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Snow moon over Durham last weekend. Courtesy Todd Selig
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On March 2, 2020, New Hampshire health officials reported the first case of COVID-19 in the state. That was followed by the first hospitalization on March 18 and the first death on March 23. Since then, there have been more than 75,000 cases of COVID-19 in the state and, as of earlier this week, 1,170 deaths linked to the coronavirus.
It was really hard to imagine a year ago how much life would change over the course of the coming twelve months. At this point, we’re looking ahead to the end of the pandemic, still maybe months away and dependent on a growing vaccination program and people continuing to take precautions to mitigate the spread of the virus.
One Durham resident this week suggested to me that public meetings in Durham could get back to normal now since Texas and a few other states have eased restrictions. I would reiterate what President Biden recently noted, "I think it's a big mistake. I hope everyone has realized by now these masks make a difference. We are on the cusp of being able to fundamentally change the nature of this disease because of the way in which we have been able to get vaccines in people's arms." "The last thing, the last thing we need is Neanderthal thinking that in the meantime everything's fine, take off your mask.”
To that end, the Town Council has extended our local facial coverings emergency ordinance by another 60 days. View the Emergency Ordinance HERE. The Governor has also followed Durham’s lead and enacted a state-wide mask mandate by executive order.
In Durham, we will continue to monitor public health issues around the pandemic closely, including recommendations from the CDC.
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NH TO ROLL OUT VACCINE DISTRIBUTION TO TEACHERS, AS WELL AS NH RESIDENTS AGE 50 AND OVER, BEGINNING IN MARCH
The State of New Hampshire announced major new updates to the state’s vaccination schedule on Thursday of this week, indicating that teachers and anyone age 50 or older will be able to begin getting vaccinated for COVID-19 this month.
They’re included in phases 2A and 2B of the state’s vaccination program. Because vaccine shipments to New Hampshire have been increasing, the state has been able to shift its timeline earlier. Here’s what it looks like for Phase 2A, which includes K-12 teachers, child care workers and school staff:
- Beginning March 12, regional public health networks will work with school officials to organize clinics for specific schools or districts, populations referred to as “closed pods.”
- On March 17, teachers, child care workers and school staff members who are not in those closed pods can begin registering with the state’s online scheduling system to get appointments at the state-run vaccination sites. The appointments will begin March 22.
For Phase 2B — any Granite Stater age 50 or older — eligible individuals can start signing up on the state’s scheduling website on March 22. Vaccination appointments will begin March 25.
The beginning of the new phases does not mean the end of the earlier ones. There still may be people in Phase 1B getting their first or only shots later in March or April. People in Phase 1B with appointments in April who want them moved up can call 211 to get an earlier appointment. Some of those folks will be part of the state’s first mass vaccination effort this weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (see above). The state will distribute almost 12,000 doses of the new Johnson & Johnson (also referred to as the Janssen) vaccine to people with appointments.
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MASS VACCINATION SITE TO TAKE PLACE AT LOUDON MOTOR SPEEDWAY
The State of New Hampshire will host a by appointment only mass vaccination site March 6, 7, and 8 at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon. This mass vaccination site is not open to walk-in appointments. It is by appointment only. The state will proactively reach out to individuals with later first-dose appointments in April and offer them the opportunity to move up their appointment to this weekend.
In total, the state hopes to vaccinate over 10,000 individuals this weekend at the Speedway.
The site will be open from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, and only individuals who have confirmed an appointment change with the State of New Hampshire will be able to receive the vaccine.
If you have not heard from the state about moving up your appointment, please do not show up to the Speedway.
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DFD Captain Jim Brown at the Fire Station wearing his mask. Courtesy DFD
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COVID Q&A: DO I NEED TO WEAR A MASK AND AVOID CLOSE CONTACT WITH OTHERS IF I HAVE GOTTEN 2 DOSES OF PFIZER OR MODERNA VACCINE OR 1 DOSE OF JOHNSON & JOHNSON (JANSSEN) VACCINE (AND 14 DAYS HAVE PASSED SINCE THE SECOND DOSE)?
The CDC says ... Yes! To protect yourself and others, follow these recommendations:
- Wear a mask over your nose and mouth
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others
- Avoid crowds
- Avoid poorly ventilated spaces
- Wash your hands often
It’s important for everyone to continue using all the tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions. Experts are also looking at how many people get vaccinated and how the virus is spreading in communities. We also don’t yet know whether getting a COVID-19 vaccine will prevent you from spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to other people, even if you don’t get sick yourself. CDC will continue to update as more is learned.
