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 NEWS AND HAPPENINGS ...
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UNH's Memorial Field set up and ready for tomorrow's Commencement Ceremony. Courtesy Todd Selig
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Durham residents Bud and Cori White let me know this week that their son, David C. White, Oyster River High School class of 2000 and UNH class of 2005, is the Series Producer and Head Writer for the mini series on The History Channel, "The World Wars" airing starting this Memorial Day.
This series is a look into the leaders of WWII from their time in the trenches of WWI, to the heights of power in WWII.
A nice example of how graduates from ORHS and UNH go off and do good things!
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UNH GRADUATION TOMORROW (SATURDAY, 5/17/14 @ 10 AM) ON MEMORIAL FIELD
Because the weather forecast for Saturday no longer looks as ominous as it did earlier in the week, commencement can go on outside as planned. The ceremony will be held on Memorial Field, rain or shine. There will be no tickets required and no limit on guests.
The ceremony will be simulcast in the Whittemore Center for any individuals who choose to watch inside and live streamed for any guests who want to watch via computer from the comfort of home.
Rain and cooler temperatures are still predicted for Saturday.
The 2014 Commencement Speaker will be "Frozen" Screenwriter/Director Jennifer Lee '92. Lee is the first woman to direct an animated feature film for Walt Disney Animation Studios and in March took home an Oscar for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.
For complete UNH Commencement details, click HERE.
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Today was “Seacoast Bike/Walk to Work Day” and a free breakfast was available from 7:00 – 10:00 AM at Murkland Courtyard on the UNH Campus. Courtesy Craig Stevens
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STRAFFORD REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION ANNOUNCES MILLS SCENIC BYWAY DESIGNATION
After nearly three years of work on the part of the Strafford Regional Planning Commission and participating communities, the New Hampshire Scenic and Cultural Byway Council held its biannual meeting on May 8th and voted unanimously in favor for the designation of the Mills Scenic Byway into the New Hampshire Scenic and Cultural Byway Program.
The Mills Scenic Byway joins two new byways (Upper Lamprey River and Robert Frost/Old Stagecoach Byways) in an existing system of 15 state and nationally designated scenic and cultural byways in New Hampshire that total over 1,000 miles and feature some of the most beautiful and historically significant locations in the state.
The Mills Scenic Byway travels through downtown Newmarket, Durham, and Madbury along Route 108 and continues through Rollinsford along Route 4, Roberts Road, Main Street, and Front Street.
The 12-mile byway offers a clear depiction of small, yet vital communities, located along the coastal shores of the Lamprey, Oyster, Bellamy, Salmon Falls, and Cocheco Rivers while retaining the character and historical appeal of historic mill towns. There are panoramic views of rolling hills bordered by forest land and stone walls cut through by brooks and low-lying wetland marshes, views of pristine farmland that open up to downtown historic districts peppered with white church steeples, old mill buildings, river frontage, and park areas with access for nature walks and other recreational activities. These charming scenes paint an illustration of New England river towns that retain a historical past. From early sawmills to a thriving textile industry, there has been a steady transformation through the centuries that continues today.
The New Hampshire Scenic and Cultural Byways Program was established in 1992 under RSA 238:19, "... to provide the opportunity for residents and visitors to travel a system of byways which feature the scenic and cultural qualities of the state within the existing highway system, promote retention of rural and urban scenic byways, support the cultural, recreational and historic attributes along these byways, and expose the unique elements of the state's beauty, culture and history."
The National Scenic Byways Program is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. The program is a grass-roots collaborative effort established to help recognize, preserve, and enhance selected roads throughout the United States.
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GOVERNOR HASSAN PROCLAIMS MAY 18-24, 2014 AS PUBLIC WORKS WEEK IN THE STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
On April 29, 2014, Governor Hassan signed a proclamation declaring the week of May 18-24, 2014 as PUBLIC WORKS WEEK. The proclamation reads as follows:
WHEREAS, Public works infrastructure, facilities, and services are of vital importance to sustainable communities and to the health, safety, and well-being of the people of New Hampshire; and
WHEREAS, Such facilities and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals, engineers, managers, and employees from State and local units of government and the private sector, who are responsible for and must plan, design, build, operate, and maintain the transportation, water supply, water treatment and solid waste systems, public buildings, and other structures and facilities essential to serve our citizens; and
WHEREAS, It is in the public interest for the citizens, civic leaders, and children in the United States of America to gain knowledge of and to maintain a progressive interest and understanding of the importance of public works and public works programs in their respective communities; and
WHEREAS, The year 2014 marks the 54th annual National Public Works Week sponsored by the American Public Works Association;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, MARGARET WOOD HASSAN, GOVERNOR of the State of New Hampshire, do hereby proclaim MAY 18-24, 2014, as PUBLIC WORKS WEEK in the State of New Hampshire and encourage all residents to recognize the substantial contributions public works professionals have made to our health, safety, welfare, and quality of life.
