students practicing technique during their first class last week. Courtesy Stefanie Frazee
R.E.A.C.H – Recreation Education and Adventure Close to Home - A collaboration between Oyster River Cooperative School District, Durham Parks & Recreation Department, and the UNH InterOperability Laboratory to provide exceptional opportunities for our ORCSD students. Camp R.E.A.C.H is a community-based summer camp experience. Register and find out more HERE.
Yoga for Active Adults (55+) - A new class starts this Monday, March 24th. Find out more HERE!
New Classes and Times! - View our weekly calendar and class descriptions HERE!
Mad Science Vacation Week - Join us April 21st – 24th for our Super Duper Science Sampler (grades 2-6). Register and find out more HERE.
20th Annual Egg Hunt – Saturday, April 19th. Find out more HERE.
BALANCE – Martial Arts for Women – NEW! - Shaolin Kung Fu is a form of martial arts that promotes self-defense techniques along with the cultivation of overall physical conditioning, and spiritual well-being. The class begins with a light warm-up and stretch, progressing to single technique forms (basic punch, kick, blocking). To learn more Email: sfrazee@ci.durham.nh.us to put your name on the mailing list.
Senior Trips – Are you interested in taking a trip to places like Boston, New York, Foxwoods, etc.? Email: sfrazee@ci.durham.nh.us to put your name on the mailing list.
Volunteer With DPR - Do you like being outdoors? Do you have a group looking for ways to be more involved and give back to the community? Contact: sfrazee@ci.durham.nh.us to learn about local volunteer opportunities. Find out more HERE.
============================
Save the Date:
-
Annual Egg Hunt - Saturday, 4/19 (Rain Date: Sunday, 4/20)
-
Memorial Day Parade - Monday, 5/26. If you would like to be involved with this year's parade, please email the Parks & Recreation Director: sfrazee@ci.durham.nh.us
-
World Tai Chi Day Demonstration - Saturday, 4/26
-
Summer Kickoff Party - Saturday, 6/28
-
Music by the Bay Summer Concert Series - July, August
-
Durham Day - Saturday, 9/27
|
|
DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING - SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2014
The Durham Historic Association will hold its annual meeting on Saturday, April 26, 2014 at 2:30 PM in the Oyster River Room of the Durham Public Library. The program features the Bragdon Collection of Durham Documents, Discoveries from an old Durham Barn, the Fortieth Anniversary of Durham Rejecting the Onassis’ Oil Refinery, and the Election of Officers and Directors for 2014-2016. Refreshments will be served.
|
|
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Snow White Ballet, ORHS, Saturday, Mar 29 @ 7PM and Sunday, Mar 30 @ 2PM, ORHS auditorium. Limited ticket availability will be at the door and on-line purchasing (recommended) at http://www.northeasternballet.org/
Great Bay Rowing, located at Jackson’s Landing in Durham, has a variety of Camp programs for students interested in learning to row or improving their rowing skills. For a full description of GBR Rowing Camp options offered this summer, click HERE.
Durham Garden Club presents “Sweet Delights: Growing Your Own Small Fruit”, Tuesday, Mar 25, 2014, 6:30 PM, Durham Public Library. Giff Burnap, owner of Butternut Farm in Farmington, NH, and president of the New Hampshire Fruit Growers Association, will share the secrets of growing luscious strawberries, blueberries and raspberries in the home garden. Free and open to the public.
Durham Police Officers Association Pancake Breakfastt, Saturday, April 5, 2014, 8:00-10:00 AM, Durham Evangelical Church, Dover Road. Proceeds benefit the Chief Ray Burrows Scholarship Fund. $7/adults, $3/children for all you can eat pancakes, home fries, sausage, bacon, and eggs.
Museum of Art, UNH - Draw On!, featuring visiting artist Alison Williams, Saturday, Apr 5, 2014, 10AM - 2PM. Program is designed for children of all ages and their families to explore the creative process of drawing. For more information, contact Sara Zela, 603-862-3713, sara.zela@unh.edu.
|
|
DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Baby Lap-Sit Saturday, March 22nd at 10:30 a.m. (ages 2 & under with care-giver) – Join us for stories, songs, fingerplays and a time to socialize afterwards. You will receive a ring to add fingerplays on each week you attend!