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COVID Q&A: SHOULD I STILL QUARANTINE AFTER GETTING VACCINATED (and 14 days have passed since the final vaccination)?
According to the NH Department of Public Health, a person is not required to quarantine after an unprotected exposure to a person with COVID-19 or after travel outside of New England IF the person remains asymptomatic AND the exposure or travel occurred in a person who is either:
- 14 days or more beyond full vaccination (i.e., 14 days after receipt of the second dose of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer & Moderna), or 14 days after receipt of the single-dose Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine) – NH’s guidance for quarantine after full vaccination has no specified upper time limit
- Within 90 days of a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnosed by PCR or antigen testing
Any person with new or unexplained symptoms of COVID-19 needs to isolate, be evaluated and considered for COVID-19 testing (even if that person is fully vaccinated or was previously infected), especially if there was an identified exposure or travel in the 14 days prior to symptoms onset.
All fully vaccinated, or previously infected, persons should continue to follow currently recommended mitigation measures, including: wearing face masks, social distancing, avoiding social/group gatherings, limiting non-essential travel, etc.
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2021 TOWN AND SCHOOL ELECTION INFORMATION
If you have any questions related to the town and school election please call the town clerk’s office at 603-868-5577 or email rdeane@ci.durham.nh.us.
Durham Polling Location and Information
The Town and School elections will be held on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at the Oyster River High School in the Multipurpose Room. Polling hours will be from 7AM to 7PM.
Voter Registration
If you wish to vote in the Town of Durham/ORCSD School Election on Tuesday March 9, and you are not yet registered to vote, you must appear in person at the polls on that date. Once you have registered with the Supervisors of the Checklist, you may then vote. You will be asked to show proofs of Identity, Age (18 by March 9), Domicile/Residence in Durham, and U.S. Citizenship. Affidavits of Domicile and Citizenship may be signed under oath if proofs are lacking. Changes of party and/or address may also be made at the polls. Any time after the March 9 election, people may register to vote or make changes to their registration (address/party/name) at the Durham Town Clerk’s office any time they are open for business. The Supervisors hold occasional meetings at other times during which new residents may register. The next election is not until the town/school election in 2022. Please note that after March 9 anyone who will be 18 by March 2022 may register to vote.
Town Election Public Notices
Please click here for all public notices related to the 2021 Town and School Election HERE.
Last Day to Return Absentee Ballots
The last day to drop off an absentee ballot in the town clerk's office will be Monday, March 8, 2021 until 5:00pm. The clerk’s office strongly recommends that you return your ballots in-person by Monday, March 8. Only you or an authorized delivery agent may return your absentee ballot. Please do not return your absentee ballot in the drop box located next to the side entrance of town hall. Any ballots left in that box or any ballots left unattended in the town hall lobby will not be counted. If you cannot come in-person to town hall by Monday, March 8, you or an authorized delivery agent may return your ballots at your polling location on Election Day until 5:00pm. Please refer to NH-RSA 657:17 HERE for who may serve as a delivery agent.
CANCELLED - Preprocessing of Absentee Ballots for 2021 Town Election
Election officials have cancelled the preprocessing of absentee ballots for March 6, 2021. The clerk’s office has not received enough returned absentee ballots to justify a preprocessing day. All absentee ballots will be fully processed, starting at 8:00AM, on Election Day, March 9, 2021.
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2021 MARCH TOWN ELECTION CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRES AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING - Town Council, Library Trustees, and Trustee of Trust Funds
To view the questionnaires completed by the candidates running for Town elected offices at the March 9, 2021, click HERE.
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REPLAY OF FEB. 25TH CANDIDATE FORUM FOR TOWN COUNCIL AVAILABLE
On Thursday evening, February 25, 2021, the Durham Business Association and Town Moderator Chris Regan held a Candidate Forum for the six Town Council candidates running for office on March 9th. For those who did not watch the forum live, it is now available for viewing On Demand HERE.