Given this 29th day of April, in the year of Our Lord two thousand and fourteen, and the independence of the United States of America, two hundred and thirty-eight.
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BOSTON GLOBE SERIES FOCUSES ON SUBSTANDARD COLLEGE STUDENT HOUSING WITHIN THE BOSTON METRO AREA – Many Similarities to Durham’s Own Experience Described
A recent series in the Boston Globe newspaper has focused on student housing in the Boston metropolitan area. The experience in Boston is not dissimilar to circumstances found locally here in Durham.
The series found that some landlords in college neighborhoods commonly flout a “no-more-than-four students per apartment zoning rule” (Note, Durham has a no-more-than-three rule for many property types).
The report indicates that student tenants are often complicit because they cannot afford the rent without sharing it with a larger group and have no experience in understanding safety-related issues.
Boston Globe spotlight reporters and correspondents visited block after block of Boston apartments in college neighborhoods and found overcrowding rife.
The overcrowded student apartments inflate rents in neighborhoods, make housing unaffordable to other residents, and can endanger tenants.
In April 2013, a 22-year-old BU student, Binland Lee, died in a fire in an overcrowded house on Linden Street in Allston highlighting the need for increased vigilance on the part of municipal officials in addressing rental unit health and safety issues.
A Boston Globe Spotlight Team, as part of its investigation, recently surveyed students living in 40 apartments in six buildings owned by a landlord on Hemenway and St. Stephen streets. The occupants of 37 of those apartments, or 93 percent, reported at least one significant problem, such as pests, mold, inoperable smoke alarms, and broken locks on apartment doors.
The Boston Example Parallels Durham’s Own Experience:
After considerable review, discussion, redrafting, and deliberation, the Town Council adopted a Housing Standards Ordinance in January 2013 due in large part to longstanding health and safety concerns associated with Durham off campus rental housing (including fires that occurred in town within off campus student housing stock) and since that time, the associated mandatory inspection process for rental properties has uncovered in excess of 2,000 violations in the approximately 650 units the Durham Fire Department has inspected to date. Durham’s Housing Standards Ordinance applies to all residential properties, however, rental properties require a periodic inspection.
The Durham Landlords Association has filed suit against the Town in an effort to strike down the Housing Standards Ordinance and Durham has recently provided a response with the Superior Court. Nonetheless, the Housing Standards Ordinance remains in full force and effect and the inspection program is continuing for rental units.
The Boston Globe series illustrates that the trends, challenges, and opportunities faced within Durham rental housing stock catering predominantly to off campus college students are by no means exclusive to this community.
To read the Boston Globe article Overcrowded and at risk: a way of life and, sometimes, death for student tenants, click HERE.
To see the Boston Globe article Walsh Vows Off-Campus Student Housing Crackdown, click HERE.
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The City of Memphis, TN recently worked to add a designated bicycle lane to calm a busy thoroughfare as part of its effort to rejuvenate a struggling neighborhood. The Town of Durham is presently working on the development of a pilot program this summer to add a designated bike lane along Main Street in Durham’s downtown core.
HOW BICYCLES BRING BUSINESS
Durham Planning Board member Andrew Corrow forwarded along an interesting article from Momentum Magazine.com focusing on the efforts the City of Memphis, TN has made in making the downtown more bicycle friendly. The article reads:
Pat Brown was just hoping to hang on in a tough economy. When she relocated her art gallery in 2008, it was the rock-bottom rent that drew her to a still struggling strip of downtown Memphis, TN.
Brown was betting on a small core of community members determined to transform Broad Avenue from a fast-moving thoroughfare, where traffic whizzed past boarded-up storefronts at 50 mph, into a bustling arts district. Little did she know that they would hit the jackpot with bicycling.
In 2010, after garnering support from city officials and surrounding businesses, Livable Memphis and the Broad Avenue Arts District rolled out the idea in a dramatic way. They painted temporary bike lanes and crosswalks and invited the community to “A New Face for an Old Broad,” a celebration, complete with live music, street vendors and a kids’ bike parade down the freshly striped cycle track.
“Until then, the area had been doing art walks once a year and, at best, those were bringing in 1,000 people,” Brown said. “Our goal for this day-and-a-half event, where the street itself would be a sort of theatrical performance, was maybe 5,000 people. We had 15,000 show up. The energy level was incredible. It was a huge tipping point for us – it changed the trajectory of the revitalization efforts.”
The energy didn’t wane once the event was over and bicyclists started taking advantage of the temporary lanes. Since then, the promise of permanent facilities has drawn more than $6 million in private investment. More than 15 new businesses have opened and nearly 30 properties have been renovated. Traffic has slowed, new customers are arriving on two wheels and, suddenly the rock-bottom neighborhood is one of the hottest spots in town.