Electric Car Charging Station Available for Library Patrons - Wondering what that black, space-age looking contraption attached to the library’s covered bicycle parking area is? It’s a GE Wattstation car charger for electric vehicles and it’s recently been brought online for use by patrons with electric cars. Park next to the bike shed and hook up to the Wattstation to keep your vehicle charged while visiting the library.
New DPL Exhibit! Confronting the South: New Hampshire People During the Civil War - Last year marked the 150 year anniversary of the start of the American Civil War. Between April 1861 and the spring of 1865, the Civil War tested concepts of nationhood, attitudes toward race and human rights, gender roles, and the U.S. Constitution itself. Through the soldier’s letters, the exhibit interprets three aspects of the war: Confronting the South- the soldiers reaction to being in unfamiliar territory; Seeing the Elephant- popular term describing being in battle for the first time; and Life at Home- feelings and hardship of those left behind in New Hampshire. Exhibit is on loan from the UNH Dimond Library Special Collections.
Chess and Board Game Afternoon (ages 10 & up), Monday March 24th 3:00-4:00 p.m. – Join us every Monday afternoon now in the Young Adult room for a game of chess (or other board games).
Pre-school Storytimes: Tues. March 25th and Thurs. March 27th at 10:30 a.m. –The theme is: Space!
Pajama story times are once a month sponsored by Oyster River Parents and Preschoolers (ORPP). All are welcome! The next one is on Tuesday, March 25th at 6:30 pm and this month: Spring and Ducks! Come and hear stories about ducks and make a fun spring craft. Come wearing your pajamas. We read stories, do fingerplays, songs, feltboard and make a craft. ORPP supplies a snack.
Poetry Series Begins with Poet Laureate Marie Harris Wednesday, March 26 at 7 p.m. - Marie Harris kicks off the library's three-poet Spring Poetry Series! Join us for this evening of poetry! Harris is the NH Poet Laureate 1999-2004, who co-produced the first-ever gathering of state poets laureate.
Lego Club, Thurs. March 27th at 3:45-4:45 p.m. – Join us Thursdays to make Lego creations. Lego Club is in need of Lego Donations! Have any Legos that you would like to donate to the library? They will be put to good use at our very popular Lego Club.
Living on Mt. Washington, Thurs. March 27th, 6:30-8:30 p.m. - Join us for an insider's view on what it's like to live on Mount Washington--the home of the world's worst weather! Durham native Sam Hewitt will show pictures, tell stories, and answer questions about his current position as an intern at the Mount Washington Observatory. DPL Staff member Nicole Moore will also be available to answer questions about her nine one-week stints as a volunteer cook on the rockpile.
Homeschoolers Activity Hour, Friday March 28th, 10:30 a.m. – This week: Let’s Cook It! We will hear books, play some games, do some puzzles and make a craft. This group is geared to home-schoolers but all are welcome.
Crafternoon – Fri. March 28th 3:00-4:30 p.m. – Stop by the Children’s craft room on Fridays for a fun craft.
Apparently, I just don't get it: things I'm learning from my transgender child, Monday, March 31st, 7:00-8:00 p.m. - Durham parent Christy Hegarty will be sharing her Tedx talk that details her experience of raising a transgender child, and what she has learned so far.
Friends Book Discussion: "The Love of a Good Woman" Wednesday, April 16 at 10:30 a.m. - Join us for April's Friends book discussion. Jennifer Lee will lead us through three stories from The Love of A Good Woman by Alice Munro: the title story, "The Children Stay" and, "Before the Change." The books are in and your copy awaits...
Tales for Tails sign-ups happening now. Contact the Children’s desk to register.
Patch Club! Earn patches and a library bag for your reading time. Register at the children’s desk.
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.
Visit the DPL website www.durhampubliclibrary.org for more information.
|
|
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
1760 - John Sullivan was born in Somersworth and came to town as the first layer at age 20. He prospered and owned slaves, and mills on both the Lamprey and Oyster Rivers. A mab fired on his home because of his foreclosures on property and unfair interest rates.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