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Coiled fiber up on the Edgewood Road lines early this morning in Durham. Courtesy Todd Selig
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CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS STRINGING HIGH SPEED TELEPHONE/INTERNET FIBER IN DURHAM
As noted in the past, Consolidated Communications, formerly Fairpoint, is in the process of stringing new high speed telephone/internet wiring in Durham to update aging infrastructure. The company will be running aerial fiber on its existing poles and attachments, some underground fiber, and placing some fiber distribution cabinets on poles in the greater Durham area to support this fiber expansion project. This fiber expansion project will mean voice service and extremely fast internet services options including 2 Gbps symmetrical services to the majority of addresses in Durham. The company anticipates the project completing in the May timeframe.
This infrastructure upgrade will be of great benefit for Durham residents and businesses alike requiring high speed internet in order to perform remote school, work, commerce, etc.
Public Works Director Rich Reine has been in touch with Consolidated and they will be getting started with line splicing next week so we should start to see the numerous (ugly) coils of wire hanging on poles across Durham being incrementally lashed over existing wire and strung soon. The contractor for Consolidated is a company with “Wave” in the title, but as of the writing of this note Mr. Selig has forgotten the actual name.
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VACANCIES ON TOWN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES - We'd love to have interested residents get involved - new/old alike. It's a wonderful way to become active in local affairs affecting our community!
On April 30, 2021, 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, 2021. 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, which are listed below.
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: https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/ at the top of the page. Click on “Helpful Resources”, then “Town Documents”, then “Forms and Applications”, 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 26, 2021.
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EVERSOURCE TO REIMBURSE DURHAM $20,275 FOR FOSS FARM ROAD RESTORATION DUE TO SEACOAST RELIABILITY PROJECT IMPACTS
As part of determining local public roadway impacts associated with the Seacoast Reliability Project, Eversource has agreed to the Town’s request of $20,275 for costs associated with the full reclamation of Foss Farm Road. To view a letter from Eversource concerning resolution to this issue, click HERE.
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DPW crew remove a downed Norway Spruce from the cemetery located on Schoolhouse Lane. Courtesy DPW
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WIND STORM RESPONSE KEEPS DURHAM PUBLIC WORKS CREWS VERY BUSY THIS WEEK!
Durham Public Works crews spent the better half of the last week responding to and cleaning up from one of the most impactful wind events the region has experienced in quite some time. At the height of the storm, nearly 900 customers were without power in Durham and 9 roadways were either fully or partially closed due to downed trees and utility lines. Public Works personnel performed exceptionally well working closely with Eversource and their contractors and were able to clear all of the debris from the effected roadways by early Thursday morning, allowing the roadways to be reopened to traffic.
As of today we have expended or have in process a total of $151,689.26 in snow and ice removal (825) expenses which is equivalent to 51% of our total winter maintenance budget of $297,400 leaving $145,710 for the balance of this season and then October, November and December of 2021. We also have on hand a few hundred ton of salt in the shed which is adequate to handle a few storms in March/early April if they do occur. Any winter maintenance activities beyond a few storms would require us to replenish the salt shed, which if not used would be used during the next winter season.
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DPW crew removing a downed White Pine at Bucks Hill on Partridgeberry Lane. Courtesy DPW
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DID YOU KNOW?
There are many myths about recycling. For the month of March, the IWMAC (Waste Management Advisory Committee) will highlight and dispel some of these myths!
Myth: It doesn’t matter if something belongs in the recycling bin, the Hauler will sort everything anyway.
Answer: False
There are increasing amounts of non-recyclables sent to Material Recovery Facilities. Every single one of them must be removed by hand by trained staff and/or mechanically sorted, or they end up contaminating high value recyclables. Non-recyclable garbage placed into recycling containers increases the cost of the recycling process and will increase the cost of garbage and recycling collection service.
Similarly, recyclable items placed into garbage containers are usually hauled to a landfill. Recyclables in a landfill cannot be recovered effectively. The right thing to do is to put all the right recyclables in the recycling container and non-recyclables into the garbage containers. Recyclables with the greatest impact are bottles, cans and paper.
Source: Waste Management
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The historic, head of tide, Mill Pond Dam on the Oyster River. Courtesy Todd Selig
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MILL POND DAM UPDATE: AT THE MARCH 1ST COUNCIL MEETING, VHB WAS ASKED TO BRING BACK A REVISED PROPOSAL TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND ANSWER ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS POSED BY COUNCILORS CONCERNING WHETHER THE IMPAIRED WATER QUALITY IN THE IMPOUNDMENT COULD BE IMPROVED UNDER A DAM REPAIR WITH NO DREDGING SCENARIO
VHB’s final report on the Mill Pond dam, at the Council’s direction, focused on two options – dam removal with river restoration and dam stabilization with dredging. Since the report’s release, many members of the community have expressed their strong desire for a third option - dam stabilization without dredging.