Memphis isn’t the only city where bicycling is bringing business. Increasingly leaders in the public and private sector are realizing that being bike-friendly makes good business sense, boosting the bottom line and promoting community-wide economic development. Bicycling in the United States is a $6 billion national industry and one study estimates that the spillover effects of recreational bicycling alone could be as large as $133 billion.
To read the full article, click HERE.
This example is very consistent with our local efforts in downtown Durham to make our central core more user friendly for everyone who chooses to travel, shop, and linger there.
We hope to have additional information regarding Durham’s planned summer pilot program along Main Street which includes narrowing the vehicular lanes from two to one from the intersection of Main Street/Pettee Brook Lane to the intersection of Main Street/Mill Road, introducing a designated bicycle lane, adding additional head in parking spaces in certain locations, and creating a much needed loading zone in the vicinity of Aroma Joe’s.
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FOLLOWING USE OF DISORDERLY HOUSING ORDINANCE BY THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FOR RECURRING PROBLEMS ON YOUNG DRIVE , DURHAM RECEIVES RIGHT-TO-KNOW DEMAND FROM ACLU
The Durham Police Department had been working to collaboratively address recurring student-related problems associated with rental properties on Young Drive for some time without success.
Residents from Bayview Road and beyond continued to express concern regarding late-night and early morning parties, noise, trespassing, etc. In response, Police Chief used one of the tools at his disposal to seek the cooperation of the property owner – Durham’s Disorderly House Ordinance.
The ordinance imposes up to a $1,000 fine on the landowner which can be waived by the Chief of Police and/or Administrator so long as the owner works to develop a plan to address challenges experienced and in good faith follows through with that plan.
Within a few days after notifying the owner of Young Drive of the imposition of the Disorderly House Ordinance and a $500 fine, the Town received a formal right-to-know request from the New Hampshire Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) requesting all pertinent information relating to the establishment and subsequent implementation of the ordinance. Following some effort and expense, the Town has complied with the request.
To view the letter from the ACLU regarding Durham’s Disorderly House Ordinance, click HERE.
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS PART TIME SEASONAL HELP WANTED
Seasonal summer help wanted for the Department of Public Works- mowing, general landscaping and facility maintenance, support to other DPW staff, etc. If interested, please feel free to fill out an application at the Public Works office located at 100 Stone Quarry Drive. All applicants must be 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license to apply. Applications may be picked up at the Public Works Office, 100 Stone Quarry Drive or by calling 603-868-5578. Applications to be submitted to the Public Works Department no later than 4:00 PM, Friday, May 30, 2014. Hourly pay range $10- $12/Hr depending on experience. Looking for 1-2 reliable people at this point.
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REMINDER TO ALL DOG OWNERS, LICENSES ARE OVERDUE!
State law requires all dogs be registered annually in April. The month of May is given as a grace period. Beginning the first of June a penalty is assessed each month the dog is not licensed.
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CURRENT USE VALUE RANGES FOR 2014-2015
Current Use Assessment provides a property tax incentive to all qualifying landowners who agree to maintain their land in an undeveloped condition. This assessment is based on the capacity of the land to produce income in its current use-whether it is managed farm or forest, or unmanaged open space. Current Use is the cornerstone of the state's land conservation efforts, with over half the land in New Hampshire enrolled in this valuable program.
For land to qualify for Current Use it must be a tract of land or a combination of contiguous tracts under identical ownership comprised of a minimum of ten (10) acres.
When land is disqualified from Current Use due to development of the land or because it no longer meets the minimum acreage requirement, it is subject to a land use change tax equal to 10% of the full and true value of the land at the time it is disqualified.
For more information regarding Current Use, click HERE.
Per RSA 79-A, the Current Use Board has revised the Current Use value ranges for 2014-2015. To view the new value ranges which will be implemented for the 2014 tax year, click HERE.
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TOWN HALL PROJECT
Another benchmark was obtained this week at the new Town Hall site with delivery of the new windows. Courtesy Craig Stevens
Moisture barrier is installed on the second floor ceiling area prior to an application of sheet rock for greater energy efficiency. The finish ceiling will be acoustic tiles. Courtesy Craig Stevens
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LOOKING FOR A PERSON INTERESTED IN TRAILS FOR THE CONSERVATION COMMISSION
At the last Durham Land Stewardship Subcommittee meeting, member Malin Clyde make an excellent point that we could really use someone to apply for one of the two vacancies on the Conservation Commission who is interested in trails and trails work. To this end if you or someone you know enjoys hiking, working on trails, etc., please give the Durham Conservation Commission your consideration and consider applying.
For more information about the Conservation Commission, click HERE.
