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NEWS & HAPPENINGS...
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Friday, March 31, 2017
APRIL FOOLS' EDITION
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Above is one of the seasonal murals hanging on the wall in the back room at Young's Restaurant. A similar scene will most likely occur this weekend at Wagon Hill Farm after the newly fallen snow amounts that are being predicted for the area. Will spring one day arrive? Courtesy Todd Selig
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It is no April Fools’ Day prank that a major snowstorm is quickly descending upon the region. However, the following items are definitely "alternative facts"…
APRIL FOOLS' EDITION...
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DONALD TRUMP ANNOUNCES HE IS MOVING TO DURHAM!
Seacoast realtors are abuzz with the news that President Donald J. Trump plans to relocate to Durham, NH. The new homestead, referred to as “Maralago North” by senior administration insiders who prefer to remain unnamed, will be located somewhere along the Oyster River/Great Bay – possibly near Harmony Homes.
Citing Aristotle Onassis’ extensive efforts in evaluating ideal waterfront locations dating to the early 1970’s, Mr. Trump has indicated he is looking into potential deep-water tidal locations with 24/7 tidal access.
Contacted by advisors last week while the President was en route from Logan Airport to Durham by bus to tour various properties with his realtor, Town Clerk Lorrie Pitt had to inform the President that no, he could not vote in Durham before actually moving to town. “You must first establish domicile before being able to vote in Durham,” stated Pitt.
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Durham Resident & UNH Vice President for Finance and Administration Christopher Clement Courtesy NH Magazine
DURHAM’S CHRIS CLEMENT NAMED SEXIEST MAN ALIVE!
Brushing aside the likes of Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson, heartthrob David Beckham, and actor Sean Connery, Durham resident Chris Clement, 52, has been named the 2017 Sexiest Man Alive by People Magazine.
People, an American weekly magazine of celebrity and human-interest stories published by Time Inc., has a readership of 46.6 million adults.
“Credit goes to my amazing wife, Wendy. She brings out the very best in me,” stated Mr. Clement when asked about this honor. Chris also serves as Vice President for Finance at the University of New Hampshire.
Recently dubbed one of only a handful of “Fashion statements in the Granite State” by NH Magazine, Clement says his favorite designers are Pal Zileri and John Varvatos for their “enhanced” approach to modern style.
Learn more HERE.
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SWEEPING NEW MAPLE SYRUP REGULATIONS ON TAP FOR DURHAM
On the heels of NH Maple Sugar week, Durham Town Council Chair Kitty Marple is adamant that what the community needs is a Maple Sugar bucket at every property in town. “There are just too many sour pusses roving around these days,” stated Marple. “Maple syrup equals liquid gold, and liquid gold is good for the soul!”
The proposed comprehensive regulations require that every able-bodied household with maple trees deploy at least one maple syrup tap annually to help bolster more local production.
Former Durham resident/Town Councilor Julian “Puddy” Smith has written to the Council throwing his full political support behind the initiative. “I just wish I had thought of it,” he wrote.
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IKEA coming to town.
IKEA TO ACQUIRE WAGON HILL FARM!
IKEA, the Netherlands-based company that designs and sells ready-to-assemble furniture, kitchen appliances, and home accessories, has announced a purchase and sales agreement between the mega-company and the Town of Durham to build the world’s largest superstore at Wagon Hill Farm.
“We just thought IKEA was a super fit for this iconic location,” stated Rob Sullivan, Chair of the Durham Conservation Commission. “It’s really in keeping with our stewardship plans for the parcel.”
Police Chief David Kurz, who will be overseeing the $1.96 million renovation and addition at the Durham Police Department this coming year, is excited about the good pricing and high quality products at IKEA. “Our new booking room is going to look fantastic!” said Kurz.
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EVERSOURCE DECIDES TO TAKE THE SEACOAST RELIABILITY PROJECT IN A NEW DIRECTION
Raising the white flag of surrender, Eversource spokesperson Martin Murray announced today that after many months of discussion with Durham concerning the company’s proposed Seacoast Reliability Project and the planned underwater crossing of the Little Bay, the company has ultimately decided to go in a different direction – up!
Rather than crossing the estuary using jet plow technology, the regional electric provider will utilize 450’ towers to traverse the distance between Durham and Newington above ground. “If we just get the towers high enough, folks won’t notice them,” Murray said. “Hopefully this will satisfy Durham. Todd Selig keeps calling and calling our people every day to express concern … and he is so nice … we just can’t stand it any longer!"
Local officials are excited as well. Durham Energy Committee Chairperson Charles Forcey believes there may be real potential with the tall, tall, tall, tall, structural steel towers. “If we locate windmills on them, they could have serious generation potential,” he said.
Immediate abutters to the bay were not amused!
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TRAMMELL CROW COMPANY TAPS BETH OLSHANSKY
The Trammell Crow Company, one of the nation’s largest real estate development companies, has announced that Durham’s own Beth Olshansky has been appointed to serve on the board of directors.