Dam stabilization without dredging was not an option selected for further study, and as a result it has left the Council and the community to surmise what the impact of this third option would be on the Mill Pond and its environment resulting in dramatically divergent assumptions. The question becomes more complex when it is considered in combination with other actions, such as:
- Nitrogen reductions due the MS4 projects,
- Reprioritizing MS4 projects,
- Nitrogen reduction due to the implementation of stormwater regulations in new downtown projects,
- Increasing impoundment flow rates by releasing water from the UNH Dam during periods of low flow,
- Decreasing the level of the pond with a weir to increase flow rates through the impoundment during the summer, and
- Potentially improving aquatic life integrity and environmental connectivity by notching or otherwise changing the dam configuration to better allow the downstream migration of diadromous fish.
Following discussion on Monday evening, March 1st, while board members were not necessarily confident that this alternative would be sufficient to improve the DO levels, lower water temperatures, reduce other nutrient impairments in the Mill Pond impoundment, or sufficiently improve aquatic life integrity and environmental connectivity in this impaired water body – the board felt it and the community would benefit from some additional information.
As such, VHB will be tasked with evaluating this third alternative coupled with realistic ways to improve quality and reduce Nitrogen and Phosphorous in the pond’s watershed, to the extent that is possible in a meaningful way. Their work should leverage work previously undertaken looking at the pond impoundment in 2018. To date, approx. $330,000 has been expended on the Mill Pond Dam feasibility study currently before the Council.
Staff at DPW have been tasked to bring back to the Council a more detailed scope of service, timetable, and est. price for the additional deliverables for discussion/approval by the Council, potentially on March 15th.
Although a decision about the Mill Pond Dam will be delayed by a few more months, the decision will be made with a more complete base of information for the Council and community’s consideration.
Questions regarding this matter should be addressed to April Talon, Town Engineer, at 603-868-5578 or email atalon@ci.durham.nh.us.
Written comments may be mailed to the Administrator’s Office at 8 Newmarket Road, Durham, NH 03824 or sent by electronic mail to jberry@ci.durham.nh.us and will continue to be considered by members of the Town Council.
Prior presentations on the Feasibility Study and the full report, including appendices, are posted on the Town’s website, along with comments from the public that have been submitted to the town. All information can be viewed HERE.
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ELLEN SNYDER STEPS DOWN, RECOGNIZED AS DURHAM'S LAND STEWARDSHIP COORDINATOR
On Wednesday this week, Conservation Commission Chair Sally Needell, Land Stewardship Chair Ann Welsh, Councilor Sally Tobias, and Administrator Selig presented Ellen Snyder with a desk plaque in appreciation for the many improvements made to various town-owned property while serving as Durham's Land Stewardship Coordinator over the past four years. Ellen's last day with the Town will be March 31, 2021. Tom Brightman has been selected to replace Ellen as the Town's Land Stewardship Coordinator. A video of the presentation may also be viewed HERE. Courtesy DCAT Studios.
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MCGREGOR MEMORIAL'S JOHN FORMELLA NOMINATED BY GOV. SUNUNU AS ATTORNEY GENERAL – It’s terrific that the nominee has a Durham connection.
Gov. Chris Sununu this week announced that he will nominate John Formella to serve as the next Attorney General of the State of New Hampshire. The nomination will be made at the March 3rd Governor and Council meeting. Atty. Formella currently serves as Governor Sununu’s Legal Counsel, a position he has held since Governor Sununu first took office on January 5, 2017.
Prior to joining the Governor’s Office, John worked in private practice at Pierce Atwood LLP. At Pierce Atwood, John practiced actively in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine and was a member of the Firm’s Business and Environmental Law practice groups.
A Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude graduate of Florida State University, John went on to attend George Washington University Law School, where he graduated with honors and was a member of the George Washington University International Law Review. He has been active in the community, currently serving as a member of the Portsmouth, NH Zoning Board of Adjustment and recently serving as a board member of McGregor Memorial EMS in Durham, NH and as a board member Rosie Riveters, an organization dedicated to encouraging young girls to pursue careers in STEM. For these and other efforts, he was recognized by the New Hampshire Union Leader as one of New Hampshire’s “40 under 40” in 2019, and by the Seacoast Media Group and Catapult Seacoast as one of the “10 to watch” young professionals in the New Hampshire Seacoast region in 2019.
Learn more HERE.
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BRENDAN O"SULLIVAN PROMOTED TO FIRE MARSHAL
The Durham Fire Department is pleased to announce the appointment of Brendan O’Sullivan to the position of Fire Marshal for the Prevention Bureau of the Durham Fire Department. Brendan began his employment with the Town of Durham on March 15, 2004 and during his tenure, he has served in the roles of Firefighter and Fire Inspector.
With his strong dedication and commitment to service, Brendan’s knowledge, skills, and abilities will be a tremendous asset to the Prevention Bureau. Brendan enjoys meeting and talking with people and his ability to build relationships within our community will be significant in leading the Prevention Bureau forward.
It is anticipated that a small promotional ceremony will be held at a later date.
Congratulations Brendan!
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PART-TIME DPW MECHANIC POSITION VACANCY
The Town of Durham is in seek of a permanent part time mechanic to assist in performing equipment maintenance on the Town's fleet. Requires knowledge of regular fleet vehicles and heavy equipment repair, diagnosis of malfunctions utilizing test equipment and technical repair manuals. Employee will work up to 24 hours per week, flexible scheduling available. Position receives paid holidays and pro-rated vacation and sick leave accruals.
High School Diploma or G.E.D. and one year of formal training in fleet vehicles and heavy equipment repair or equivalent experience. Possession of a Class B CDL Operator's License and Certification to perform NH Safety Vehicle Inspections highly sought after.
Hourly wage starting at $20/hour, higher possible depending on experience. Job will be posted until position is filled. Interested parties please send application/letter of interest/resume to:
Rich Reine, Director of Public Works
100 Stone Quarry Drive
Durham, NH 03824
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PART-TIME DPW TRANSFER STATION ATTENDANT SOUGHT
The Town of Durham is looking for a part time Transfer Station Attendant. The position is part time, non-benefits. Applicants must be comfortable dealing with public and have a Solid Waste Operators License, level 1 minimum or the ability to obtain license within 2 months of hire. Duties include checking in residents, ensuring materials are disposed of in proper locations, ability to operate a loader and skid steer, maintenance and cleaning of facility. Pay $14-$17/Hr based on experience. Hours will be Saturday from 7am-3:30pm, potential for more hours. Valid driver’s license, background check will be performed. Applications accepted through Wednesday, March 31st.
Applications are available at the Public Works Office, contact below:
Janice Richard
Assistant to the Director
100 Stone Quarry Drive
Durham, NH 03824
868-5578
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DURHAM AGAIN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN'S MUNICIPAL EQUALITY INDEX (MEI)
Durham will be included once again in the tenth edition of the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index (MEI). The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is the largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) Americans. The MEI is the first nationwide evaluation of municipal laws, policies, and services affecting the LGBTQ community.
This year, HRC will evaluate the 506 cities rated in last year’s publication. These include the 50 state capitals, the 200 largest cities in the country, the five largest cities in each state, the cities home to the state’s two largest public universities, 75 cities and census-designated places with high proportions of same-sex couples, and 98 cities selected by HRC and Equality Federation group members and supporters.
The MEI will be published and released near the end of the year.
In each of the past nine years, Durham has received the highest score in NH of those communities surveyed.
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ACTIVE RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION WEBINAR
The Active Retirement Association in Durham is presenting New Life for the The Wood Island Life Saving Station in a Webinar on March 16. Life Saving Station Association President Sam Reid will talk about the history, the restoration, and the plans to open it to the public. Read more about the Webinar HERE.
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Vice Chair Larry Brickner-Wood (left) is presenting a certificate of appreciation to Andrew who was the commission’s chair.
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ANDREW CORROW COMPLETES TERM ON THE HISTORIC DISTRICT/HERITAGE COMMISSION
Andrew Corrow completed his term on the Historic District Commission yesterday. Andrew also completed his term on the Town Council. He is taking a break from Town business but will continue his participation with numerous other community organizations. He did warn in true Terminator-style, “I will be back.”