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LAST CHANCE TO CHANGE PARTY
The NH State Primary is September 9. This seems like a very long way away. However, did you know that no changes of party affiliation can be made after June 3? At the Primary, if you are registered as a Republican, you must vote the Republican ballot; if you are registered as a Democrat, you must vote the Democrat ballot; if you are registered Undeclared, then you can choose either ballot. However, once you choose a party for voting that day, you are considered a member of that party until you change back to Undeclared. That can be done the day of the Primary or any time after the election until 90 days before the next Primary, but many people forget to do that and find themselves caught on the day of the Primary election.
You can change your party affiliation (or register to vote) at the Town Hall any day between the hours of 8:00 and 5:00 until June 3. (New residents may register to vote until September 2.) The Supervisors of the Checklist will also hold an evening session for this purpose on Tuesday June 3 from 7:00 – 8:00 PM. The last checklist was published just before the March Town Election. An updated one will be posted at the Durham Post Office as well as the Town Hall by May 23.
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FORECLOSURE RELIEF PROJECT - FREE HOME RETENTION CLINIC
The Legal Services Department of the NH Bar Association has launched the Foreclosure Relief Project. This project aims to assist NH homeowners of all income levels who are facing foreclosure. Homeowners can attend a FREE clinic and meet with an attorney one-on-one for free for a basic consultation.
A clinic is scheduled to be held at the Lamprey Health Care in Raymond, NH on Wednesday, June 11, 2014 from 2 - 4:00PM. The clinic will include an introduction to the Foreclosure Relief Project, a brief overview of the foreclosure process in New Hampshire, an introduction to loan modifications and other workout options, and a private meeting with an attorney to assess individual situations and advise about options.
Please contact Vanessa at 603-715-3255 or FRP@nhbar.org to pre-register. Seating is limited so pre-registration is required.
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FOR MEMORIAL DAY, DON’T FORGET THE COMMUNITY CEREMONY AT THE MUB
The Durham Evangelical Church organizes a very nice Memorial Day ceremony in front of the UNH Memorial Union Building on the Morse Circle each year immediately following the Town’s own parade and Memorial Day ceremony downtown, which occurs this year on May 26th.
In the past, Pastor Terry and several Veterans lead those present in an informal remembrance of fallen veterans with songs, stories, prayers, and the Newmarket Militia’s 21-musket salute in addition to placing a wreath in Morse Circle.
After the ceremony there are refreshments and conversation while many walk inside the MUB to visit New Hampshire's official state War Memorial (which opened in 1957) with stained glass by the late John Hatch of Durham.
Names of our NH residents who perished date as far back as World War I through present day’s latest war.
The UNH Memorial Union Building is just a short walk up Main Street to the MUB’s driveway.
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UPCOMING HOLIDAY SCHEDULE CHANGES FOR REFUSE AND RECYCLING
Memorial Day is coming up at the end of May. All Town offices are closed on Monday, May 26th for the holiday. The Transfer Station will be closed on Saturday, May 24th for the holiday as well. There will be no collection of refuse and recycling on Monday, May 26th. Collection will be delayed one day for the rest of the week (i.e., refuse/recycling normally collected on Monday will be picked up on Tuesday, Tuesday's collection will be on Wednesday, etc.). There will be no commercial collection on Friday, May 30th. To view the holiday schedule, click HERE.
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PLANNING, ZONING, AND ASSESSING DEPARTMENTS ELIMINATE ONE TELEPHONE NUMBER
In preparation for the move across the street, the 868-8065 phone number for the Planning, Zoning, and Assessing Departments is being eliminated and all calls will now come in on the 868-8064 number. This change is effective immediately. Any calls to the 868-8065 number will be automatically transferred to 868-8064 for 30 days before the number will be disconnected permanently.
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BIKE A LITTLE? WALK A LOT? TAKE OUR TRANSPORTATION SURVEY, PLEASE
The Energy Committee invites you to take a short, anonymous survey as part of our research for the future of Durham's use of energy. We would appreciate your participation and hope that you will encourage others to participate as well. Aggregated results will be shared with the community on the Town website. They will help guide the efforts of the town to achieve the goals for energy efficiency and resiliency set out in the Master Plan. Please take the survey by clicking HERE.
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NEW HAMPSHIRE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE ADMINISTRATION - ANNUAL LOW AND MODERATE INCOME HOMEOWNERS PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
New Hampshire residents who own a homestead subject to the State Education Property Tax, resided in the homestead as of April 1, 2013, and have a total household income of $20,000 or less if a single person (or $40,000 or less if married or head of household) may apply for property tax relief during the filing period - after May 1, 2014, but no later than June 30, 2014. For more information and application form DP-8, click HERE.