Matt Khourie, Trammell Crow’s Chief Executive Officer, could hardly contain his elation, “We have had our eye on Beth for a long time. The work that she has done in Durham, paving the way for sizable new projects in that Northeastern community, is exactly what we need to carry Trammell Crow into a dynamic new century.”
Beth has committed to continuing publication of Citizen’s Exchange even though she will now be spending considerable time in ... Dallas. :)
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A NEW WORD IS BORN: Durhamesque
We were amused to see a new entry in the 2017 edition of Merriam Webster. Durhamesque is defined as “Funky, liberal, slightly off beat, thoughtful, open minded, sustainable, spirited, fair, and tending generally to be opposed to new development -- unless of course that development is of extraordinarily high quality.”
William “Bill” Bell, mayor of Durham, North Carolina, was quick to exult in the lexicographic addition (though we know the word’s true etymology).
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DCAT STUDIOS ANNOUNCES NEW SERIES: TODD SELIG--UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL - (By DCAT Coordinator Craig Stevens)
Have you ever wondered what it’s like when Administrator Selig leaves the office, closes the door to his house, and announces “I’m home” (for some reason only the dogs come running!)?
Sit back as the DCAT crew moves in with the Selig’s for one week! Watch as the not so personal life of Mr. Selig unfolds on your TV. Answer those questions you’ve longed to know… Is he a side, back, or stomach sleeper? Does he sleep at all? How is it that he always seems so calm?
Enjoy the DCAT crew being sneaky as they catch Todd watching an old episode of the Beverly Hillbillies, or the Streets of San Francisco.
Watch as the DCAT crew catches a glimpse of Todd smoking a cigar on his back deck looking out at the Merrick Woods, and laugh as Loren and the girls roll their eyes when Todd tries to be funny.
See this and more on your DCAT 22!! Episode #1 will be Livestreamed as the fun unfolds.
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ORCSD Supt. Jim Morse's yoga instructor performing the Cobbler's Pose or Baddha Konasana Courtesy World Wide Web
DALAI LAMA VISITS DURHAM PARKS & RECREATION
In another coup for Durham’s high-flying parks & recreation director, Rachel Gasowski announced that the Dalai Lama will hold a one-day workshop on Saturday, May 20, in the middle school multi-purpose room on praanayam, positive thinking, and the five Tibetan rites. His Holiness could hardly contain his enthusiasm about returning to his “old stomping grounds” at UNH. "I can't wait to get together with my good buddy, Neil Niman!," stated His Holiness.
When contacted at the SAU for comment about the Dalai Lama coming to ORMS, Oyster River Superintendent Jim Morse was unavailable for comment. His assistant indicated he was too busy trying really hard to relax in the Cobbler's Pose or Baddha Konasana.
Namaste y’all!
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AND NOW ... SOME REAL NEWS
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NH DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES CONDUCTS OIL SPILL BOOM DEPLOYMENT TEST THIS PAST WEEK
On March 30th, 2017 the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NH DES) deployed a portion of an oil spill protection strategy in Upper Little Bay as a trial in order to improve the effectiveness of the overall strategy. The test consisted of deploying 2 lengths of oil spill boom totaling approximately 1,700 feet. These lengths are part of the overall strategy intended to minimize the amount of spilled oil that could be carried by the current upstream towards Great Bay.
The trial will began at approximately 8:30 AM and continued until approximately 2:00 PM.
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CARBON TAX INITIATIVE – Representatives from Citizens’ Climate Lobby met with Mr. Selig to discuss their initiative
This week, three members of the community met with Admin. Selig to discuss their interest in Durham throwing its support behind encouraging the US Congress to initiate a revenue-neutral fee on the production of carbon.
They argue that whereas the weight of scientific evidence indicates that greenhouse gas emissions from human activities including the burning of fossil fuels and other sources are causing rising global temperatures, that phased-in carbon fees on greenhouse gas emissions: (1) are the most efficient, transparent, and enforceable mechanism to drive an effective and fair transition to a domestic-energy economy; and (2) they will stimulate investment in alternative-energy technologies; and (3) the would give all businesses powerful incentives to increase their energy-efficiency and reduce their carbon footprints in order to remain competitive.
They also argue that equal monthly dividends (or “rebates”) from carbon fees paid to every American household can help ensure that families and individuals can afford the energy they need during the transition to a greenhouse gas-free economy, and they assert the dividends will stimulate the economy.
Mr. Selig suggested the group meet and discuss these matters with the Durham Energy Committee such that the Energy Committee might then be in a position to provide a recommendation relative to the matter for consideration by the Town Council.
Learn more about the initiative HERE.
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CEDAR POINT ROAD – EVALUATING THE POSSIBILITY OF PAVING THE GRAVEL SECTION OF ROADWAY – AN UPDATE
The Town has hired an engineering firm to evaluate and provide options for potentially paving the gravel section of Cedar Point Road. The loose schedule in place for this effort follows:
2017
February – April, Survey and construction design.