Below is a picture of Andrew, as a different action hero, captured as he was emerging from a telephone booth in Metropolis (from a presentation by Robin Mower to the Town Council on Monday).
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OYSTER RIVER SCHOOL BOARD NEWS - Assistant Superintendent Allen to retire at end of June, ORDSC & Durham Parks and Rec. partner in REACH Program, and more...
On March 3, 2021, the Oyster River School Board approved Athletic Director Andy Lathrop's proposal for spring sports at ORHS and ORMS, which builds on the success of fall and winter athletics programs. Outdoor sports will be able to accommodate 2 spectators per player. Go Bobcats!
Assistant Superintendent Todd Allen has been working with many teachers, staff, and towns of Durham and Lee to develop an in-person, primarily outdoor REACH program for this summer. REACH is expected to run 5 weeks from July 5 to August 5. The Oyster River School Nutrition department will offer FREE meals to all children in Oyster River during REACH days (and through the remainder of this school year). Once again, ORCSD will partner with the Town of Durham Park & Rec to offer afternoon programming. Final location, scheduling, and program offerings will be published as details are finalized. The programs will not be offered at Oyster River Middle School this summer due to ongoing construction.
The School Board approved a recommendation from Elementary Principals Misty Lowe and David Goldsmith to extend in-person and remote teaching to Wednesdays for grades K-4. Starting the week of April 5, elementary students will have classes 5 days per week. Ms. Lowe and Mr. Goldsmith commended the dedication and tremendous work teachers and staff have invested this year to redesign their curriculum for the hybrid and remote teaching environment. They also recognized the contribution of all staff, students, and families in adhering to infection control precautions to make this year successful.
High School and Middle School staff and students continue to prepare for 2 days-per-week in-person school starting Monday, March 8.
The Long Range Planning Committee has continued to meet regularly refining the models used to predict future ORCSD student populations. The LRPC is seeking an additional member who is a Madbury resident.
Finally, the School Board reluctantly accepted Assistant Superintendent Todd Allen's intent to retire at the end of June. Mr. Allen has served Oyster River for 36 years as a parent, teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent. Dr. Morse appreciated Mr. Allen as a caring, kind, and thoughtful educator who has been instrumental in the success of Oyster River students, teachers, and staff.
Election Day in all Oyster River towns and for the school district is Tuesday, March 9. The school district ballot is a separate 2-sided ballot that voters fill in at the same time they fill in their town ballots.
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NOMINATED BY ORMS, GABRIELLE SELIG NAMED ONE OF NH'S YOUTH VOLUNTEERS FOR 2021
Gabrielle (Gabi) Selig, 13, of Durham was named one of New Hampshire's top youth volunteers of 2021 by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, America's largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer service.
As a State Honoree, Gabrielle will receive a $2,500 scholarship, a silver medallion and an invitation to the program's virtual national recognition celebration in April, where 10 of the 102 State Honorees will be named America's top youth volunteers of the year.
She has raised more than $6,600 for charities through her baking efforts at Gabi's Goodies for Good over the last four years.
Read the complete article published in Foster's HERE.
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LAMPREY RIVER ADVISORY COMMITTEE WINTER 2021 NEWSLETTER
The Lamprey River Advisory Committee's Winter Newsletter is now available and can be viewed HERE.
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Our final winner: Congratulations to Christian Milioto, this week’s winner of Restaurant Bingo. Christian is taking home $50 in gift cards to local restaurants. Christian is pictured with his friends and their rescue pup, Keoto, who was with them for every purchase made during Restaurant Bingo. The game may be over but your continued patronage of our local businesses is much appreciated. A big thank you to everyone who participated in the event and the volunteers who helped make it happen.
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DURHAM POLICE CONDUCTED ALCOHOL COMPLIANCE CHECKS THIS PAST WEEK
On Thursday, March 4th, 2021, the Durham Police Department, in conjunction with the New Hampshire Liquor Commission Law Enforcement Division, conducted an alcohol compliance check at all vendors who are licensed to sell such products in Durham. An underage volunteer, trained by the New Hampshire Liquor Commission to perform compliance checks, did attempt to purchase alcohol products from fourteen locations in Durham that are licensed to sell such products. The following two establishments failed:
As a result of the operation, the following individuals were each charged with a Class B misdemeanor:
- Dinesh Patel of Durham, NH
- Allonis R. Roy of Dover, NH
They are scheduled for arraignment on April 15, 2021, at 8:15 AM, at 7th Circuit Court, Dover District Division.