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McGREGOR MEMORIAL EMS CELEBRATES EMS WEEK
National EMS Week celebrates its 40th anniversary beginning Sunday, May 18th and continuing until Saturday, May 24th. McGregor Memorial EMS salutes all involved in emergency medical services and is especially proud of our volunteers who provided 30,800 hours of service last year. In recognition of this, McGregor will be placing a banner over Pettee Brook Lane. In addition, volunteer members of McGregor will be visiting the Mast Way Elementary School on Wednesday, May 21st and the Moharimet Elementary School on Thursday, May 22nd as we recognize EMS for Children Day.
In our 46th year of continuous service to the communities of Durham, Lee, Madbury and the University of New Hampshire, McGregor continues to provide outstanding medical care and transport and thanks our communities for their continued support.
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Vendors participating in the Seacoast Growers' Association Farmers' Market prepare to open for the season. Courtesy SGA
DURHAM OUTDOOR FARMERS’ MARKET OPENS MONDAY, JUNE 2ND
The Seacoast Growers' Association announces the summer opening of the Durham Farmers' Market on June 2nd.
The Durham Farmers' Market will run every Monday from 2:15-6pm, rain or shine, until October 6th. The market is located in the parking lot behind the Town Offices at 15 Newmarket Road. Take a peak at our online market maps to see who will be at market and plan your shopping list ahead of time: http://www.seacoastgrowers.org/durham-farmers-market/
Lots of fun activities are scheduled for this year, including the annual Salsa Contest.
Stay tuned for more details in upcoming Friday Updates.
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POWER OF ONE PROJECTS
THOMAS COTE: For his Power of One Project, Oyster River High School freshman Thomas Cote is hosting a Bone Marrow Drive through the "Be The Match" organization. The drive will take place on Thursday, May 22, 2014 from 12:00 noon to 6:00 PM at the ORHS Multipurpose Room. Donors must be between the ages of 18 and 44. The entire process takes approximately 5 minutes and only requires a cheek swab. There will be raffles every hour for gift cards and other prizes.
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CAROLINE WILSON: For her Power of One Project, Oyster River High School freshman Caroline Wilson chose to promote kindness. A random act of kindness can change someone else's day. She is asking people to write down acts of kindness for her to collect. Please contact Caroline with questions at cwilson17@sau5.org or her World Cultures class teacher Pam Raiford at praiford@orcsd.org.
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WILDCAT FITNESS BOOTCAMP - MAY 16 TO JUNE 27
Wildcat Fitness will be offering a Bootcamp class beginning May 16, 2014 from 5:30 - 6:30 PM, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Bootcamp is a results-driven conditioning program that runs three times weekly, for six weeks, at 60-minute durations per session. It is conducted in an outdoor environment, utilizing a military-style format, coupled with the most progressive innovative, and creative exercises in fitness. To learn more, click HERE.
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Gundalow Piscataqua. Courtesy the Gundalow Company
GUNDALOW COMPANY ANNOUNCES THE GUNDALOW PISCATAQUA'S INAUGURAL VISIT UP THE LAMPREY RIVER TO NEWMARKET AND ADAMS POINT ON GREAT BAY
Schedule of Events:
Saturday, May 17, 2014
10:00 am – 1:00pm – FREE - Open Ship at Newmarket Millspace dock- includes tours of the Piscataqua and hands-on activities. Fun for all ages
3:00-5:00 pm – Sail from Newmarket to Adams Point
6:00-8:00 pm - Sail from Adams Point
Sunday, May 18, 2014
12:00-2:00 pm Sail from Adams Point
2:30-4:30 pm Sail from Adams Point
Purchase tickets online.
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THINK SUMMER! UNH NEW PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH THIS SUMMER
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Youth Opera Workshop: Evenings, May 13 – June 22 (ages 12 -26)
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Future Leaders Institute: Money, Greed, Corruption – July 14 – 19 (Gr 9 - 12)
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Hospitality Management Summer Program -- July 20 – 26 (Ent. Gr 12)
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Investigating Homicide (online program) -- Aug 4 – 15 (Gr 8 – 11)
Some changes and additions have been made to existing programs:
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Writers Academy: added a third session July 28 – Aug 1
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Gymnastics High Performance: July 9 – 12
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Girls Soccer: split day camp (July 14 – 17) and overnight camp (July 20 – 24)
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Camp Wildcat: added an Outdoor Adventure Week (Aug 11 – 15)
Project SMART science institute is offering scholarships for NH Families! Visit website
Registrations for most all UNH summer programs are ongoing. Make your kids summer plans now!
View descriptions and access registration links for all UNH summer programs HERE.