May – July, Public Hearings, discussions, possible vote.
August, Possible project inclusion in CIP Budget.
November, Budget approval/cut.
2018
June, Possible paving/drainage project.
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PROPOSED ZONING AMENDMENT MOVES BACK TO TOWN COUNCIL FOR FIRST READING ON MONDAY
On October 17, 2016, Councilors Jim Lawson, Kenny Rotner, and Firoze Katrak placed on the Council’s agenda for discussion and possible action to refer to the Planning Board a Council-initiated zoning amendment to change Mixed Use with Residential (office/retail down, multiunit up) to Not Permitted in the Central Business District; and to add a new definition for Mixed Use with Elderly Housing which is proposed as a Conditional Use in the Central Business District.
After months of discussion and numerous continued public hearings, the Planning Board offered its nonbinding recommendations to the Council.
Mixed Use with Residential. Change Mixed Use with Residential (office/retail down, multiunit residential up) from conditional use to not permitted in the Central Business District. Planning Board voted 6-1 to recommend against adopting the amendment.
Mixed Use with Elderly Housing. Add a new definition for Mixed Use with Elderly Housing (office/retail down, elderly housing up), allow as a conditional use in Central Business District, and add references to this use in Section 175-41 Central Business District and Section 175-53 B. General Use Regulations. Voted 7-0 to recommend in favor of adopting the amendment.
Since the March 22, 2017 Planning Board meeting, the Town received a Protest Petition on March 24, 2017 from property owners in accordance with New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 675:5 I-a (a). PZA Administrative Assistant, Karen Edwards, has verified that that the requirements stated in RSA 675:5 I-a (a) have been met: “The owners of 20 percent of the area of the lots included in such proposed change”.
In accordance with the “Protest Process” outlined in Section 175-14 G. 2. a. (2) of the Durham Zoning Ordinance, at the beginning of the Council meeting on Monday evening, the Chairperson of the Durham Town Council is required to “announce at the opening of the Council meeting that a protest petition has been received.”
At Monday night’s Council meeting, the Council will hold a First Reading on the proposed Council-initiated ordinance (attached) in accordance with Section 175-14 F. “Amendment Procedure” of the Durham Town Code.
If the Council decides to move the proposed ordinance on First Reading, a Public Hearing will be scheduled for the April 17, 2017 Council meeting, which will be duly posted and held in accordance with Section 175-14 D. 1. of the Zoning Ordinance.
Once the Public Hearing notice is closed, and when the Council is prepared to take action on the proposed ordinance, a two-thirds (2/3) vote of all Council members present will need to occur in order for any amendment or repeal to become effective in accordance with Section 175-14 G. 2. b. of the Zoning Ordinance.
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TOWN COUNCIL TO DISCUSS POTENTIALLY EXTENDING MR. SELIG’S EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH DURHAM
At the end of the Town Council meeting on Monday, February 20, 2017, the Council entered Nonpublic Session to discuss the possibility of lengthening the Administrator’s employment contract. The Council met in Nonpublic Session one additional time concerning this matter on March 7, 2017.
At this time, the Council is desirous of renewing Mr. Selig’s employment contract, so long as agreeable terms can be reached, for a period of nine (9) years, extending it from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2025.
On March 29, 2017, Chair Marple and Chair Pro Tem Rotner met with Mr. Selig and outlined the Council’s thinking relative to a contract extension through December 31, 2025. On March 30th, Mr. Selig subsequently followed up with Chair Marple and Chair Pro Tem Rotner with his thoughts which, along with the Council’s thinking, are being incorporated into a draft contract document for further discussion by the Council.
The Council will discuss this matter on Monday evening.
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NHDOT ROUTE 108 WIDENING PROJECT TO RESUME IN APRIL 2017
Phase B of the Route 108 Project, from the Durham Town Hall to Hamel Brook Bridge, and Stagecoach Road to Newmarket, is expected to begin in April, however prior to that date, utility crews will begin working on moving poles in Durham.
NHDOT will require that the contractor maintain two-way flowing traffic during the morning and afternoon commute –one-way traffic is permitted only during the hours of 8AM – 3PM.
Durham DPW has attended preconstruction meetings with NHDOT and the contractor American Excavating. We will have direct communication with them in regards to scheduling and sharing of information. If you have questions about the project please contact Town Engineer April Talon at 603-868-5578 or via email at atalon@ci.durham.nh.us.
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EVERSOURCE SRP APPLICATION PROCESS RESTARTS – Amendment submitted by company to NH Site Evaluation Committee
In April of 2016, Eversource submitted an application to the NH Site Evaluation Committee (SEC) for a new 13-mile 115kV transmission line from Madbury, through Durham and Newington, and into Portsmouth. This project is referred to as the Seacoast Reliability Project (SRP) which will provide additional transmission capacity to the Seacoast region.