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GARDENING WEBINAR SERIES OPPORTUNITY FOR DURHAM COMMUNITY MEMBERS
The Durham Agricultural Commission is calling your attention to a Gardening Webinar Series being offered jointly by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension. The series takes place Wednesdays at 6pm beginning January 27th until March 24th and includes 40 minute presentations followed by discussion.
The January 27th topic is “Optimizing Plant Growth with Indoor Lighting”, February 10th is “Science of Pruning”, February 24th is “Edible Landscaping”, March 10th is “Ornamental Garden Design”, and March 24th is “Protecting Fruit Trees from Insects and Diseases”. Registration is required with a $5 suggested donation (optional) for each webinar. Participants will receive the Zoom information after registering for a webinar. All sessions will be recorded and shared with participants following the event. If you are unable to attend the live session, please register HERE to receive a copy of the recording and a resource list. https://extension.umaine.edu/gardening/webinar-series/
Additional information and resources on garden planning may be found at the Agricultural Commission page on the Town's website HERE.
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DURHAM AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION
The Durham Agricultural Commission would like to call readers to several online workshops on raising livestock offered by UNH Cooperative Extension in March, April and May:
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Durham resident Pam Appleton submitted this photograph of a beautiful barred owl that showed up in her yard last Saturday.
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DURHAM'S WINTER COMPOST CHALLENGE - FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 26, 2021. Thought about composting? Want to get started? What’s the Impact of Removing Compostable Materials from Durham’s Solid Waste?
Durham collects compost at our Transfer Station to help keep organic material out of the Town’s Solid Waste Collection and the Turnkey Landfill. The anaerobic decomposition of the organic material in the landfill generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
The Winter Compost Challenge will be conducted by the Integrated Municipal Waste Advisory Committee (IWMAC) along with support from Parks and Rec and the DPW to provide data on what percentage of our community waste collection may be compost. Durham families are invited to sign up through Parks and Rec (To register online, visit: http://durhamrec.recdesk.com/). You will be provided with a compost bin and compostable bags, and we ask that you weigh your compost and household waste weekly, take your compost to the Transfer Station toters, and record and share your data. If you participated in the Fall Compost Challenge, you may join this challenge as well, and we will collect your data. Fall Challenge participants will not need to pay to participate again and will not receive another bin and bags.
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PAWSOME NEWS FROM THE TOWN CLERK-TAX COLLECTOR'S OFFICE
The 2021 dog tags are now available and residents may obtain their licenses starting Monday, January 11, 2021. Please note that NH-State law requires that all Durham residents license their dogs no later than April 30, 2021. You may renew your dog license online HERE or by visiting the Town Clerk-Tax Collector’s office Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm. New dog licenses must be done in person or by mail. If you have any questions, please contact the Town-Clerk Tax Collector’s office at ph: 603-868-5577.
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Town Clerk Tax Collector, Lorrie Pitt, and Deputy Town Clerk, Rachel Deane, hold the Top Dog basket that will go to this year's Top Dog raffle winner. Courtesy DCAT Studios
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OBTAIN A DOG LICENSE BY APRIL 30, 2021 AND AUTOMATICALLY ENTER THE 2021 TOP DOG RAFFLE
The Town of Durham is proud to announce the 2021 Top Dog raffle. This raffle was created to motivate and remind dog owners to license their pets every year by April 30, as state law requires. Residents automatically register for the Top Dog raffle when they obtain a dog license before April 30, 2021. The winner of the Top Dog raffle will receive a gift basket donated by the clerk’s office. The gift basket contains a fleece dog blanket, KONG-brand durable tennis balls, disposable dog waste bags, a high quality dog leash, and dog treats.
Rules & Regulations
- Contestants will automatically be entered into the raffle when they register their dog(s) before April 30 (only open to Durham residents).
- Residents who DO NOT want to be included in the raffle may opt out by writing, calling, or emailing the clerk’s office.
- Contestants must be 18 or older and be the owner of the dog on file with the clerk’s office. Town of Durham employees and elected officials are not eligible.
- The contestant must have a 2021 Town of Durham dog license by April 30. A current rabies vaccination will be required to obtain the license.