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DURHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY - PARKING ENFORCEMENT, SEASONAL
The Durham, New Hampshire Police Department is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Seasonal Parking Enforcement Officer. The applicant selected to serve as the part time PEO will enforce state and local parking for this nationally accredited police department. This position works 40 hours each week during the University of New Hampshire academic school year. The qualified candidate will not work holidays or during the summertime months. Additional hours may be available if the successful candidate is trained as a Booking Specialist and/or for traffic control at special events.
PEO duties will include state law and local ordinance enforcement, collection of parking meter monies, parking meter repair, traffic direction and control, some radio communications, and other duties as assigned or as applicable. Training and uniforms will be provided.
Minimum qualifications for this position include a high school diploma or GED, the ability to walk and/or stand for a minimum of 8 hours each day, lift/carry a minimum of 70 pounds for short distances, and must read, write and verbally communicate in the English language. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license. Applicants with tattoos, brands, or body piercings visible in short sleeve shirts or short pants will be disqualified. The qualified candidate will be subject to a background and reference check.
Letter of Interest, Resume, and Town of Durham Application @ http://www.ci.durham.nh.us/police/employment-information must be received by: Capt. David Holmstock by 12:00 Noon on Monday, June 16, 2014 at: Durham Police Department, 86 Dover Road, Durham, New Hampshire 03824
The anticipated date of appointment from this selection process is
August 18, 2014. This date is subject to change.
Females and Minorities are encouraged to apply. The Durham Police Department is an equal opportunity employer.
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WATER QUALITY MONITORS NEEDED
The Oyster River water quality monitoring program is seeking volunteers to help monitor the Oyster River and its tributaries. The program is sponsored by UNH Water Supply, Oyster River Watershed Association, and the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services.
Volunteers work in groups to collect monthly water samples and record data on water clarity, levels of dissolved oxygen and other substances, and acidity at various sites along the river this summer and fall. Volunteers can be involved at different levels, depending on interest and time available. Training is provided. For information and to volunteer, contact Emily Poworoznek at el@unh.edu.
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2013 International Colonials in Durham
DURHAM HOST FAMILIES NEEDED FOR INTERNATIONAL PLAYERS
The New England Colonials International Basketball Club is looking for Durham area families to host our 2014 International Colonials players during the team’s July 7-8 visit to Durham.
This unique team will bring together 11 players from 11 countries this summer for a three-week basketball tour of New England. Players are 16 and 17 and they are all highly recommended to us by their club or school coaches overseas. Many play for their national teams and all speak English. Hosting assignments will be for two nights.
Countries represented this summer will be Austria, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Romania, Scotland, Serbia and Switzerland.
If you would like to welcome a young player from overseas to your home in July, please call Scott Bryson at 508-734-5660, or send an email to necolonials@aol.com.
To learn more about our nonprofit, all-volunteer program, please visit http://www.newenglandcolonials.net/home.htm
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THE LATEST PRODUCTIONS FROM DCAT STUDIOS
If you’ve walked or driven by the new Town Hall, you might be wondering what is going on inside. This is your chance to take a brief video tour through the building. Join DCAT Coordinator, Craig Stevens as he walks you quickly through our new Town Hall. Please watch your step! This video is only available on the our On Demand site. Click on the DCAT Studios file. Run time: :5:50
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DCAT 22 Talent Search
Durham Cable Access TV is looking for one or two on air talent to help with occasional video projects. No experience is necessary. You must; have knowledge of Durham (local resident is ideal), good with people, entertaining, witty, comfortable in front of a camera, have the ability to work without a script, willing to work for free (yes, free), and be at least 18 years of age. DCAT is interested in talent from all age groups. Please contact DCAT Coordinator, Craig Stevens: dcat@ci.durham.nh.us or 868-5571.
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These videos are also available for viewing on the Town’s On Demand site.
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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.
Town Council - Monday, May 19, 2014. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.
Economic Development Committee - Tuesday, May 20, 2014. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.
Planning Board - Wednesday, May 21, 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.
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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.
ORMS fifth graders prepare to take on the obstacle course during this week's Bike Safety Rodeo. Courtesy Stefanie Frazee
Second Annual Bike Safety Rodeo a Success - On Wednesday, the Second Annual Bike Safety Rodeo was held from 8am – 2pm at Oyster River Middle School. The week started off with helmet safety presentations conducted by McGregor Memorial, and demonstrations of directional signals/road signs taught during PE class. The students later had a chance to test out their skills as they rotated through three additional stations: bike maintenance, obstacle course, and road tour.
Volunteers from McGregor Ambulance, Durham Fire Department, Papa Wheelies, Rye Airfield, UNH Cycling Team, Durham Police Department, Oyster River Middle School, and also local parents came out to show their support. Nearly 160 students completed the program, and are now ‘ready for the road’!
It’s also worthy to note that the Seacoast's 12th annual Bike/Walk to Work Day took place today, just two days after the Bike Safety Rodeo.