ISO-New England, the region's electric grid operator, highlighted this area as needing an upgrade to ensure the electricity continues to flow to the homes and businesses in the general seacoast region.
This week Eversource submitted some changes to the SEC to address local concerns in the town of Newington.
At the time Eversource’s application was submitted, certain line design modifications, including more burial of the line, were requested, and while Eversource did not have the necessary land rights to accommodate those modifications at the time of the application filing, the company agreed to continue working with the town of Newington and its residents to obtain to those rights. After working extensively with Newington town officials and residents over the past year, Eversource now has contracts to acquire the necessary land rights required to support the requested line design modifications These design changes are reflected in an amendment to the SRP application which Eversouce submitted to the SEC earlier this week.
In addition to these underground design changes in Newington, the amendment also reflects various changes in the overhead design in several locations based on input received from town of Durham and Newington officials, the NH Department of Transportation, and property owners along the corridor.
The siting schedule for this project will be re-established by the SEC in the near future allowing time for its process and public input according to the SEC rules.
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UNH/DURHAM WATER SYSTEM - SYSTEM PRESSURE CHANGES
The Town and UNH would like to inform water system users that over the next few weeks there will be minor variations in water pressure experienced system wide as we make adjustments to water storage tank levels throughout the system. If you have questions about water pressure at your home please call the Water Department at Durham Public Works at 603-868-5578.
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HYDROCOMP, INC. WINNER OF 2017 NEW HAMPSHIRE SMALL BUSINESS AWARD
The U.S. Small Business Administration and the New Hampshire Bankers Association has announced its 2017 New Hampshire Small Business Award winners recognizing outstanding small business owners throughout the state. HydroComp, Inc, a Durham company located on Jenkins Court, has been awarded "New Hampshire Exporter of the Year".
Learn more about HydroComp, Inc. HERE.
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CHIEF KURZ ATTENDS EXECUTIVE CYBER ROUNDTABLE SYMPOSIUM
Chief Kurz was invited to attend a day-long Justice Executive Cyber Roundtable, on cyber-related investigation and prosecution issues and how they impact state court trial practice.
The roundtable was sponsored by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and was held at the headquarters of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) in Alexandria, Virginia. The project was designed to identify emerging social media and cell phone evidence admissibility issues.
Chief Kurz was invited due to Durham’s recognized “Best Practice” strategy on addressing ransomware issues protecting police record management systems as well as BJA’s desire to understand issues related to smaller police agencies which comprise 87% of all law enforcement agencies in the United States.
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RIGHT-TO-KNOW LAW EDUCATIONAL SESSION SCHEDULED FOR BOARD MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY - TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2017
The members of the Town of Durham’s boards, committees, commissions, Town Council, and Library Board of Trustees serve as members of public boards and are therefore responsible to act in accordance with the Right-to-Know law in the State of New Hampshire. The Preamble of the Right-to-Know law reads: “Openness in the conduct of public business is essential to a democratic society. The purpose of this chapter is to ensure both the greatest possible public access to the actions, discussions and records of all public bodies, and their accountability to the people.”
In order to ensure that the members of Durham’s public boards are given the resources they need to act in accord with RSA 91-A, a Right-to-Know law educational session has been scheduled for Tuesday, April 25, 2017, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Durham Town Hall Town Council chambers.
Attorney Laura Spector Morgan from The Mitchell Group will be present to provide an overview of the Right-to-Know law and to answer any questions that board members may have. The general public and Town department heads are invited and encouraged to attend the session, or to view it on Durham Community Access Television (Channel 22).
Oyster River School Board members are also invited to attend, as well as the Selectmen and board members from the communities of Lee, Madbury, and Newmarket.
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SELECTING A FACILITATOR FOR THE UPCOMING MASTER PLAN LAND USE FORUM SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, MAY 13TH
The Planning Board Master Plan Future Land Use Subcommittee is gearing up for a future land use community forum to be held on Saturday, May 13, 2017. The forum will be held at Holloway Common from 9AM - 3PM that day, and will include a special appearance from the ORMS Jazz Band.
Facilitators were interviewed to select a talented person to assist the subcommittee with putting on a successful forum for the community. Bob Brown, Peter Wolfe, Molly Donovan, Cynthia Copeland (SPRC), Michael Behrendt, and Todd Selig comprised the interview team. The group made a recommendation to Mr. Selig who will move forward with engaging the top candidate.
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TICK PRECAUTIONS AND BIRD FEEDERS – Durham Land Stewardship Subcommittee Tips of the Week
As described in last week’s Friday Update, the town hired Ellen Snyder (Ibis Wildlife Consulting) to work with the Durham Land Stewardship Subcommittee on the care of Durham’s conservation lands and other open spaces. Each week the Friday Update will have news of their activities and stewardship tips helpful to all of Durham’s residents. This week we provide tips on dealing with ticks that carry Lyme disease and on bird feeding--a surprisingly related topic.