- The raffle winner may submit a digital photo and brief biography of their dog. Photos of the 2021 raffle winner’s dog will be included in the Durham Friday Update.
- The winner will be drawn at random by clerk’s office at a Town Council meeting in May 2021.
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SWAP SHOP TO REMAIN CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO PANDEMIC
DPW officials recently met with a subcommittee of the Integrated Solid Waste Committee and coordinators of the Swap Shop to evaluate the possibility or re-opening. The consensus was to continue to keep closed. A poll was taken of the volunteers to determine if there was any interest in opening and found that concerns over COVID including possible spikes in the fall and winter remained and people felt it was a better approach to keep closed until spring. We will keep updating the community as things change.
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A wintry scene at the Spruce Hole Bog. Courtesy Bill Doucet
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TOWN OF DURHAM FACEBOOK AND TWITTER ACCOUNTS
Did you know that the Town has a Facebook & Twitter account and frequently posts Durham & UNH news, happenings, and articles of interest in our area and the seacoast?
Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.
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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.
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY
Need help registering for the COVID-19 vaccine? If you’re currently part of the demographic eligible for the vaccine in NH, the library can assist with computers and tech help to get you registered. Call us at 603-868-6699 to set up a time!
Register is open for Upcoming Events!
Sign up for our next NHHC program, Fierce Females: Women in Art with Jane Oneail on March 16th and a talk with author Matt Hongoltz-Hetling about his 2020 release A Libertarian Walks Into A Bear on March 23rd! Check out our NEW monthly program with McGregor EMS, Ask Your Ambulance!, HERE. And get ready for spring with the Ultimate Presentation for Red Sox Nation with Marty Gitlin on April 5th!
Need tech assistance or access? DPL staff is available every Thursday from 11 am to 1 pm via phone or zoom for all your tech questions and we now have 2 laptop PCs and 2 mobile hotspots available for our patrons to check out! Need help registering for the COVID-19 vaccine? If you’re currently part of the demographic eligible for the vaccine in NH, the library can assist with computers and tech help to get you registered. Call us at 603-868-6699 to set up a time!
What’s New in Youth Services?!
Register HERE for our Steve Blunt Sing-a-Long on Sat. March 20th at 10:30 am! This is another joint library program with the Durham, Lee and Madbury Libraries. Also available are sign-ups for regularly-scheduled programming including Zoom Storytime, Baby Lap-sit, STEAM crafts to go, YA Compassion Project via zoom, Raccoon Readers (2nd-4th grade) book group, Patch club and more! Or download the complete March calendar!
Daily Operations at DPL!
The Library is currently open for 20-minute visits to the Library for quick browsing, checkouts and the use of computers, the printer and copy machine. Notary services are available by appointment. Meeting rooms and the Cafe remain closed. At this time, we are limiting the number of patrons in the building to no more than 50% of our normal comfortable browsing capacity on the main floor. We request that anyone using the Library do so wearing a cloth mask or face covering and masks are available to patrons who request them. We ask that patrons not gather or congregate in the Library and for those uncomfortable coming in, our contactless “Library to-go” services continue! Please visit our website at http://www.durhampubliclibrary.org/ for complete information! Still have questions? We can be reached at 603-868-6699 during open hours or at durhampl@gmail.com any time!
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*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.
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HISTORY IN AN OYSTERSHELL - A Brief History of Durham, NH 1600 - 1976 (A little volume that was the Heritage Project of the Durham Historic Association Bicentennial celebration)
Preface - "Since before God made the first little green apples, oysters have probably been growin in the Oyster River; and some of the largest and juiciest to be found anywhere in the world are still growing here today. The following vignettes from rollicking history of Durham town on the Oyster River are therefore presented between the shells of an oyster."
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1718- Known as the second falls in 1694, the "hole streame of Lamprele River for erecting mills" was sold to Capt. Thomas Packer, of Portsmouth, and others. The name Packers Falls did not appear in Town records until 1750, but since the name has been used for the road and the district.
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Have a very nice weekend. Fingers crossed ... it could be in the 60's next week!
Todd
Todd I. Selig, Administrator
Town of Durham, NH
a: 8 Newmarket Rd., Durham, NH 03824 USA
t: 603.868.5571 | w: www.ci.durham.nh.us
He/him/his pronouns
Everyone can tackle climate change. How can you reduce your carbon footprint?
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