Camp R.E.A.C.H. – Last Day to Register - If you would like to sign up for Camp R.E.A.C.H., We will accept registration forms postmarked no later than May 16th. Program offerings include: archery, hiking, art, theater, science, kayaking, camping, rock climbing, cooking, technology, and MORE! View the camp schedule HERE
On The Go!: Adventure Trips for Active Adults (60+) - NEW! Ready to get UP and GO? You asked for it, and we’ve put together some fantastic adventures! Space is limited; reserve your spot today! Find out how HERE.
Memorial Day Parade – Monday, May 26th: If you have a group, organization, or unit who would like to participate in the 67th Annual Memorial Day Parade, it's not too late! Please fill out the form and return to Parks & Recreation Director Stefanie Frazee: Parade Registration Form
Fitness for Life: View our weekly calendar and class descriptions HERE!
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Save the Date:
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Memorial Day Parade - Monday, 5/26
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Camp R.E.A.C.H. - 7/14 - 8/22
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Music by the Bay Summer Concert Series - August
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Durham Day - Saturday, 9/27
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COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Power of One Festival, Sunday, May 18, 2014, 12 - 3PM, ORHS baseball fields (ORHS Multipurpose Room if rain). Food, games, raffle. $5/person; $3/person if a donation of personal hygiene items or non-perishable food is brought when entering. Proceeds to benefit Save the Orcas, Habitat for Humanity, Crossroads House.
ORHS Drama Dept Presents Musical OLIVER! - May 22, 23, 24 @ 7PM; Sunday, May 25 @ 2PM, $7/Students & seniors age 62; $10/Adults. Tickets on sale at ORHS May 19-23 from 11:15-12:45, 2:15-3:30. Tickets on sale at Durham MarketPlace May 17th from 4-7:00PM, or call Armida Geiger at 868-7156. Box office open 1 hour prior to show. Doors open 1 hour prior to show.
Free Youth Football Clinic, Saturday, May 24, 2014, 8:30AM - 2PM, Bremner Field, UNH Campus. Sponsored by New England Patriots Alumni. One day, non-contact free clinic stresses leadership, teamwork, and commitment to over 200 young athelets ages 11-14. More Information HERE.
Give & Take Meetup: Plant Swap, Saturday, May 24, 2014, 3:30 PM, St. George's Episcopal Church parking lot. Popular are veggie seedlings, divided edible perennials, herb cuttings/rootings and seeds. Free and open to the public. RSVP with the GSPG Meetup group HERE.
World Fish Migration Day, Saturday, May 24, 2014. More information HERE.
Strafford County Master Gardener Association Plant Sale, hosted by UNH Cooperative Extension, Sunday, May 25, 2014, 10AM - 2PM, Durham Town Hall Parking Lot, 15 Newmarket Rd/Route 108. For more information, click HERE.
Healthy UNH Celebrates Walk NH Week 2014, Wednesday, Jun 4, 2014 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM beginning and ending at the UNH Whittemore Center Arena. The walk is for thre miles or less and is designed for people of all abilities. Inclement weather: walk will be held on the concourse of the Whittemore Arena. To register for the walk, click HERE.
Bobcat Bolt 5K Run/Walk benefiting the ORHS Josh & Nate Hary Awards, Saturday, Jun 21, 2014, 9AM, ORHS ($25 entry). 10:15AM Kids Fun Run ($5 entry). Register HERE.
Growing Places Kick Off the Summer FREE Community Event, Saturday May 31, 2014, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Lee site at 56 Pinkham Road, Lee. Growing Places beach party, or stay the whole time. Children’s activities including sand dough and make your own “wave” canvas bag. Activities geared towards children ages 2-5 but ALL are welcome to come and play. Bring family and friends. More information HERE.
Oyster River Festival, Saturday, Jun 21, 2014, 9AM - 1:30PM, ORHS. Free musicconcert featuring ORMS Jazz Band & Rockspring (local rock-grass band). Free kids activities, Festival BBQ, local business exhibitors. Proceeds benefit OR youth initiatives. More information HERE.
Fundraiser/Mixer Hosted by the Oyster River Alumni Association, Saturday, June 21, 2014, 8 - 11 PM, Libby's Bar & Grill. Open to the public. Live music and free appetizers. Cash Bar. $10 suggested at the door. Donation benefits the ORAA Scholarship for Oyster River Community Organizing and the Oyster River Mini Grant Initiative. More information HERE.
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Thanks to all who participated last Saturday in the Power of One Project Lego House building contest of Keerthi Onkaram and Ethan Haug to make all aware of homelessness in the U.S. Pictured above is the Lego House Winner. Courtesy DPL
Baby Lap-Sit, Sat. May 17th, 10:30 a.m. (for ages 2 & under with their care-givers) – Join us! We read stories, do finger plays, sing songs and socialize afterwards. You will receive a ring with finger plays to do at home.