Take Action to Prevent Ticks and Lyme Disease
As March rains wash away late winter snow and temperatures slowly warm, it is time to think about ticks, especially the blacklegged tick, which transmits Lyme disease to humans and pets. Adult blacklegged ticks are particularly active starting in March. The following two publications from New Hampshire offer information on tick identification, ecology, removal, and prevention measures (cut and paste the links into your browser to find these resources on the Internet):
A few key tips include:
- Ticks prefer areas of tall grass and shrubs. If you are going into such areas wear long pants and tuck pants into socks or wear high rubber boots or gaiters
- If you’ve been outside playing or working in vegetated areas, check yourself and your children and pets for ticks daily
- Remove any imbedded ticks using proper techniques
- If bitten by a blacklegged tick watch for any flu-like symptoms in weeks following bite
The Durham Land Stewardship Subcommittee will review the landscaping recommendations in these publications and provide information in future Friday Updates.
Take Down Bird Feeders by April 1st
Bird feeders are attractive to rodents including mice and chipmunks that feed on spilled or dropped seed. Since they are carriers of ticks, it is good practice to keep feeders away from your house. The NH Fish and Game Department also requests that people take down bird feeders by April 1st to avoid conflicts with hungry bears emerging from hibernation in spring. This is good practice in regards to tick prevention too as you don’t want to attract rodents to your yard when ticks are active in spring, summer, and fall.
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FOOD FRIENDLY YARDS
The Durham Agricultural Commission encourages residents to participate in home food production and small scale farming. Learn how to make your yard a nourishing, chemical free space for people, wildlife and pollinating insects.
On Wednesday, April 19, 2017 from 6:30 - 8PM at the Durham Public Library, Ag Commission member Ellen Karelitz will discuss a variety of ways to grow vegetables, introduce animals for food production, increase soil fertility and improve habitat for pollinators. Don't just grow a lawn! Make the most of your yard's potential, make it a FOOD FRIENDLY YARD!
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DURHAM'S ASSESSING DEPARTMENT
For those residents that received a letter to schedule an appointment with Jim Rice, Durham’s Municipal Assessor to inspect recent renovations/demolition made to their property and did not; he will be reviewing these changes over the next few weeks without scheduled appointments.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Assessing Office at 603-868-8064.
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HAVE YOUR APPLIED FOR YOUR SOLAR EXEMPTION YET?
Persons that own property in Durham and recently installed a “solar energy system” that utilizes solar energy to heat or cool the interior of their building, heat water, or to provide electricity, may qualify for a solar exemption.
The Town of Durham has adopted the Exemption for Solar Systems per RSA 72:62 which gives qualifying residents a solar exemption from their property tax assessment.
In order to qualify for this exemption, a PA-29 exemption application must be received by the Assessing Office by April 15, 2017. Applications may be downloaded from the Town website or may be picked up at the Assessor’s Office located on the 2nd floor of the Town Hall building at 8 Newmarket Road. Applications must also include the total installation cost and a detailed list of what equipment was installed on an applicant's property.
If approved, this exemption will be applied to 2017 assessments.
Please contact the Town Assessor at 603-868-8064, jrice@ci.durham.nh.us, with any questions regarding the solar systems exemption.
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DURHAM HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING
The Durham Historical Association (DHA) will hold its annual meeting on Saturday April 15th at 2 p.m. in the Durham Town Hall Council Chambers.
There will be a brief business meeting, which will include the election of officers and directors for 2017-2019. Annual membership dues will also be collected at this time.
Following the business meeting, Steve Taylor from the New Hampshire Humanities will present "New Hampshire’s Grange Movement: It’s Rise, Triumphs and Decline."
Refreshments will be served. This event is open to the general public.
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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, April 3, 2017
Durham Energy Committee - Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Planning Board - Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Human Rights Commission - Thursday, April 6, 2017 (9AM - 2nd Floor Conference Room)
Historic District Commission - Thursday, April 6, 2017
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All meetings recorded on DCAT are available on DVD at the Durham Public Library for checkout and viewing.
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DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22
Don’t miss the latest episode of “ In the Biz; Durham Business Spotlight”. This episode features Young’s Family Restaurant. Meet owner Ken Young and hear his strategy on how he keeps his restaurant on the cutting edge of the ever changing restaurant scene, he’ll also talk about how he brings his customers the freshest product available. There are a few surprises too. This video is available on DCAT 22 TV at 12:30 & 6:00 PM, DCAT on Demand, & our website. Total run time: 11 minutes
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DCAT is Live Streaming. Please join DCAT for any of our regularly scheduled meetings live-streamed directly to the device of your choice . It’s easy, all you have to do is go to: live-stream.com and follow the prompts to set up your live stream account. You’ll receive email updates as to when the meeting will be held and the start time. All you have to do is click and watch. Live-stream works on any PC (just remember to update your Adobe Flash player), Apple or Android device. Please contact dcat@ci.durham.nh.us with any questions.
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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.
Spring After School & Community Archery Clinics
Tuesdays: April 4th-May 2nd (no class on April 25th). After School Session for grades 5-12, 2:45-3:45pm.
Community Session for ages 7+ (youth & adults welcome), 4-5pm at the Oyster River Middle School. $70/pp. Archery In Motion will be instructing this four-week clinic which will focus on safety, proper shooting form and developing technique to become more precise in order to enhance the archers’ abilities. Pre-registration required by February 8th. Bus #84 from Mast Way and Moharimet is available for those needing transportation to the 4pm class- Please make appropriate accommodations with school if using bus transportation.
“The Great American Eclipse”
Thursday, April 6th at the Durham Public Library. 6:00-7:30pm.
Durham Parks & Recreation has once again teamed up with UNH Astronomer John Gianforte, The Sky Guy to offer an interactive and detailed presentation on the upcoming total solar eclipse. This eclipse will be the first one to cross US soil in many years, and we don’t want you to miss it! Join us to learn what an eclipse is, why they are special and how you can see it for yourself this summer!
Please pre-register by Wednesday, April 5th with Durham Parks & Recreation. Participation is FREE!
April Vacation Week- Wilderness Adventure Camp! April 24th-April 28th at Heron Point Conservation Area.
Durham Parks & Recreation has teamed up with Seven Rivers Paddling to offer this new land based camp program! During this week of camp, participants will be introduced to natural history and basic wilderness skills. From fire and shelter building to identifying wild edibles, participants will learn respect and responsibility for each other and the natural world. This week is about getting unplugged and enjoying all that nature has to offer!
Where: Heron Point Conservation Area Newmarket, NH
Ages: 6-10
Time: 8am-3:30pm
Cost: $345/camper
Get On Board
Wednesdays: May 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th at Churchill Rink- Jackson’s Landing.
DPR has teamed up with Rye Airfield to offer Get On Board: A program that introduces kids to the awesomeness of skateboarding through a safe, proven program.
$50/person. Includes ALL equipment and awesome, safe instruction from fully trained and licensed Rye Airfield instructors.
Grades 5th-8th: 3:00-4:00pm (bus #38 can be used from the middle school to Jackson’s Landing)
Grades 3rd& 4th: 4:00-5:00pm
Pre-registration HERE is required by April 28th!
Upcoming Events-Save The Date!!
Annual Egg Hunt at Durham Town Landing-Saturday, April 15th. 9:30am.
Durham Parks & Recreation and ORPP proudly present, The 22nd Annual Egg Hunt at Durham Town Landing!!
Hunt Details
-Please arrive between 9-9:20am
-The Hunt will start promptly at 9:30am
-Age appropriate hunting zones
-Find an egg with a “Golden Ticket” and win a prize!
-Light snacks & refreshments served
-Parking available in the dirt lot off Old Landing Road
Participants should be prepared to hunt outside. The Egg Hunt will take place regardless of weather!!
The 2017 Annual Egg Hunt has been kindly sponsored by The Candy Bar & Creamery, Kennebunk Savings Bank, and The UNH Interfraternity Council/Greek Community.
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COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Movies at the Memorial Union Building, UNH, every weekend in state-of-the-art theaters and snack bar. This week, 3/30 - 4/2: Patriots Day at 6:15 PM and 9PM. Next week, 3/6 - 4/9: Moonlight and A Dog's Purpose, same times. All movies are $4 for people under the age of 12 and $6 for all others. Buy tickets at the box office or online. For a full list of all the movies and times, click HERE.
Oyster River Folk Concert Presents The Gnomes - Global Folk Fusion, Saturday, Apr 1, 2017, 7PM, Unitarian Fellowship as a collaborative effort with the Durham Community Church. Tickets: $15/adults; $5/students. Can be purchased at the door beginning at 6:30. Visit the Gnomes website HERE.
Relay for Life Family Movie Night (donation only), Friday, Apr 7, 2017, 7PM, Disney-Pixar "Finding Dory". Hosted by the Oyster River High School's, Relay for Life team. In the past this has been a successful and a great time for the families to bring their children to the high school auditorium.
Marina's Miles 5K: (succeeding Todd's Trot), Saturday, Apr 8, 2017, 10AM, Oyster River High School. Fundraiser for a scholarship to celebrate the memory of former Durham resident and UNH student Marina Slavin. Door prizes! Free light refreshments (courtesy Wildcat Fitness, Hannafords & The Works). Free chair massages (courtesy of Body Mind Spirit Massage Therapy). Visit http://MarinasMiles.org to register.
Hans Christian Andersen's Classic "The Snow Queen", presented by Northeastern Ballet Theatre, Saturday, Apr 8, 2017 @ 7PM, Sunday, Apr 9, 2017 @ 2PM, OR High School Auditorium. Adults $20, children/seniors $17.50, family of four pack $60, children under 2 years FREE. Tickets available on-line or at the door. NE Ballet Theatre is a registered non-profit and professional dance company and school. More Information HERE or call 603-834-8834.