Paper Plate Campaign with ORHS Ellie Shuba and her Power of One Project as part of the No Kid Hungry Full Paper Plate Campaign, Sat. May 17th 12-2 pm in the children’s craft room. – All are welcome to come decorate empty paper plates to “full” paper plates to raise awareness of hunger in NH.
Family Movie, “Flubber”, Sat. May 17th, 2:00 p.m. - Family Movie Afternoon. This month: Flubber! Join us upstairs in the community room. Get ready for summer reading “Fizz, Boom, Read!” with this science movie. Popcorn is served!
Chess and Board Game Afternoon (ages 10 & up), Monday May 19th 3:00-4:00 p.m. – This week come and play/learn a new board game! Join us every Monday afternoon now in the Young Adult room for a game of chess (or other board games).
Chief Kurz: Community Discussion Regarding Drugs in our Schools, Monday May 19th, 7:00-9:00 p.m. - Chief Kurtz will be prepared to discuss the current situation and things we can do as parents, community members to reduce drug use in our community.
Durham Firemen visit with their Fire trucks for special storytimes on Tues. May 20th and Thurs. May 22nd at 10:30 a.m. – Don’t miss these fun storytimes with the Durham Fire Department. We will read stories about firemen, make a craft and visit the fire truck outside. All are welcome!
NH Humanities Book Group, Weds. May 21st, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Please join Jennifer Lee, facilitator to discuss “The Good Soldier”, A Tale of Passion, by Ford Madox Ford, sponsored by The Friends of the Library. Copies of the book are ordered by the library weeks in advance and will be available at the front desk. This program is open to all. As ever, your copy awaits you.
Poetry Reading: An Evening with John Perrault, Weds. May 21st, 7-8:30 p.m. - John Perrault is a balladeer, poet, author, and song-writer. Over the years he has performed his songs and poems in numerous venues throughout New England.He is the author of Jefferson's Dream, The Ballad of Louis Wagner and other New England Stories in Verse, and Here Comes the Old Man Now. He was poet laureate of Portsmouth, NH, 2003 - 2005.
Xbox Kinect Gaming Night (ages 10 & up), Weds. May 21st, 6-7:30 p.m. – Join us in the Young Adult Room for a fun night of gaming. Pizza is served and all are welcome.
Lego Club, Thurs. May 22nd 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.
Homeschoolers Activity Hour, Friday May 23rd, 10:30 a.m. – This week: Spies and Secret Codes! 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. May 23rd 3:00-4:30 p.m. – Stop by the Children’s craft room on Fridays for a fun craft.
March with the Durham Library at the Memorial Day Parade, Monday May 26th, 9:30 a.m. – Meet at the town landing wearing Red, White and Blue. We will have flags, necklaces and Candy to throw. All are welcome!
Pajama Storytime, Tues. May 27th, 6:30 p.m. – This month: Pets! Join ORPP and the Durham Library for this monthly storytime. Come wearing your pjs. We read stories about pets, make a pet craft and have a special animal visitor! Snacks are provided by ORPP and all are welcome.
Durham Garden Club, Tues. May 27th, 6:30-9:00 p.m. – Getting a fresh perspective with vertical gardening.
Summertime Tea, Sat. May 31st, 2:00-4:00 p.m. - Summertime... and the living was easy for many at the turn of the last century. The beaches offered amusements for both the rich and poor alike. Join Mrs. Gordon as she gives you a first hand account of what it was like to spend a day at the beach in 1908. Rita Parisi has been entertaining audiences for over 14 years in the New England area. Rita is also actively involved in the independent film scene in Boston and some of her films have been debuted at the Boston International Film Festival and Cannes film Festival. She is a member of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA). Ages 5 & up.
Oyster River Knitters, Tues. June 3rd, 7:00-9:30 p.m. - Calling all knitters (and crocheters!)... Come join your fellow fiber friends for an evening of knitting and chatting from 7-9:30. All experience levels welcome. Contact Heather Anderson (hca@iconklin.com) with any questions.
Libros Lovers, High School Book Group, Weds. June 4th, 2:45-4:00 p.m. – This month’s book is “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green. Ruth Wharton MacDonald is the facilitator. Pizza is served. Books are available at the library and all are welcome!
Acoustic Open Mic Night, Weds. June 4th, 6:30-8:00 p.m. – Come and share your talents. Steve Brennan is the host.
Alzheimer’s Café, Friday June 6th, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Join us!
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.
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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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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
1789 - To supplying Philip Crommet, one of the poor, being for pasturing and shacking his cow; to hay sufficient to winter cow and hauling same to his hovel: 23 ft. wood supply; supplies and medicines; for coffin and digging grave. The family was a Town charge through 1817.
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