Best Buddies, Taking the "Dis" out of Disability - A panel on ability, Monday, Apr 10, 2017, 6PM, Memorial Union Building Theater II.
Looking to go WILD over school vacation week-April 24-28? Join Growing Places TimberNook for a week of exploration as it welcomes Spring by learning about insects in the beautiful woods at Moharimet Elementary school as well as plenty of time for free play, cooking over an open fire, and games in the wild. More information HERE. Summer Camp options HERE.
Vietnam Moving Wall - 50th Vietnam War Commemoration Program, May 4 - 8, 2017, UNH. For more information contact Office of Military & Veteran Student Services, UNH, at 603-868-0643 or email UNH.Veterans@unh.edu, or visit http://www.unh.edu/veterans
Oyster River QUACKFEST, Saturday, May 6, 2017, 10 AM - 2PM, Durham Landing. Hosted by Rotary Club of Durham-Great Bay. For a full list of activities, times, and sponsors, visit Facebook Page HERE, or the Rotary's website HERE.
UNH Summer Youth Program Registration is Open! Students explore interests while experiencing the local campus (and other sites) through UNH’s summer programs for youth. Participants learn from faculty, staff, and students with individualized instruction and have the opportunity to utilize state of the art facilities.
Programs offered for ages 6-18 in areas such as STEM, the Arts, Academic Enrichment, Athletics, and Recreational/Water programs. UNH hosts numerous programs for High School students! View offerings by grade level.
To learn more and to register: UNH Learn for Life
WHY ROWING? Join Great Bay Rowing and find out! Junior and Adult programs available. Spring Programs are open now. More information is available HERE.
MainStreet Makery $5 Weekly Drop-In Craft. Faux Stained Glass decoration, sure to brighten up your window. Hours: Tues. thru Fri. 10AM-6PM, Sat., 10AM-4PM.
University of New Hampshire Celebrity Series Upcoming Events. View the schedule of events HERE. Tickets can be purchased on line HERE. or by calling the Box Office at 603-862-7222(PCAC). Hours: Mon-Fri, 12 - 5PM as well as one hour before each event.
UNH Museum of Art Upcoming Events. View schedule of events HERE.
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Children’s and Young Adult Programs:
Family STEAM Program: Puppet Play! Sat. April 1st at 10:30 am - Join us for this fun family art program. Come and make some puppets and put on a show. All ages and all are welcome! Sat. April 8th at 10:30 am – Lego Build-It!!
YA Mondays: (Middle & High Schoolers) This week: Fun with Magnets! Monday April 3rd 2:45 - 4 pm - Stop by the YA room to experiment with magnets and see how they work if you are in Middle or High School. Snacks provided and all are welcome.
Teen Advisory Board Mon. April 3rd, 6:30 pm – Pizza, Games, Technology & More! The teen advisory board is open to kids in middle and high school. We want to hear from you! Tell the staff about books you would like added to the collection, activities you want to try, movies you want to watch or anything else you feel we should know. This month: Come and play some games, have pizza, do some technology and more!
Storytime - Tues. April 4th and Thurs. April 6th at 10:30 am - “The Zoo!”
Raccoon Readers (2nd-4th grade) Tues. April 4th, 6:00 pm - Join us for Raccoon Readers, our monthly 2nd-4th Grade Book Group. This month's book is "Tombquest: Book of the Dead” by Michael Northrup. We talk about books, authors, play some games and make a craft.
Baby Lap-sit (ages 2 & under with care giver) - Weds. April 5th at 10:30 am
Knitting and Craft Club for 3rd-5th graders - Weds. March 29th 4-5 pm (register at the Children’s desk).
Lego Club (k-4th grade) Thursday, April 6th 3:30-4:30 pm - Join us for Lego Club (K-4th grade Registration required at the Children’s Desk) - We will have fun weekly challenges and of course free build. April 6th: “Spinning Tops”.
Fun and Games Fridays - Fri. April 7th all day! Come and create a drop-in craft and play some fun board games. All ages.
Family Movie: “The BFG!” Sat. April 15th at 10:30 am. – Join us for this fun family movie: “The BFG!” This event is held upstairs in the community room. Popcorn is served and all are welcome.
Jack & Annie Book Club (Grades K-2) Tuesday, April 18th at 4:00 – 5:00 PM - Join us for our monthly book club made just for kids in kindergarten through 2nd grade! During our meeting we will talk about our book club book, play games, and make a craft. This month’s book is "Twister on Tuesday" by Mary Pope Osborne. Books are available at the circulation desk. Registration is required. Please sign-up at the Children's desk!
Pajama Storytime - Magic! Thursday, April 20th at 6:30PM - Join Oyster River Parents & Preschoolers (ORPP) at the Durham Public Library for our monthly evening storytime for preschoolers! This month we will be all about "Magic". Come hear Magic stories, do the feltboard, sing some magical songs, and make a fun Magic craft. Snack provided by ORPP and all are welcome!
Fun Lamprey River Family Program, Sat. April 22nd at 10:30 am – Join us as the author and illustrator of the local book “Chick & Dee-Dee’s Lamprey River Adventure” by Suzanne Peterson share their book and teach us about the Lamprey River. A fun craft will follow. All ages and all are welcome.
Mark your calendar! “Toe Jam Puppet Band” will perform at the Lee Safety Complex on Thurs. April 27th at 10:30 am for our fun school vacation week joint library program – Toe Jam Puppet Band is a fun interactive group that will have children of all ages out of their seat moving and laughing. This program is sponsored by the Durham, Lee and Madbury Libraries. All ages and all are welcome!
Make-It-Take-It Craft – Monday April 24th through Sat. April 29th – Join us all school vacation week for a fun craft in the children’s activity room.
Bookeaters, Middle School Book Group, Weds. May 3rd 2:45-4:00 pm – Join us for this month’s book group. This month’s book is “The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight” by Jennifer E. Smith. Ruth Wharton McDonald is the facilitator. Books are available at the circulation desk. Pizza is served.
Join the Patch Program! Come and join and collect your patches! This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Durham Public Library.
Adult Programs:
Friends Book Discussion: Please join Jennifer Lee on April 13, 10:30 as she facilitates the discussion of The Leopard by Giuseppe Di Lampedusa. Your copy awaits you at the front desk. For more information click HERE.
Book Donation Week, Mon. March 27 to Sat. April 1 - This is the week to donate your gently used books and CDs.
SELMA - Film viewing and discussion Thurs. March 30, 6-8:30 pm - Join us for this award winning film, a chronicle of Martin Luther King's campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965. Sponsored by Seacoast Women's Action Network.
First Aid Class with McGregor Memorial EMS Mon. April 3, 6-8 pm - Contact Sean Madden 603-862-3674. For cost and registration information visit www.cprsafe.org
Oyster River Knitters Tues. April 4, 7-9 pm - Join in for a couple hours of knitting relaxation and conversation. This is a great time to pick up that knitting project you’ve wanted to finish. There's no need to pre-register; just show up. New participants of all skill levels are welcome! Contact: Janet, jadoty@comcast.net, 603-868-1142
The Great American Eclipse Thurs. April 6, 6-7:30 pm - An Interactive Presentation given by John Gianforte on the total solar eclipse coming this August. Prepare yourself to view the first total solar eclipse to cross U.S. soil in many years! Contact: Rachel Gasowski rgasowski@ci.durham.nh.us 817-4074
CPR and AED Class with McGregor Memorial EMS Mon. April 10, 6-8 pm - Contact Sean Madden 603-862-3674. For cost and registration information visit www.cprsafe.org
DPL Friends' Meeting, Wed. April 5, 1-3:30 pm - The Friends of the Library meet the first Wednesday of every month. All are welcome to attend. Come for social time from 1-1:30, followed by a business meeting.
Acoustic Open Mic with Mike Wed. April 12 6:30-7:45 pm - All types of acoustic (non-amplified) music. First time performers and original music are particularly encouraged. Acoustic Open Mic with Mike is a welcoming supportive intimate gathering. Light refreshments are provided, held in the Library Cafe.
Oyster River ASD Friends Thurs. April 13, 6:30-8:30 pm - Join our group for parents of teens and young adults on the autism spectrum. Conversation, resource sharing, and speakers to address how we can best encourage and support independence. We gather for conversation at 6:45. Meeting/presenter 7:00. Contact: Julie Smith, 603-767-4190, jsmithnh@icloud.com
From Plow to the Stars: 150 Years of UNH History Tues. April 18, 6:30-7:30 pm - Presentation by Douglas L. Wheeler, Professor of History Emeritus, UNH
Making Your Yard Food Friendly Wed. March 19, 6:30-8 pm - Ellen Karelitz of the Durham Agricultural Commission will discuss a variety of ways to grow vegetables, introduce animals for food production, increase soil fertility and improve habitat for pollinators. Don't just grow a lawn! Make the most of your yard's potential. Make it a FOOD FRIENDLY YARD!
A Gathering of Larks - Book Launch with Abby Carroll Thurs. April 20, 6:30-8:30 - Abigail Carroll will read from her new book, A Gathering of Larks: Letters to Saint Francis from a Modern-Day Pilgrim
The library offers help for people who need assistance using technology: computers, iPads & cell phones, eReaders (Nook, Kindle, etc.) Call to check on availability of the volunteers and set up an appointment. 868-6699 or email durhampl@gmail.com
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WEEKLY ARREST REPORT
*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.
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Have a very nice weekend. April Fools' Day tomorrow!
Todd
Todd I. Selig, Administrator
Town of Durham, NH
T: 603-868-5571
tselig@ci.durham.nh.us
Website: https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/
Everyone can tackle climate change. How can you reduce your carbon footprint?
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